E15
Bosch Washer
Severity: CriticalWhat Does This Error Mean?
The E15 error on a Bosch washer means the AquaStop leak protection system has been triggered. Water has been detected in the base tray at the bottom of the machine. The washer locks out all functions to prevent flooding. This usually means there is a real water leak somewhere inside the machine.
Affected Models
- WAW285H2UC
- WAS28460UC
- WAT28400UC
- WFVC3300UC
- All Bosch washers with AquaStop protection
Common Causes
- The door seal (boot gasket) has cracked or torn, allowing water to leak into the base
- The pump or pump housing has a crack or a loose connection
- The detergent drawer housing is leaking due to a blockage or crack
- A hose inside the machine has come loose from its fitting
- Excess detergent foam has overflowed and dripped into the base tray
How to Fix It
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Do not attempt to restart the washer while E15 is showing.
Restarting while there is water in the base can cause more water to leak and may damage the motor or electronics.
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Carefully tilt the machine backward slightly to drain water from the base tray.
Have towels ready. Tilting at a 45-degree angle for a minute allows water to flow out the front or drain through the tray overflow. This step requires a second person for safety.
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Inspect the door seal (rubber gasket around the door opening).
Look for tears, cracks, or holes. Also check that the seal isn't folded inward. A damaged seal is the most common cause of E15.
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Pull out the detergent drawer and look for water or residue buildup.
A blocked detergent drawer can overflow and drip into the base. Clean the drawer and its housing thoroughly.
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Once the base tray is dry and the leak source is identified, attempt a power reset.
Unplug for 5 minutes. The AquaStop float switch should reset. If E15 returns on the next wash, call a technician.
When to Call a Professional
Once water is in the base tray, professional diagnosis is recommended. The AquaStop float switch will not reset until the water is removed from the tray. A technician can find the leak source and dry the tray. Door seal replacement costs $80–$180. Pump repair costs $120–$250.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AquaStop on a Bosch washing machine?
AquaStop is Bosch's built-in flood protection system. It uses a float switch in the base tray of the machine. If water leaks and collects in the tray, the float rises, triggering E15 and cutting off all water and operation. It prevents minor leaks from becoming major floods.
How do I reset the E15 error on a Bosch washer?
You cannot simply reset E15 by pressing a button. The base tray must be physically dried out before the float switch resets. Tilt the machine to drain the water, mop up what remains, then let it dry for several hours. Once the float drops back down, an unplugging reset will clear the error.
Can too much detergent cause E15?
Yes — excess detergent creates foam that overflows the drum and drips into the base tray. This is a common cause of E15, especially if you recently switched detergents or increased the dose. Always use the amount specified on the detergent packaging. For high-efficiency machines, use HE-rated detergent.