You started the dishwasher Bosch, but instead of the usual hum of the engine, an error with the symbol lit up on the display crane — or is the water tap indicator blinking? This problem is familiar to many owners of German brand equipment, especially models of the series SMS, SPV or SKS. The fault code indicates problems with the water supply, but its causes can vary from a banal closed valve to serious electronic failures.

In this article we will look at all possible causes of the "faucet" error, from simple to complex, and we will give step-by-step instructions for diagnosis and repair. You will learn when you can handle it yourself (and how exactly), and in which cases you should immediately call a service engineer. We have also collected answers to frequently asked questions from users and common mistakes when troubleshooting problems - this will help save time and nerves.

What does the “faucet” error mean on a Bosch dishwasher?

Faucet symbol or code E01/E02 (depending on model) indicates lack or insufficient water pressure in the system. The machine cannot draw water for washing in the set time (usually 1-2 minutes), so it blocks the program and displays an error. In modern models Bosch with the display a text message can be shown Water tap closed or Check water supply.

It is important to understand that the error is not always related to the faucet itself. This is a general signal of problems in water supply circuitwhich includes:

  • 🔧 External water supply (system pressure, valve closed)
  • 🚰 Intake hose (kinks, blockages, damage)
  • 🔄 Inlet valve (mechanical or electronic malfunction)
  • 📱 Flow sensor (in models with system AquaSensor)
  • 🧠 Electronic module (software errors)

In 60% of cases, the problem is solved without disassembling the machine - just check the water connection. But if the error appears regularly, you will have to dig deeper.

📊 How often do you get the “faucet” error?
First time
Regularly (once every 1–2 weeks)
Constantly (every time you start)
I don't know, it just appeared

First steps: what to do before disassembling the dishwasher

Before using the tools, do the following: basic check. These steps will take no more than 10 minutes, but will help eliminate obvious causes:

  1. Make sure the water tap is open. Sometimes it is accidentally blocked during cleaning or repairs. Check the valve under the sink or on the riser (if the machine is directly connected).
  2. Check the water pressure in the system. Open any tap in the house - if the pressure is weak, the problem may be in the general house network. In this case, the error will disappear on its own after the pressure is restored.
  3. Inspect the intake hose. He must be straight, without kinks or creases. If the hose is crushed by furniture or kinked, water will not be able to flow into the machine.
  4. Rinse the mesh filter. It is located at the junction of the hose and the inlet valve of the machine (usually at the bottom of the rear wall). A clogged filter is one of the most common causes of error.

If after these manipulations the error remains, proceed to in-depth diagnostics.

☑️ Basic check before repair

Done: 0 / 4

Diagnosis of intake hose and inlet valve

If external checks do not help, the problem lies within the machine. Start with intake hose and inlet valve - these elements most often fail.

Checking the hose for blockages and damage

Disconnect the hose from the machine and check for clearance. If deposits or debris are visible inside, rinse it under strong water. Also inspect the hose for microcracks - they can leak air, which is why the flow sensor does not work.

🔹 Signs of a faulty hose:

  • 💧 Water drips from the connections even when the tap is closed.
  • 🌀 Swelling or abrasions on the surface are visible.
  • 🔍 When shined through with a flashlight, dark spots (clogs) are visible.

Intake Valve Testing

The valve is responsible for opening/closing the water flow at the command of the electronic module. If it is jammed or the coil is burned out, the machine will not be able to draw water. You can check the valve with a multimeter:

  1. Disconnect the machine from the network and water.
  2. Remove the bottom panel (usually secured with 2-4 self-tapping screws).
  3. Locate the valve (a plastic block with wires and a hose fitting).
  4. Measure the coil resistance: normal value - 2–4 kOhm. If the device shows a break or zero, the valve is faulty.

Also inspect the valve for mechanical damage: cracks in the housing, rust or limescale deposits. If the valve is “sour,” you can try to clean it with vinegar, but more often it will need to be replaced.

How to check a valve without a multimeter?

If you don't have a multimeter, connect the machine to water and power, then manually press the valve stem (the thin rod in the center). If water flows in, the valve is mechanically sound, the problem is in the electrics or the control module.

Problems with the flow sensor and electronic module

If the hose and valve are fine, but the "faucet" error still appears, the culprit may be flow sensor (in models with AquaSensor) or electronic module. These faults are more difficult to diagnose without experience, but there are several signs:

🔸 Symptoms of a faulty flow sensor:

  • 🚿 The machine takes in water, but immediately drains it (the cycle repeats endlessly).
  • 📉 The error appears even when the tap is open and the valve is working properly.
  • 🔄 The water indicator flashes on the display, although there is pressure.

The sensor is located in the water flow path, usually near the inlet valve. You can check it only by replacing it with a known good one or using a diagnostic tester (available in service centers).

