Dishwasher
E13
The E13 error code on an Electrolux dishwasher indicates a water temperature problem — specifically that the water has become too hot during a wash cycle. It’s a moderately serious fault that will stop the cycle from completing, but in many cases it’s fixable without a call-out.
What does this error mean?
The E13 code means the dishwasher’s control board has detected that the water temperature inside the appliance has exceeded safe operating limits — typically above 85–90°C. The machine cuts the cycle short as a protective measure to prevent damage to the internal components, your dishes, or the appliance itself. This is distinct from a heating fault (like E11); E13 is specifically an overheating alert, not a failure to heat.
Est. repair cost
£10–£25 DIY (NTC sensor or thermostat replacement); £100–£200 professional repair (heating element or PCB)
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the dishwasher: switch it off at the wall socket, leave it unplugged for 5 minutes, then power it back on and run a short cycle. A one-off software glitch can sometimes trigger E13 falsely.
Check your hot water supply connection: if your dishwasher is plumbed into a hot water feed rather than a cold supply, this can send water in at too high a temperature. Dishwashers should be connected to cold water only — redirect the inlet to the cold supply if needed.
Clean the filters and check for blockages: remove the bottom rack, unscrew the cylindrical filter and lift out the flat mesh filter, then rinse both under a tap. Also check the spray arms for blocked holes and clear any debris. Poor water circulation can cause localised overheating near the element.
Inspect the NTC temperature sensor: this is a small probe usually located at the bottom of the tub near the heating element. With the machine unplugged, disconnect the sensor and test it with a multimeter — a healthy NTC sensor typically reads around 10–12 kΩ at room temperature. If the reading is open-circuit or wildly out of range, replace the sensor (compatible parts cost £10–£25 online for Electrolux models).
Check the thermostat: located near the heating element, the thermostat can be tested with a multimeter for continuity when cold. No continuity means it has blown and needs replacing — a straightforward part swap costing around £10–£20.
If the above steps don’t resolve the fault, do not attempt to test or replace the heating element or PCB yourself — these involve working near live electrical components and should be left to a qualified appliance engineer.
📞 When to call a professional
If resetting the machine, checking the water supply, cleaning filters, and replacing the NTC sensor or thermostat haven’t cleared the E13 code, the fault is likely with the heating element or the main control board (PCB) — both of which require a qualified engineer to diagnose and replace safely. When you call, tell them: ‘My Electrolux dishwasher is showing error code E13, which I understand is a water overheating fault — I’ve already reset it, checked the water supply, cleaned the filters, and tested the NTC sensor.’ This saves diagnostic time and money.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an E13 fault — typically a heating element or PCB replacement — will cost £100–£200 including parts and labour in the UK. If your Electrolux dishwasher is under 5 years old, repair is almost always the right call. If it’s 8 years or older and the PCB is at fault (parts alone can be £60–£120), it’s worth comparing that cost against a new mid-range dishwasher at £350–£550, particularly if other components are also showing wear.