The E15 error on your Hoover Dishwasher means water has been detected in the base pan, triggering the anti-flood protection system. You need to identify and fix the leak, then dry out the base pan to reset the error.
| Error code | E15 |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Water leak detected in base pan (anti-flood system activated) |
| Severity | High — dishwasher will not operate until the leak is fixed and base is dried |
| Time to fix | 30–90 minutes |
| Tools needed | Towels, screwdriver, flashlight, hairdryer or fan |
What the E15 error means
The E15 error code indicates that your Hoover dishwasher has detected water in the base pan beneath the main tub. This triggers the built-in anti-flood safety system, which immediately stops the dishwasher from operating to prevent further water damage to your kitchen floor. A polystyrene float switch in the base pan rises when water accumulates, activating the error code and disabling the appliance until the issue is resolved.
Common causes
- Blocked or kinked drain hose causing water to back up and overflow
- Damaged or worn door seal allowing water to leak during the wash cycle
- Loose or cracked internal hoses connecting the pump, spray arms, or water inlet
- Failed pressure switch or chamber causing incorrect water level detection and overfilling
- Clogged filters leading to water overflow from the tub into the base
- Faulty water inlet valve not closing properly, allowing continuous water flow
How to fix the E15 error
- Disconnect power and water supply immediately. Unplug the dishwasher from the mains or switch off the circuit breaker. Turn off the water supply valve under your sink to prevent further leaking. This ensures your safety while working on the appliance.
- Remove the kickplate and tilt the dishwasher. Take off the bottom front panel to access the base pan. Carefully tilt the dishwasher backwards at approximately 45 degrees and prop it securely. This allows trapped water in the base pan to drain out onto towels placed underneath. Leave it tilted for 15-20 minutes to ensure thorough drainage.
- Dry the base pan completely. Use towels to soak up any remaining moisture in the base pan. Speed up drying by using a hairdryer on a cool setting or placing a fan near the base. The polystyrene float switch must be completely dry to drop back down and reset the error code. This may take 30-60 minutes depending on the amount of water.
- Inspect for the source of the leak. Once dry, examine all internal components for signs of leaking. Check the door seal for cracks or wear, inspect all hoses for splits or loose connections, examine the spray arm seals, and look at the sump area for cracks. Feel around connections for dampness and look for limescale buildup that might indicate a slow leak.
- Fix or replace damaged components. Replace a worn door seal by removing the old gasket and pressing a new one into the groove around the door. Tighten loose hose clamps or replace cracked hoses with exact manufacturer replacements. Clean or replace blocked filters. If the leak source is unclear or involves major components like the sump or tub, contact a professional technician.
- Test the dishwasher. Reconnect the water supply and power. Run a short rinse cycle while monitoring closely for any signs of leaking. Check the base pan area, door seal, and all connections. If the E15 error returns or you notice water accumulating, there may be an additional leak point that requires further investigation.
FAQ
Can I reset the E15 error without fixing the leak?
No, simply drying the base pan will only provide a temporary fix. The E15 error will return as soon as water leaks into the base pan again. You must identify and repair the source of the leak to permanently resolve the issue. Ignoring the underlying problem can lead to water damage in your kitchen and potential electrical hazards.
Why does my Hoover dishwasher show E15 immediately after turning it on?
This indicates that water is already present in the base pan from a previous leak or cycle. The float switch is still raised, triggering the error as soon as you power on the appliance. You need to tilt the dishwasher to drain the base pan and dry it completely before the error will clear and allow normal operation.
How much does it cost to repair an E15 error on a Hoover dishwasher?
If you can fix it yourself by drying the base and replacing a simple part like a door seal or hose, costs range from £10 to £40 for parts. Professional repair costs typically range from £80 to £180 including labour and parts, depending on the component that needs replacing. If the issue involves the main tub or sump assembly, replacement may be more cost-effective than repair.
