Thermador Dishwasher Error E16
⚡ Quick Answer: The Thermador dishwasher E16 error indicates a drainage issue related to the water filling system. This error typically arises when the dishwasher fai... ✅ DIY Fixable
What Does Error E16 Mean?
The Thermador dishwasher E16 error indicates a drainage issue related to the water filling system. This error typically arises when the dishwasher fails to fill with water, which may be accompanied by unusual sounds from the pump and a flashing display. Common causes include an obstructed or kinked water inlet hose, insufficient water supply pressure, or a faulty water inlet valve. Addressing these issues promptly can help restore normal operation.
Common Symptoms:
- Dishwasher displays E16 (often together with E17) on control panel
- Dishwasher fails to fill with water or detects abnormal water flow
- Cycle does not proceed due to lack of fill
Possible Causes
- Obstructed, kinked, or damaged water inlet hose restricting water flow into dishwasher (high)
- Insufficient water supply pressure or closed supply valve (medium)
- Faulty water inlet valve or internal fill component malfunction (medium)
How to Fix Error E16
DIY Fix Check and correct water inlet supply
- Turn off dishwasher and shut off water supply.
- Inspect the water inlet hose behind the dishwasher ensuring it is not kinked, twisted, sharply bent or visibly damaged.
- Check that the household water supply valve feeding the dishwasher is fully open.
- If accessible, inspect the small screen filter on the inlet valve for debris and clean it gently if clogged.
DIY Fix Reset dishwasher and test fill cycle
- Turn off dishwasher power at the circuit breaker or unplug the unit for at least one minute.
- Restore power and run a short rinse cycle to see whether error recurs.
- Observe whether water fills normally or the error appears immediately.
Technician Only Test and replace water inlet valve or internal components
- Disconnect dishwasher from power and water.
- Remove access panel and test the inlet valve electrically and mechanically to confirm proper operation.
- If valve is faulty, replace with OEM inlet valve assembly.
- Check related fill sensors (float, pressure switch) for proper function and replace if defective.
Parts needed: water inlet valve assembly, float switch / water level sensor
- If after basic supply checks and resets the error persists
- If water supply pressure is adequate but dishwasher still fails to fill
- If you are uncomfortable accessing internal components
Next step
Choose the next step for E16
Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.
Most relevant component to inspect
Water Inlet Valve
Controls the flow of hot and cold water into the appliance.
- Typical part-only price
- $25 - $60
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Estimated time
- 15-30 mins
Where can I find the model number?
Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.
Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.
Other parts options
Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.
Float Switch
Detects the maximum water level to prevent overflow and potential flooding.
Pressure Switch
Detects the water level inside the tub and signals when to start or stop filling.
Model-compatible Dishwasher parts
Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission from other qualifying purchases or service requests made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are based on repair relevance, not commission rate.
Optional routine care
Maintenance supplies
These products support cleaning or routine upkeep. They are separate from the possible repair components above and are not claimed to fix this error code or symptom.
Dishwasher Cleaner and Descaler
Supports routine removal of mineral scale, grease, and odor. It is maintenance, not a repair for a failed pump, valve, or control.
Braided Dishwasher Inlet Hose
For replacement of an externally damaged supply hose. Verify connection size, length, and appliance installation requirements before ordering.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are based on routine-care relevance, not commission rate.
Technical Specifications
| note | The previous model-independent part specification was removed. Verify the full model number and diagnosis in the manufacturer's official parts catalog before ordering. |
|---|---|
| part_number | None |
Common Questions
What does E16 error mean on Thermador dishwasher?
E16 indicates a drainage issue where the dishwasher fails to fill with water, often showing unusual sounds and a flashing display.
Can I fix Thermador dishwasher E16 error myself?
Yes, you can check the water inlet supply, ensure no kinks in the hose, and reset the dishwasher to troubleshoot the issue.
How much does it cost to fix E16 error?
Repair costs for the E16 error range from $100 to $300+, depending on parts and labor in your region.
When should I call a technician for E16?
Call a technician if the error persists after basic checks, if water supply pressure is adequate but the issue remains, or if you're uncomfortable with internal repairs.
Sources & References
Data last verified: 2026-07-31
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