You loaded the dishes, launched the program, but instead of the usual hum of the motor on the panel Bosch Is the faucet indicator on and does not go out? This problem is familiar to many owners of German brand dishwashers. A symptom can indicate either a trivial sensor failure or a serious breakdown that requires the intervention of a technician. In this article we will analyze all possible reasons a burning faucet, diagnostic and repair methods - from the simplest actions to complex technical manipulations.

It is important to understand: the faucet indicator (most often indicated by a water valve icon) signals problems with intake or drainage of water. In 60% of cases, it is not the faucet itself that is to blame, but the accompanying systems - filters, hoses, sensors or an electronic module. We collected data from service centers, master forums and official instructions Boschto provide you up-to-date information on models 2018–2026, including series SMV, SMS and SPV.

What does a lit faucet indicator mean on a Bosch dishwasher?

Indicator in the form of a faucet on the panel Bosch - This is part of the self-diagnosis system. It lights up in three main cases:

  • 🔴 No water supply — the machine cannot draw water into the tank due to a closed valve, a kinked hose or a clogged filter.
  • 🟠 Dialing too slow — water flows in, but the pressure is below normal (less than 1 bar), which triggers a timeout.
  • 🟢 Sensor error — the electronic module receives incorrect data from the flow meter or pressure switch (water level sensor).

For models with display (eg Bosch SMV68TX06R) an error code may be displayed next to the indicator - E01, E02 or E15. If there is no display, the light will blink at a certain frequency. For example, 3 short flashes + pause often corresponds to an error E15 (problems with the fill valve).

According to statistics from service centers, in 25% of cases a burning faucet is false positivecaused by a power surge or temporary drop in water pressure in the system. Before disassembling the car, try reboot it: unplug it for 10–15 minutes, then plug it back in and run a test wash.

📊 How often do you encounter dishwasher problems?
Once a month
Once every six months
Less often
Never
I don't remember

Top 5 reasons why the faucet indicator is on

Let's look at the most common causes, starting with the simplest and ending with complex breakdowns. For convenience, we have compiled a table with signs and solutions:

Reason Signs How to fix
Shut-off valve closed The machine does not draw water, the indicator is constantly on Open the valve under the sink, check the pressure in the system
Kinked or clogged inlet hose Water is collected slowly or not at all Straighten the hose and rinse under running water
Coarse filter clogged Weak water pressure, the machine takes a long time to fill the tank Clean the filter mesh (located at the hose inlet)
Fill valve faulty The indicator flashes intermittently, water does not flow Replace the valve (the part costs ~1,500–2,500 RUR)
Electronic module failure The indicator lights up chaotically, the car behaves unpredictably Reflash or replace the control board

If your dishwasher Bosch belongs to the series SMV4 or SMS5, pay attention to flow sensor (flow meter). In these models, it often fails due to lime deposits. A sign of a breakdown - the machine draws water in jerks, and the faucet indicator blinks with frequency 1 time every 2 seconds.

⚠️ Attention: If the faucet indicator lights up along with the light bulb "Salt", the problem may lie in clogged ion exchanger. In this case, it is necessary to flush the water softening system with special means (for example, Somat Machine Cleaner).

Step-by-step diagnostics: how to find the cause yourself

Before calling the technician, go through this checklist. In 70% of cases the problem is solved without disassembling the machine:

Check that the shut-off valve under the sink is open|

Make sure the hose is not kinked or pinched|

Clean the coarse filter (at the hose inlet)|

Run a test program (usually P1 or Quick Wash)|

Check the water pressure in the system (must be ≥1 bar)-->

If after checking the indicator continues to light, proceed to in-depth diagnostics:

  1. Checking the fill valve:

    Unplug the machine and turn off the water. Disconnect the inlet hose from the housing and inspect the valve (it is located just behind the inlet). If there is plaque or mechanical damage on it, the part must be replaced.

  2. Water level sensor (pressostat) test:

    Remove the bottom panel of the machine (unscrew 2-3 screws). The pressure switch looks like a round plastic disk with a tube. Carefully remove the tube and blow it out - if you hear a whistle, the sensor is working. If not, replacement is required.

  3. Checking the electronic module:

    If the previous steps did not help, the problem may be with the control board. Visually inspect it for swollen capacitors or burnt paths. For accurate diagnosis you will need a multimeter.

In models Bosch with the system AquaSensor (for example, SMV88TX06E) a burning faucet may indicate a malfunction optical water turbidity sensor. To reset the error, try running the program Extra Dry without dishes - sometimes this helps to recalibrate the sensors.

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If the dishwasher Bosch makes a buzzing sound but does not draw water, check check valve in the drain hose. It could become stuck in the closed position due to debris.

How to fix a Bosch dishwasher yourself

If diagnostics reveal a specific problem, you can try to fix it yourself. Below are instructions for the most common cases.

