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Error code reference

Bosch Dishwasher Error Code E:15

Water in base / float switch activated and dishwasher runs continually (code listed as not used for bases…

Bosch codesBosch dishwasher codes

Water in base / float switch activated and dishwasher runs continually (code listed as not used for bases that are open, but referenced in troubleshooting).

First step from the service manual

Remove debris/obstructions from drain pump/drain hose. Make sure float and float switch are not stuck.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What E:15 means on a Bosch dishwasher

The E:15 error code on a Bosch dishwasher indicates that water has accumulated in the appliance base pan, which sits beneath the tub assembly. This base pan is equipped with a float switch, a small safety sensor that rises when water is present. Once the float lifts to a certain level, it triggers the switch, which signals the control board to activate the drain pump continuously in an attempt to remove the water. The dishwasher will not resume a normal wash cycle while this condition persists, as the control system treats it as an active leak event.

The water that accumulates in the base can come from several sources. Internal hose connections, door gasket failures, pump seals, or tub cracks can all allow water to migrate downward into the pan. Even a slow drip over multiple cycles can eventually build up enough water to lift the float. In some cases, overfilling caused by a faulty inlet valve or clogged drain components can also result in overflow into the base area. The float switch itself can become stuck in the raised position due to debris, detergent residue, or corrosion, triggering a false E:15 even when little or no water is actually present.

It is worth noting that this code is listed as not applicable for units with an open base configuration, but it still appears in troubleshooting references for those platforms. The first diagnostic steps involve clearing any obstructions from the drain pump and drain hose, then inspecting the float and float switch directly to confirm they move freely and are not mechanically stuck.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E:15

  1. 01

    Stuck or obstructed float switch

    Wiring / connection

    Detergent buildup, debris, or corrosion can cause the float to stick in the raised position, triggering E:15 even without significant water in the base. Inspect the float directly and confirm it moves freely by hand.

  2. 02

    Clogged drain pump or drain hose

    Wiring / connection

    Blockages in the drain pump impeller or kinks and obstructions in the drain hose can prevent water from evacuating properly, causing it to back up and overflow into the base pan. Clearing the debris is the first step in diagnosis.

  3. 03

    Leaking door gasket

    Part replacement

    A worn, cracked, or improperly seated door gasket allows water to escape the tub during the wash cycle and run down into the base pan. Inspect the gasket around the full perimeter of the door for visible damage or gaps.

  4. 04

    Faulty water inlet valve

    Part replacement

    An inlet valve that fails to close completely can allow the tub to overfill, pushing water past the tub seals and into the base. Symptoms often include the dishwasher continuing to let water in even when not cycling.

  5. 05

    Leaking internal hose or pump seal

    Part replacement

    Hose connections inside the dishwasher, including those at the circulation pump or spray arm supply lines, can develop slow drips that gradually fill the base pan over multiple cycles. A visual inspection of all internal connections with a flashlight is needed to locate the source.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E:15

What does E:15 mean on a Bosch dishwasher?
E:15 means the float switch in the base pan of your Bosch dishwasher has been activated by the presence of water. The appliance responds by running the drain pump continuously as a safety measure. The dishwasher will not complete a normal wash cycle until the water in the base is removed and the float switch returns to its resting position. The root cause is typically a water leak from an internal component or a blocked drain that caused overflow into the pan.
How do I fix the E:15 error on my Bosch dishwasher?
Start by tilting the dishwasher slightly to allow any water in the base pan to drain out, then check that the float switch moves freely and is not stuck. Next, inspect and clear any debris from the drain pump and drain hose. If water continues to reappear in the base pan after running the unit, you will need to identify the internal source of the leak, which could be the door gasket, a hose connection, the inlet valve, or a pump seal.
Is it safe to use my Bosch dishwasher when E:15 is displayed?
You should not continue using the dishwasher while E:15 is active. Water in the base pan near electrical components creates a risk of short circuits or further damage to the control board and motor. The dishwasher's continuous drain pump operation is a safety response, not normal operation. Resolve the source of the water before running another cycle.
Will resetting my Bosch dishwasher clear the E:15 error?
A reset may temporarily clear the E:15 code from the display, but the error will return if water is still present in the base pan or if the float switch remains stuck in the raised position. Resetting does not address the underlying cause. You need to physically remove the water from the base and fix the source of the leak before the error will stay cleared.
How much does it cost to repair a Bosch dishwasher showing E:15?
Repair costs vary widely depending on the cause. If the fix only requires clearing a clogged drain or freeing a stuck float, there may be no parts cost at all. Replacing a door gasket typically runs in the range of $20 to $60 for the part. More involved repairs such as a failed inlet valve or pump seal can range from $80 to $250 or more when including parts and labor. A professional diagnostic visit alone commonly costs between $75 and $150.

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