I am getting error code E3 on my Baumatic BDW13 dishwasher?

didnt work for me - once bypass used no programs were available and timer was blank and 1/2 wash also wouldnt illuminate

janz
August 2014

You have to reset the thermostat. There is a red wax dot in the middle of the back of the thermostat, so remove it and use a blunt needle to press a very small button inside. You can measure resistance on it to be sure. I pressed a number of times (a little harder each time), each time checking for a resistance.

shah
August 2012

I had the same thing E3 and then the screen went blank. I did the fix bypassing the fuse and it still didnt work. however ive tried all sorts of things in the past. i think its finally had it about 7 years old and its seen a lot of action

clive
February 2012

always replacing thermo switches . as advised to bypass it .excellent so easy . thanks for advice ken

ken
May 2011

Firstly I would like to Thank You Sir Baggy for such a fine and detailed response to a question, even though someone else asked it, sites like this are useless without input like yours.
I had error code E3 and found a thermostat had an open circuit.
I carried out the repair as you suggested, but have now found that whilst the error light has gone it still wont heat and nothing appears in the illuminated numbers, the LED hasn't blown because pressing the timer brings up numbers 1 to 24.
The detergent dispenser isn't opening either.
Any suggestions would be very much appreciated.

Mr Fixer
June 2010

Hi, just had the same problem with mine.

You will need a small adjustable, a torch and a multimeter. First, test the element. to get at the element pop off the two black covers at the front base of the dishwasher. In the front right hand corner you'll see/feel the connection for the element (should be 2 white wires). Check the resistance across the terminals. I got 30 ohms on mine. If you get anything other than a small resistance then it's faulty.

If that checks out ok you need to test the thermostats. They are a bit awkward to get at. They are located a few inches from the back on either side. If you look through the right hand side (where the element connection was) towards the back you'll see one of the thermostats. They are screwed into base of the washer from below. Mine where hand tight, you might need the adjustable. The locking nut is about 15mm I think. The left hand one is a lot more awkward to get at and you won't be able to see it from the front. so take out the one on the right first. Have a good look at it, good feel etc. then put your hand through the left side (you'll have to wiggle through/around the wires) and feel for the second one.

Once you have them both out, test them with the multimeter. If you get an open circuit it's faulty.

You'll probably find one is ok. Now, you can order another one if you want, but for an immediate fix you can bypass the faulty one for now.

To bypass the faulty one you'll need a small length of wire (any will do) and a couple of spade connectors (of the same size as those on the thermostat. Fit both thermostats back in the machine. Connect up the good one as before. Don't connect up the faulty one, instead use your new bypass to join the two wires instead of connecting them to the thermostat. Job done.

Your machine should now work properly. Good luck

Sir baggy
September 2009