What Does Error Code E26 Mean on a Bosch Washing Machine?

Bosch Updated 8 April 2026
Quick Fix

Check and clear any kinks or blockages in the pressure sensor hose — disconnect the small corrugated tube from the pressure sensor, blow gently through it to confirm it is clear, then reconnect it firmly; this resolves the fault in many cases (takes about 10 minutes).

Fault description

Error code E26 points to a problem with the pressure sensor, also known as the water level sensor or pressostat. This component monitors how much water is in the drum by detecting air pressure changes in a small hose connected to the bottom of the tub. When the machine cannot get a reliable reading from this sensor, it triggers E26 and halts the programme to prevent overfilling or running dry.

When E26 appears, the washing machine will typically stop mid-cycle or refuse to start a new wash. You may notice the drum is either empty when it should have water in it, or the machine fills and then immediately stops. In some cases the display will flash the code repeatedly even after you attempt to restart.

The good news is that this fault is often caused by something straightforward — a blocked hose, a loose connection, or a build-up of detergent residue — rather than a failed component. Working through the steps below in order gives you a strong chance of clearing the fault without needing a replacement part.

Causes

  • Blocked or kinked pressure sensor hose — The narrow corrugated hose that connects the drum to the pressure sensor can become clogged with detergent residue, limescale, or debris over time. A kink in the hose produces the same effect, preventing accurate air pressure readings from reaching the sensor.
  • Loose or disconnected hose connection — Vibration during spin cycles can gradually loosen the hose where it clips onto the pressure sensor or the drum outlet. Even a partial disconnection is enough to cause an incorrect or absent signal.
  • Faulty or worn pressure sensor — The pressure sensor itself can fail due to age, moisture ingress, or electrical wear. When the sensor's internal diaphragm or contacts degrade, it sends incorrect voltage readings to the control board, triggering E26.
  • Wiring harness fault — The wiring between the pressure sensor and the main control board can suffer from corrosion, a broken wire, or a loose connector. This interrupts the signal even if the sensor itself is in good condition.
  • Main control board fault — In less common cases, the control board misinterprets or fails to process the signal from a perfectly functional pressure sensor. This is usually only suspected after all other causes have been ruled out.

Step-by-Step Fix

  1. 1

    Power cycle the machine

    Switch the machine off at the mains socket and leave it unplugged for at least 5 minutes. This allows the control board to fully reset. Plug back in, select a short programme, and check whether E26 reappears before continuing with further checks.

  2. 2

    Locate and inspect the pressure sensor hose

    Unplug the machine and remove the top panel (usually secured by two screws at the rear). The pressure sensor is a small round component, typically mounted on the side or rear of the cabinet, with a thin corrugated hose running down to the drum. Trace the full length of the hose and look for any visible kinks, cracks, or pinch points.

  3. 3

    Clear the pressure sensor hose

    Carefully unclip the hose from both ends. Blow gently through it — you should feel free airflow with no resistance. If it feels blocked, rinse it through with warm water and allow it to dry completely before refitting. Reattach both ends with a firm push until you feel or hear the clip engage.

  4. 4

    Check all electrical connections to the sensor

    With the machine still unplugged, locate the wiring connector on the pressure sensor and unplug it. Inspect the pins for corrosion, bent contacts, or moisture. Reconnect it firmly. Also check the other end of the wiring loom where it meets the control board, ensuring it is fully seated.

  5. 5

    Test the pressure sensor with a multimeter

    If you have a multimeter, you can check the sensor's resistance across its terminals — consult your model's service data for the expected value, but a reading of open circuit (infinite resistance) typically confirms a failed sensor. A sensor that tests out of specification should be replaced.

  6. 6

    Replace the pressure sensor

    Pressure sensors for Bosch washing machines are widely available and are straightforward to swap out — unclip the hose, unplug the wiring connector, and unscrew or unclip the sensor from its bracket. Fit the new sensor in reverse order, ensuring the hose is fully seated and the connector clicks into place. Run a test cycle to confirm the fault has cleared.

Affected models

When to call a service technician

If you have worked through all the steps above — cleared the hose, checked all connections, and replaced the pressure sensor — and E26 continues to appear, the fault is likely within the main control board. Control board diagnosis and replacement requires specialist equipment and carries a risk of further damage if handled incorrectly, so this is the point to contact a qualified service technician.

You should also call a service technician straight away if you notice any signs of water leaking from around the drum outlet or hose connections, or if you can see burn marks or smell burning near the control board area. These symptoms suggest a more serious underlying fault that goes beyond a straightforward sensor replacement.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use my Bosch washing machine while it shows E26?

It is not advisable to continue using the machine with an active E26 fault. Because the machine cannot accurately measure the water level, it may overfill, which risks water damage to your home, or run a cycle without enough water, which can damage the drum bearings and heating element over time.

How do I access the pressure sensor on a Bosch washing machine?

On most Bosch front-loader models, the pressure sensor is reached by removing the top panel. Unplug the machine, then remove the two screws at the back of the top panel and slide it forward and off. The sensor is a small disc-shaped component, usually clipped to the side wall of the cabinet with a thin hose running down toward the drum.

How much does a replacement pressure sensor cost?

Replacement pressure sensors for Bosch washing machines typically cost between £15 and £40 depending on the model. They are a straightforward DIY replacement in most cases, so fitting one yourself avoids a call-out charge. Always check the part number against your model number before ordering.

Could E26 be caused by too much detergent?

Yes, indirectly. Using too much detergent over time leads to a build-up of residue inside the pressure sensor hose, which can partially or fully block it. This is one of the most common underlying reasons the hose becomes obstructed. Switching to the correct detergent dose and running regular maintenance washes helps prevent this.

Will E26 clear itself after a power cycle?

Occasionally a power cycle will clear E26 if it was triggered by a temporary signal glitch rather than a physical fault. However, if the code returns on the next wash cycle, there is an underlying issue with the hose, sensor, or wiring that needs to be investigated and resolved properly.