Bosch Dishwasher E15 error code

The safety switch has found water sitting in the base of the dishwasher, so the leakage protection system has kicked in. The machine may run its drain pump continuously to keep things safe. This usually means water has leaked or pooled under the tub instead of draining away.

Also shown as: E-15, F15

Last updated: September 30, 2026

Quick answer: Bosch dishwasher error code E15: leak detected: water found in the base pan. The most common cause is a leak from a hose, seal, or loose connection letting water into the base pan. Try this first — turn off the water and power.

What causes the E15 error?

  • A leak from a hose, seal, or loose connection letting water into the base pan
  • Excessive suds or water overflowing from the tub into the base
  • A kinked or blocked drain hose causing water to back up

How to fix Bosch E15 — step by step

Work through these in order, from simplest and safest first. Stop as soon as the code clears.

  1. Turn off the water and power
    Close the water supply tap and switch the dishwasher off so no more water can enter while you decide on next steps.
    Safety warning: Water and electricity are a dangerous mix; never reach inside or under a wet appliance.
  2. Power-cycle the dishwasher
    Switch off the circuit breaker for about 30 seconds, then turn it back on to see whether the code was a one-time glitch.
    Safety warning: Only touch the breaker panel with dry hands.
  3. Call Bosch support
    Bosch's official guidance for E15 is to turn off the water inflow and contact Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904 for service rather than fixing it yourself.
Related guide: Dishwasher troubleshooting — fix common problems, with links to every dishwasher error code we cover.

When to call a technician

Stop and call a qualified technician if any of these apply:
  • The code returns after a power reset
  • You see standing water under or around the machine
  • You hear the drain pump running nonstop
  • Bosch advises booking an engineer for E15 instead of DIY repair

Frequently asked questions

What does E15 mean on a Bosch dishwasher?

It means the leakage protection system found water in the base of the appliance. Bosch advises turning off the water inflow and calling support rather than repairing it yourself.

Can I just tilt the dishwasher to clear E15?

Draining the base pan may clear the code temporarily, but if you do not fix the leak that filled it, the water and the E15 code will come back. Bosch recommends professional service for this fault.

Sources

Every meaning and fix above was checked against official manufacturer documentation:

FixCode provides general troubleshooting information only — not professional repair advice. If you are unsure about any step, stop and call a qualified technician. Repairs done incorrectly can be dangerous and may void your warranty.

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