Are your dishes piling up in the sink and your sturdy Bosch dishwasher is giving you the silent treatment? A flashing Bosch dishwasher E17 can turn this hassle-free daily routine into an inconvenient duty. This error leaves you wondering what went wrong, and how to fix it.
Read our guide to understand the causes and find solutions for this disrupting E17 error message.
This guide applies to various models of Bosch dishwashers including:
Freestanding Dishwashers:
- Bosch SHX4AP55UC
- Bosch SMS40L08US
- Bosch SMS46KI01E
- Bosch SMS40C05UC
- Bosch SMS4HCI00E
- Bosch SHX4AP55UC
- Bosch SHX4AP35UC
- Bosch SHX4AP15UD
- Bosch SHX8PT75UC
- Bosch SHX8PT55UC
- Bosch Benchmark SHX7PT75Z
- Bosch Benchmark SHX5PW75Z
- Bosch Crystal: SHX8PT95Z
Built-In Dishwashers:
- Bosch SHE55W02T
- Bosch SHE68T55UC
- Bosch SPX48M85UC
- Bosch SPX86ZS55UC
What Does E17 Mean On A Bosch Dishwasher?
When you spot the E17 error code on the screen of your Bosch dishwasher, you should realize the presence of a water level issue.
- Meaning: This code expresses excessive water in the dishwasher tub. In this case, the water levels exceed safe operating limits.
- Safety Feature: Like the rest of the Bosch dishwasher error codes, the E17 code is a safety mechanism. It prevents potential overflowing and water damage to your kitchen.
- Impact on Use: This code disrupts the normal operation of your Bosch dishwasher. It forces its stop mid-cycle or prevents it from starting. You won’t be able to use your dishwasher until the code is cleared.
- Warning Signs: Before the emergence of the E17 code, you might notice water pooling in the dishwasher’s bottom. Also, you might hear splashing noises. Furthermore, the dishwasher may fail to start or complete a cycle.
- Importance of Addressing: Prompt addressing is crucial to avoid water damage and ensure the dishwasher operates efficiently. Ignoring it can lead to water damage within your dishwasher and surrounding areas.
Why Does Your Bosch Dishwasher Throw E17 Error?
A Bosch dishwasher throwing E17 error response refers to an excess water level. The presence of this code points to several culprits, hindering your appliance’s ability to function properly.
Let’s take a look at the components disrupting the use of your appliance:
1. Faulty Float Switch
The float switch monitors the water level inside the dishwasher. It is similar to a washing machine’s water level sensor. If it malfunctions or gets stuck, it might send inaccurate signals to the main control board, resulting in the E17 error. In some cases, a malfunctioning sensor switch triggers the dishwasher error code despite a normal water level.
The float switch is located within the float chamber, a designated area in the dishwasher tub where the float moves freely to detect water levels.
2. Clogged Drain Hose
Your dishwasher’s drain hose plays an essential role in draining excess washing water. An obstructed hose prevents proper water drainage during the cycle, causing water to pool inside the tub and trigger the E17 error.
Food debris, soap scum, or even small objects like flimsy utensils can be culprits. If left unaddressed, these clogs can reach the pipe underneath your sink.
Sometimes, clogs are not always the main culprit behind this E17 code. Kinks can affect the hose performance in the same way.
3. Problematic Dishwasher’s filter
A dishwasher’s filter protects the drain pump and the hose from obstructions. It traps food particles and debris before they can reach both vital components.
Over time, filters can accumulate debris, which can obstruct water flow and affect the dishwasher’s ability to gauge the correct water level.
Besides the main filter, some models come with another one for the spray arms. You can check your user manual to know the number of filters within your Bosch dishwasher.
4. Defective Drain Pump
A functional drain pump removes dirty water after each wash cycle. It draws the used water containing food particles and soap residue from the dishwasher tub. Then it pumps it out through the drain hose.
A malfunctioning drain pump can lead to insufficient water removal during the cycle. Typically the water sits inside the tub and confuses the water level monitor. This can be due to a faulty pump, or pump impeller, a blockage within the pump caused by excessive grease and gunk in the sump area,or electrical issues with the power supply.
5. Water Inlet Valve Issues
The water inlet valve is the gatekeeper of your dishwasher. It opens and closes accordingly to let water in. So, a functional inlet valve regulates water inflow based on the selected wash cycle.
