AEG Washer Error Code C3

C3 on an AEG washer means the Aqua Control flood protection system has been triggered. The float switch F16, located in the base tray of the machine, has detected water collecting at the bottom of the appliance. In response, the washer automatically activates the drain pump and stops the wash program to prevent further water damage. The root cause is a leak somewhere inside the machine that allowed water to reach the base tray.

You should not continue using the washer until the cause of the leak has been found and fixed. The C3 code exists specifically to stop operation and protect your home from water damage. Running the machine before addressing the leak could result in a larger flood, electrical hazards, or further damage to internal components.

Repair costs vary depending on the source of the leak. A door seal replacement typically falls in the range of $50 to $150 including parts and labor. Internal hose repairs or pump replacements can range from $100 to $250 or more depending on the specific component and labor rates in your area. If the float switch F16 itself is the faulty component and requires replacement, that is generally a lower-cost repair, often in the $60 to $120 range.

Start by unplugging the machine and inspecting it for the source of the leak. Common locations include the door seal, internal hoses, and the drain pump area. Once you have identified and repaired the leak, allow the base tray to dry completely so the float switch F16 can drop back to its resting position. After the float resets, plug the machine back in and press Start/Pause to resume your program.

A simple power reset will not permanently clear C3 if water remains in the base tray, because the float switch F16 will still be in the triggered position. The error will only clear once the base tray is dry and the float drops back down. If the underlying leak is not repaired, the fault will return during the next wash cycle.