Thermador Dishwasher E16 Error: Unwanted Water Fill
thermador dishwasher e16 error indicates unwanted water fill. Stop using the appliance and call a Thermador-certified technician immediately for diagnosis. What Does Thermador Dishwasher Error Code E16 Mean? The E16 error code on a Thermador Sapphire, Star-Sapphire, Emerald, or Topaz dishwasher indicates the water inlet valve is allowing water to enter the tub when it […]
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. Do not use the dishwasher with E16 active. A stuck-open inlet valve will eventually flood the base tray, trigger E15, and can cause water damage to the kitchen floor and cabinetry. Shut off the water supply and arrange service immediately.
Can I reset the code?
No. E16 is caused by a physical or electrical fault that a reset does not correct. Resetting the dishwasher will not prevent the inlet valve from allowing water in when it should not. The supply valve must be closed and the inlet valve replaced before the dishwasher can be used safely.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Any water found in the tub when the dishwasher is powered off, Water visible on the floor around or under the dishwasher.
Symptoms You May Notice
Water continues to enter the tub after the fill phase ends
The dishwasher completes its programmed fill volume but water continues to trickle or flow into the tub, with the water level gradually rising beyond the normal operating level.
Tub fills with water when the dishwasher is idle or off
Water is found in the dishwasher tub even when no cycle has been started — the inlet valve is leaking through even when the control has not commanded it to open.
E15 flood protection triggers shortly after E16
The overfill caused by E16 eventually reaches the anti-flood base tray, causing E15 to trigger as a secondary fault. Seeing both codes together strongly suggests a stuck-open inlet valve.
Possible Causes
Stuck-open water inlet valve
The solenoid valve that controls water entry has failed mechanically in the open position. Water pressure pushes water through continuously whenever the household supply is on, regardless of the control board command.
Requires ProfessionalDebris lodged in the inlet valve seat
A particle of sediment or mineral scale has lodged between the valve diaphragm and its seat, preventing the valve from closing fully and allowing a continuous trickle of water into the tub.
Requires ProfessionalControl board sending incorrect energize signal to the valve
A fault in the control board's valve driver circuit keeps the inlet valve solenoid energized after the fill phase should have ended, commanding the valve to stay open.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Shut off the water supply valve immediately
Turn the dishwasher water supply shutoff valve under the sink fully clockwise to close it. This stops further water entry regardless of the valve or control board state. Do not restart the dishwasher until the inlet valve has been inspected.
If you are away from home when E16 triggers, the dishwasher flood protection system (E15) will pump water out of the base tray automatically. However, a stuck-open inlet valve can eventually overwhelm the drain pump. Shutting off the supply valve remotely via a smart water shutoff valve is the safest response.
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2
Check for water in the tub with the dishwasher off
After shutting off the supply and turning off the circuit breaker, open the dishwasher door and look at the tub floor. Any water present in the tub with the unit off confirms the inlet valve is leaking through mechanically.
A small amount of residual water in the sump area is normal. A visible standing water level — any more than a centimetre — with the machine off and the supply valve closed confirms the valve was leaking.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Water continues to trickle into the tub with supply valve open and dishwasher powered off
- Inlet valve solenoid tests de-energized but valve body still allows flow
- Control board inlet valve driver circuit tests shorted in the energized state
Need Professional Help?
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