Bosch · Dishwasher · Error code
E15 – Water leak detected in base tray
E15 means the safety float in the base tray has detected water, so the dishwasher shuts off the inlet valve to prevent flooding.
Smart summary for E15
This quick AI-style overview sums up how serious this error is, how hard it usually is to fix yourself and roughly how long it takes.
What E15 means
On most Bosch dishwashers, error E15 indicates that water has collected in the base tray. A float switch rises when there is water in the tray and signals the control board to stop the cycle and close the water inlet valve.
Common causes
- Leaking door seal allowing drips down into the base tray
- Loose or cracked sump, circulation pump seal or hose clamp
- Over-foaming from incorrect detergent or too much rinse aid causing water to spill over
- Small hairline cracks in plastic side tanks or heat exchanger
Quick checks you can do yourself
- Switch off the dishwasher at the mains and carefully pull it out enough to tilt it without straining hoses.
- Place towels behind the machine and gently tilt it backwards around 45° so trapped water in the base can run out.
- Stand the dishwasher upright and leave it for at least 30–60 minutes so the float and base area can dry.
- Check the door seal, sump area and visible hoses with a torch for signs of fresh water trails or dried detergent marks.
- Run a short rinse cycle while watching the sides and underneath the machine for new leaks.
Always unplug the appliance and switch off power at the mains before removing panels or working near wiring or water connections.
When to call a professional
If E15 comes back quickly after drying the base tray, or you can see water coming from the circulation pump area, sump or a side tank, the leak is more than just a one-off spill. A Bosch-trained engineer should inspect the appliance, as replacing pumps, tanks or seals often requires partial strip‑down.
Recommended next steps
If the error clears and no new water appears, monitor the dishwasher closely over the next few cycles. Avoid overloading the lower basket so the door does not flex, use the correct tablets or detergent and clean the filters regularly. If you see new puddles or the E15 error returns, stop using the appliance until the leak source is found.
Recommended parts & cleaners
The link below searches for compatible parts, hoses and cleaners that may help resolve E15 issues on your Bosch dishwasher. Always check compatibility with your exact model before ordering.
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