The F2 error on your Bosch Dishwasher means the appliance has detected a water level or overfill problem, usually triggered by the float switch or water inlet valve. Turning off the water supply and checking the float assembly often resolves it without a technician visit.
| Error code | F2 |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Water overfill or float switch fault detected by the dishwasher's control board |
| Severity | Medium — the dishwasher will usually stop mid-cycle to prevent flooding |
| Time to fix | 15–40 minutes |
| Tools needed | Towel, torch, adjustable pliers (sometimes none) |
What the F2 error means
F2 is Bosch's way of telling you the float switch inside the dishwasher tub has risen too high, or the water inlet valve is letting in more water than it should. This is a safety feature designed to stop the machine before water spills onto your kitchen floor. It's one of the more common Bosch dishwasher faults and is usually fixable at home without calling a repair engineer, similar to how many appliance issues — from a stuck switch to a jammed part — can often be traced back to a single faulty component.
Common causes
- Float switch stuck in the raised position due to debris or a trapped item
- Water inlet valve failing to shut off properly, causing overfill
- Dishwasher not level, causing the float to sit incorrectly
- A kinked or blocked drain hose pushing water levels back up
- Loose or corroded wiring connection to the float switch sensor
- Faulty pressure sensor sending incorrect readings to the control board
How to fix the F2 error
- Turn off power and water: Switch off the dishwasher at the wall and shut the water supply valve to stop any further filling.
- Check the float switch: Open the bottom of the dishwasher, locate the float (a small dome near the front), and check it moves freely up and down without obstruction.
- Clear debris: Remove any food particles, cutlery, or small objects that may be stuck under or around the float assembly.
- Inspect the drain hose: Make sure it isn't kinked, crushed, or blocked, as this can cause water to back up and trigger F2.
- Check the dishwasher is level: Use a spirit level on the base; adjust the feet if the appliance is tilted, since this can affect float operation.
- Reset and test: Restore power and water, run a short cycle, and watch to see if the error clears. If it returns, the inlet valve or sensor may need professional replacement.
FAQ
Can I keep using my dishwasher with an F2 error showing?
No, it's best to stop the cycle and fix the issue first, since continuing to run it risks water leaking onto your floor.
Does F2 mean I need a new dishwasher?
Not usually. Most F2 faults come from a stuck float switch or blocked drain hose, both of which are simple, low-cost fixes.
How do I know if the water inlet valve is faulty?
If the tub keeps filling even after you've cleared the float and drain hose, the inlet valve is likely not shutting off properly and may need replacing.
