Bertazzoni Dishwashers E8 Error: Diverter valve fault
What Does E8 Mean on a Bertazzoni Dishwasher? Error code E8 points to a fault in the diverter valve — the component responsible for alternating pressurised water flow between the upper and lower spray arm circuits during a wash cycle. When E8 appears, the valve has either failed to index to its target position, or […]
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
Maybe. The dishwasher will run cycles but will not wash one rack properly. There is no safety risk, but wash performance is significantly compromised. The unit can continue to be used with reduced capacity while a repair is arranged.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. Power-cycle at the circuit breaker for 60 seconds. If the diverter valve was momentarily stuck (e.g., by a small foreign object that has since cleared), the fault may not return. Persistent E8 on every cycle indicates a failed motor or wiring issue.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Grinding or cracking sounds from beneath the tub suggest broken internal components, Water is leaking from beneath the unit during the wash phase.
Symptoms You May Notice
Only one rack is washed; the other rack's dishes stay dirty
The diverter valve alternates water flow between the upper and lower spray arm circuits during a cycle. A stuck or failed valve leaves one rack completely unwashed, with dishes exiting as dirty as they entered.
Unusual clicking or buzzing from under the tub during wash
A diverter valve motor attempting to move to a new position but failing to complete the rotation will produce a rhythmic clicking or buzzing sound from beneath the tub during the wash phase.
E8 code displayed mid-cycle or at cycle end
The control board monitors diverter valve position via feedback from the motor circuit. If the expected position is not confirmed within the allowed time, E8 is logged.
Possible Causes
Diverter valve motor winding open-circuit
The small electric motor that rotates the diverter disc can fail over time, particularly after years of thermal and mechanical cycling. An open-circuit winding means the motor receives power but cannot turn.
Requires ProfessionalForeign object jamming the diverter mechanism
Broken glass fragments, a label from a jar, or a small bone shard can lodge in the diverter valve housing and physically prevent the disc from rotating to the next position.
DIY PossibleWiring harness connector corroded or unplugged
The connector from the main harness to the diverter valve motor sits in a wet environment under the tub. Corrosion or a loose connection interrupts the motor drive signal and can mimic a motor failure.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Check both racks with a dirty-dish test
Load a few lightly soiled dishes in both the upper and lower racks. Run a short cycle and check whether both racks were washed. If only one rack cleans, the diverter valve is most likely the culprit rather than a spray arm blockage.
Also confirm both spray arms spin freely by hand. A blocked spray arm nozzle can mimic a diverter fault.
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2
Inspect spray arms for blocked nozzles
Remove the upper and lower spray arms by pulling them off their central hubs (quarter-turn on most Bertazzoni models). Hold each arm up to light and look through the nozzles for blockages. Flush under tap water to clear any debris.
Mineral deposits can block spray arm nozzles gradually. Soaking in white vinegar for 30 minutes dissolves most scale buildup.
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3
Power-cycle and re-test
Cut power at the circuit breaker for 60 seconds and restore. Select a normal cycle and listen for the diverter valve switching position — a healthy valve produces a quiet mechanical click when it indexes between positions during the cycle.
If the clicking sound is absent entirely, the motor is likely not receiving a drive signal or has failed.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- E8 returns on every cycle after a power reset
- One rack consistently receives no water despite clear spray arm nozzles
- Diverter motor tests open-circuit with a multimeter
Need Professional Help?
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