Dishwasher displays E15 and will not start; often the drain pump runs continuously even when there is no water in the tub.

Safety first: Disconnect power and close the water tap. Be prepared for water in the base tray.

• Check for visible leaks: Look around the dishwasher for water on the floor. If present, mop it up and inspect the door seal and hose connections at the rear.
• Access base tray: Carefully pull the dishwasher out and tilt it slightly backward to see if water drains from the base. Place towels underneath. Remove the bottom cover to inspect the base tray.
• Dry the float switch area: If there is water in the base tray, sponge it out completely. Locate the float switch (often a polystyrene float with a microswitch). Ensure it moves freely and is not stuck by debris.
• Identify leak source: With the base cover off, run a short fill cycle while observing the underside (use a torch). Look for drips from the sump gasket, circulation pump, drain pump, hoses, or side matrix connections.
• Tighten or replace components: Tighten hose clamps, replace cracked hoses, and renew seals or gaskets on the sump or pumps as needed. If the side water matrix is cracked, replace the entire assembly.
• Reassemble and test: Once the leak is fixed and the base is dry, refit the base cover, restore power and water, and run a full cycle to confirm that E15 does not return.