Error 15 in the Ariston dishwasher

Error 15 is not uncommon in Ariston dishwashers. It most often appears in LTF and LFD series dishwashers, and finding the correct meaning isn't always easy. In this article, we'll not only decipher error 15 but also offer troubleshooting options for the issues that cause it.

Possible causes

On some forums, visitors suggest that error 15 is related to the machine failing to remove wastewater, or removing it but continuing to pump. In other words, they believe this error is related to the pump or inlet valve. This is not the case. It's possible that the error is intermittent with another error, making it appear as if the drain/inlet system is faulty, but in most cases, error 15 indicates a faulty heating element.

This error occurs when the control module cannot detect the heating element. Why can't the module detect it?

1. The heating element burned out.
2. The wiring supplying the heating element or contacts is faulty, so the part is simply de-energized.
3. The control module itself or its firmware is faulty, so it does not see a working heating element.

These are the serious reasons. When error 15 occurs, the machine may continue to operate, but it will not wash dishes satisfactorily. There is no need to leave everything as is, let's start checking and repairing.

Checking the heating element

Hotpoint Ariston dishwashers have flow-through heating elements. This is a large component adjacent to the circulation unit. Water passing through it heats up to the desired temperature, allowing the machine to wash dishes with hot water, improving cleaning efficiency. To access the heating element, remove the dishwasher's tray cover, making the heating element easily accessible.

1. We disconnect and check the heating element wires with a multimeter.
2. We check the resistance of the heating element.
3. We check the heating element housing for damage and debris.

Quite often, the heating element becomes so clogged that water stops circulating through it properly. This also affects heating.

If you notice any problems with the heating element, don't try to repair it; it's futile. The part must be replaced. Its average cost is around $70. To remove the old heater and install the new one, you need to loosen the clamps. The wiring to the new element must be connected in the correct sequence, so take a photo of how the old heating element is connected. If you're having trouble checking and replacing the heating element, read this article. Replacing the heating element in a dishwasher, and we move on.

Problems with the control module

Things will be even worse if it turns out the heating element is perfectly fine and isn't the problem at all. So what's wrong with the machine? There's only one option: the control module is likely faulty, or its firmware has simply crashed. What should you do in such an unpleasant situation? How can you fix this kind of malfunction? We won't give you any hope. Without the necessary experience, you won't be able to professionally repair the control board yourself; you'll need to call a professional.

Homemade control board repairs usually result in the component being completely unrepairable, which is quite expensive. We advise you not to take any risks and entrust your Ariston to professionals.

So, we've figured out why error 15 appears in Ariston dishwashers and why technicians call it one of the most annoying. Let's hope that cleaning the heating element solves the problem for you. Happy repair!

   

4 reader comments

1. February 28, 2022 at 10:51 AM

   Irina:

   Thank you for the detailed article!

   Answer
2. June 18, 2022 at 12:43 PM

   Angela:

   Thank you

   Answer
3. November 17, 2022 at 6:37 AM

   Gregory:

   So, if my heating element heats up, the water drains and collects, then the machine's brain doesn't work?

   Answer
4. May 13, 2023 at 10:45 AM

   Vladimir:

   My dishwasher started acting up exactly one month after the warranty expired, which suggests a design defect. It seemed like the heating element had failed, but no, I turned the machine over, opened the door, reconnected all the contacts, and voila—the machine works again for about a month. A month later, the same crap happened. Consequently, the manufacturer used cheap contacts that oxidize or simply separate when heated. And then people suffer with this dishwasher.

   Answer