Complete Dishwasher Error Code Guide: Bosch, Samsung, LG, Whirlpool & More

When your dishwasher displays an error code, it's actually trying to help you diagnose the problem. These diagnostic codes are built into modern dishwashers to pinpoint exactly what's wrong—saving you time and potentially expensive repair costs.

At JK Appliances Toronto, we've compiled the most comprehensive dishwasher error code reference guide based on thousands of repairs across the Greater Toronto Area. Whether you have a Bosch E24, Samsung 5E, LG OE error, or codes from any other major brand, this guide will help you understand what's wrong and how to fix it.

Quick Answer: Decode your dishwasher error codes with our comprehensive guide. Find solutions for all major brands including Bosch, Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, GE, Miele, and Frigidaire. This is a common issue that can usually be resolved with proper troubleshooting. If the problem persists, professional diagnosis is recommended.

How to Read Dishwasher Error Codes

Before diving into specific codes, here's how to identify and interpret them:

Where to Find Error Codes:

Digital display panel (most common)
Blinking LED lights in specific patterns
Beeping sequences (count the beeps)
Hidden in diagnostic mode

Error Code Formats:

Letter + Number: E24, F5, OE
Numbers Only: 5E, 1E, 21
Blinking Patterns: 3 blinks = error 3

Bosch Dishwasher Error Codes

Bosch is one of the most popular dishwasher brands in Toronto homes. Here's a complete guide to their error codes:

Bosch E-Series Error Codes

| Error Code | Description | Causes | Solutions | |------------|-------------|--------|-----------| | E01 | Heating error | Failed heating element, faulty thermistor, control board issue | Test heating element continuity; replace if no continuity | | E02 | Thermistor fault | Temperature sensor malfunction | Replace NTC thermistor sensor | | E03 | Fill timeout | No water entering dishwasher | Check water supply valve, inlet hose, water inlet valve | | E04 | Water flow sensor | Flow switch not detecting water | Clean or replace flow sensor | | E05 | Overfill condition | Float switch or fill valve stuck | Check float switch movement; inspect fill valve | | E06 | Door switch error | Door not closing properly | Inspect door latch and door switch | | E07 | Drying fan issue | Fan motor failure | Replace drying fan motor | | E09 | Heating circuit fault | Heating element shorted | Professional diagnosis required; control board may need replacement | | E14 | Flow meter error | Water flow not detected properly | Clean inlet screen; replace flow meter | | E15 | Water in base pan | Leak detected in base | Check door seal, hoses, pump seals; tilt unit to drain base pan | | E16 | Unexpected water fill | Fill valve leaking | Replace water inlet valve | | E17 | Overfill condition | Excessive water entering | Check float switch and water inlet valve | | E18 | Flow sensor issue | Low water flow detected | Check for kinked inlet hose; clean inlet filter | | E19 | Heat pump error | Circulation pump heating fault | Professional repair required | | E21 | Drain pump blocked | Pump cannot expel water | Clean filter, check drain hose, inspect pump impeller | | E22 | Filter clogged | Debris blocking filter system | Remove and thoroughly clean all filters | | E23 | Drain pump issue | Pump motor failure | Replace drain pump assembly | | E24 | Drain problem | Water not draining properly | Check drain hose for kinks; clean filter; inspect air gap | | E25 | Drain pump blocked/cover | Pump cover not secure or impeller blocked | Reseat pump cover; remove debris from impeller |

Most Common Bosch Error: E24

The Bosch E24 error is one of the most frequently searched dishwasher problems. Here's a detailed troubleshooting guide:

Step 1: Clean the Filter System

Remove the bottom rack
Turn the cylindrical filter counterclockwise
Remove and clean both the fine filter and coarse filter
Rinse under running water with a soft brush
Reinstall and ensure proper seating

Step 2: Check the Drain Hose

Pull the dishwasher out slightly (disconnect power first)
Inspect the drain hose for kinks or bends
Ensure the high loop is properly installed
Check the connection at the garbage disposal or air gap

Step 3: Inspect the Drain Pump

Access the pump through the bottom of the unit
Check for foreign objects (glass, bones, labels)
Verify the impeller spins freely
Listen for grinding sounds during drain cycle

Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes

Samsung dishwashers use alphanumeric codes that are relatively easy to interpret:

Samsung Error Code Reference

| Error Code | Description | Causes | Solutions | |------------|-------------|--------|-----------| | 1E | Water supply error | No water flow detected | Check supply valve, inlet hose, water pressure | | 3C/3E | Motor error | Wash motor failure | Professional motor diagnosis required | | 4C/4E | Water fill problem | Insufficient water supply | Verify water valve open; check inlet hose | | 5C/5E | Drain error | Water not draining | Clean filter; check drain hose and pump | | 7C/7E | Waterwall reflector | Reflector motor issue | Reset washer; may need motor replacement | | 9E | Water level error | Abnormal water level detected | Check float switch and pressure sensor | | bE | Switch fault | Button stuck on control panel | Clean around buttons; replace control panel if needed | | CE | Communication error | Control board signal issue | Reset power; may need control board replacement | | dE | Door error | Door not properly closed | Check door latch and switch | | HE/HC | Heater error | Water not heating properly | Test heating element and thermostat | | IE | Water inlet error | Similar to 1E; water not filling | Check inlet valve and supply | | LC/LE | Leak detected | Water in base pan or moisture sensor activated | Inspect door seal, hoses, pump seals | | OC | Over-water level | Too much water inside | Drain manually; check inlet valve and float | | oE | Over-level water | Similar to OC | Same resolution as OC | | PE/PC | Half-load error | Partition sensor issue | Reset cycle; check partition sensor | | tC/tE | Temperature sensor | Thermistor malfunction | Replace temperature sensor |

Samsung 5E/5C Error Deep Dive

The Samsung 5E error (drain error) is extremely common. Follow these steps:

Cancel and restart the cycle - Sometimes a simple reset clears the error
Check the drain filter - Located at the bottom inside the tub
Inspect the drain hose - No kinks, proper high loop
Clean the garbage disposal knockout - If connected to disposal
Test drain pump operation - Listen for humming during drain

LG Dishwasher Error Codes

LG uses a straightforward two-character error code system:

LG Error Code Reference

| Error Code | Description | Causes | Solutions | |------------|-------------|--------|-----------| | AE | Leak sensor activated | Water detected in base pan | Check all seals, door gasket, and hose connections | | bE | Button error | Control panel button stuck | Clean control panel; may need replacement | | CE | Motor error | Circulation motor issue | Professional motor testing required | | CL | Child lock active | Control lock engaged | Press and hold child lock button to deactivate | | E1 | Leak detected | Similar to AE | Same resolution as AE | | FE | Fill error | Overfilling detected | Check inlet valve and float switch | | HE | Heater error | Heating element fault | Test heating element; replace if faulty | | IE | Water inlet error | No water entering | Check supply valve, inlet hose, and inlet valve | | LE | Motor error | Pump motor locked/overloaded | Check for obstructions; may need motor replacement | | nE | Vario motor error | Spray arm motor issue | Professional diagnosis required | | OE | Drain error | Water not draining properly | Clean filter, check drain hose and pump | | PF | Power failure | Power interruption during cycle | Press START to resume after power restored | | tE | Thermistor error | Temperature sensor fault | Replace thermistor sensor |

LG OE Error Troubleshooting

The LG OE error indicates drainage problems. Here's how to resolve it:

Quick Fixes:

Run the garbage disposal to clear the drain path
Check if drain hose is kinked
Clean the drain filter (bottom of tub)

Advanced Fixes:

Disconnect and clean the drain hose
Check the air gap (if installed)
Inspect the drain pump for debris
Test drain pump motor for proper operation

Whirlpool, KitchenAid & Maytag Error Codes

These brands share similar diagnostic systems since they're all under the Whirlpool Corporation umbrella:

