Dishwasher not draining

dishwasher

I have a Bosch dishwasher (modelnr: SMU69T42SK). It is no longer draing properly at the end of a cycle.

There is a similar question here, which mentions a failing solenoid valve as a possible fault.

I don't think this is my issue, though, because when I put it on the quick (15m) rinse cycle, the first thing it does is pump out the water in the bottom without a problem (identified from sound of water in drain, verified by opening the door immediately after and seeing water has emptied).

I have read here (sorry, Danish article) that there may be a dirty or faulty "niveaukontrol" (level sensor, I think). From the symptoms the article describes, this sounds likely.

I have found the parts drawings (washing system subassembly, page 6), but I can't identify a level sensor. Also, I don't see a float-like device in the bottom as in this video

Is it possible that my machine does not have a level sensor? How would it know it drained the water if not?

Any suggestions are of course very welcome.

Best Answer

I determined the cause of the problem. It was a failing solenoid valve (part number 0404) controlling the outflow from the plastic container on the left side (supposedly a heat exchanger).

The symptom of water in the bottom occurred after draining was complete (which, as it turns out, it successfully were) where the machine takes in some new water to the container. Presumably, this is not supposed to be full at this point, and so water entered into the main compartment by way of an overflow outlet (part no. 0402 in the parts drawing).

After ordering a new valve for 200 dkk and replacing the old one, my washer now works again.

Also, if doing this, be sure to unplug the washer. After changing the valve, I discovered it runs on mains voltage.