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Thermador E22 — Turbidity sensor fault — AquaSensor malfunction

Complete diagnostics and troubleshooting guide for Thermador dishwasher error code E22. Learn what it means, what causes it, and whether you need professional repair.

Severity Low Repair Needs technician Components AquaSensor, wiring, control board

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E22 at a glance.

Error code E22
Appliance type Dishwasher
Severity Low
Repairability Needs technician
Affected components AquaSensor, wiring, control board

Understanding error code E22.

Turbidity sensor fault — AquaSensor malfunction

What Thermador E22 error means on your dishwasher

Thermador dishwasher error code E22 indicates: Turbidity sensor fault — AquaSensor malfunction. This is classified as a Low-severity issue — the appliance may continue operating but should be serviced soon.

What E22 means

E22 indicates the AquaSensor (water turbidity sensor) is not reading correctly. This sensor measures water cleanliness to optimize cycle length and water usage.

Common causes

Sensor covered in grease or food film, faulty sensor element, or wiring issue between sensor and control board.

Troubleshooting steps

1. Clean the sensor area at the bottom of the tub. 2. Run a clean cycle with dishwasher detergent. 3. If E22 persists, the sensor or its wiring needs professional inspection.

When to call a technician

The AquaSensor requires removal from the sump area for testing or replacement. The dishwasher will still function with a faulty AquaSensor, but cycles may run longer than necessary.

Error E22 quick reference

  • Error code: E22
  • Appliance type: Thermador Dishwasher
  • Severity: Low
  • Repair type: Needs technician
  • Affected components: AquaSensor, wiring, control board

Troubleshooting Thermador E22 step by step

  1. Power reset: Turn off the appliance at the circuit breaker for 5 minutes, then restore power. If E22 clears and doesn’t return, a transient electrical issue caused it.
  2. Visual inspection: Check for obvious issues — loose connections, visible damage, water leaks, or unusual sounds from the affected components (AquaSensor, wiring, control board).
  3. Document the error: Note when E22 first appeared, whether it’s constant or intermittent, and any other symptoms (sounds, smells, performance changes).
  4. Check related systems: Error codes can sometimes be triggered by adjacent systems — verify that water supply, electrical connections, and ventilation are functioning normally.

Professional diagnosis and repair

If E22 persists after a power reset, professional diagnosis is required. Our certified Thermador technicians use factory diagnostic tools to read stored error history, test individual components (AquaSensor, wiring, control board), and identify the exact failure point.

Repair typically involves:

  • Retrieving and analyzing stored fault codes from the control board
  • Component-level testing of the AquaSensor, wiring, control board
  • Replacing failed components with genuine Thermador OEM parts
  • Verifying the repair by running a test cycle and confirming the error clears

Preventing Thermador E22 from recurring

While some component failures are age-related and unavoidable, regular maintenance reduces the likelihood of error E22 recurring:

  • Follow the maintenance schedule in your Thermador owner’s manual
  • Keep the appliance clean — debris and buildup accelerate component wear
  • Address minor issues early — small problems left unrepaired often trigger error codes
  • Use a surge protector — power fluctuations can damage electronic control boards

For complete specifications and troubleshooting documentation, visit the Thermador official site. To schedule certified Thermador dishwasher repair, Schedule service online — we service all Thermador models in all 50 states with genuine OEM parts and a 30-day labor warranty.

Frequently asked questions about Thermador dishwashers
How loud are Thermador dishwashers?
Star Sapphire models operate at 39 dBA — quieter than a library. Emerald at 42 dBA, Sapphire at 44 dBA. All are among the quietest dishwashers available.
What is CrystalDry and do I need it?
CrystalDry uses natural zeolite minerals to absorb moisture and generate heat during the drying cycle. It produces bone-dry results — even on plastics — without a heated dry element. If you regularly wash plastic containers, it’s a significant upgrade over condensation drying.
Are Thermador dishwashers panel-ready?
Yes — all Thermador dishwashers accept custom cabinetry panels for a seamless kitchen look. Panel weight must stay within specifications to prevent hinge and latch wear.
How often should I clean the drain filter?
Monthly. This prevents most E24/E25 drain error codes and maintains wash performance.
Can I use any detergent?
Use quality dishwasher detergent tablets — never liquid dish soap, which creates excessive suds and can damage the pump.

Can't resolve E22? Our certified technicians diagnose and repair every Thermador dishwasher — current production, discontinued, and legacy units. Schedule service or call us for expert help.

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