Dishwasher Fault Codes

Dishwasher Error Codes Explained: Common Faults & Simple Fixes

A faulty dishwasher can quickly disrupt your daily routine—especially when it stops mid-cycle and displays an error code. While these codes might look confusing, they usually point to a specific issue that can often be checked quickly.

In this guide, we explain the most common dishwasher error codes, what they mean, and the first steps you can take before calling an engineer.

First Step: Try a Reset

Before diving into fault codes:

👉 Turn the dishwasher off at the mains and leave it for 15–30 minutes, then switch it back on.

This simple reset can often clear temporary faults.

Most Common Dishwasher Faults

Water Leak / Flood Errors

Common codes: E15 (Bosch/Neff/Siemens), F06 / E4 (Hotpoint/Indesit)

What it means: Water has collected in the base tray of the dishwasher, triggering a safety cut-off.

Common causes:

• Internal leaks

• Loose connections

• Excessive detergent causing foam overflow

👉 This may require inspection if the issue persists.

Drainage Issues

Common codes: E24 / E25 (Bosch), F05 (Hotpoint)

What it means: The dishwasher cannot drain water properly.

Common causes:

• Blocked filter

• Blocked or kinked drain hose

• Debris in the drain pump

How to fix it:

• Clean the filter at the bottom of the machine

• Check the hose for kinks or blockages

• Inspect for food debris

Water Intake / Fill Failures

Common codes: E1, F06, E5, i10

What it means: The dishwasher is not filling with water.

Common causes:

• Water supply turned off

• Kinked or blocked inlet hose

• Dirty inlet filter

How to fix it:

• Check the mains water tap is fully on

• Inspect the inlet hose

• Clean the inlet filter

Heating Faults

Common codes: E09 / E11 / E12 (Bosch), F08 (Hotpoint)

What it means:

The dishwasher is not heating the water during the cycle.

Common causes:

• Faulty heating element

• NTC temperature sensor failure

• Control board or relay fault

👉 These faults usually require professional repair.

Brand-Specific Error Codes

Bosch / Neff / Siemens

• E15: Water leak detected

• E24 / E25: Drainage issue

• E09: Heating fault

Hotpoint / Indesit

• F05: Drainage issue

• F06: Water fill problem

• F08: Heating fault

Zanussi / AEG / Electrolux

• i10: Water inlet fault

• i20: Drainage issue

• i30: Water leak detected

Common Fixes to Try First

Before calling an engineer, try these simple checks:

• ✅ Clean the filters (bottom of the dishwasher)

• ✅ Check hoses for kinks or blockages

• ✅ Ensure water supply is on

• ✅ Reset the appliance (15–30 minutes off)

When Should You Call a Professional?

You should contact a qualified engineer if:

• The error code keeps returning

• The machine won’t reset

• You suspect a leak inside the unit

• Heating faults persist

• You’re unsure how to proceed

Ignoring ongoing issues can lead to further damage or costly repairs.

Dishwasher Repairs in Bexhill, Hastings & Eastbourne

At Forward Thermal and Flow, we provide reliable fault finding and repair services for domestic appliances across:

• Bexhill-on-Sea

• Hastings

• Battle

• Eastbourne

• Surrounding areas

Whether it’s a drainage issue, leak detection, or heating fault, our experienced team is here to help.

Need Help With Your Dishwasher?

If your dishwasher is showing an error code or not working properly:

👉 Contact Forward Thermal and Flow today for fast, professional support.