Whirlpool-Family Error Codes

| Error Code | Description | Causes | Solutions | |------------|-------------|--------|-----------| | F1E1 | Control board error | EEPROM communication fault | Reset power; replace control board if persists | | F1E2 | Motor control error | Motor circuit issue | Professional diagnosis required | | F2E1 | Stuck button | Button on control panel stuck | Clean panel; replace if needed | | F2E2 | UI board error | User interface fault | Replace UI board | | F3E1 | Thermistor/OWI fault | Temperature sensor issue | Replace thermistor | | F3E2 | Shorted thermistor | Temperature sensor shorted | Replace thermistor sensor | | F3E3 | Wash temperature error | Water not heating properly | Check heating element and inlet water temp | | F4E1 | Pump motor error | Drain pump not operating | Check pump; replace if faulty | | F4E2 | Pump overload | Pump motor overheating | Check for obstructions; replace pump | | F5E1 | Door not closed | Door latch not engaging | Check latch, strike plate, and door switch | | F5E2 | Door switch error | Door switch malfunction | Replace door switch | | F5E3 | Door unlock error | Door won't unlock | Check latch mechanism | | F6E1 | Water inlet valve | Valve not filling properly | Check valve and water supply | | F6E2 | Float switch stuck | Float detecting high water | Clean around float switch | | F6E3 | Water inlet issue | Similar to F6E1 | Check inlet valve, filter, supply | | F6E4 | No water flow | Water not entering | Verify supply valve open; check hose | | F7E1 | Flow meter error | Water flow not detected | Clean or replace flow meter | | F8E1 | Slow drain | Drain taking too long | Clean filter; check drain path | | F8E4 | Water not draining | Drain completely blocked | Thorough drain system cleaning required | | F8E6 | Fill timeout | Water not filling in time | Check inlet valve and supply pressure | | F9E1 | Diverter error | Spray arm diverter issue | Check diverter motor and mechanism | | F9E2 | Diverter position | Diverter stuck | Clear any obstructions |

GE Dishwasher Error Codes

GE uses a simpler code system:

GE Error Codes

| Error Code | Description | Solutions | |------------|-------------|-----------| | C1 | Stuck key | Check control panel buttons; replace if stuck | | C3 | Stuck key (specific) | Same as C1; specific button issue | | C4 | Stuck key | Clean or replace control panel | | C7 | Turbidity sensor | Clean optical sensor in sump | | C8 | Diverter error | Check diverter motor operation | | PF | Power failure | Reset and restart cycle | | 888 | UI/display test | Normal during diagnostics; reset if stuck | | Flashing lights | Door not latched | Ensure door is fully closed and latched |

Miele Dishwasher Error Codes

Miele dishwashers are premium appliances with sophisticated diagnostics:

Miele Error Codes

| Error Code | Description | Solutions | |------------|-------------|-----------| | F11 | Drainage problem | Clean filters, check drain hose and pump | | F12 | Water intake issue (start) | Check supply valve and inlet hose | | F13 | Water intake issue (mid-cycle) | Similar to F12; may indicate valve failure | | F14 | Circulation pump error | Professional repair required | | F18 | Water flow error | Clean filter; check flow meter | | F19 | Water flow meter | Replace flow meter | | F24 | Heating error | Check heating element | | F25 | Drying issue | Check drying fan and heating | | F26 | NTC (thermistor) error | Replace temperature sensor | | F32 | Door not closed | Check latch and door switch | | F40 | Control electronics | Professional control board diagnosis | | F47 | Communication error | Reset; may need main board replacement | | F51 | Pressure switch error | Check pressure sensor | | F52 | Salt lack indicator | Add rinse salt to softener | | F53 | Circulation pump | Professional repair needed | | F63/F64 | Spray arm error | Check spray arm rotation | | F67 | Flow meter pulse | Clean or replace flow meter | | F68 | Aquastop activated | Check for leaks; reset Aquastop | | F69 | Aquastop fault | May need Aquastop replacement | | F70 | Leak detected | Inspect all seals and connections |

Frigidaire & Electrolux Error Codes

These brands share control technology and error codes:

