Siemens washing machine E18 error code
What E18 means on a Siemens washing machine
Drain fault, the machine cannot empty.
Meaning checked by NAC's engineers, 9 November 2026.
What our engineers say
When your Siemens washing machine shows E18, it is telling you there is a drain fault and the machine cannot empty. You will usually find water left sitting in the drum, and the machine will not drain on any programme, including a drain or spin on its own.
Engineers sometimes find a blockage in the drain filter, now and then caused by something like a colour catcher that has slipped through. They also sometimes find the blockage further along, inside the drain pump, where it can jam the filter so it will not come out. Another thing engineers sometimes find is a blockage where the machine's waste hose connects to the household drain.
An engineer will typically check the filter, the hose leading to the pump, the pump itself and the waste connection, then clear whatever is blocking the way. They then run a fill and drain test, and a spin, to make sure the machine empties fully. To help stop it happening again, engineers sometimes suggest checking pockets before a wash and taking care with how colour catchers are used.
Written by our engineers from NAC's own jobs.
Faults this code turns up with
What our engineers found and fixed for each, from NAC's own repair records.
What we fixed. We'll add what our engineers found, the parts they fitted and what customers typically paid once enough of these repairs are confirmed. How we work out our figures.
Before you check anything yourself
- Switch the washing machine off and unplug it, or turn it off at the isolator switch, before you touch anything. Our guide to safely isolating an appliance walks you through it.
- An error code tells you where to look, not that it's safe to take the washing machine apart. Don't remove panels or covers to get at the parts it points to: that's an engineer's job.
- If it involves the mains supply, sealed parts, or you're not confident at any point, stop and book a qualified engineer rather than risk injury or further damage.
Rather leave it to us?
- Fixed-price quote before any work starts
- Same or next-day visits where available
- UK-wide engineer coverage