The E3 error on your Hoover Dishwasher means there is a problem with water not draining properly from the appliance. This code typically appears when the drain system is blocked or the drain pump has failed.
| Error code | E3 |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Drainage fault — water is not draining from the dishwasher |
| Severity | Medium — dishwasher will not complete cycles until resolved |
| Time to fix | 15–45 minutes |
| Tools needed | Towels, bucket, screwdriver, needle-nose pliers (optional) |
What the E3 error means
The E3 error code indicates a drainage fault in your Hoover dishwasher. When the appliance detects that water is not draining within the expected time frame, it triggers this error and stops the cycle. The dishwasher's control system monitors the water level through sensors, and if water remains in the sump after the drain pump has run, the E3 code appears on the display. This safety feature prevents flooding and further damage to the machine.
Common causes
- Blocked drain filter or sump area with food debris, broken glass, or other objects
- Kinked or blocked drain hose preventing water from flowing out
- Clogged kitchen sink drain or waste pipe that the dishwasher drains into
- Faulty or jammed drain pump unable to expel water
- Blocked air gap or standpipe causing water to back up
- Defective pressure switch or sensor giving incorrect readings
How to fix the E3 error
- Remove standing water and check the drain filter — Turn off the dishwasher and remove the bottom rack. Use towels or a shallow container to remove any standing water from the bottom of the tub. Unscrew and remove the drain filter assembly located at the base of the dishwasher. Clean away any food debris, broken glass, or foreign objects. Rinse the filter thoroughly under running water and check the sump area beneath for blockages. Replace the filter securely.
- Inspect the drain hose — Pull the dishwasher out slightly to access the back. Check the drain hose for kinks, twists, or obvious blockages. The hose should have a gradual upward slope without any low points where water can collect. Disconnect the hose from the sink drain or waste connection and check for blockages inside. Run water through the hose to ensure it flows freely. Reconnect securely when clear.
- Check the sink drain and waste connection — Run water in your kitchen sink to verify it drains properly. If the sink drains slowly, the blockage may be in the shared waste pipe. Clear any blockages in the sink drain, as a clogged sink will prevent the dishwasher from draining. If your dishwasher connects to a garbage disposal, ensure the knockout plug was removed during installation. Check the air gap if fitted and clean any debris.
- Test the drain pump — With the filter removed, turn on the dishwasher to the drain cycle and listen for the pump. You should hear a humming or whirring sound. If the pump is silent, it may have failed electrically. If it hums but does not drain, the impeller may be jammed. Check for debris around the pump impeller using a torch. Remove any visible obstructions carefully with needle-nose pliers. If the pump is damaged or non-functional, it will need replacement.
- Reset the dishwasher — After clearing blockages, reset the appliance by switching it off at the mains for 5 minutes, then switching it back on. Run a rinse cycle to test if the E3 error has cleared. If water drains normally and the error does not reappear, the issue is resolved. Monitor the first few cycles to ensure proper drainage.
- Call a professional if the error persists — If the E3 error continues after checking all drainage components, the pressure switch, control board, or wiring may be faulty. These components require diagnostic testing and should be inspected by a qualified appliance repair technician. Continuing to use the dishwasher with a persistent E3 error may cause water damage or further mechanical problems.
FAQ
Can I use my Hoover dishwasher with the E3 error showing?
No, you should not use the dishwasher when the E3 error is displayed. The error indicates water is not draining properly, which means cycles will not complete and standing water may cause odours or damage. Continuing to run the appliance may also strain the drain pump or cause water to overflow.
How often should I clean the dishwasher filter to prevent E3 errors?
You should clean your Hoover dishwasher filter at least once a month, or more frequently if you notice reduced performance or food particles on dishes. Regular cleaning prevents blockages that trigger drainage errors. Remove the filter, rinse it under hot water, and use a soft brush to remove stubborn debris before replacing it securely.
Will the E3 error clear itself after I fix the blockage?
In most cases, yes. Once you have cleared the blockage and the dishwasher successfully drains, the E3 error should clear automatically when you start a new cycle. If the error persists, try resetting the machine by turning it off at the power supply for several minutes. If the code returns immediately, there may be a faulty component requiring professional repair.
