Bosch Dishwasher E15 Error Code
- Turn the dishwasher off at the breaker and close the water supply valve under the sink.
- Check for visible water around or under the machine.
- Only if the dishwasher is freestanding and light enough to move safely: with power and water off, carefully tilt it slightly forward onto towels to drain trapped water from the base. Do not force it, and do not do this with a built-in or heavy unit - call a technician instead.
- Water is visible under or around the unit after drying.
- The error returns after a successful reset.
- The appliance trips a breaker.
Can you reset it?
Yes, with conditions. Reset only works when the base pan is dry and the float switch has dropped back down. Unplug for at least 5 minutes. If E15 returns after reset, there is likely an active leak.
Safe checks before calling a technician
- Turn the dishwasher off at the breaker and close the water supply valve under the sink.
- Check for visible water around or under the machine.
- Only if the dishwasher is freestanding and light enough to move safely: with power and water off, carefully tilt it slightly forward onto towels to drain trapped water from the base. Do not force it, and do not do this with a built-in or heavy unit - call a technician instead.
- After drying, unplug for at least 5 minutes, then restore power.
- Do not use excessive detergent — over-sudsing is a common trigger.
Common causes
- Leak into the base tray (hose connection, door seal, spray arm)
- Over-sudsing from wrong detergent type or amount
- Drain pump or sump seal failure
- Float switch triggered by condensation buildup
- Internal hose or gasket leak
When to call a technician
- Water is visible under or around the unit after drying.
- The error returns after a successful reset.
- The appliance trips a breaker.
- You would need to remove panels or access internal parts to find the leak source.
Related Bosch dishwasher codes
Source confidence
Official Bosch US support page confirms meaning (AquaStop/leak protection). Multiple secondary sources consistent on reset procedure and causes.
- Bosch US official support: Dishwasher Error E15 Bosch Home Appliances
FAQ
What does Bosch dishwasher E15 mean?
E15 means the AquaStop leak protection system detected water in the base of the dishwasher and shut it down to prevent damage.
How do I reset Bosch dishwasher E15?
Turn off power and water. If the unit is freestanding and light enough to move safely, you can tilt it slightly forward onto towels to drain water from the base - never force a built-in or heavy unit. Let the base dry completely, then unplug for at least 5 minutes before restoring power.
Is Bosch E15 a leak?
E15 means the dishwasher detected water where it should not be. It may be a genuine leak, or it may be triggered by over-sudsing or condensation. If E15 returns after reset, assume a real leak.
Can I keep using the dishwasher with E15?
No. The dishwasher will not run while E15 is active. Do not attempt to bypass the safety system.
This page is for error-code triage, not repair. Always consult your owner's manual and a qualified technician for repairs. Read our safety disclaimer.