Introduction
Use this guide to remove and clean the Aqua inlet filter on a Bosch Serie 4 VarioPerfect washing machine. The Aqua inlet filter, inlet filter, or cold water feed filter traps grit and dirt from the power supply cold water supply. A clogged filter can reduce water flow and trigger the tap warning icon, an F17 error, or an E17 error. This procedure applies to standard and Aqua-Secure models with the small rear inlet filter. AquaStop filters are different and aren't covered here.
What you need
-
Step 1 Shut off power and water
-
Unplug the washing machine from the power supply power outlet.
-
Turn off the power supply cold water supply feeding the washing machine.
-
-
Step 2 Move the washing machine
-
Pull the washing machine out only far enough to reach the back.
-
Remove the drain hose from the U-bend pipe if you need more access behind the machine.
-
-
Step 3 Locate the Aqua inlet filter
-
Follow the power supply cold water inlet hose to the rear top corner of the washing machine.
-
Find the hose connection on the back of the machine.
-
-
Step 4 Disconnect the cold water feed hose
-
Place a small bucket or tray under the rear hose connection to catch water.
-
Grip the hose connector by hand and turn it anticlockwise to loosen it.
-
Keep unscrewing the connector until the hose comes away from the machine.
-
Place the end of the hose in the bucket or tray so it doesn't drip on the floor.
-
-
Step 5 Remove the inlet filter
-
Use a tissue or rag to dry the filter area inside the inlet.
-
Use pliers to grip the flat end of the filter that sticks out slightly from the inlet.
-
Pull the filter straight toward you while gently wiggling it free.
-
-
Step 6 Clean the filter
-
Inspect the perforated holes in the filter for grit, dirt, or debris.
-
Use a brush to scrub debris from the filter holes.
-
Blow through the filter to clear any remaining blockage.
-
-
Step 7 Reinstall the filter and hose
-
Hold the filter straight and push it back into the inlet with a finger until it seats fully.
-
Thread the cold water feed hose back onto the inlet by hand.
-
Tighten the hose connector as firmly as you can by hand.
-
-
Step 8 Turn the water back on
-
Slowly turn the power supply cold water supply back on.
-
Check the rear hose connection for leaks while the water pressure returns.
-
If the connection leaks, turn the water off, reseat the hose connector, and hand-tighten it again.
-
-
Step 9 Push the washing machine back
-
Push the washing machine back into place.
-
Watch the cold water feed hose and drain hose as you push the machine back.
-
Check that the cold water hose is free and not trapped behind the machine.
-
-
Step 10 Level the washing machine
-
Place a level on top of the washing machine.
-
Check that the machine is level.
-
Adjust the legs underneath the machine if it isn't level.
-
-
Step 11 Run final checks
-
Plug the washing machine back into the power supply outlet.
-
Run a short fill or wash cycle and confirm that water enters the machine normally.
-
Check behind the machine again for leaks while the machine fills.
-
If the F17 error, E17 error, or tap warning returns, recheck that the supply valve is fully open, the hose isn't kinked, and the filter is clean.
-
The Aqua inlet filter is clean when the washer fills normally and the rear hose connection stays dry. Repair didn't go as planned? Ask our Answers community for help.