What Does Error Code E68 Mean on a Siemens Washing Machine?

Siemens Updated 8 April 2026
Quick Fix

Check that the machine is not overloaded and run a short 30°C cycle to see if the heating circuit responds — if the error clears and the water warms normally, the fault was likely a temporary sensor misread (takes about 10 minutes).

Fault description

Error code E68 points to a problem in your Siemens washing machine's heating circuit. This circuit is responsible for warming the water to the temperature you select, and the machine monitors it continuously using one or more NTC temperature sensors. When the control board detects a reading that falls outside the expected range — either too high, too low, or completely absent — it logs E68 and typically halts the programme to prevent damage.

In practice, you may notice the wash cycle stopping partway through, clothes coming out cold even on a hot wash setting, or the machine refusing to progress past the heating phase. The drum may still turn and water may still fill, but the programme will not advance until the heating system reports a valid temperature. Understanding which part of the circuit has failed is the key to resolving this fault efficiently.

Causes

  • Faulty NTC temperature sensor — The NTC sensor monitors water temperature and feeds readings back to the control board. If it develops a short circuit, open circuit, or drifts out of calibration, the board cannot confirm the water is heating correctly and triggers E68.
  • Failed or burnt-out heating element — The heating element is the component that physically warms the water. Over time, limescale build-up or electrical stress can cause it to fail, meaning the water temperature never rises and the sensor reports no change.
  • Wiring or connector fault in the heating circuit — Loose, corroded, or damaged wiring between the heating element, temperature sensor, and control board can interrupt the signal. Vibration over years of use can work connectors loose without any visible external damage.
  • Heavy limescale deposits on the heating element — In hard water areas, limescale can coat the heating element thickly enough to insulate it, causing it to overheat internally and trip a thermal cut-out. The element may still be physically intact but unable to heat efficiently.
  • Control board (PCB) fault — If the main control board cannot correctly send power to the heating element or interpret the sensor signal, it may generate a false E68 even when the heating components themselves are in good condition. This is less common but possible after a power surge.

Step-by-Step Fix

  1. 1

    Reset the machine

    Switch the washing machine off at the mains socket and leave it unpowered for at least 5 minutes. This allows the control board to fully discharge and can clear a temporary sensor misread. Switch back on, select a 40°C or 60°C programme, and observe whether E68 returns.

  2. 2

    Check the load size and redistribute laundry

    An overloaded drum can restrict water circulation around the heating element, causing uneven temperature readings. Remove some items, redistribute the remaining load evenly, and restart the cycle. This takes only a couple of minutes and costs nothing.

  3. 3

    Run a descaling cycle

    If you live in a hard water area and have not descaled the machine recently, run an empty drum clean or maintenance wash at 90°C using a proprietary washing machine descaler. Heavy limescale on the element is a common cause of heating faults and this step can restore normal operation without any dismantling.

  4. 4

    Inspect and test the NTC temperature sensor

    Disconnect the machine from the mains before proceeding. The NTC sensor is usually located on or near the heating element at the base of the drum. Disconnect its wiring plug and use a multimeter set to resistance (ohms) to test it — a healthy NTC sensor typically reads around 20–30 kΩ at room temperature. A reading of zero or infinite resistance indicates a failed sensor that needs replacing.

  5. 5

    Test the heating element for continuity

    With the machine still unplugged, locate the heating element terminals (accessible from the rear or front depending on your model). Set your multimeter to continuity or resistance mode and probe both terminals. A working element typically reads between 20 and 50 ohms; an open circuit reading means the element has failed and must be replaced. Also check for continuity between each terminal and the machine's metal body — any reading here indicates an earth fault.

  6. 6

    Check wiring and connectors to the heating circuit

    With the machine unplugged, visually inspect all wiring leading to the heating element and NTC sensor. Look for scorch marks, melted insulation, or connectors that pull away easily. Reseat any loose plugs firmly. If you find burnt or broken wires, these will need to be repaired or replaced before the machine is used again.

  7. 7

    Replace the faulty component and retest

    Once you have identified the failed part — most commonly the NTC sensor or heating element — fit the correct replacement part for your specific Siemens model (check your model number on the door frame sticker). Reassemble, reconnect to the mains, and run a full 60°C cycle to confirm the error has cleared and the water heats correctly.

Affected models

When to call a service technician

If you have tested both the NTC sensor and the heating element and both appear to be within normal parameters, but E68 continues to appear, the fault is likely within the main control board (PCB). Diagnosing and replacing a PCB requires specialist equipment and a good understanding of appliance electronics — this is not a straightforward DIY repair and is best handled by a qualified service technician.

You should also call a service technician if you found evidence of burning, scorching, or melted wiring during your inspection, or if the machine trips your household circuit breaker when it attempts to heat. These symptoms suggest an electrical fault that could pose a safety risk if the machine is used further before repair.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use my Siemens washing machine while it shows E68?

It is not advisable to continue using the machine with an active E68 fault. The programme will typically stall during the heating phase, meaning clothes will not be washed at the correct temperature. More importantly, if the fault is caused by a failing heating element with an earth fault, continued use could pose an electrical safety risk.

How much does it cost to fix a Siemens E68 error?

If the fault is a failed NTC temperature sensor, this is usually an inexpensive repair — the part itself often costs between £10 and £25, and fitting it yourself is straightforward. A heating element replacement typically costs £20–£50 for the part. If a service technician is needed, expect to add a call-out and labour charge on top of the part cost.

Will descaling actually fix an E68 error?

Descaling can resolve E68 in cases where heavy limescale has insulated the heating element and caused it to overheat or trip its thermal cut-out. It will not fix a mechanically or electrically failed element or a faulty sensor. It is worth trying as a first step because it is free of risk and may save you the cost of a replacement part.

How do I find the model number on my Siemens washing machine?

The model number (E-Nr) is printed on a sticker located on the inside edge of the door frame — visible when the door is open. It typically starts with letters followed by a string of numbers and letters. You will need this number to order the correct replacement NTC sensor or heating element, as these parts vary between models.

Is E68 the same fault on all Siemens washing machine models?

E68 consistently relates to the heating circuit across Siemens washing machine ranges, but the exact component layout, sensor type, and element specification can differ between models. Always cross-reference your specific model number when ordering parts or following a repair guide, as accessing the heating element may involve removing the front panel on some models and the rear panel on others.