E03
Tefal
Flow Meter / Water Flow Detection Error
Display shows E03, machine heats up but no water flows through the coffee outlet.
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Flow meter turbine blocked by scale, Flow meter wiring harness loose, Air lock in hydraulic circuit, Flow meter internal failure
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Unplug the coffee maker and let it cool. Do not open the hydraulic circuit while hot or pressurized.
Steps:
- Check water supply: Ensure the water tank is full and correctly seated. Verify that the tank outlet valve opens when pressed and is not blocked by debris.
- Run a manual priming cycle: If your Tefal model has a hot water or steam function, run it for 20–30 seconds to purge air from the system. Reattempt a coffee cycle.
- Descale the machine: Heavy limescale can block the flow meter. Run a full descaling cycle using Tefal-approved descaling solution according to the user manual. This often restores proper turbine movement.
- Access the flow meter (advanced): Remove the top or side cover. The flow meter is usually a small round plastic component in-line between the pump and boiler, with two or three wires connected.
- Inspect and clean: Disconnect the hoses (have a towel ready). Check for visible scale or debris in the inlet/outlet. Rinse the flow meter with warm water; do not use sharp tools on the turbine. Ensure the turbine spins freely when you blow gently through it.
- Check wiring: Confirm the flow meter connector is firmly seated on the PCB and that wires are not broken or pinched.
- Reassemble and test: Refit hoses securely with clamps, reassemble covers, refill the tank, and test. If E03 persists, the flow meter sensor or control board may need replacement.
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Repair Difficulty
Hard
4/5
Required Part
Water Flow Meter
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