How to Resolve the Bosch Dishwasher E15 Error Code

If your Bosch dishwasher is displaying the E15 error code, this usually indicates excess water has been detected in the machine. While this may sound worrying, don’t panic! There are some simple solutions you can try at home to resolve this issue to hopefully have your dishwasher back up and running in no time.

This guide relates to all commonly available Bosch dishwasher models, including:

GM926710

SHE43P25UC/64

SHE45M05UC/50

SHE45M06UC/50

SHE4AP06UC/06

SHE55M12UC/64

SHE55M15UC/64

SHE55M16UC/64

SHE58C05UC/48

SHI4302

SHI4306

SHI6802

SHI6805

SHI6806

SHU9915UC/11

SHX43C05UC/46

SHX45M05UC/50

What Can Cause the E15 Error Code?

The E15 error code signifies that too much water has been detected in the base of the dishwasher. The E15 error code is actually a protective measure—it indicates that Bosch’s anti-flood system has been activated. But what does this really mean, and what can cause it to happen? Here are some common culprits:

Using the wrong detergent: Bosch dishwashers work best when you use a high-efficiency detergent that creates minimal suds. Using a detergent that creates a lot of suds can lead to a buildup of soapy water in the bottom of your dishwasher that doesn’t dissipate. Using too much detergent can also cause this problem.
Leaking hoses or seals: Wear and tear on your Bosch dishwasher can cause water to pool in the bottom of your dishwasher.
Damaged spray arms: If your spray arms are damaged or blocked, water may back up inside the arms and flow into the base of the dishwasher, triggering the E15 error code.
Dishwasher not level: If your Bosch dishwasher is not completely level, it may cause water to pool, preventing proper drainage.
Sump basin issues: A faulty sump pump can prevent drainage, leading to water accumulation and the E15 error code.

Try a Hard Reset

Sometimes, your Bosch dishwasher may display an error code that isn’t relevant. This usually happens after some type of power surge or glitch. In these cases, resetting your Bosch dishwasher is usually sufficient to clear the error code and get your dishwasher functioning as normal. Here’s what to do:

Cut power to your dishwasher. Either unplug it from the power outlet or flip the circuit breaker corresponding to the dishwasher.
Leave the dishwasher without power for two minutes.
Restore power to your Bosch dishwasher.
Check to see if the error code has cleared.
If no error code is displayed, run a test cycle. If the cycle gets all the way through without the error code recurring, it was likely just a random glitch!

Tilt Your Dishwasher

If you’re looking for a temporary fix to remove the water pooling in the bottom of your Bosch dishwasher, you can try tilting the appliance to help it to drain. This is ideal for when you want your dishwasher to reset and function in the short term while you find a more long-term solution. This method works because your dishwasher contains a safety float switch that detects the dishwasher’s water level. If the dishwasher is tilted backward, water is moved away from the switch due to gravity, which removes the error message and lets the dishwasher function. Here’s how to do it:

Disconnect your Bosch dishwasher from its power source, either by unplugging or tripping the circuit breaker.
Remove the lower front panel so you can see what’s happening.
Gather towels to catch any spills. A shallow pan or dish is also a good idea—quite a lot of water may leak out when you’re trying this method.
Gently tilt the dishwasher backward. As dishwashers are quite heavy, it’s best to enlist the help of a second person or use a furniture dolly to assist you with the tilting.
Hold the dishwasher in this position for about a minute, allowing the water to drain out.
Reconnect the dishwasher to the power and check if the error code has cleared.
Run a test cycle to see if the error code recurs.

Note that while this method may allow your dishwasher to function again, it doesn’t solve what caused the dishwasher to accumulate water in the first place. A thorough check of the drainage system is necessary to ensure the problem doesn’t recur.

Reset the Water and Safety Switch

If the tilt method doesn’t work, you need to try resetting the water safety switch. This switch is triggered when it senses too much water in the bottom of the machine, which is designed to prevent leaks and flooding. You should only reset this switch if you’re certain you’ve dealt with the cause of the water buildup, as otherwise it can cause flooding and water damage.

Here’s what to do:

Disconnect your dishwasher from its power source.
Remove the kickplate at the bottom front of your dishwasher.
Use an old towel to dry up any residual water you see in the bottom of the dishwasher pan.
Locate the float switch. You can refer to your Bosch manual for help finding it in your specific model.
Reset the switch according to the instructions in your manual. In some cases this requires pressing a button; in others you simply need to reposition the float switch.
Put the dishwasher back together and restore power.
Check if the error code has cleared, and run a test cycle to see if the error recurs.

Ensure the Drainage System is Working

Once you’ve cleared the error code using one of the above methods, it’s a good idea to check the drainage system to figure out what may be causing the pooling. Carefully inspect the following:

Check the drain hose for kinks or blockages.
Check the filter to make sure it’s not clogged with food or debris.
Make sure the drain pump is not blocked, particularly the pump impeller.
Run a hot cycle with a cup of vinegar in the top rack to help clear any buildup from the water circulation system.

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