Bosch Serie 6 washing machine showing E18 and won't drain
My Bosch Serie 6 WAU28T64GB has stopped mid-cycle with an E18 error and there's water left in the drum. I've checked the obvious — the door seal looks clean — but I can't find the drain filter. Is E18 always a pump or blocked filter issue, or could it be the pressure switch? Any pointers before I call an engineer would be hugely appreciated.
1 Answer
E18 on many Bosch washing machines usually points to a draining problem, but it does not automatically mean the pump itself has failed. A blockage, jammed pump impeller, kinked drain hose, or drain installation issue are all common causes. A pressure system fault is possible, but less common.
Before checking anything internal, isolate the washing machine from the mains.
1. Find the filter access On most Bosch Serie 6 models the drain pump filter is behind the small flap at the lower front of the machine, often on the right-hand side. If you cannot see a flap, check the lower plinth area. Some models hide it quite neatly.
2. Drain the water first Put towels down and use a shallow tray. If fitted, pull out the small emergency drain hose next to the filter and empty it bit by bit. If there is no small hose, you will need to slowly loosen the filter cap and let the water out gradually.
3. Check the pump filter and impeller Remove the filter and look for coins, buttons, hair grips, lint or fabric debris. Then look inside at the pump impeller. It should turn with slight resistance but not be jammed or loose.
4. Check the drain hose Make sure it is not kinked, squashed or pushed too far down the standpipe under the sink or into the waste.
5. Listen to the pump If it hums but does not pump, it may be obstructed or failing. If it is completely silent, there could be a pump, wiring, or control issue.
If all of that is clear and it still shows E18, then the pressure chamber/pressure switch system is worth checking, but that is a bit more involved. If you are not confident, it would be sensible to call a qualified engineer. Any mains electrical work should be left to a properly qualified person.
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Never work on a live appliance
Always unplug it at the mains before going near it with any tools.
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