Siemens dishwasher - E15 returns after reed switch replacement
My Siemens dishwasher (SN25M231GB/29) developed fault E.15. I understand that this typically means the reed sensor is defective. However, I replace it and the fault came back.
The problem started a few days ago. I ran the dishwasher overnight. In the morning, the dishes were clean so it seemed to have finished the cycle, but it showed E.15 with a constant pumplike sound. Maybe the sound was a bit more aggressive than usual but I can't be sure.
Switching power to the dishwasher on and off didn't change anything - E.15 came back immediately. Pressing reset long didn't change anything. Pressing on/off on the front of the dishwasher didn't change anything.
I researched the problem which was typically described as a defective reed switch. I replaced the reed switch. At first, all seemed fine and I was happy. The washing cycle started.
However, the next morning I got E.15 again, and exactly the same other symptoms (nothing could clear it, etc).
I didn't see any water leak, hear any other unusual sounds or nothing anything else unusual.
I'm stumped.
What could this be?
Solution Summary
AI-generated from this discussion
This thread was marked as solved. Here's a summary of the problem and the fix, generated from the discussion below.
Siemens SN25M231GB/29 showing E15 again after reed switch replacement
- The problem
- The dishwasher completed a wash but then showed E15 and ran the drain pump continuously. Power cycling and reset did not clear the fault. A reed switch was replaced, which briefly appeared to help, but E15 returned on the next cycle.
- Likely cause
- Most strongly supported diagnosis is that the anti-flood system was being triggered by water in the base tray, rather than the original fault being the reed switch alone. A small leak during washing or draining, or a stuck float/switch in the base, was suggested but the exact source was not confirmed.
- What fixed it
- The recommended action was to check the base tray for water, inspect the float mechanism to ensure it moves freely, and look for signs of leaks around the sump/pump area, inlet valve/fill hose, heat exchanger or water matrix, door seal/lower door area, and hose joints/clamps. The poster then confirmed there was some water in the tray, but did not confirm the exact leak source or final repair.
- Checks to try
- Observed continuous pump operation with E15
- Power off/on and reset did not clear the fault
- Reed switch was replaced
- Base tray was opened and found to contain a small amount of water
- Side panels and insulation were removed for inspection
- Parts or tools mentioned
- reed switch
Safety: Isolate the appliance from the mains before removing panels or inspecting internal parts. Further diagnosis should be carried out by a suitably qualified appliance engineer.
1 Answer
E15 on Bosch/Siemens/Neff dishwashers usually means the anti-flood system has operated, so replacing the reed switch won’t help if there is actually water in the base or the float/switch is still being triggered.
1. First, pull the dishwasher out and tilt/check for water in the base tray. If the drain pump runs continuously as soon as it’s powered, that strongly suggests the base float has lifted. Even a small amount of water underneath can cause E15.
2. Remove the side panels or kick panel if needed and inspect the base area carefully. Look for signs of drips, dried white streaks, or dampness around: - sump and pump area - inlet valve/fill hose - heat exchanger/water matrix on the side - door seal and lower door area - hose joints and clamps
3. Check the float mechanism itself. On these machines E15 is often caused by the polystyrene float sticking up, contamination in the base, or the microswitch being held on. Make sure the float moves freely and drops fully.
4. If the base is dry, inspect the wiring and connector to the flood switch/reed circuit. A damaged plug, trapped wire, or failed switch board can falsely report the fault.
5. If it only happens overnight or later in the cycle, suspect a small leak during washing or draining. Run it with panels off if safe to observe, and watch for slow drips rather than obvious leaks.
Please isolate it from the mains before removing panels or inspecting internal parts. If you need parts, use the full model number SN25M231GB/29 and check the Whitegoods Help Spare Parts Shop. If the fault proves to be wiring, live electrical testing, or a hidden leak, it’s best handled by a qualified engineer.
WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant
You may also find this guide on our main site helpful: "How To Clean a Dishwasher" – https://www.whitegoodshelp.co.uk/how-to-clean-a-dishwasher/
This answer was generated automatically by the WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant. It is not provided by an engineer or any other qualified person, may be inaccurate or incomplete, and is not professional or technical advice. Do not rely on it. Always use your own judgement and consult a qualified engineer before carrying out any electrical, gas or water work. Use is entirely at your own risk. See our full Terms of Use.
SAFETY FIRST: READ BEFORE ACTING ON THIS GUIDANCE
Never work on a live appliance
Always unplug it at the mains before going near it with any tools.
Never attempt gas work
By law, gas appliances must only be worked on by a Gas Safe registered engineer. If your fault involves gas, stop and call a professional. Do not attempt it yourself.
Watch for sharp edges
Outer panels are smooth, but internal parts have sharp machined edges. Wear protective gloves and arm sleeves.
Water appliances can leak
Turn off the water supply before disconnecting any hoses.
Know your limits
If you are not confident testing or working inside the appliance, stop and call a professional.
AI guidance, not guaranteed
This response is generated automatically by the WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant. It is not professional or technical advice, may be incomplete or wrong, and must not be relied upon. Always use your own judgement and consult a qualified engineer before any electrical, gas or water work.
This is general information only and is not professional advice. The WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant is not an engineer and is not qualified. See our full Terms of Use.
Need Professional Help or Spare Parts?
That's very helpful. I opened the dishwasher, and there was a bit of water in the tray. However, I can't access this very or see enough, or reach enough parts, to see where the leak is coming from. I removed both side panels and the insulation already, but it doesn't help much.
Any tips how I can see and reach inside to get to the root cause of the small leak?
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