Bosch Washing Machines

Bosch washing machines are grouped into series based on features and performance:

• Series 4: Entry-level models offering reliable washing performance with essential programmes and features. Ideal for everyday washing needs with good energy ratings.
• Series 6: Mid-range models with enhanced features like EcoSilence Drive for quieter operation, more specialised washing programmes, and better energy efficiency. Many include ActiveWater technology to save water.
• Series 8: Premium models with advanced features including i-DOS automatic dosing, AntiStain technology, and the quietest operation. These machines offer the highest energy ratings, largest capacities, and most innovative washing technologies.

As you move up through the series, you'll benefit from more programmes, better efficiency, quieter operation, and smarter features to make laundry easier and more effective.

These error codes indicate specific issues that need attention:

• E18: Drainage problem - your machine can't pump out water. This is often caused by a blocked filter, kinked drain hose, or clogged drain pump.
• E23: Water not draining completely - similar to E18 but indicates water is still detected in the drum after the drain cycle.

To resolve these issues:

1. Check and clean the drain filter (located behind the small door at the bottom front of your machine)
2. Ensure the drain hose isn't kinked or blocked
3. Make sure your household drain pipe isn't clogged

After fixing the issue, you can reset your machine by turning it off for 30 seconds, then restarting it. If the error persists, you may need professional assistance.

Resetting your Bosch washing machine can resolve many minor issues. Here are three simple methods:

1. Soft Reset: Turn the programme selector to "Off" or "0", wait 10 seconds, then select a new programme.
2. Power Reset: Switch off the machine at the mains power, unplug it for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in and restart.
3. Master Reset (for digital displays): Press and hold the Start/Pause button while turning the programme dial one click clockwise. Hold for 5 seconds until the display lights up, then release.

After resetting, run an empty quick wash cycle to ensure everything is working properly. If problems persist, check your user manual for model-specific reset instructions or contact Bosch customer service.

Drainage issues are common and usually easy to fix by checking these areas:

• Drain filter: This often gets clogged with coins, hair, or small items. Clean it by placing a shallow container underneath, then slowly opening the filter door (usually at the bottom front of the machine) to catch any water. Remove and clean the filter thoroughly.
• Drain hose: Check for kinks, bends or blockages in the hose that connects your machine to the drain pipe.
• Drain pump: Listen for unusual noises during the drain cycle - a humming without water movement may indicate a faulty pump.
• Drain height: Ensure your drain hose isn't positioned too high (should be less than 1 metre above floor level).

Regular maintenance of the drain filter every 1-2 months prevents most drainage problems. If you've checked all these areas and the machine still won't drain, you may need a service engineer to inspect the pump or electronic controls.

Using the right amount of detergent ensures clean clothes without residue or machine damage:

• For standard machines: Follow the dosage guidelines on your detergent packaging, adjusting for:
• Water hardness in your area (harder water needs more detergent)
• Load size (half loads need less detergent)
• Soil level (heavily soiled clothes need more detergent)
• For i-DOS machines: Fill the reservoir with liquid detergent and the machine automatically dispenses the perfect amount for each load.

As a general guide for standard machines, use:

• Small/lightly soiled load: 20-30ml of liquid detergent or 1/4-1/3 of a scoop of powder
• Medium load: 35-40ml of liquid or 1/2 scoop of powder
• Full/heavily soiled load: 45-60ml of liquid or 3/4-1 scoop of powder

Using too much detergent can cause excess suds, residue on clothes, and machine damage over time. Using too little may result in poor cleaning performance.

i-DOS is Bosch's intelligent automatic dosing system that takes the guesswork out of laundry:

• Automatic precision: The system measures exactly how much detergent and fabric softener each load needs based on load size, fabric type, soil level, and water hardness.
• Reservoir system: Fill the large reservoirs once (enough for about 20-26 washes) and the machine automatically dispenses the perfect amount for each wash.
• Resource saving: By using precisely the right amount of detergent, i-DOS saves up to 7,062 litres of water per year by avoiding extra rinses needed to remove excess detergent.
• Manual override: You can still manually dose for special washes when needed.

To use i-DOS, simply fill the clearly marked reservoirs with liquid detergent and fabric softener, select your programme, and the machine handles the rest. The display shows when reservoirs need refilling, typically after 20+ washes.

This smart feature saves detergent, water, and energy while ensuring perfectly clean clothes every time without detergent residue or wastage.

Excessive shaking or movement during spin cycles is usually caused by:

• Uneven feet: Your machine needs to be perfectly level to spin properly. Adjust the feet by turning them until the machine is stable and use a spirit level to check.
• Transit bolts still in place: These metal rods secure the drum during transport and must be removed before use. Check the back of your machine for any remaining bolts.
• Unbalanced load: Items bunched on one side of the drum create imbalance. Pause the cycle, redistribute the laundry evenly, and restart.
• Overloading: Too many items prevent proper movement during the wash. Reduce the load size to allow clothes to move freely.
• Unsuitable surface: Washing machines perform best on solid floors. If yours is on a wooden floor, consider reinforcing the area or using an anti-vibration mat.

For persistent vibration issues, try using the reduced spin speed setting for heavy items like towels or jeans. Washing similar weight items together also helps maintain balance during spinning.

Regular cleaning keeps your machine hygienic and prevents odours:

1. Monthly drum clean: Run an empty hot wash (90°C) with a washing machine cleaner or 100ml of white vinegar in the detergent drawer. Many Bosch models have a specific "Drum Clean" programme.
2. Detergent drawer: Remove the drawer completely (usually by pressing the release tab and pulling), wash with warm water and an old toothbrush to remove detergent build-up, then dry and replace.
3. Door seal: Wipe the rubber gasket with a damp cloth, paying special attention to the folds where mould can develop. Leave the door ajar between washes to allow air circulation.
4. Drain filter: Clean every 1-2 months by placing a shallow container underneath, opening the filter door, and removing debris from the filter.

To prevent future build-up:

• Use the correct amount of detergent to avoid residue
• Run occasional hot washes to kill bacteria
• Leave the door and detergent drawer slightly open after use
• Wipe down the drum and door seal after washing very dirty items

These simple maintenance steps extend your machine's life and keep your laundry fresh and clean.