Bosch Silence Plus 44 DBA Troubleshooting Guide

Bosch makes perfect machines for the home. But sometimes, even the best ones can have some issues. In this guide, we will talk about a dishwasher they make called Bosch Silence Plus 44 DBA.

Some people have told us about problems they’ve had with this dishwasher. Here’s a list of those core problems:

Issue	Sensitivity
Dishwasher Not Starting	Moderate
Fills Up with Water	High
Doesn’t Drain	High
Filling with Dirty Water	High
Not Drying Dishes	Moderate
Buttons Not Working	Low
Not Filling with Water	High
Water Leaks	High
Making Noise	Moderate

In this guide, we’ll look at each problem and find a way to fix it. Are you ready? Let’s dive in!

1. Bosch Silence Plus 44 DBA Dishwasher Not Starting:

The Bosch Silence Plus 44 DBA, like other popular brands such as Frigidaire and Whirlpool, might sometimes face issues with starting. Here’s a breakdown of possible causes and their corresponding solutions:

What’s Wrong?

1. Internal Issues: A failed motor or faulty wiring can be culprits. Machines have parts that can wear out over time, and the dishwasher is no exception.
2. Electrical Problems: Damaged wiring or other electrical issues can sometimes prevent your dishwasher from starting. However, it’s worth noting that only some starting problems are electrical.
3. Delay Start Feature: Bosch dishwashers have a feature allowing you to delay the start of the wash cycle. If activated, your machine will only start after the set delay.
4. Control Lock Activated: This safety feature prevents unwanted operations, especially by children. If it’s on, the dishwasher will start once it’s deactivated.
5. Door Not Secured: The dishwasher is designed only to run if its door is closed correctly and latched for safety reasons.
6. Power Issues: Situations like power outages or a blown fuse can disrupt the dishwasher’s operation.
7. No Selected Cycle: The machine needs a selected washing cycle before starting. Simply shutting the door won’t do.
8. Water Supply Issues: If there’s no available water, the dishwasher can’t run its cycle.

How to Fix It:

1. Check the Door: Ensure the door is shut correctly and securely latched.
2. Power On: Always ensure the main power switch is turned on.
3. Reset the Dishwasher: If the machine is unresponsive or stuck in delay start, refer to your user guide on how to cancel a cycle or delay start.
4. Check Electricity Source: If you suspect power problems, review your home’s circuit breakers and ensure the fuse hasn’t blown.
5. Select a Cycle: Ensure a washing cycle is chosen before shutting the door.
6. Water Supply: Ensure the water source is turned on and no blockages prevent water flow.

Understanding these common issues and solutions ensures your Bosch Silence Plus 44 DBA dishwasher remains in top working condition or quickly addresses any possible hiccups.

2. Bosch Silence Plus 44 DBA Dishwasher Fills Up with Water When It Shouldn’t

Bosch Silence Plus 44 DBA Dishwasher Fills Up with Water When It Shouldn’t

Many people with this Bosch dishwasher have noticed a common problem. The dishwasher sometimes fills up with water, even when turned off. This unexpected filling can lead to flooding in your kitchen and might increase your water bill.

What’s Wrong?

The leading cause is a part inside the dishwasher called the entry valve. When this valve gets stuck in the open position, it lets water in all the time. One reason for the valve to get stuck is because of the buildup left by hard water.

How to Fix:

While cleaning the valve might seem like a good idea, more is needed. The best solution is to replace the faulty valve.

For those looking for a replacement, the Endurance Pro 425458 Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve is a good choice. It’s affordable and fits well with Bosch dishwashers.

3. Bosch Silence Plus 44 DBA Dishwasher Doesn’t Drain

Cause:

A common problem with this Bosch dishwasher model is that it might not drain the water. It leaves dirty water at the bottom, which isn’t clean.

How to Fix:

If your dishwasher isn’t draining, follow these steps:

1. Take out the filter and drain. If there’s a lot of water left, scoop it out with a bowl or cup.
2. Put a dry cloth on the bottom to soak up any extra moisture.
3. Using a tool like a screwdriver, open up the part where the water goes out to see the small fan (this is the impeller).
4. Turn the impeller around to check if anything’s stuck there, and remove any bits that shouldn’t be there.
5. Look at the rubber part (the check valve) to see if anything’s blocking it. If water doesn’t go through, clean it out.

