Bosch dishwasher E15: water detected in base
Bosch states that E15 means the leakage-protection safety switch detected water in the base of the dishwasher.
What this guide covers
Error codes: E15
This guide follows a structured decision tree built from manufacturer troubleshooting information. It does not assume that the most commonly replaced part is the failed part, and it does not show an exact-fit replacement part unless model compatibility has been independently verified.
Continue this exact diagnostic
Safe troubleshooting sequence
Start with the observations and external checks that can be verified without opening energized assemblies. The interactive version asks these in order and changes the path based on your answers.
- Treat E15 as a leak-protection eventBosch instructs owners to turn off water inflow and contact support rather than continuing DIY troubleshooting.
What the answers can lead to
Turn off the dishwasher water supply
E15 indicates the leak-protection system has activated. Do not keep running cycles to see if it clears.
Evidence strength: Strong
Bosch recommends support/service for E15
Because water has been detected in the base, Appliance Verdict stops here rather than suggesting tilt/reset tricks that can hide the leak without fixing it.
Evidence strength: Strong
When professional diagnosis is the safer next step
E15 indicates the leak-protection system has activated. Do not keep running cycles to see if it clears. Because water has been detected in the base, Appliance Verdict stops here rather than suggesting tilt/reset tricks that can hide the leak without fixing it.
Appliance Verdict stops before energized electrical testing, gas-system work, sealed-system work, and other checks that can create unnecessary risk. A technician can use the model, issue, and completed checks from the interactive diagnostic as a starting point.
Repair or replace?
A diagnosis and a repair decision are different questions. Once you have a real repair quote, compare the total repair cost with the all-in price of a comparable replacement. Warranty or protection-plan coverage, appliance age, reliability history, efficiency, and likely future repairs can all matter. Appliance Verdict’s interactive result includes a transparent cost comparison rather than a black-box replacement recommendation.
Manufacturer sources
Dataset reviewed through 2026-09-11. Appliance Verdict is independent and is not endorsed by the manufacturers cited. Always follow the exact owner or service documentation for your model.
Browse reviewed dishwasher error codes →
Browse all Bosch troubleshooting guides →