The faucet light is on on the Bosch dishwasher: what to do and how to fix the problem

Have you noticed that the control panel of your dishwasher Bosch Is the faucet icon constantly on or blinking? This indicator signals problems with water supply - one of the most common malfunctions in machines of this brand. Depending on the model (SMS46KI03R, SPV68X50, SPS53M52 etc.) the icon may look like a tap, a drop or an inscription Water. It cannot be ignored: if measures are not taken, the equipment will either refuse to run the programs or will begin to drain the water immediately after dialing.

In 80% of cases, the problem is solved without calling a technician - just check a few key components. But it is important to act systematically: first diagnose the cause, then eliminate it, taking into account the characteristics of a particular model. In this article we will look at all possible reasons for the faucet indicator to be on — from a simple bend in the hose to a broken water intake valve, and we will also give step-by-step instructions with photos and tips for prevention.

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

Faucet indicator (or water icon) on the panel Bosch - This is part of the self-diagnosis system. It lights up in two cases:

• 🔴 Steady red — the machine cannot draw water within 10–15 minutes after starting the program (error E01, E03 or E15 depending on model).
• 🟡 Flashing yellow/orange - water flows too slowly or its pressure is below normal (code E02, E08).
• 🔵 Lights blue (rare) - there is a problem with the drain, but the system mistakenly interprets it as a malfunction of the water intake.

In modern models (Series 6, Series 8) If the indicator is lit for a long time (more than 30 seconds), an alphanumeric error code may appear on the display. If it is not there, you will have to look for the reason manually. Important: in 90% of cases the problem lies not in electronics, but in mechanical components - hoses, filters or valves.

Top 5 reasons why the faucet icon is on

Before disassembling the machine, check the external factors. Here is a list of the most likely causes, sorted by frequency of occurrence:

1. The water supply hose is blocked or kinked. Most often this happens after rearranging furniture or cleaning. It is enough to straighten the hose or open the valve.
2. The inlet filter mesh is clogged. It is located where the hose connects to the car and becomes clogged with rust or sand from the water supply.
3. Low water pressure in the system. Dishwashers Bosch require pressure of at least 1 bar. At lower values, the machine either refuses to work or turns on the indicator.
4. Inlet valve faulty. It is responsible for opening/closing the flow of water and can stick or burn over time.
5. Damage to the water level sensor (pressostat). If it transmits incorrect data, the machine “thinks” that there is no water, although it is coming.

Less commonly, software glitches (especially after a power outage) or mechanical damage to the tubes inside the machine are to blame. To narrow down your search, start with a visual inspection.

How to check water pressure without a pressure gauge?

Open the cold water tap to maximum and look at the pressure. If the stream is weak (thinner than a pencil), the pressure is below normal. You can also fill a 3-liter jar: at normal pressure it will fill in 7-10 seconds.

Step-by-step diagnostics: what to check first

Follow this algorithm to quickly find the cause of the indicator light. At each stage, check whether the faucet icon goes out after your actions.

Check if the water supply valve on the pipe is open|Make sure the hose is not kinked or squashed|Inspect the filter mesh at the entrance to the machine|Check the water pressure in the tap|Run a test program (if applicable)

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1. Checking external factors

Start with the simplest:

• 🔧 Make sure that cold water pipe valve fully open. Sometimes it is accidentally closed during repairs or maintenance.
• 🌀 Take a look water supply hose along the entire length. It must not be twisted, crushed by furniture or caught behind the back wall of the machine.
• 💧 Check the pressure in the nearest tap. If the water barely flows, the problem is in the plumbing, not in the dishwasher.

2. Cleaning the mesh filter

The coarse filter is located where the hose connects to the dishwasher. To clean it:

1. Turn off the water and disconnect the hose.
2. Remove the mesh with pliers or your hands (it may be hidden under a plastic nut).
3. Rinse it under running water, and if there is heavy deposits, soak it in vinegar for 30 minutes.
4. Reinstall and check the connection for leaks.

3. Checking the intake valve

The valve is located inside the machine, just behind the hose connection. For diagnostics:

1. Disconnect the dishwasher from the mains and water.
2. Remove the bottom panel (usually secured with latches or screws).
3. Find the valve - this is a cylindrical part with wires and a hose fitting.
4. Check the winding resistance with a multimeter (should be 2–4 kOhm). If the device shows an open or short circuit, the valve is faulty.

Also inspect the valve for mechanical damage: cracks, traces of leaks or corrosion. If they are, the part must be replaced.

How to troubleshoot: instructions for different cases

Depending on the problem found, follow one of the instructions below. To work inside the machine, you will need a screwdriver (phillips and flathead), pliers, a multimeter and, possibly, new spare parts.

1. Replacing the intake valve

If the valve is faulty, it must be replaced. For models Bosch original parts with article numbers are suitable 00623609 (for most series) or 00443707 (for old cars). Replacement algorithm:

1. Disconnect the machine from the network and water.
2. Remove the bottom panel and disconnect the wires from the valve (take a photo of their location!).
3. Loosen the clamps and remove the hoses from the fittings.
4. Unscrew the mounting screws and remove the old valve.
5. Install the new one, connect the hoses and wires in the reverse order.