4. Dishwasher Filling with Dirty Water

Cause:

Your Bosch dishwasher might face a problem where it fills up with dirty water. It can lead to an unclean situation and costly water damage. It’s essential to address this problem without delay.

How to Fix:

The check valve is usually the reason behind this issue. This valve lets water flow in one direction, keeping dirty water from the dishwasher and sink. But dirty water can enter the dishwasher if the check valve is broken.

To fix this:

• Step 1: Get the Bosch 00165262 Check Valve. It’s a good choice and costs less than $20. You can replace it yourself.

• Step 2: Open the dishwasher door and remove the bottom rack to reach the check valve.
• Step 3: Remove the spray arm from the bottom and keep it aside.
• Step 4: Take out the filter screen and its basket.
• Step 5: Lift the lid out.
• Step 6: Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the broken check valve.
• Step 7: Put in the new check valve and ensure it’s in the right spot by pressing it in securely.

With a new check valve, your dishwasher should no longer fill with dirty water, giving you clean and worry-free washes.

5. Bosch Silence Plus 44 DBA Not Drying Dishes Properly

A common issue with Bosch dishwashers, including the Silence Plus 44 DBA model, is the inability to dry dishes completely. There are several potential causes and solutions to this problem:

What’s Wrong?

1. Vent or Motor Issues: The drying system in the dishwasher uses a vent, vent motor, or heating mechanism. If any of these components malfunction, the dishes won’t dry properly.
2. • Vent Problems: This is a likely culprit if the dishwasher vent doesn’t open. The solution is to replace the vent with an identical one.
   • Motor Issues: Check the vent fan motor, especially if the vents seem fine. You can use a multimeter to see if the engine is working. Another method is to spin the fan blade by hand and check if it’s jammed. Consider replacing the vent fan if the motor isn’t functioning or moving.
   • Heating Element: Another potential issue is a faulty heating element. You can measure the voltage using a multimeter to see if it’s working. If not, replace it with the appropriate part for your model.
3. Rinse Agent Dispenser Empty: The rinse agent helps in drying. If its dispenser is empty, dishes might remain wet.
4. Loading Issues: If dishes are stacked too closely or nested, they may not dry properly.
5. Cycle Selection: Some washing cycles don’t include a drying function, so dishes remain wet afterwards.
6. Material of Dishes: Items made from polyethene or Teflon don’t dry as efficiently as others.

How to Fix It?

1. Rinse Agent: Refill the rinse agent dispenser to aid drying.
2. Loading: Ensure dishes are spaced out and not nested. It allows air to circulate and dry them.
3. Cycle Selection: Choose a cycle that includes drying, or if your model has it, select the additional heating option to improve drying.
4. Part Replacement: If you’ve identified a faulty vent, motor, or heating element, replace the malfunctioning component with the correct part for your Bosch model.

6. Buttons on the Dishwasher Don’t Work

What’s Wrong?

The buttons on your Bosch dishwasher might stop working, similar to those with GE dishwashers.

Why? Often, something might be blocking the sensors behind the buttons. This is the usual reason for this problem.

How to Fix?

• Take away whatever’s blocking the sensors and restart the dishwasher. This should solve the problem.
• Sometimes, the knob you use to choose things might not work right. If that’s the case, you might need a new knob.

7. Dishwasher Not Filling With Water

Bosch dishwashers sometimes don’t fill with water, making it impossible to clean your dishes properly. This common problem can stem from a few different causes, and understanding them can lead you to the right solution.

What’s Wrong?

1. Water Inlet Valve Malfunction: One of the most frequent culprits is the water inlet valve. If it’s malfunctioning, it will prevent the unit from filling up with water. A failing water inlet valve is often the main reason behind this issue.
2. Water Supply Issues: There could be something blocking the water supply or a problem with the supply system.
3. Incomplete Previous Cycle: Sometimes, if the last wash cycle wasn’t finished, the dishwasher might not start a new one.
4. Delay Start Active: The dishwasher might be set on a delay start, meaning it will fill up with water later, not right away.
5. Household Water Supply Off: The main water supply for your home might be turned off.

