Dishwasher displays E8 and the water softener does not seem to regenerate; white spots appear on dishes.

Safety first: Disconnect power and avoid spilling dishwasher salt inside the cabinet.

• Check salt level: Open the salt reservoir cap in the tub bottom and ensure it is filled with proper dishwasher salt. Top up if low and wipe away any spilled salt from the tub.
• Inspect for salt bridging: Use a wooden spoon handle to gently break up any hardened salt bridge inside the reservoir that may prevent brine formation.
• Regeneration valve: Access the side of the dishwasher where the water softener and regeneration valve are located (often integrated into a side water matrix). Inspect the valve for blockages and check the coil resistance. Replace if open or shorted.
• Wiring and sensor: Check connectors and wiring from the softener assembly to the control board. Look for corrosion from salt exposure. Clean or replace corroded terminals.

After resolving E8, run several cycles to flush the system and verify improved water softening and reduced spotting.