Siemens dishwasher error codes identify specific hardware failures like pump blockages or heater issues. Most common codes like E15 or E24 can often be resolved by clearing the filter or checking the drain hose for kinks.
When one of these codes fires, your machine's basically telling you exactly what broke. Ignore it and you're risking water damage under the floor, a burned out pump, or a control board that costs more than the dishwasher itself. Most of the time it's something fixable in under an hour. But codes like E15 need immediate attention before you run another cycle, seriously.
Siemens uses a pretty smart error system, honestly. I've shown up to jobs where the homeowner already knew the problem just from googling the code, which saves everyone time. The E15, E24, and E09 are the big three I see constantly. Parts are usually available and these machines last another five or more years once you fix the actual fault. Don't just reset and ignore it.
Most Likely Causes
Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:
Clogged filters or drain blockages45%
Internal leaks triggering AquaStop30%
Heating element or thermistor failure15%
Control board or wiring glitches10%
Symptoms You May Notice
There's water sitting in the bottom of the tub when the cycle ends, sometimes an inch or two deep, just sitting there.
Dishes come out cold and still have dried-on food stuck to them, which means the water never got hot enough to do anything useful.
The machine beeps repeatedly and flashes an E code, won't start a new cycle no matter what buttons you press.
The drain pump keeps humming or running constantly even after you've switched the machine off, because the AquaStop float is telling it to keep draining.
No water fills into the tub at the start of a cycle and you can hear the inlet valve clicking but nothing actually comes in.
Can you reset a Siemens dishwasher to clear the SIEMENS-DW-ERRORS code?
Hold the Start button down for 3-5 seconds until the display shows 0:01 or just the time remaining. Close the door and let it run through a short drain cycle. If the code comes right back, the fault's still there and a reset won't fix it. For a full hard reset, unplug the machine from the wall and leave it for 10 full minutes so the control board capacitors drain completely. Don't just flip the breaker for 30 seconds, that's usually not long enough.
Tools Required for Diagnosis
Torx T20 screwdriverPhillips #2 screwdriverFlat head screwdriverMultimeterNeedle nose pliersShop vacuumFlashlightWork glovesStiff brush for filter cleaningTowels
Diagnostic Checklist
Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.
ComponentComponent Under Test
Expected Range20–40 ohms
ConditionIf Open (OL) or infinite, replace component.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the E15 error code mean on a Siemens dishwasher?
E15 is the AquaStop code. It means water's collected in the safety tray at the very bottom of the machine, which trips a float switch that shuts off the water inlet and forces the drain pump to run constantly. You've got to dry that tray out and track down where the leak's coming from. Could be the door seal, a hose connection, or the AquaStop assembly itself. Don't just dry it and reset, because if you don't fix the leak, you'll be right back here in a week.
How can I reset a Siemens dishwasher error code?
Press and hold the Start button for about 3-5 seconds. You'll see the display change to 0:01. Close the door and wait for the cycle to end. If the code comes back immediately, the hardware fault's still there and it needs repair, not another reset. For a more thorough reboot, unplug the unit from the wall for 10 full minutes. This forces the control board to fully discharge and restart clean. But honestly, if you're resetting the same code for the third time, stop and actually fix the root cause.
Why is my Siemens dishwasher showing E24?
E24 is a drain fault. Nine times out of ten it's a clogged filter, a kinked drain hose, or a blocked connection at the sink. If you just installed a new garbage disposal, check whether you knocked out the dishwasher drain plug on the disposal inlet, because that's a super common one that'll block drainage completely. If the filter's clean and the hose looks fine, feel around inside the pump sump for debris. Fruit pits and broken glass love to hide in there and jam the impeller.
What does error code E09 signify?
E09 is a heating fault. It almost always means the heating element inside the circulation pump has failed. You'll want to test it with a multimeter across the heater terminals, looking for 20-40 ohms. If you get an open circuit, the element's done. Since Siemens uses an integrated heat pump design, you usually have to replace the whole motor assembly rather than just the element alone. Not a cheap part, but it's a doable DIY repair if you're comfortable pulling the machine out and removing a side panel.
Is it worth fixing an E19 error on an older unit?
E19 usually points to a problem with the detergent dispenser actuator or a recirculating valve issue. These are pretty affordable parts, usually under $50. Unless your machine is over 12 years old or has multiple other things wrong with it, I'd say go ahead and fix it. Now, if you're also dealing with a cracked tub, corroded spray arms, and a door latch that's been held together with a zip tie for two years, then maybe have an honest conversation about whether this machine has more good years left in it.
Can I run my Siemens dishwasher with an active error code showing?
Short answer, no. The machine won't let you start a new cycle when most codes are active, and even if you could override it, you'd risk making things worse. An ignored E15 means water's sitting under your floor and potentially warping the cabinet. An ignored E09 means you're running the pump dry and heat-damaging the motor. The codes exist specifically to stop the machine before it turns a $40 fix into a $400 fix. Clear the fault, find the cause, fix it first.
Models Known to Experience SIEMENS-DW-ERRORS Errors
This repair applies to most Siemens dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include: