E04 — Water Container Full
E04 is not in Bosch's official US dryer error-code list (which only documents E01/E02 as a pair, E06, and an E08/E09/E24/E25/E28/E90 electronics group). The 'water container full' explanation below is not confirmed on Bosch's US consumer page — verify against your model's manual.
- Keep using it?
- Yes, with caution
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Verified against
- bosch-home.com ↗
How to fix it
- Slide out the condensate tank (top-left on most Bosch models) and empty into a sink.
- Reinstall the tank firmly until it seats — listen for the click.
- If error persists, remove the tank again and clean the float and tank seating area with a damp cloth.
- Check that the float inside the tank moves freely.
- If hard-plumbed to a drain, inspect the drain hose for kinks and check that the pump runs (you'll hear it briefly after a cycle).
- Reset by pressing Start; the code should clear once the tank is properly seated and empty.
Why it happens
Typical signs: Cycle pauses with E04 or container-full icon · Water container icon illuminated · Dryer will not start a new cycle
- Condensate tank full of water Normal — tank fills after 1-3 cycles depending on load size.
- Condensate pump failure If a drain hose is installed, the pump that lifts water to the tank or drain has failed.
- Float switch stuck in tank cavity Switch that signals 'tank present and empty' is stuck or dirty.
- Drain hose kinked or blocked On hard-plumbed installations, water backs up to the tank and triggers the sensor.
Parts you may need
If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
More Bosch dryer codes
Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: bosch-home.com.