After replacing, run a test program (usually P1 or Quick Wash) and check if the indicator goes out.

2. Repair or replacement of the pressure switch

The water level sensor (pressure switch) rarely fails, but if this happens, the machine will “think” that the tank is empty. Signs of malfunction:

• 🔴 The faucet indicator is on, but water flows into the machine (you can hear the dial noise).
• 💦 Programs are interrupted with an error E04 or E24.
• 🔄 The machine constantly drains and collects water in a cycle.

To check:

1. Find the pressure switch - it is located next to the tank, a tube and wires go to it.
2. Pick up the tube and blow into it. A working sensor should click 1-2 times.
3. Test the contacts with a multimeter: the resistance should change as the pressure changes.

If the sensor is faulty, replace it with a new one (part number for Bosch: 00623610 or 00443710).

3. Fix water pressure problems

If the pressure in the water supply is weak, try the following solutions:

• 🚰 Install pressure pump before the dishwasher (for example, Grundfos UPA 15-90).
• 🔧 Replace the standard hose with reinforced with inner diameter 10 mm (for standard ones - 8 mm).
• 💧 Clean it aerator on mixer - often it is this that reduces the pressure in the entire system.

If the problem is in the central water supply, contact the management company and request that the pressure be checked. The standard for apartment buildings is no less than 2 bar.

Error codes associated with the faucet indicator

In dishwashers Bosch a lit faucet icon is often accompanied by an alphanumeric code on the display. Here is a breakdown of the most common ones:

Error code	Meaning	Possible reason	Solution
E01	No water supply	The valve is closed, the filter is clogged, the valve is faulty	Check external factors, clean the filter, replace the valve
E02	Water supply too slow	Low pressure, clogged hose	Install the pump, clean the hoses
E03	Water leak	Damaged hose or seal	Replace the hose, check for leaks
E15	AquaStop system error	Safety valve activated	Restart the machine, check the hoses
E24	Pressostat malfunction	The water level sensor has failed	Replace the pressure switch

If the display shows a code that is not in the table, refer to the instructions for your model or use the online error decoding service Bosch (for example, on the website bosch-home.ru).

Prevention: how to avoid problems with water supply

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

• 🔄 Once every 3 months Wash the filter mesh at the inlet.
• 💧 Use fine filter on a water pipe (for example, Honeywell FF06).
• 🔧 Check hose tightness and replace them every 5 years.
• ⚡ If there is a power outage, wait until the program completes or cancel it manually.
• 📖 Keep the instructions for the model - it indicates specific error codes and how to reset them.

Also avoid using aggressive detergents - they can damage seals and valves. The best choice for Bosch: tablets Finish Quantum or gel Somat Gold.

When to call a professional: signs of serious damage

In most cases, the problem with the faucet indicator light can be fixed on your own. However, there are situations when you cannot do without professional help:

⚠️ Attention: If, after replacing a valve or pressure switch, the machine begins to shock, immediately unplug it! This is a sign of a breakdown in the case - the power cable or control module needs to be replaced.

Call a specialist if:

• 🔥 An error appears on the display E25 or E27 (electronic module malfunction).
• 💦 Water flows from the car, but the faucet indicator does not go off.
• 🔧 You replaced all possible parts (valve, pressure switch, hoses), but the problem remained.
• ⚡ The dishwasher does not turn on or the machine in the panel is knocked out.

Average cost of repairs at a service center:

• Inlet Valve Replacement - 1,500–2,500 rubles (with spare part).
• Repair of electronic module - 3,000–5,000 rubles.
• Diagnostics + visit of a technician - 1,000–1,500 rubles.

When choosing a service, give preference to official partners Bosch — they guarantee their work and use original spare parts.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the faucet indicator light

Can I use the dishwasher if the faucet light is on?

No, this is fraught with serious damage. If the machine cannot draw water, it will constantly try to do so, which can cause the pump to overheat or the valve to burn out. Disconnect the equipment from the network and eliminate the cause.

Why does the faucet indicator light up only on some programs?

This is due to different water collection times. For example, in mode Eco the machine takes longer to fill the tank, and with low pressure the protection may work. Try running a short program (Quick Wash) - if the indicator does not light, the problem is in the water pressure.

How to reset the error if the faucet indicator is on after the lights are turned off?

Unplug the dishwasher for 15–20 minutes, then plug it back in. If the error remains, run the program Reset (if available on your model) or press and hold the button Start 5 seconds.

Could the light on the faucet be due to a clogged drain?

Yes, but indirectly. If the drain hose is clogged, water will not drain from the machine and the system may mistakenly interpret this as a lack of supply. Check the drain filter (located at the bottom of the machine under the basket) and clean it.

How much does a new intake valve cost for Bosch?

The price depends on the model:

• Original valve - 1,200–2,000 rubles.
• Analogue (for example, from Indesit or Electrolux) — 600–1,000 rubles.

When purchasing, check the article number for your series (look in the instructions or on the machine nameplate).