What this error means
Water in base — the machine has detected water in the base tray, indicating an internal leak.
The E30 error on an AEG washing machine means the anti-flood float switch in the base tray has been activated. Every AEG washing machine has a shallow plastic tray in its base that collects water from any internal leak. A float switch sits in this tray and triggers E30 as soon as water contacts it. This is a safety-critical fault designed to prevent flooding. The most common causes are a leaking door seal, a cracked or loose internal hose connection, an overflowing drum from excessive detergent foam, a leaking drum bearing seal, or a cracked outer drum. The machine will lock out until the water in the base is physically removed.
Step-by-step
Symptoms to look for
- E30 displayed at any point during a programme
- Machine refuses to start any programme after E30 has appeared
- Water visible beneath the machine on the floor
- Smell of damp or mildew from beneath the machine
Diagnostic steps
Disconnect the machine from the mains power immediately. E30 means water is present inside the electrical base of the machine. Working on or around a machine with water in its base while it is powered is a serious electrocution risk. Do not attempt to restart the machine until the base is confirmed dry.
With the machine unplugged and the water supply turned off, pull the machine forward from the wall and tilt it carefully backwards at approximately 45 degrees by lifting the front from beneath the machine body. Hold this position for 30 to 60 seconds to allow water in the base tray to run towards the rear ventilation openings and out onto the floor. Place towels behind the machine before doing this.
After draining by tilting, leave the machine standing upright with the lower access panel removed or the kick strip removed to allow air circulation into the base. If possible, use a hair dryer on a low, cool setting directed into the base for five to ten minutes. The float switch must be completely dry before the machine will resume normal operation.
With the base dry and the machine upright, run a short programme such as Cotton 30 degrees and observe the machine throughout the entire cycle. Watch particularly during the fill phase, the wash tumbling phase, and the drain phase. Common leak points include the door seal gasket, the main drum-to-tub seal at the back, the detergent drawer inlet hose, the pressure hose connection, and the pump filter if not tightened correctly after previous maintenance.
Excessive foam caused by using too much detergent, the wrong type of detergent, or non-HE detergent in an AEG machine can overflow from the drum into the base tray without any hose or seal failure. If you suspect foam overflow, remove and clean the detergent drawer and run an empty 90-degree cycle without any detergent to flush the drum and drum seal clear.
With the machine unplugged and tilted back or on its side, remove the lower panel or base cover to view the base tray directly. Check that the float switch arm moves freely up and down with no debris holding it in the raised (triggered) position. Clear any debris from around the switch.
When to call an engineer
- Drum bearing seal is leaking — water marks visible at the rear of the drum when the machine is tilted
- Door seal is visibly cracked, torn, or has holes — must be replaced before use
- Drum outer tub has a crack or fracture — requires specialist repair or machine replacement
- E30 persists with the base completely dry — float switch has failed in the triggered position
Frequently asked questions
Is E30 dangerous?
Why does E30 keep coming back on my AEG washing machine?
Can using too much detergent cause E30?
How do I reset E30 after drying the base?
🎯 What is likely causing this fault?
⚠️ Estimates based on common faults — not a guaranteed diagnosis. Always verify before ordering parts.
Parts you may need
Enter your model number to filter results to your exact machine
Usually found on a label inside the door frame or on the back panel of the machine.
| Part | Approx. UK Cost | Find it |
|---|---|---|
| Door Seal | £25 - £60 | 🛒 Amazon UK → |
| Door Seal | £25 - £50 | 🏷️ eBay UK → |
ℹ️ Prices are approximate. Always check the part number matches your model before ordering. Not sure of your model number? Find out how to locate it here.