Frigidaire/Electrolux Codes

| Error Code | Description | Solutions | |------------|-------------|-----------| | E1/i10 | Water not filling | Check supply valve and inlet | | E2/i20 | Drain issue | Clean filter; check pump | | E3/i30 | Flood protection | Water in base pan; check for leaks | | E4/i40 | Flow error | Check inlet and flow meter | | E5/i50 | Motor error | Professional motor diagnosis | | E6/i60 | Heating error | Test heating element | | ER | EEPROM error | Control board reset or replacement | | HO | Water too hot | Allow to cool; check inlet water temp | | LO | Water too cold | Check water heater and inlet | | UO | Vent error | Check drying vent system |

How to Clear Error Codes

General Reset Method (Works for Most Brands)

Press the cancel/drain button
Turn off power at the breaker for 5 minutes
Restore power and try a new cycle

Brand-Specific Reset Methods

Bosch Reset:

Press and hold the Start button for 3-5 seconds
Wait for lights to stop flashing
Start a new cycle

Samsung Reset:

Turn off the dishwasher
Unplug for 5 minutes
Plug back in and restart

LG Reset:

Press and hold the Power and Start buttons together for 5 seconds
Wait for beep and restart

Whirlpool Reset:

Press High Temp + Air Dry + High Temp + Air Dry quickly
Enters diagnostic mode; exit by pressing Cancel

When to Call a Professional

Call JK Appliances if:

Error code keeps returning after reset
Multiple error codes appear
You're uncomfortable with DIY troub

Common Questions People Ask

Q: Is it normal for my dishwasher to have issues? No, this is not normal behavior and indicates an underlying issue that should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.

Q: Can I fix this dishwasher problem myself? Some basic issues can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting, but complex problems require professional diagnosis to avoid safety risks and warranty issues.

Q: How much does professional dishwasher repair cost in Toronto? Repair costs typically range from $150-$400 depending on the specific issue and parts needed. Our technicians provide free estimates before any work begins.

Q: How long does dishwasher repair take? Most repairs are completed within 1-2 hours during a single visit. Some cases may require ordering specialty parts with a follow-up appointment.

Q: Should I repair or replace my dishwasher? If your dishwasher is less than 8 years old and repair costs are under 50% of replacement cost, repair is usually the better value. Our technicians can help you make the right decision.

Q: Do you offer same-day dishwasher repair in Toronto? Yes! We offer same-day and emergency repair services throughout Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area for urgent issues.

Q: What brands of dishwasher do you repair? We service all major brands including Bosch, Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, GE, Maytag, Frigidaire, Miele, and more.

Q: Is dishwasher repair covered by warranty? Many dishwasher issues are covered under manufacturer warranty. We can help verify your warranty status and handle claim processing.

leshooting

The repair requires disassembly
Electrical or motor components are suspected

Error codes requiring professional repair:

Control board errors (F1E1, F1E2, CE)
Motor errors (3E, LE, F4E1)
Heating system faults (when element tests okay)
Repeated leak detection errors
Any code involving electrical components

Frequently Asked Questions About Dishwasher Error Codes

Q: What does it mean when my dishwasher shows an error code? A: Dishwasher error codes are diagnostic indicators that pinpoint specific malfunctions within your appliance's operating systems. Modern dishwashers have sophisticated sensors monitoring water fill, temperature, drainage, motor operation, door closure, and electrical components. When any system detects abnormal conditions—such as water not filling within the expected time frame, drainage taking too long, temperature not reaching setpoints, or door not latching properly—the control board generates a corresponding error code displayed on the control panel or indicated through blinking LED patterns. These codes save troubleshooting time by immediately identifying which system requires attention.

Q: How do I clear a dishwasher error code? A: To clear most dishwasher error codes, first press the Cancel or Drain button to stop the current cycle and attempt to clear the code. If the code persists, perform a hard reset by turning off the dishwasher's circuit breaker for 5-10 minutes, then restoring power. For Bosch models, press and hold Start for 3-5 seconds. Samsung dishwashers clear codes with power cycling. LG models reset by holding Power and Start together for 5 seconds. Whirlpool enters diagnostic mode with the High Temp + Air Dry sequence pressed four times rapidly. However, if the underlying problem isn't fixed, the error code will return—codes are symptoms, not the problem itself.

