Dishwasher
E7
The E7 error code on a Bosch dishwasher indicates a fault with the water flow sensor or a problem detecting the correct amount of water entering the appliance — it’s a moderately serious fault that will stop your machine completing a wash cycle.
What does this error mean?
The E7 code tells you that the dishwasher’s control board has detected an issue with water intake measurement, typically linked to the flow meter (also called the water meter or turbine sensor). This component sits on the inlet and counts how much water enters the machine during filling. When it fails or gets blocked, the dishwasher can’t confirm the correct water volume has been reached and throws the E7 fault to protect itself from under- or over-filling.
Est. repair cost
£80–£150 professional repair; £10–£35 DIY part (flow meter or inlet valve) plus your time
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the machine first: switch the dishwasher off at the wall, wait 60 seconds, then power it back on and run a short cycle. A temporary sensor glitch will clear this way.
Check and straighten the inlet hose: pull the machine out slightly and inspect the hose running from the wall tap to the back of the dishwasher. Remove any kinks and ensure the tap is fully open.
Clean the inlet filter: turn off the water supply tap, unscrew the inlet hose from the back of the machine, and remove the small mesh filter inside the inlet port. Rinse it under the tap and refit it securely before reconnecting the hose.
Descale the flow meter: if you’re in a hard-water area, run a dedicated dishwasher descaler (such as Finish Dishwasher Cleaner) through an empty hot cycle. Limescale is the single biggest killer of flow meter impellers in UK households.
Inspect and clean the flow meter directly: the flow meter is usually located on the water inlet assembly inside the machine base. With the power off and water supply isolated, remove the base panel, locate the flow meter, detach it, and rinse out any debris from the impeller chamber. Refit and test.
If none of the above resolves the fault, the flow meter or inlet valve likely needs replacing — these are relatively inexpensive parts (£10–£35) available from suppliers like eSpares or BuySpares. If you’re not confident working inside the machine, stop here and call an engineer.
📞 When to call a professional
Call a Bosch-approved or independent appliance engineer if the E7 code returns after cleaning the inlet filter and flow meter, or if you’ve identified a wiring or control board issue. Tell the engineer: ‘My Bosch dishwasher is displaying an E7 fault — I suspect a flow meter or inlet valve problem.’ Attempting to open electrical components or test wiring without experience risks electric shock and should be left to a professional.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an E7 fault — typically a flow meter or inlet valve replacement — costs £80–£150 including labour in the UK. If your dishwasher is under 8 years old and otherwise running well, repair is almost always worth it. For machines over 10 years old, weigh the repair cost against a new mid-range Bosch dishwasher (£400–£600), particularly if other components are ageing.