This valve is located where the water inlet hose connects to the dishwasher.
A problematic valve leads to either Continuous Water Flow or complete lack of water. If the remains open, it can allow a continuous flow of water into the dishwasher tub, causing an overflow and triggering the E17 error code.
On the other hand, a faulty water inlet valve that won’t open can restrict or completely stop water from entering the dishwasher.
How To Reset Bosch Dishwasher E17 Error
Before addressing the potential causes of the E17 error code (like clearing a clog or cleaning the filters), a simple reset can often clear the error message and allow your dishwasher to function normally again. Here’s how to reset your Bosch dishwasher:
- Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet. Wait for at least 5 seconds.
- Once the wait time is over, plug the dishwasher back into the outlet and turn it back on.
How To Fix Bosch Dishwasher E17 Error
In most cases, clearing the Bosch dishwasher E17 requires professional intervention. However, if you are a DIY enthusiast, check out these fixes before making a call.
1. How To Fix Faulty Float Switch
To access the Bosch dishwasher float switch you’ll need a Phillips screwdriver. Bring the tool and follow these steps:
- Find Locate the lower access panel at the bottom front of your dishwasher. Use your screwdriver to unscrew it. This gives you access to the tub area.
- Look for a designated space within the tub called the float chamber. Inside this chamber resides the float switch, which is a small plastic component with a floating arm.
- Locate the plastic clip holding the switch in place. Unclip the switch and take it out.
- Inspect it thoroughly for any debris or damage that might hinder its movement.
- Clean both the switch and its chamber with a damp cloth to remove the buildup.
- This solution may work and allow the arm to move freely. If not, get a new float switch
2. How To Fix Clogged Drain Hose
The drain hose is not an internal component of your Bosch dishwasher. You will find it right underneath the appliance. It is usually attached through clamps to a pipe leading to your sink. So, you don’t need to remove any panels to access this hose. However, you might need to pull the dishwasher forward.
It is a flexible corrugated pipe connecting the dishwasher to the drain system. To address a problematic drain hose, here’s what to do:
- Use a pair of pliers to loosen the clamps securing the hose to the dishwasher and the drain pipe.
- If the hose appears bent, straighten it until it is free of kinks.
- If it is clogged, use a snake and warm water to clear the obstructions.
3. How To Fix Problematic Dishwasher’s Filter
You can find the dishwasher’s filter on its front panel. Look for it in the bottom part. It is a cylindrical mesh component with a designated cover. Once you open the cover, you will have access to the filter.
A clogged or unclean filter needs a thorough rinse under water. Regular cleaning can prevent the buildup of food particles and stray items in the first place.
4. How To Fix Defective Drain Pump
The drain pump is located at the bottom of the dishwasher’s tub. You can access it by removing the lower access panel at the front. The drain pump is a small round device at the bottom of the dishwasher tub attached to a couple of electrical wires.
The easiest fix for a problematic drain pump is to clean any debris around its inlet or outlet. You can wipe them with your hand or a dry cloth.
Unfortunately, other problems with this pump are more complex and need professional intervention. So, call in a pro to test, fix or replace your old drain pump.
5. How To Fix Water Inlet Valve Issues
To find the water inlet valve, you will need to remove the lower panel like you did with the drain pump. Use your flathead or Phillips screwdriver to remove the panel, depending on the screws type. Then, follow these steps if you are comfortable with handling electrical components:
- Look for this solenoid valve where the water supply line connects to the dishwasher.
- You can find the valve connected to electrical wires and the water hose.
- Check if any of its connections are loose and tighten them with your screwdriver.
- If the valve appears damaged, contact a professional technician to replace it for you.
Remember to prioritize your safety and don’t attempt any fixes with the dishwasher plugged into the power source.
Conclusion
The E17 error code on a Bosch dishwasher indicates a water level issue that can disrupt the appliance’s functionality. This problem can be caused by a faulty float switch, a clogged drain hose, a problematic dishwasher filter, a defective drain pump, or water inlet valve issues.
Bosch customer support.
For some problems, a DIY approach might be possible. You can try cleaning the filter or checking for loose connections in the water inlet valve. However, for more complex fixes involving the drain pump or electrical components, consulting a professional technician or Bosch customer support is recommended.
For other Bosch dishwasher error codes, you can check out our detailed guides on how to fix bosch dishwasher e09 or bosch dishwasher e15 error code.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