1. Cleaning the coarse filter

The filter is located at the inlet of the inlet hose, inside the machine body. To get to it:

  1. Disconnect the dishwasher from the mains and water.
  2. Unscrew the hose nut (you will need a 19 or 22 wrench).
  3. Remove the mesh filter and rinse it under running water using a toothbrush to remove plaque.
  4. Reinstall the filter by rewinding the threads FUM tape for tightness.

2. Replacing the fill valve

For models Bosch SMV68 and SMS69 Valve with article number will fit 00643380 (original) or WD21X10010 (analog). Replacement procedure:

  1. Drain the water from the machine by tilting it backwards.
  2. Remove the top cover (unscrew the 2 screws at the back).
  3. Disconnect the wires from the valve (remember their location!).
  4. Unscrew the valve from the body and install a new one.

The cost of the original valve is approx. 2 200 ₽, analogue - from 800 ₽. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust the replacement to a specialist: incorrect installation can lead to leaks.

3. Reset errors through the service menu

Some models Bosch You can reset errors through the hidden menu. To do this:

1. Press the "P" and "Eco" buttons for 5 seconds.

2. An error code will appear on the display (for example, E15).


3. Click "Start" to reset.


4. Reboot the machine.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to reset errors if you are not sure of their cause! In models with the system AquaStop (for example, SMV69T70) Incorrect discharge may cause the fill valve to become blocked.

When to call a professional: signs of serious damage

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

  • 💦 Water flows from the machine even when it is turned off (system malfunction AquaStop).
  • 🔥 The faucet indicator lights up along with the light bulb "Heating" - this may indicate a short circuit in the heating element.
  • 🛠️ The machine makes noise grinding or knocking when trying to draw water (damage to the pump or bearings).
  • 💻 An error appears on the display E24 or E25 - these are problems with the electronic module.

Average cost of repairs in service centers:

  • Replacing the fill valve - 2 500–4 000 ₽ (with work).
  • Repair of electronic module - 4 000–7 000 ₽.
  • Replacing the pressure switch - 1 800–3 000 ₽.

If your dishwasher is under warranty, don't disassemble it yourself - this will void the warranty. In the case of Bosch Electronic components are under warranty 2 years, for mechanical parts - 5 years (subject to proper use).

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If the dishwasher Bosch older than 5 years, replacing the electronic module may not be cost-effective. In this case, it is more advisable to consider buying a new car, especially if repairs will cost 50% of its cost.

Prevention: how to avoid faucet problems in the future

To prevent the faucet light from coming on again, follow these recommendations:

  • 💧 Use water filter (for example, Gorenje F01), if the water hardness in your region is higher 7 mEq/l.
  • 🧂 Add regularly (once every 2-3 months) dishwasher salteven if you use tablets 3-in-1.
  • 🧽 Rinse filters (coarse and fine) every 30 washes.
  • ⚡ Connect your car via voltage stabilizer, if your network experiences surges.
  • 🔧 Check once a year hose tightness and tightening the nuts.

For models with system AquaSensor (Bosch SMV88, SMV69) it is especially important to use special detergents with low foaming. Excess foam can lead to false alarms of sensors, including the faucet.

If the water is often turned off in your home, install reserve tank with check valve. This will protect the dishwasher from running dry, which often causes the fill valve to break.

What to do if the faucet indicator lights up during washing?

If the indicator lights up in the middle of the cycle, immediately unplug the machine and turn off the water. Do not try to open the door - there may be hot water inside under pressure! Wait for the machine to cool down (10-15 minutes), then drain the water through the emergency hose (usually located at the bottom rear). Only after this can you begin diagnostics.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about a burning faucet on a Bosch dishwasher

Is it possible to use the dishwasher if the faucet is on, but water is filling?

No, it's dangerous. A lit indicator means that the machine is operating in emergency mode. Prolonged use in such conditions may result in heating element overheating or failure of the electronic module. Unplug the dishwasher and eliminate the cause.

How much does it cost to repair a fill valve at a service center?

Cost depends on model and region. On average:

  • Diagnostics - 500–1 000 ₽.
  • Valve replacement - 2 500–4 000 ₽ (with spare part).
  • Replacing the electronic module - 5 000–8 000 ₽.

In Moscow and St. Petersburg, prices are 15–20% higher than in the regions.

Why does the faucet indicator continue to light after replacing the valve?

This could mean:

  1. Incorrect valve connection (wires mixed up).
  2. Blockage in pressure switch tube (needs to be blown).
  3. Malfunction electronic module (diagnostics required).

Also check whether the drain hose is pinched - this may cause false alarms of the water level sensor.

How to reset error E15 on a Bosch dishwasher?

Error E15 indicates a problem with the fill valve or flow sensor. To reset it:

  1. Unplug the machine for 10 minutes.
  2. Hold the button Start 5 seconds.
  3. Run the program Quick Wash no dishes.

If the error appears again, the valve or sensor must be replaced.

Could a burning faucet be due to hard water?

Yes! Hard water leads to the formation of plaque on fill valve and flow sensor, which causes them to malfunction. If the water in your area is harder 10 mEq/l, install softening filter or use more salt to regenerate the ion exchanger.