Dishwasher
E14
The E14 error code on an AEG dishwasher indicates a fault with the turbidity sensor — the component that measures how dirty your water is. It’s not an emergency, but your dishwasher won’t run a proper cycle until the fault is resolved.
What does this error mean?
The turbidity sensor (also called the water clarity sensor) sits at the bottom of the dishwasher and monitors how cloudy the wash water is, allowing the machine to adjust cycle length and water usage accordingly. When the appliance throws an E14 code, it means the sensor is either blocked, dirty, or sending a signal the control board doesn’t recognise as valid. In most cases, this is a maintenance issue rather than a failed part.
Est. repair cost
£80–£150 professional repair; £15–£35 DIY turbidity sensor part only
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Power off and unplug the dishwasher — always disconnect from the mains before any internal inspection.
Remove and clean the filters: pull out the cylindrical filter and flat mesh filter from the base of the tub, rinse under warm water, and scrub away grease or limescale with a soft brush. Reinstall them securely.
Locate the turbidity sensor — it sits near the sump/filter area at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, usually a small plastic unit with a wiring connector. Wipe it gently with a damp cloth or soft toothbrush to remove any coating of grease or limescale buildup.
Check the sensor’s wiring connector: ensure the plug is firmly seated and there are no visible signs of corrosion or damage. Press it firmly home if it’s loose.
Run a hot maintenance wash with a specialist dishwasher cleaner (e.g. Finish Machine Cleaner) to flush limescale and grease from internal components including the sensor.
If the E14 code clears, check your salt and rinse aid levels and top up if needed. If the error persists after all these steps, the turbidity sensor itself likely needs replacing — see below.
📞 When to call a professional
If cleaning the sensor and filters doesn’t clear the E14 code, the turbidity sensor has likely failed and needs replacing — this involves disconnecting wiring and removing the sump assembly, which is straightforward for an engineer but fiddly for most homeowners. Call an AEG-approved or reputable local appliance repair engineer and tell them you have an E14 fault code, that filters and the sensor have been cleaned, and that you suspect a failed turbidity sensor. Avoid opening the control board yourself, as this carries a risk of damage and invalidates any remaining warranty.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional turbidity sensor replacement typically costs £80–£150 including parts and labour in the UK. If your AEG dishwasher is under 7 years old and otherwise reliable, repair is almost always the better value. Beyond 8–10 years, especially if other components have already been repaired, a new dishwasher (£350–£700 for a comparable AEG model) may make more financial sense.