Bosch Dishwasher: leak detected

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a leak from your Bosch dishwasher? This issue may manifest as puddles around the door or water pooling beneath the unit. If you see water dripping from hoses or if the internal leak detection system activates (e.g., E15 error), it’s crucial to address the problem promptly to prevent further damage.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Bosch Models

  • Bosch dishwashers include an AquaStop/float switch system that triggers error codes (e.g., E15) when water accumulates in the base pan indicating an internal leak. (Appliance Parts Pros)2

Possible Causes

Worn or damaged door seal/gasket

How to Identify: Water around the front bottom of the door; visible cracks, tears, or flattened sections in the gasket; dollar bill test slips out easily. (Appliance Parts Pros1turn

Part: Door gasket / seal

Loose or damaged internal hoses / hose connections

How to Identify: Water pooling under unit; inspect hoses beneath lower access panel for cracks, looseness, or missing clamps.

Part: Drain hose, recirculation hose, inlet hose

Damaged spray arm directing water incorrectly

How to Identify: Water sprays toward door seal or uneven flow; visible cracks or obstruction in spray arms.

Part: Spray arm assembly

DIY Solutions

Inspect and Replace Door Gasket

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, replacement gasket
  1. Turn off power and water supply to the dishwasher.
  2. Open the dishwasher door and visually inspect the gasket for damage.
  3. If worn, remove old gasket and press the new gasket into the channel evenly.
  4. Close door and run a test cycle to confirm leak is resolved.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure unit is unplugged to avoid electrical hazards.

Check and Tighten Hose Connections

Moderate 30-45 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, adjustable wrench
  1. Disconnect power and access lower kickplate.
  2. Inspect drain and recirculation hoses for cracks and ensure clamps are tight.
  3. Replace hoses if damaged.
  4. Reconnect and test with a short cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Turn off water supply before disconnecting hoses.

Reduce Excessive Sudsing

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Ensure only Bosch-approved low-sudsing dishwasher detergent is used.
  2. Reduce the amount of detergent if oversudsing is observed.

Professional Repairs

Replace Water Inlet Valve

Estimated Cost: $60 - $150

Internal Pump/Sump Seal Replacement

Estimated Cost: $120 - $300

Spray Arm Replacement

Estimated Cost: $20 - $80

When to Call a Professional

Leak persists after DIY checks of seals, hoses, and detergent usage.
Water appears under the dishwasher’s base or triggers Bosch E15 error consistently.
Internal components like pumps, inlet valves, or spray arms need replacement.

Preventive Maintenance

  • Regularly clean door seals and filter: Leaks due to debris buildup and worn seals
    Frequency: monthly
  • Inspect hoses and clamps: Leaks from loose or cracked hoses
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Bosch Dishwasher leak detected?
Common causes include a worn door seal, loose hoses, or a damaged spray arm.
How do I fix Bosch Dishwasher leak detected myself?
Inspect and replace the door gasket or check hose connections for tightness.
How much does it cost to fix leak detected?
Professional repairs range from $60 for the water inlet valve to $300 for pump seal replacement.
When should I call a technician for leak detected?
If leaks persist after DIY fixes, or if you're uncomfortable with repairs, it's time to call a pro.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • E15 error code (3 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check for leaks in the water valve and inspect the base plate

    Success rate: 25.0%

  2. Use a sump repair kit for sump leak

    Success rate: 25.0%

  3. Remove kickplates and dry the area with a dehumidifier and fan

    Success rate: 25.0%
Analysis based on 3 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Bosch dishwasher E15 error code after sink overflow unrelate...
  2. Bosch dishwasher with E15 - found a very slow leak - how to ...
  3. HELP! E:15 code on Bosch dishwasher! How to fix?

Community Discussions

E15 error code, pump running periodically

Removed kickplates and dried the area with a dehumidifier and fan; dishwasher works fine now.

DIY View on Reddit →

E15 error, slow leak

Repair kit available for sump leak; requires torx 20 bit and box cutter.

DIY View on Reddit →

E:15 code

Check for leaks in the water valve and remove the dishwasher to inspect the base plate.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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