Bosch Dishwasher Error Code E15: Meaning & How to Fix It

By the ErrorCodePro Editorial Team · Last reviewed October 20, 2026

Bosch dishwasher error code E15 means: The safety switch has detected water in the base of the dishwasher, so the leakage protection system has activated. [1] Keep using it? No. Bosch says to turn off the water inflow first. Start with the owner checks below, beginning with: cut power and water.

Quick facts

Code	E15
Also shown as	E3100
Brand / appliance	Bosch dishwasher
System	Leak protection
Official meaning	The safety switch has detected water in the base of the dishwasher, so the leakage protection system has activated. [1]
Keep using it?	No. Bosch says to turn off the water inflow first
DIY-safe?	Owner checks only (listed below)
Support	Bosch Customer Support: 1-800-944-2904

On this page: Meaning · Steps · Parts · When to call a technician · Related codes · FAQ

What error code E15 means on a Bosch dishwasher

The safety switch has detected water in the base of the dishwasher, so the leakage protection system has activated. [1]

This is a leak protection code. Codes and wording can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for your model number.

How to fix Bosch dishwasher error code E15 (safe owner checks)

Safety first: disconnect power before you remove any panel or reach into the sump or drum. Do not touch wiring, the control board or the motor. If you see water near electrical parts, stop and call a technician. These steps are based on Bosch's published guidance [1], rewritten for clarity.

Cut power and water. Press ON/OFF, then unplug the dishwasher or switch off its breaker. Close the water supply valve, usually under the sink.
Try a power reset. Leave the power off for a few minutes, then turn it back on. If E15 clears and does not return, the switch may have tripped from a small amount of water.
Check for visible leaks. With the power still off, inspect the hoses under the sink, the door seal and the floor in front of the dishwasher. Tighten loose hose clamps by hand only.
Drain the base pan. Remove the toe-kick panel and soak up water in the base pan with towels or a sponge. Caution: some third-party repair guides suggest tilting the dishwasher back about 45° to drain the base pan. Bosch does not publish this step. It can strain hoses and damage flooring, so do it only with the power and water off and with a helper. If you are unsure, towel-drain the pan instead.
Dry the float. Find the float in the base pan, dry it and the tray, and make sure the float moves down freely.
Restore and test. Refit the panels, open the water, restore power and run a short cycle. Watch underneath for drips. If E15 returns, stop and book a repair.

Steps 2–6 are general repair steps, not Bosch instructions. Bosch's official advice is to turn off the water inflow and contact support. [3]

Parts that may be involved

Exact parts depend on your model number. This page lists part types only, never part numbers.

Inlet / fill hose
Door gasket / seal
Drain pump and seal
Leak-protection float / switch assembly
Water inlet valve (technician install recommended)

When to call a technician

E15 comes back after the base pan is dry
Water is near wiring, the pump motor or the control board
The leak comes from the inlet valve, pump or inside the tub
Anything involving wiring, the control board, the motor or the water valve electrics
The appliance is under warranty: contact Bosch Customer Support: 1-800-944-2904 first

Frequently asked questions

What does error code E15 mean on a Bosch dishwasher?

Bosch lists E15 as follows: The safety switch has detected water in the base of the dishwasher, so the leakage protection system has activated.

Is it safe to keep using the dishwasher with E15?

No. Bosch says to turn off the water inflow first.

Can I fix Bosch dishwasher error E15 myself?

Only with the owner checks on this page, starting with: cut power and water. If it persists, call a technician or Bosch Customer Support: 1-800-944-2904.

Is E3100 the same as E15?

Yes. Bosch's documentation lists E3100 with the same meaning as E15; the display format depends on the model.

Sources

Bosch Home US: E15 Bosch Dishwasher Error Code (official)
Bosch Home US: Dishwasher Error Codes (official)
Fred’s Appliance Academy: Bosch Dishwasher Error Code E15 (third-party repair guide; used for the reset, drain and float steps, rewritten)

Last reviewed: October 20, 2026. ErrorCodePro is not affiliated with Bosch.