Bosch E15 Error: Aquastop Flood Switch Triggered
Troubleshoot Bosch dishwasher E15 error code (water in base trough).
Aquastop flood protection system triggered by water accumulation in the lower base pan.
Probable Causes
Water leaked into lower base pan, lifting the polystyrene safety float switch.
Failed sump bowl gasket or cracked lower door perimeter seal.
Excessive foam from manual dish soap foaming over tub sides into base.
Diagnostic & Testing Steps
- •Drain pump runs non-stop even with door open or power button switched off.
- •E15 code flashes with illuminated red water tap icon.
- •Unit rejects cycle selection until base trough is dried.
Tools & Equipment Required
- ✓Torx T20 ScrewdriverRemove lower front kickplate and side access panels to reach bottom drip tray.
- ✓Heavy Absorbent Towels & Shallow Baking SheetCatch and soak up the 1–2 liters of water draining from the base pan.
- ✓Hair Dryer (Low Heat Setting)Safely accelerate drying of moisture-sensitive flood switch contacts.
- ✓Inspection Mirror & Small FlashlightInspect sump silicone gasket and pump inlet hose for active drip leaks.
- ✓Official Bosch Sump Gasket Repair Kit (Part #12005744)Replacement silicone perimeter seal for leaky sumps.
Fast Reset Sequence: Bosch Keypad Reset (3-Second Hold)
Before unmounting panels or beginning diagnostic procedures, attempt this manufacturer reset to clear transient microcomputer lockouts:
- 1.Press and hold the Start/Reset button firmly for 3 to 5 seconds until the display shows 0:01 or the active LED cancels.
- 2.Close the door and let the internal drain pump execute its 60-second water purge cycle.
- 3.Switch Power OFF, wait 10 seconds, then power back ON to reprogram a normal wash cycle.
- 1
Step 1: Tilt 45° to Drain Base Pan
[ ] DoneUnplug unit from the wall outlet, slide dishwasher forward slightly, and tilt backward at a 45-degree angle over heavy towels to evacuate the water pooled in the lower pan.
Verification:Trapped water drains completely, allowing the styrofoam float disc to drop back to its resting position. - 2
Step 2: Install Sump Gasket Silicone Seal (Kit 12005744)
[ ] DoneRemove the interior mesh filters, remove the 4 Torx screws securing the plastic sump bowl, and install the official Bosch silicone replacement seal (Kit #12005744) to permanently stop basin seepage.
Verification:Sump perimeter is fully watertight with no weeping droplets visible underneath during fill. - 3
Step 3: Level Chassis and Run Test Rinse
[ ] DoneAdjust front leveling legs so water drains rearward into the sump, restore power and water supply, and run a 15-minute quick rinse program to confirm resolution.
Verification:Error E15 clears, the red water tap indicator remains off, and the cycle finishes normally without leak trips.
Repair Solutions
Unplug unit and shut off hot water supply line.
Carefully tilt dishwasher backward 45 degrees for 1-2 minutes to drain water onto towels.
Install Bosch sump gasket seal repair kit to permanently eliminate tub leak.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Bosch dishwasher run its drain pump continuously with E15?
The Aquastop flood float directly powers the drain pump to evacuate water and protect your kitchen from flooding.
Will the E15 error clear itself?
If water in the base pan evaporates, E15 may clear temporarily, but it will return on the next wash until the leak source is repaired.