The E15 error on your Bosch Dishwasher means the base pan flood/leak sensor (Aquastop) has detected water where it shouldn't be. The dishwasher stops the cycle automatically to prevent flooding, and you'll need to find and dry out the source of the water before it will run again.
| Error code | E15 |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Leak detected in the base pan by the Aquastop float switch |
| Severity | Medium — the machine won't run until the leak is cleared, but it protects your kitchen from water damage |
| Time to fix | 20–60 minutes |
| Tools needed | Towels, torch, adjustable pliers (occasionally a multimeter) |
What the E15 error means
Bosch dishwashers have a small float sensor sitting in the base pan under the tub. If water pools there — from a leaking hose, seal, or overfilled sump — the float rises and trips a switch, which the control board reads as the E15 fault. This is a safety feature designed to stop the appliance before water reaches your floor.
Once triggered, the dishwasher will usually drain what it can and lock out further cycles until the water is removed and the float resets itself back to its normal resting position.
Common causes
- A leaking or loose water inlet hose connection at the back of the machine
- A worn or cracked door seal (gasket) letting water escape during the wash
- Overfilling caused by a faulty water inlet valve that won't shut off properly
- A cracked or loose spray arm, sump, or drain hose leaking into the base
- Excess suds from using the wrong detergent, which can overflow the tub
- The float switch itself sticking or being triggered by condensation buildup
How to fix the E15 error
- Turn off power and water: Switch off the dishwasher at the wall and shut the water supply valve before doing anything else.
- Check for standing water: Open the door and look inside the tub and around the base for pooled water; mop up any you find with towels.
- Inspect hoses and seals: Pull the dishwasher out gently and check the inlet hose, drain hose, and door gasket for cracks, looseness, or drips.
- Tighten or replace faulty parts: Retighten loose hose clamps, or replace a worn door seal or damaged hose if you find visible damage.
- Dry and reset the float sensor: Remove the lower spray arm and filter to access the base pan, dry it thoroughly, and make sure the float moves freely up and down.
- Power up and test: Reconnect power and water, run a short cycle, and watch for the E15 code returning or any new leaks appearing.
If you're comfortable with basic appliance repairs, the same troubleshooting mindset used for other Bosch tools applies here — patience and a methodical check of each part. For unrelated Bosch power tool issues, guides like Bosch Drill Won'T Start: Causes and How to Fix It and Bosch Drill Overheating During Use: Causes and How to Fix It follow a similar step-by-step diagnostic approach worth borrowing.
FAQ
Can I just reset the dishwasher to clear E15?
A reset may temporarily clear the display, but the error will return on the next cycle if the underlying leak or float issue isn't fixed first.
Is it safe to keep using the dishwasher with E15 showing?
No. Running it again without checking for water risks further leaking and possible damage to your flooring or the machine's electronics.
Do I need a technician to fix E15?
Not always. Many cases are a loose hose or dirty float sensor you can fix yourself; call a technician if you find a cracked pump housing or can't locate the leak.