How to Fix It?

1. Replace Water Inlet Valve: If you find the water inlet valve is the problem, consider replacing it. The BOSCH 00628334 Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve is an excellent option. To replace:

1. • Take off the old valve using the bottom access panels.
   • Disconnect the wire harness, turn off the water supply, and remove the brass elbow.
   • Put in the new BOSCH 00628334 water inlet valve.
   • Put everything back and test your dishwasher to see if it’s working right.
2. Water Supply Check: Ensure the water supply valve (often found under the kitchen sink) is open, and there are no twists or blockages in the water supply line.
3. Previous Cycle: Check the dishwasher settings and ensure the last cycle was completed.
4. Delay Start: If you’ve set a delay start, you can either cancel it or wait for it to finish before the dishwasher fills up.
5. Turn on Household Water Supply: Ensure that the main water supply in your house is turned on.

By pinpointing the cause of the issue and following these steps, you can get your Bosch dishwasher back to its optimal performance.

8. Water Leaks in Dishwasher

Having a water leak in your dishwasher can be quite a hassle. It’s inconvenient and could lead to more significant issues if not addressed promptly. Understanding where the leak comes from can be crucial in finding the solution.

What’s Wrong?

1. Faulty Pump Seal: If water is leaking from the motor area of the dishwasher, it’s likely because the pump seal has deteriorated. Over time, the sealant on the dishwasher’s pump seal can dry out, causing leaks.
2. Overflowing Dishwasher: An overflowing dishwasher can also lead to leaks in the motor area.
3. Drain Pump Issues: The leak might originate from the drain pump. If this is the case, the impeller and seal might be the culprits.
4. Suds in the Dishwasher: Using the wrong detergent can cause a buildup of suds, which can lead to leaks.
5. Door Seal Problems: The door seal might have detached from its track, causing leaks when the dishwasher runs.
6. Clogged Exhaust Vent: An obstructed exhaust vent can lead to water leaks.
7. Improper Installation: If the dishwasher wasn’t set up right initially, it might cause leaks.

How to Fix It?

1. Replacing Pump and Motor Assembly: If there’s a leak from the dishwasher’s motor area, consider replacing the pump and motor assembly. You can:
   • Figure out where the leak originates.
   • If the drain pump is the source of the leak, you should replace the impeller and seal. Thankfully, you can do this on most models without taking out the dishwasher’s drain pump.
   • If you need help finding an impeller and seal kit, consider buying a new pump-motor system.
   • If the old impeller doesn’t fit on the rusted shaft of the old motor, you should replace the pump and motor.
2. Using the Right Detergent: Ensure you use only dishwasher detergents. If suds still form, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the dishwasher and run a cycle.
3. Checking Door Seal: Ensure the door seal is correctly positioned on its track.
4. Clearing the Exhaust Vent: Ensure the evaporative cooler isn’t causing any condensation.
5. Proper Installation: Ensure your dishwasher’s installation is up to mark, and it might be a good idea to have it checked by a professional to avoid future leaks.

By determining the cause of the leak and implementing these solutions, you can ensure that your dishwasher operates smoothly and without any water-related issues.

9. Bosch Silence Plus 44 DBA Dishwasher Making Noise

While celebrated for its quiet efficiency, the Bosch Silence Plus 44 DBA dishwasher can sometimes disrupt this serenity with unexpected noises. If these sounds become a persistent backdrop to your kitchen, diagnosing the root cause is essential.

One prevalent suspect is the water input valve. If malfunctioning, it might produce a distinctive buzzing or rattling noise, signalling that a replacement might be on the cards. However, noise origins can span a spectrum:

1. Seasonally high water temperatures.
2. A humming motor shaft, possibly due to worn motor bearings or axles.
3. Obstructions in the filter screen, like food or other debris.
4. Inconsistent operating temperatures due to inadequate thermal insulation between components.

Moreover, an often-overlooked issue is the simple misplacement of dishes:

Problem: Noise During the Wash Cycle

• Dishes may need to be correctly positioned in the dishwasher.