Q: What is the most common dishwasher error code? A: Drainage error codes are the most common across all brands: Bosch E24, Samsung 5E/5C, LG OE, Whirlpool F8E1/F8E4, GE lack of drainage indication, and Miele F11 all indicate water isn't draining properly. These account for approximately 40-50% of all dishwasher error codes. The primary causes are clogged filters (most common), kinked or clogged drain hoses, blocked garbage disposal connections, failed drain pumps, or obstructed air gaps. Regular filter cleaning after every 3-5 wash cycles prevents most drainage errors. Start troubleshooting by cleaning the filter thoroughly, checking the drain hose for kinks, and running your garbage disposal to clear the drain path.

Q: Can I continue using my dishwasher if it shows an error code? A: No, never run your dishwasher with an active error code. Error codes indicate malfunctions that can cause water damage, electrical hazards, or component failures if operation continues. For example, leak detection codes (Bosch E15, Samsung LC/LE, LG AE) mean water is already in the base pan—continued operation risks flooding your kitchen. Drainage errors can cause overfilling and flooding. Heating errors can damage control boards or cause electrical fires. Door latch errors prevent proper seal and cause leaks. Always address the error code's underlying cause before attempting another cycle. Ignoring error codes voids warranties and converts minor repairs into major expensive failures.

Q: Why does my dishwasher error code keep coming back after I reset it? A: Error codes that return immediately or shortly after resetting indicate the underlying problem hasn't been resolved—you've only cleared the symptom notification. For recurring codes, systematically address the root cause: drainage codes require complete filter cleaning, drain hose inspection for kinks or clogs, pump impeller check for foreign objects, and verification of proper drain system installation. Fill errors need water supply valve verification, inlet hose and screen cleaning, and water pressure checks. Heating errors require heating element and thermistor testing. Door errors need latch mechanism and switch inspection. If basic troubleshooting doesn't resolve recurring codes, professional diagnosis is needed to identify failed components.

Q: What does Bosch E24 error mean and how do I fix it? A: Bosch E24 is a drainage error indicating water isn't leaving the dishwasher properly during the drain cycle. Fix it by: First, removing and thoroughly cleaning the cylindrical filter assembly (turn counterclockwise to remove). Second, checking the drain hose under the sink for kinks, crushing, or blockages—the hose must have a high loop or air gap. Third, if connected to a garbage disposal, ensure the knockout plug was removed during installation and run the disposal to clear the drain path. Fourth, inspecting the drain pump by accessing the sump area—remove foreign objects like glass shards, bones, or sticker labels blocking the impeller. Fifth, verify the air gap (if installed) isn't clogged. Bosch E24 resolves in 80% of cases with filter and drain hose maintenance.

Q: How do I determine which component failed based on the error code? A: Error codes typically indicate which system has malfunctioned, narrowing diagnosis significantly. Codes starting with numbers 1-4 or containing "E" (fill/inlet errors like Samsung 1E/4E, LG IE/FE, Whirlpool F6E1/F6E4) point to water supply problems—check supply valve,inlet hose, inlet valve, and water pressure. Codes 5-8 or drain-related (Samsung 5E, LG OE, Bosch E21-E25) indicate drainage system issues—inspect filter, drain hose, pump, and disposal connection. Heating codes (Bosch E01/E09, Samsung HE, LG HE, Whirlpool F3E1/F3E2) mean heating element or thermistor failure. Motor codes (Samsung 3E, LG CE/LE, Whirlpool F4E1) indicate circulation or drain pump motor problems. Door codes (Whirlpool F5E1/F5E2, Miele F32) point to latch or switch failures. Leak detection codes (Bosch E15, Samsung LC, LG AE) mean water in the base pan requiring seal inspection.

Q: Are dishwasher error codes the same across all brands? A: No, each manufacturer uses proprietary error code systems, though the problems they indicate are often similar. For example, drainage problems show as Bosch E24, Samsung 5E/5C, LG OE, Whirlpool F8E1, GE flashing lights, and Miele F11—six different codes for the same issue. Water inlet problems appear as Samsung 1E/4E, LG IE, Bosch E03, and Whirlpool F6E1/F6E4. This is why brand-specific error code guides are essential. However, some codes are intuitive: "E" typically means error, "F" means fault, "OE" means outlet/drain error, "IE" means inlet error, and "HE" means heating error. Always consult your owner's manual or a comprehensive guide like this one for your specific brand's code definitions.

