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Error code reference

Bosch Refrigerator Error Code F50

Waste water alarm

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What the F50 error code actually means

Your Bosch refrigerator has detected water pooling in the ice maker area for more than 10 minutes, which is longer than normal. This usually means the ice maker's drain is frozen, the pump that removes water has stopped working, or water is not draining away properly. The refrigerator is alerting you so you can address it before the water causes further problems.

Diagnostic procedure

The full F50 procedure

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MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Check water outlet in ice maker for freezing, waste water pump operation, installation, and electrode detection.
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Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
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Most common causes of F50

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Frozen water outlet in the ice maker
  2. 2Waste water pump failure
  3. 3Improper refrigerator leveling or installation
  4. 4Mineral deposit buildup on safety electrodes
  5. 5Drain line obstruction or kink

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Questions people ask about F50

What does F50 mean on a Bosch refrigerator?
F50 is a waste water alarm indicating that the safety electrodes on the ice maker base have detected water continuously for more than 10 minutes. This tells the control board that water is not draining away from the ice maker as it should. The most common causes are a frozen water outlet, a failed waste water pump, or an installation issue preventing proper drainage.
Will resetting my Bosch refrigerator clear the F50 error?
A reset may temporarily clear the F50 code from the display, but it will return if the underlying drainage problem is not resolved. The alarm is triggered by a physical condition detected by the safety electrodes, so the fault will reappear within minutes if water continues to accumulate on the ice maker base.
How much does it cost to repair a Bosch refrigerator showing F50?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. If the issue is a frozen outlet or leveling adjustment, costs may be minimal, primarily covering a service call in the range of $75 to $150. If the waste water pump needs replacement, parts and labor together typically run between $150 and $350, depending on your location and service provider.
How do I fix the F50 error on my Bosch refrigerator?
Start by checking the ice maker's water outlet for ice blockage and defrost it if frozen. Then confirm the waste water pump is running and not obstructed. Verify that the refrigerator is properly leveled and that the drain line is not kinked or clogged. If the electrodes are coated with mineral deposits, clean them and recheck whether the fault returns.
Is the F50 error on a Bosch refrigerator a safety concern?
Yes, persistent water accumulation in the ice maker base can lead to water leaking onto the floor, potential electrical issues near the pump and electrodes, and damage to surrounding cabinetry or flooring. Addressing the fault promptly is recommended to prevent water damage from progressing.

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