An error code on your dishwasher's display is the machine telling you what is wrong. Codes differ between brands, but almost all of them fall into a handful of groups. Here is what each group usually means and what you can safely check before calling us.

Quick answer

Most dishwasher error codes point to one of five areas: water supply (tap, inlet filter, valve, pressure), drainage (filter, hose, pump), heating (element, sensor), leak detection (water in the base tray) or door and electronics (latch, board). Check the tap, filter and drain hose first, reset the machine, and if the code returns, send a photo of it with the model sticker to a technician.

How to read your code

Your manual lists the codes for your exact model. If you do not have it, the manufacturer's website usually does. But even without the manual, the code usually belongs to one of the groups below. Some brands also flash lights in a pattern instead of showing a code.

Before anything else:

1. Note the code or take a photo. 2. Switch the dishwasher off at the wall for five minutes. 3. Switch on and try a short programme.

Some codes are triggered by a one-off event and clear after a reset. If the same code returns, work through the relevant section.

Group 1: Water supply errors

The machine could not fill to the correct level in the expected time.

Check

  • Is the tap to the dishwasher fully open?
  • Is the inlet hose kinked behind the machine?
  • Is there water pressure at other taps?
  • Is the inlet filter blocked? Close the tap, unscrew the hose at the machine and check the small mesh filter for sediment.
  • Some hoses have a safety valve (often with a small window) that blocks the flow if it detects a leak. If it has triggered, it needs resetting or replacing.

Likely repairs

Inlet valve replacement, inlet hose replacement, or a flow meter or pressure switch fault.

Group 2: Drainage errors

The machine could not pump the water out in time.

Check

  • Clean the filter at the bottom of the tub.
  • Check the sump for broken glass, bones or labels.
  • Check the drain hose under the sink is not kinked or crushed.
  • If the hose connects to the sink waste, check the spigot is not blocked, especially if the sink waste was recently replaced.

Likely repairs

Drain pump replacement, or clearing a blockage in the hose or pump.

Group 3: Heating errors

The water did not heat up, or the temperature sensor gave an unexpected reading.

Check

There is not much you can safely check yourself. Note whether dishes are coming out cold and wet.

Likely repairs

Heating element, temperature sensor, heater relay on the control board, or on some models a heat pump or flow-through heater.

Group 4: Leak detection errors

Many dishwashers have a tray in the base with a float switch. If water collects in the tray, the machine stops filling, runs the drain pump and shows a leak error.

Check

  • Did foam overflow because of dishwashing liquid or too much detergent?
  • Is there water on the floor?
  • Tilting the machine slightly backwards can sometimes let water in the tray drain away, but only do this if you can do it safely and the machine is unplugged.

Likely repairs

Finding and fixing the actual leak: a door seal, a hose, the pump, the sump or a spray arm connection. The machine will usually not work until the base tray is dry.

Group 5: Door and electronics errors

The machine cannot confirm the door is closed, or there is a communication or board fault.

Check

  • Close the door firmly and make sure nothing is obstructing it.
  • Check the child lock is not engaged.
  • Reset the machine at the wall.

Likely repairs

Door latch or switch, control board, display board, or wiring between them. Board faults can follow power surges.

Group 6: Motor and pump errors

The wash pump or its motor is not running correctly.

Likely repairs

Wash pump motor, motor control on the board, or a blockage in the pump.

Getting it fixed in Kariega

Send us a photo of the error code and the model sticker, which is usually on the side or top edge of the door. With those two things, we can usually identify the likely fault and bring the part, so the repair is done in one visit. In Kariega and Despatch, most callouts are same day or next day.

Frequently asked questions

Can I clear an error code myself?

Switching the machine off at the wall for a few minutes often resets it. If the same code comes back, there is an underlying fault.

My dishwasher shows a leak error but there is no water on the floor. Why?

The water may be in the base tray under the machine, where it triggers the float switch without reaching the floor. The source still needs to be found.

Where is the model sticker on my dishwasher?

Usually on the side or top edge of the inner door, visible when the door is open.

Apex HVAC is an independent company and is not affiliated with or authorised by any appliance manufacturer. This guide is general advice. For anything involving electricity or refrigerant gas, use a qualified technician.

Need a hand? See our dishwasher repair service in Uitenhage (Kariega).