🔸 Symptoms of electronic module failure:

  • 💻 The error appears chaotically, even after resetting the settings.
  • 🔌 The machine does not respond to buttons or freezes when turned on.
  • 🔄 Other errors (for example, E15 or E24) appear along with the "tap".

Problems with the module often occur after power surges or moisture getting on the board. If you are not an experienced electronics engineer, it is better to entrust the repair to a specialist - incorrect soldering can permanently damage the module.

💡

Before replacing the module, try resetting the dishwasher to factory settings. To do this, hold down the button Start (or Reset) 10–15 seconds. Some models Bosch Reset is performed through the menu: Settings → Reset → Yes.

Connection and water pressure errors

Sometimes the “crane” error is not related to the machine itself, but to incorrect connection or water supply parameters. Here's what to check:

Problem Reason Solution
Weak water pressure System pressure is lower 1 bar Install a pressure booster pump or check your house filters
The water is too hot Inlet temperature > 60°C Connect the machine to cold water or install a thermostat
Clogged house filter Dirt or rust in pipes Clean the coarse filter on the riser
Incorrect hose slope The hose sags or rises higher 1 m from the floor Reconnect the sloped hose 3–5° towards the car

Pay special attention water temperature. Many models Bosch designed for cold water (up to 25°C at the entrance). If you connect the machine to hot water, the flow sensor may not work correctly, giving a false error.

⚠️ Attention: If your dishwasher is connected to a system with hydraulic accumulator (for example, in a private house), make sure that the pressure in it does not exceed 6 bar. Excessive pressure can damage the inlet valve.

When to call a professional: signs of serious damage

Not all problems can be fixed on your own. Contact the service center if:

  • 🔧 You replaced the hose, valve and filter, but the error remains.
  • 💻 The machine displays a “faucet” error along with other codes (for example, E22 - heating problem).
  • 🔌 Visible on the control board dark spots, swollen capacitors or signs of oxidation.
  • 🚰 Water enters the machine, but immediately drains (the level sensor or pressure switch is faulty).
  • 🔄 The error appears after thunderstorm or power surge (the triac on the board may have burned out).

The cost of repairs in the service depends on the breakdown:

  • 💰 Replacement of inlet valve: 1 500–3 000 ₽ (with work).
  • 💰 Electronic module repair: 3 000–8 000 ₽.
  • 💰 Diagnostics + replacement of flow sensor: 2 000–4 500 ₽.

If your dishwasher is more than 5 years old, it is sometimes cheaper to buy a new one than to repair the control module. For example, for the model Bosch SMS40E32 the cost of the fee can reach 10 000 ₽ - this is a third of the price of a new car.

💡

Before the technician’s visit, take a photo of the error on the display and write down the dishwasher model (located on the sticker inside the door). This will speed up diagnosis and help avoid unnecessary expenses.

Prevention: how to avoid the “faucet” mistake in the future

To prevent the error from appearing again, follow these simple rules:

  1. Clean the filter mesh regularly. It is enough to wash it under the tap once every 2-3 months.
  2. Use a water filter. Install a main filter in front of the dishwasher hose - this will protect the valve from rust and sand.
  3. Check the water pressure. If pressure drops frequently in your home, install a pump or storage tank.
  4. Do not kink the hose. When rearranging furniture, make sure that the intake hose is not crushed.
  5. Unplug your machine during a thunderstorm. Voltage surges are a common cause of electronic module failures.

Also avoid connecting the dishwasher to hot water - this reduces the service life of the valve and seals. If you have hard water in your area, use softening salts (for example, Bosch PerfectDry) - they will prevent the formation of plaque on the sensors.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the "faucet" error

Is it possible to use a dishwasher if the error does not always appear?

If the error occurs sporadically, you can use the machine, but this is fraught with consequences. If the water pressure is insufficient, the dishes will not be washed well, and the heating element may overheat. It is better to find and eliminate the cause.

Why does the "faucet" error appear only in some modes?

In programs with pre-soaking (for example, Auto 65°C or Intensive 70°C) the machine takes in more water, so problems with pressure appear more clearly. Check the water pressure and filter cleanliness.

Can I replace the intake valve myself?

Yes, this is one of the simplest replacements. The valve is secured with 1–2 screws and connected via a connector. The main thing is to buy an original part for your model (for example, for Bosch SMS50E88 valve fits 00642162). Don't forget to disconnect the machine from the water and network before work!

What to do if the error appears after moving?

Most likely, the contact on the valve or sensor came loose during transportation. Check all connectors on the control board and make sure the hose is not kinked. The angle of inclination of the machine may also be off; level it.

Why does the machine take on water, but the error does not go away?

This is a sign of a problem flow sensor or pressure switch (water level sensor). The machine “thinks” that there is no water coming in, although in fact the tank is full. Service diagnostics required.