The E250 error on your Bosch Dishwasher means the control board has detected a fault in the heating circuit or its temperature sensor. Most owners can clear this by checking the water inlet, the heating element, and the wiring connections before calling in a repair engineer.
| Error code | E250 |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Heating circuit or temperature sensor (NTC) fault detected by the electronic control unit |
| Severity | Medium — dishwasher will usually pause or end the cycle early, but it is not a safety emergency |
| Time to fix | 15–45 minutes |
| Tools needed | Multimeter, screwdriver set, torch |
What the E250 error means
E250 is triggered when the dishwasher's electronic module cannot get a proper reading from the heating circuit during a wash cycle. This usually points to the heating element, the NTC temperature sensor, or the wiring between them and the control board. When this happens, the machine often stops heating water partway through, leaving dishes washed in lukewarm or cold water, or it may halt the cycle completely and flash the error code.
Common causes
- Faulty or worn heating element that no longer heats water correctly
- Damaged or corroded NTC temperature sensor
- Loose or corroded wiring connections at the heater or sensor plug
- Limescale buildup on the heating element affecting temperature readings
- Water inlet problems causing the tub to fill incorrectly before heating starts
- A failing electronic control board that misreads sensor signals
How to fix the E250 error
- Power down and reset: Turn off the dishwasher at the wall, wait two minutes, then switch it back on. This clears minor electronic glitches and may resolve the code without further work.
- Check the water supply: Confirm the inlet valve is fully open and water pressure is normal. Low or no water flow can trigger heating errors because the element cannot heat an empty or half-filled tub safely.
- Inspect the heating element: Open the base panel and look for visible scale buildup, cracks, or discolouration on the element. Run a descaling cycle if limescale is present, as heavy buildup can interfere with heat transfer and sensor accuracy.
- Test the NTC sensor and wiring: Using a multimeter, check the sensor's resistance against the manufacturer's spec sheet. Also inspect the connector for corrosion or looseness, and reseat or clean any dirty contacts.
- Check the control board connections: Look for loose ribbon cables or connectors near the electronic module, as these can cause the board to misread heating data and throw the E250 code even when the heater itself is fine.
- Call a qualified engineer: If the element, sensor, and wiring all test fine, the control board itself may need replacing. This is not a DIY-friendly repair and should be left to a professional.
FAQ
Can I still use my dishwasher if it shows E250?
You can try running another cycle, but expect poor cleaning results since the water may not heat properly. It's best to fix the fault before regular use to avoid damaging the heating element further.
Is E250 dangerous or a fire risk?
No, the control board is designed to stop the cycle rather than let the heater run uncontrolled. It's an inconvenience rather than a safety hazard, but ignoring it long-term can strain other components.
Will descaling always fix this error?
Not always, but it resolves the issue in many cases where limescale has coated the element or sensor. If the error returns after descaling, the sensor or wiring likely needs closer inspection.
