Error E6 in a Bosch washing machine

Error E6 in a Bosch washing machineIf you see an error code on your washing machine's display, you should open the user manual and read the code. This will help you determine the specific problem. However, the E6 error code on a Bosch machine isn't so straightforward. It's not described in many manuals, but it's programmed into the washing machine's intelligence. Let's figure out what this code means and what malfunction it indicates.

What is this cipher?

To restore the washing machine to working order, you need to understand what kind of malfunction the machine is signaling. Error code E6 indicates that it is impossible to drain waste water from the tank. Typically, this is caused by a simple blockage. Perhaps the debris filter, drain hose, or drain pipe is clogged, or a hair is caught in the pump impeller.

If you see the universal error E6 on the display, you will have to check all elements of the drainage system.

This code may indicate not only a blockage but also a faulty pump. Perhaps the pump has burned out, or the impeller blades have broken off. There are many possible causes, and it's necessary to begin diagnosing the washing machine to identify and fix them. But what should you do first? It's recommended to proceed from the simplest to the most complex.

You should start with the filter

Fixing a washing machine displaying the E6 error isn't nearly as difficult as it seems. Even beginners can successfully complete the task by strictly following the instructions. It's recommended to begin by cleaning the dust filter. The procedure is as follows:

  • unplug the washing machine;
  • turn off the water supply to the machine;
  • Locate the drain filter. It's located in the lower corner of the front panel of the housing, usually hidden behind a false panel or small flap. Using a flat-head screwdriver, pry up the latches, remove the panel, or open the access hatch.
  • cover the floor around the machine with dry rags;start by cleaning the filter
  • prepare a low container, tilt the machine back and place the basin under the filter;
  • Unscrew the plug half a turn and collect the water that flows out of the hole. To completely drain, turn the filter to the left 45-60 degrees;
  • remove the filter element from the housing;
  • Clean off any large debris from the surface, wipe away any dirt with a damp sponge. Then rinse the part with warm water;
  • clean the seat from plaque and dirt deposits;
  • Screw the filter back into the hole.

Don't rinse the plastic part with boiling water. This can cause the filter to deform and lose its properties. After checking and cleaning the waste container, it's best to inspect the drain hose.

Feel the drain hose to make sure it's not pinched by a foreign object. Disconnect the hose from the machine and the trap, clean it with a special brush, rinse under running water, and then reconnect the hose.

Main drain pipe of the tank

Experience shows that the E6 error code often indicates a clogged hose connecting the tub to the pump. To check it, you'll need to lay the machine on its side. If your Bosch model has a bottom, you'll need to unscrew the screws and remove the tray. If not, the drain hose will be visible immediately after laying the machine down.

The Bosch washing machine's water supply is connected in three places: to the tank, the drain pump, and the pressure hose.

First, loosen the clamps securing the hose at each connection point. Then simply slide the hose to the side. If no damage is visible, you can clean the inside with a special brush and replace it. If the hose appears excessively worn, with creases visible on the surface, it should be replaced by installing a new hose on the existing fasteners.cleaning the pipe

If flushing the hose with plain water isn't possible, you can soak it in a citric acid solution. To do this, dissolve 100 grams of citric acid in two liters of warm water and leave the element in the solution for 4-6 hours. After this time, remove the part, clean the inside with a brush, and rinse it under the tap.

Detailed pump check

If all the steps taken do not lead to the desired result, and the error code E6 still appears during washing, you will have to inspect the drain pump. Most often, the pump impeller is damaged, and it should be checked first.

The impeller is located immediately behind the filter. Even a small foreign object (a button, coin, or pushpin) lodged between its blades can disrupt the pump's operation. Any small object can cause pump failure.

So, the first thing you should do is check to see if the impeller is spinning. If it rotates without any difficulty, it's functioning properly. If not, you'll need to remove any objects stuck between the blades, or any hair or threads tangled around them. If that doesn't help, check the pump with a multimeter; a component may have burned out.

The first diagnostic step is to remove the drain filter. This is explained above. Then, run the spin cycle and shine a light into the hole created by removing the filter. If the impeller is frozen and doesn't move, this is a clear sign of a faulty pump. Repairing the pump isn't advisable; it's best to install a new one immediately.We remove and check the pump

The next step is purchasing a suitable pump. You can remove the faulty part and take it to the store to find a similar pump. Or, tell the manager the model, year, and serial number of your Bosch washing machine, and they'll recommend the right parts.

When ordering a drain pump online, be extremely careful. It's important to select a pump that's fully compatible with your Bosch machine model.

Now that the replacement part has been purchased, we can begin the final stage of the repair. To install the new pump, you need to remove the old one. To do this, unscrew the debris filter, drain the water from the system, lay the machine on its side, disconnect the pump hose and wiring, unscrew the mounting bolts, and remove the pump from the housing. Then, secure the replacement part in place, connect the contacts to it as before, and attach the drain hose. Reassemble the Bosch machine in reverse order.

If your washing machine still displays the E6 error code and you're still unable to fix it, you'll need to contact a professional. A technician will conduct a more thorough diagnosis and determine the cause of the problem. However, in most cases, cleaning the drainage system or replacing the pump can resolve the issue.

   

2 reader comments

  1. Gravatar Cat Kat:

    Hello, my Bosch washing machine won't drain, won't spin, and shows E6. How can I fix it?

  2. Gravatar of the Andes Andes:

    With your hands

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