What to check first
Can I keep using it?
Do not keep using the appliance while this warning is active.
Do not keep running the appliance when water is visible, a leak warning is active, or water could reach wiring or controls.
- Safe next step
- Stop the cycle if safe, turn off water when appropriate, protect the floor, and avoid repeated resets until the leak source is understood.
- Stop when
- Water is near wiring, cabinetry is getting wet, the leak returns, or the source is not safely visible.
Do not keep using the appliance if the code points to voltage, wiring, control power, burning smell, smoke, or a possible miswired supply.
- Safe next step
- Use only safe owner-level power checks, then involve a qualified technician or electrician when the source points to wiring or supply voltage.
- Stop when
- Breakers trip, lights dim, the appliance smells hot, wiring may be miswired, or the warning returns after a safe reset.
Safety boundaries
Safe first
- Match the exact brand, appliance type, and displayed code first.
- Use the model manual as the final authority for access steps.
- Stop and address visible water before retrying the appliance.
- Disconnect power before any service-access step.
- Turn off water before disconnecting any hose.
Do not do this
- Do not keep running the appliance while this code is active.
- Do not disconnect inlet hoses until the water supply is off.
- Do not bypass locks, float switches, leak sensors, or other safety systems.
Common causes include
- Water supply not turned on
- Kinked or damaged inlet hose
- Low incoming water flow
Basic checks
- Confirm the water supply is on.
- Check the visible inlet hose for kinks or damage.
- Review Bosch model guidance before any further access.
- Confirm the supply valve is fully open; if flow still seems weak, stop before removing hoses or screens.
- Inspect visible inlet hoses for kinks or freezing; if routing is restricted, correct it before retrying.
- Watch the next fill attempt from nearby; if little or no water enters, pause the cycle and stop retries.
Reset or retry steps
- Retry only after water supply is restored and visible hose issues are corrected.
When to call a technician
- Call Bosch support if E18 returns after inlet hose and supply checks.
- Call service for suspected inlet, flow, or control faults.
Before approving a paid visit, check warranty status and reviewquestions to ask before repair.
FAQ
What does Bosch Dishwasher code E18 usually mean?
Bosch documents E18 as an issue with water flow into the dishwasher or water level being too low. Model context matters: Bosch may show related low-water codes differently by model family.
Can I keep using the dishwasher with code E18?
Do not keep using the appliance until the visible issue has been checked and the relevant safety warnings have been addressed. Turn off water before hose work.
When should I call a technician for Bosch E18?
Call Bosch support if E18 returns after inlet hose and supply checks. A qualified technician may check Inlet hose, Water inlet valve, and Flow meter against the model's service information before treating any part as failed.