The E61 error on your Bosch dishwasher signals a water supply or drainage fault. Sub-codes like E61-03 narrow it down to the wastewater pump and siphon connection. Inlet hose, drain hose, and pump check covers most cases.

Error code E61 (sub-codes include E61-03)
Meaning Water supply / drainage fault
Severity Medium — DIY for hoses and pump, technician for valve replacement
Time to fix 15–60 minutes
Tools needed Towel, soft brush, length of wire

What the E61 error means

E61 covers a range of supply and drainage faults — the dishwasher either can’t get water in fast enough, or can’t get used water out. The sub-code after the dash narrows it down: E61-03 typically points at the wastewater pump or a closed siphon connection. Without a sub-code, treat it as a general supply/drain check. The “red tap” icon some models display alongside E61 confirms the supply side is the issue.

Common causes

  • Inlet hose kinked or damaged
  • Faulty water inlet valve not opening fully
  • Drain hose blocked, kinked, or bent
  • Wastewater pump blocked or jammed
  • Siphon connection at the sink trap closed (jammed knockout plug)
  • Filter blockage at the bottom of the tub

How to fix the E61 error

  1. Reset the dishwasher. Unplug for a few minutes and plug back in.
  2. Check the inlet hose. Pull the dishwasher out gently and inspect the inlet hose at the back for kinks, crushes, or damage. Confirm the supply valve is fully open.
  3. Inspect the drain components. Confirm the drain hose isn’t kinked or bent. Disconnect it and run warm water through to clear obstructions.
  4. Check the siphon connection. If the dishwasher drains into a sink trap or garbage disposal, confirm the knockout plug or siphon connection isn’t closed off. This is often an installer miss.
  5. Clean the filter and the pump. Take out the bottom rack, twist out the circular filter, rinse, refit. Check the pump impeller spins freely.
  6. If E61 returns, the inlet valve, the pump motor, or the wiring needs further diagnosis. Call a qualified technician.

FAQ

What does E61-03 mean specifically?
The -03 sub-code points at the wastewater pump or the siphon connection. Start by checking the drain hose and the connection at the sink — a closed siphon knockout is a common installer-miss cause.

Why does the red tap icon show with E61?
The flashing tap icon means Bosch is pointing you at the water supply rather than internal electronics. Inspect the inlet hose and supply valve before opening the machine.

Can I run the dishwasher with E61?
No — the cycle won’t start until the supply or drain issue is cleared. Forcing power-cycles risks damaging the inlet valve.