Solution:

The water circulation sound is typical, but if you notice items banging into each other or the spray arms, consult the manual’s “Loading the Dishwasher” section for correct placement.

9 Additional Problems Users Might Face:

Issue	Sensitivity
Screen Not Lighting Up	Moderate
Dishwasher Takes Too Long	Moderate
Dishes Aren’t Clean Enough	Moderate
Bad Smell in the Dishwasher	Moderate
Stains Inside the Dishwasher	Low
Streaks on Glasses and Leftovers	Low
Front Panel Looks Different	Low
Can’t Close the Detergent Dispenser	Low
Unable To Select Desired Cycle	Low

 

1. Screen Not Lighting Up

What’s Wrong?

• Maybe a fuse broke, or a switch flipped off.
• The door needs to be shut right.

How to Fix It:

1. Look in the fuse box. If a fuse is broken, change it. If a switch is off, turn it back on.
2. Please close the door tight and make sure it clicks into place.

2. Dishwasher Takes Too Long

What’s Wrong?

• The water isn’t very hot.
• The dirtiness of dishes can change how long the wash takes.
• There’s no liquid left to help rinse dishes.
• The dishwasher is using cold water. You can see how long it usually takes in the “wash cycle information” part of the manual.

How to Fix It:

1. Before starting, turn on the hot water at the sink near the dishwasher.
2. If the dishwasher sees filthy dishes, it washes them longer. This makes sure they get clean.
3. Add more rinse liquid to help clean dishes.

3. Dishes Aren’t Clean Enough

What’s Wrong?

• Something might be blocking where the water sprays from.
• The tiny holes where water comes out are blocked.
• The wrong amount of soap was used.
• Dirty filters.
• Dishes are piled up too close.
• The chosen wash mode needs to be more vital for filthy dishes.

How to Fix It:

1. Before washing, spin the arms that spray water. Make sure nothing stops them.
2. Clean the spray arms as it says in the “How to Take Care” part of the manual.
3. Change how much soap you use based on your water’s hard or softness.
4. Clean the filters when they’re still a little wet.

4. Bad Smell in the Dishwasher

What’s Wrong?

• Leftover food bits are at the bottom of the dishwasher.
• Food bits might be stuck near where the door closes.
• Dishes have been sitting inside too long before washing.
• Water is left at the bottom after washing.
• Something’s blocking where the water goes out.

How to Fix It?

1. Clean the filters by taking them out and washing them.
2. Look at the “How to Take Care” part in the manual.
3. If you need to wash dishes, do a quick rinse cycle.
4. Make sure all the water goes out after washing.
5. If there’s a blockage, call someone who knows how to fix it.

5. Stains Inside the Dishwasher

Why are there stains?

1. Hard water can leave marks inside your dishwasher.
2. The inside of the dishwasher (tub) touched the silverware.

How to Clean?

1. Use lemon juice to get rid of hard water marks. Here’s how:
   • First, run a normal wash cycle.
   • Stop the machine and put a cup of lemon juice on the top shelf.
   • Now, run a full wash cycle.
   • Do this often to keep stains away.
2. Make sure silverware doesn’t touch the inside of the dishwasher when washing.

6. Streaks on Glasses and Leftover Bits on Dishes

What’s the problem?

• Using the wrong amount of rinse aid.

How to Fix?

• Change how much rinse aid you use based on your water type. Check the “How to Add Detergent and Rinse Aid” part in the manual for help.

7. Front Panel Looks Different or Has Marks

What’s the problem?

• Used a rough cleaning product.

How to Fix?

• Clean it with a gentle soap and a soft, wet cloth.

8. Can’t Close the Detergent Dispensor

Why?

• The soapbox needs to be used right.
• The last wash didn’t finish or got paused.

What to do?

• Check the manual to open and close the soap box properly.
• Look at the “Using the Dishwasher” part of the manual.

9. Unable To Select Desired Cycle

Cause:

• The previous cycle has not finished.

Solution:

Refer to the “Running the Dishwasher” section of the operator’s guide.

Frequently Asked Question