Bertazzoni Dishwashers EC Error: Control or motor fault
What Does EC Mean on a Bertazzoni Dishwasher? Error code EC signals a major fault in the wash motor or main control board. The PCB has detected that the motor drive circuit is not responding correctly — this could mean the wash motor has seized, its winding has failed, or the board itself has been […]
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
Maybe. The dishwasher should not be run repeatedly when EC is active, as a seized motor can overheat and create a fire risk. After a single power-cycle attempt that fails, discontinue use and arrange professional diagnosis.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. A 30-minute power-off reset may clear EC if caused by a thermal overload that has since cooled. Persistent EC on every attempt indicates a hardware failure that a reset will not resolve.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: A burning smell or smoke is detected from the base of the dishwasher, EC appears immediately on every power-on attempt with no delay.
Symptoms You May Notice
Dishwasher stops mid-cycle with no water movement or panel response
The machine halts completely during a wash cycle — spray arms stop, the pump goes silent, and buttons on the control panel produce no response. The tub may contain standing water at this point.
Machine powers on but will not begin any wash program
The display and lights function, but pressing Start produces no pump activity or fill response. The dishwasher appears alive electronically but cannot execute any mechanical action.
EC code appears immediately at power-up or program start
On some units EC is detected and displayed within seconds of power-on, before any cycle activity, indicating the fault is persistent and not transient.
Possible Causes
Wash motor winding failed or impeller seized
The wash motor drives the circulation pump that pressurises the spray arms. A failed winding or seized impeller (caused by foreign object ingestion or bearing failure) draws excessive current, tripping thermal protection and logging EC.
Requires ProfessionalMain PCB damaged by power surge or moisture
A voltage spike during a power cut or storm can damage the motor drive circuitry on the main PCB. Moisture ingress — from a leak or condensation — can also cause board failure or intermittent EC faults.
Requires ProfessionalThermal overload on the motor tripped
If the motor ran hot due to a blocked impeller, the internal thermal cutout trips as a safety measure. Some thermal cutouts self-reset after cooling; others fail permanently and require motor replacement.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Power-cycle and allow full cool-down
Turn off the dishwasher at the circuit breaker and leave it off for at least 30 minutes to allow the motor to cool fully if thermal overload was the trigger. Restore power and attempt a fresh cycle.
If EC clears after a 30-minute cool-down and the cycle runs successfully, a momentary thermal overload (perhaps from a debris jam that has since cleared) was likely the cause.
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2
Check for standing water in the tub
Open the door and inspect the bottom of the tub. If standing water is present, use a towel or cup to remove as much as possible before power-cycling — a flooded sump increases the load on the motor at startup.
Dirty standing water suggests the cycle was interrupted mid-wash. Clean water suggests a fill-phase interruption.
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3
Inspect filter and spray arm hubs for obstruction
Remove the lower spray arm and the filter assembly. Check for foreign objects (glass, bones, labels) in the sump area that might jam the pump impeller. Clear any debris found.
Even small items like a toothpick can catch on an impeller and cause the motor to overload within seconds of starting.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- EC returns within seconds of every power-on attempt
- No motor sound at all during the initial pump prime at cycle start
- Visible burn marks or corrosion on the main PCB (visible through base panel)
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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