mypros+
Error code reference

Bosch Dishwasher Error Code F70

Float switch fault

Avg. service call
$285
National average. Trip fee plus diagnostic plus labor. Before parts.
MyPros+ 3-day pass
$9.95
Same diagnostic steps, on your phone. Start now.
You keep in your pocket
~$275
Even before you buy the part.
Skip the service call. Fix it yourself.
Full procedure unlocks instantly.
Get Started

What the F70 error code actually means

Your Bosch dishwasher is detecting water in the drip tray located at the bottom of the unit, which has caused the drain pump to run continuously as a safety precaution. This can happen because of an actual small water leak inside the machine or because a piece of foam or debris under the water sensor is stuck in the wrong position. You will need to unplug the dishwasher and check underneath it before the machine will return to normal operation.

Diagnostic procedure

The full F70 procedure

Step 1 is visible so you can confirm you are on the right page. The remaining steps, the ones that tell you whether to actually replace a part, unlock with any pass.

MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Disconnect from power, remove water from drip pan; check for debris beneath float switch Styrofoam; check drip pan for warps.
More steps, wiring diagram references, and verified part numbers
Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
Unlock F70 procedure $9.95

Or subscribe: $29/month for unlimited access to all codes plus Max AI diagnostics.

Most common causes of F70

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Debris Blocking the Float
  2. 2Water in the Drip Pan from an Actual Leak
  3. 3Warped or Deformed Drip Pan
  4. 4Float Switch B8/3 Failure
  5. 5Displaced Styrofoam Float Element

Most DIYers save hundreds by diagnosing before ordering parts.

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

Questions people ask about F70

What does F70 mean on a Bosch dishwasher?
F70 indicates a float switch fault in which the changeover contact of float switch B8/3 is closed, causing the drain pump to run continuously. This switch is located in the drip pan beneath the dishwasher tub and is designed to detect water accumulation from an internal leak. The code can be triggered by an actual leak, by debris under the float, or by a warped drip pan holding the float in the triggered position. The drain pump will continue to operate until the fault condition is resolved.
Will resetting the dishwasher clear the F70 error?
A simple power reset will not permanently clear F70 if the underlying fault condition still exists. As long as the float switch B8/3 contact remains closed, the error will return after power is restored. The physical cause, whether it is water in the drip pan, debris under the float, or a mechanical or electrical fault with the switch, must be resolved before the code will clear and stay clear.
How much does it cost to repair a Bosch dishwasher F70 error?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. If the fix only requires clearing debris from beneath the float, there is no parts cost and only your time is involved. Replacing the float switch B8/3 or the drip pan typically involves parts costs ranging from roughly $20 to $80 depending on the specific component, plus labor if a technician is hired. If an internal leak has damaged additional components such as a hose or pump seal, total repair costs can range from $100 to $300 or more.
Can I fix the F70 error myself, or do I need a technician?
Some causes of F70 are straightforward to address without professional help. Disconnecting power, removing water from the drip pan, and clearing debris from beneath the Styrofoam float are tasks most homeowners or experienced DIYers can perform. However, if the fault is caused by an active leak, a warped drip pan, or a failed float switch B8/3, replacement parts and more involved disassembly may be required, which is better handled by a technician.
Is it safe to continue using my dishwasher when F70 is displayed?
It is not recommended to continue running the dishwasher while F70 is active. The code can indicate an active internal water leak, which poses a risk of further water damage to the unit or the surrounding area. Additionally, the drain pump running continuously without being properly cycled can lead to accelerated wear on the pump motor. Disconnect the appliance from power and investigate the cause before resuming use.

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass