Dishwasher
E10
The E10 error code on a Siemens dishwasher signals a water intake or filling fault — the machine isn’t receiving enough water within the expected time. It’s a common fault and often fixable without a call-out, but ignoring it will leave your dishwasher dead in the water.
What does this error mean?
E10 tells you the dishwasher’s control board has detected that the appliance failed to fill with water properly during a set time window. Siemens dishwashers monitor water flow via a pressure sensor or flow meter, and E10 is triggered when the inlet falls short of what the programme expects. This is a water supply or inlet-side problem — not a drainage fault.
Est. repair cost
£0–£5 DIY (cleaning inlet filter) | £80–£150 professional repair (inlet valve or sensor replacement)
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Turn off the dishwasher and switch off the water supply at the isolation tap. Pull the machine forward slightly to access the back.
Inspect the inlet hose along its entire length for kinks or tight bends. Straighten any you find and make sure it isn’t trapped behind the unit.
Check the isolation tap is fully open — turn it anti-clockwise until it stops. A partially closed tap is one of the most common and easiest fixes.
Unscrew the inlet hose from the back of the dishwasher. Inside the machine’s water inlet port you’ll see a small mesh filter. Remove it with needle-nose pliers, rinse it under the tap to clear any debris, and refit it securely.
Reconnect the hose, turn the water back on, and run a short cycle to check whether the E10 code has cleared. If it has not reappeared after a full cycle, the fault is resolved.
If the error persists after these steps, the water inlet solenoid valve or the pressure sensor is likely faulty — both require a professional to test and replace safely.
📞 When to call a professional
Call an appliance engineer if the E10 code returns after you’ve checked the hose, tap, and filter, as this points to a failed inlet valve or faulty pressure sensor — both involve accessing internal electrical components. Tell the engineer you have a Siemens dishwasher showing error code E10, that you’ve already checked the inlet hose and filter, and that the fault persists. A qualified engineer can test the solenoid valve with a multimeter and replace it safely.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an E10 fault typically costs £80–£150 including labour and parts, making it well worth fixing on a dishwasher under eight years old. If your Siemens dishwasher is over eight to ten years old and this isn’t the first fault, a new mid-range dishwasher (£350–£600) is likely better value long-term. For machines still under warranty, contact Siemens customer service before booking an independent engineer.