Q: Can a dishwasher error code indicate multiple problems? A: Yes, a single error code can result from multiple different component failures within the same system. For example, Samsung 5E (drain error) could be caused by a clogged filter, kinked drain hose, failed drain pump motor, blocked garbage disposal, stuck check valve, or faulty control board not signaling the pump. LG IE (inlet error) could mean closed supply valve, clogged inlet screen, failed water inlet valve solenoid, low home water pressure, frozen inlet hose, or faulty control board. This is why systematic troubleshooting starts with simple, common causes (filters, hoses, supply valves) before moving to component replacement (pumps, valves, sensors, control boards). Professional technicians use advanced diagnostics to pinpoint which specific component within the indicated system has failed.

Q: What should I do if my dishwasher displays multiple error codes? A: Multiple simultaneous or alternating error codes usually indicate a control board malfunction, widespread electrical issue from power surge or water damage, or cascading system failures where one problem triggers others. For example, a drain pump failure (drain code) can cause overfilling (water level code), which triggers leak detection (leak code). Document all error codes displayed, when they appear, and in what sequence. Try a hard reset first—power off for 10 minutes, then restart. If multiple codes persist or alternate randomly, this typically requires professional diagnosis as it indicates complex problems beyond simple maintenance. Control board replacement often costs $200-450, so proper diagnosis prevents unnecessary part replacement.

Q: Why does my dishwasher show an error code but seem to work fine? A: Intermittent error codes that don't prevent operation indicate early-stage component failures or borderline conditions that haven't yet caused complete failure. For example, a heating element with partial continuity may heat water inconsistently, triggering occasional heating error codes. A drain pump with worn bearings may drain slowly sometimes but not always, causing intermittent drain codes. Water inlet valves with mineral buildup may fill inconsistently based on water pressure fluctuations. These early warnings should not be ignored—intermittent problems become permanent failures, often at inconvenient times. Address intermittent codes proactively: clean systems thoroughly, test suspected components, and replace parts showing early failure symptoms before they fail completely and potentially damage other components.

Q: How much does it cost to fix problems indicated by error codes in Toronto? A: Repair costs vary based on the component requiring attention: Filter cleaning and drain hose adjustments are free DIY fixes. Water inlet valve replacement costs $120-200. Drain pump replacement runs $150-250. Door latch/switch replacement is $150-200. Heating element replacement costs $180-280. Thermistor/temperature sensor replacement runs $100-175. Control board replacement is most expensive at $200-450. Motor replacements cost $300-450. At JK Appliances Toronto, diagnostic fees ($80-120) are waived when you proceed with repairs. Most error code issues resolve for $150-250 total. We provide upfront pricing after diagnosis so you can make informed decisions about repair versus replacement based on your dishwasher's age and overall condition.

Professional Dishwasher Service Toronto

Same-Day Diagnostics Available: At JK Appliances, our technicians have diagnostic tools to read and interpret all manufacturer error codes accurately.

Service Areas:

Need help decoding your dishwasher error code in Toronto? Contact JK Appliances at +1 647-560-8966 for expert diagnosis and same-day repair. We service all major brands including Bosch, Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, and more!

Expert Tips & Pro Insights

💡 Pro Tip: Regular maintenance can prevent 80% of appliance problems. Follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and care.

⚠️ Safety Warning: Always disconnect power before attempting any repairs or inspections. If you smell gas, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.

🔧 Technician Insight: Many issues that seem complex often have simple solutions. Start with basic troubleshooting before assuming the worst.

📞 When to Call a Professional: If you encounter electrical components, gas lines, refrigerant systems, or if basic troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue, it's time to call an expert.

Complete Dishwasher Error Code Guide: Bosch, Samsung, LG, Whirlpool & More

Complete Dishwasher Error Code Guide: Bosch, Samsung, LG, Whirlpool & More

How to Read Dishwasher Error Codes