When your Thermador dishwasher displays an error code, it’s trying to tell you something important about its operation. While these codes might seem intimidating at first, they’re actually helpful diagnostic tools that can save you time and money by pointing directly to the problem. Whether you’re dealing with a minor issue you can fix yourself or a problem that requires professional attention, understanding these codes is the first step toward getting your dishwasher back to perfect working order.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll decode every Thermador dishwasher error code, explain what each one means, and provide clear steps for resolution. We’ll help you distinguish between simple fixes you can handle yourself and issues that require professional service, potentially saving you unnecessary service calls while ensuring you don’t inadvertently damage your appliance by attempting repairs beyond your expertise.
Complete Thermador Dishwasher Error Code Reference Guide
Basic Thermador Dishwasher Error Codes (E01-E99)
E04
- Issue: Faulty heater electronics detected in self-test
- Action: Reset power to breaker; if unresolved, contact service
E12
- Issue: Limescale build-up in heat pump
- Solution: Use descaler for hard water deposits and limescale
- Prevention: Use softener salt in water softener if equipped
E14
- Issue: Flow meter failure or water flow issue
- Action: Check water supply and inlet system
E15
- Issue: Water detected in base, leakage protection activated
- Action: Turn off water inflow immediately
E16/E17
- Issue: Water flow problems into dishwasher
- Solution: Check inlet hose for kinks or damage
E18
- Issue: Low water level or incorrect pumping
- Solution:
- Check inlet hose for damage
- Verify water supply (10 L/min flow rate required)
E22
- Issue: Multiple possible causes including blocked filter/pump
- Solutions:
- Clean filter
- Check drain pump
- Inspect hoses
- Clear airgap
E23
- Issue: Blocked, clogged, or faulty drain pump
- Action: Professional service required
E24/E25
- Issue: Drainage problems
- Solutions:
- Clear drain pump
- Check hoses
- Clean airgap
- Test with rinse cycle
E27
- Issue: Low supply voltage
- Action: Have electrician check home’s electrical system
Extended Error Codes (E0100-E9999)
E0100
- Issue: Heat pump motor circuit fault
- Action: Reset power; if unresolved, contact service
E0103
- Issue: Main control board relay fault
- Action: Reset power; if unresolved, contact service
E0105
- Issue: Faulty heater electronics in self-test
- Action: Professional service required
E0106
- Issue: Wash arm diverter circuit fault
- Action: Reset power; if unresolved, contact service
E0107
- Issue: Main control board relay fault
- Action: Reset power; if unresolved, contact service
E0110
- Issue: Electronics miscommunication
- Action: Professional service required
E2030
- Issue: Heat pump internal heater fault
- Action: Reset power; if unresolved, contact service
E2060
- Issue: Limescale build-up in heat pump
- Solution: Use descaler and maintain with softening salt
E2120
- Issue: Crystal Dry chamber heater fault
- Action: Reset power; if unresolved, contact service
E2130
- Issue: Crystal Dry fan motor defective
- Action: Reset power; if unresolved, contact service
E3000
- Issue: Flow meter failure
- Action: Professional service required
E3100
- Issue: Water in base, leakage protection activated
- Action: Turn off water supply immediately
E3200
- Issue: Water flow problems
- Solution: Check inlet hose and water supply
E3300/E3400
- Issue: Water flow into dishwasher problems
- Solution: Check inlet hose for damage
E6001
- Issue: Heat pump internal heater fault
- Action: Reset power; if unresolved, contact service
E6002
- Issue: Heat pump blockage
- Action: Reset power; if unresolved, contact service
E6101
- Issue: Drain pump problems
- Action: Professional service required
E6102/E6103
- Issue: Drainage system problems
- Solutions:
- Clean drain pump
- Check hoses
- Clear airgap
- Test with rinse cycle
E6160
- Issue: Zone Control lower spray arm position error
- Action: Professional service required
E6900
- Issue: Detergent dispenser solenoid circuit fault
- Action: Reset power; if unresolved, contact service
E8000
- Issue: Door sensor circuit fault
- Action: Reset power; if unresolved, contact service
E9001
- Issue: Low power supply
- Action: Reset power; if persists, contact electrician
E9240
- Issue: Multiple drainage/filter issues
- Solutions:
- Clean filter
- Check drain pump
- Clear hoses
- Test system
Additional Indicators
Indicator 5 (Rinse Aid)
- Issue: No salt in dishwasher
- Solution: Refill softening salt
Indicator 6 (Salt)
- Issue: No rinse aid
- Solution: Refill rinse aid
UP Display
- Meaning: Software update completed
- Action: Press any program button to clear
Reset Procedure
For errors requiring power reset:
- Turn off power at breaker
- Wait 30 seconds
- Restore power
- If error persists, seek professional service
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does my Thermador dishwasher show error codes?
A: Error codes are diagnostic tools that help identify specific problems with your dishwasher’s operation. They’re designed to pinpoint issues quickly and assist in proper troubleshooting.
Q: Can I clear all error codes by resetting my dishwasher?
A: While some error codes can be cleared by resetting the power, this doesn’t fix the underlying problem. If the issue persists, the code will return and should be properly addressed.
Q: How long should I wait after resetting my dishwasher?
A: When performing a power reset, wait at least 30 seconds before restoring power. This allows the electronic systems to fully discharge and reset.
Q: What should I do if my error code isn’t listed?
A: If you encounter an unlisted error code, it’s best to contact professional service for assistance. Attempting repairs without understanding the issue could cause further damage.
Q: How often should I clean my dishwasher filter to prevent error codes?
A: Clean your dishwasher filter at least monthly, or more frequently if you notice decreased performance. Regular cleaning prevents many common error codes related to drainage and water flow.
Q: Are some error codes more serious than others?
A: Yes. Some codes indicate simple maintenance needs (like cleaning filters), while others signal potentially serious electrical or mechanical issues requiring immediate professional attention.
Q: Can hard water cause error codes?
A: Yes, particularly codes related to limescale buildup (like E12/E2060). Using water softener salt and regular descaling can prevent these issues.
Conclusion
Understanding your Thermador dishwasher’s error codes is key to maintaining its performance and longevity. While some issues require professional intervention, many common problems can be resolved through simple maintenance and troubleshooting steps. Regular maintenance, including filter cleaning, proper loading, and using appropriate detergents and softeners, can prevent many error codes from occurring in the first place.
Remember that while this guide provides comprehensive information about error codes and their solutions, safety should always be your primary concern. If you’re unsure about performing any maintenance or repair task, or if the error persists after following the recommended steps, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified service professional.
By staying informed about what these codes mean and following proper maintenance procedures, you can keep your Thermador dishwasher running efficiently and extend its lifespan, ensuring years of reliable service for your kitchen.