Skip to main content
BOSCH logoHome Appliances

Dishwasher water hardness setting

Water hardness varies depending on where you live. Use this guide to set up your dishwasher for the water hardness in your area, so your dishwasher uses the right amount of salt and you get the best possible results.

Is my water hard or soft?

Step 1 - identify

Find out the water level hardness in your area. You can do this by contacting your water supplier or by doing a postcode search on their website.

Alternatively, you can purhase our water hardness strips for a completely accurate result.

Our water hardness strips
Approximate map of UK water hardness levels

Step 2 - convert

Convert your water hardness to the input number using this table. For example if your ppm is 120-140, your input number would be H01.

Water hardness conversion table

Step 3 - enter

Open settings by holding the Setup button (for appliances without this button, hold SpeedPerfect/VarioSpeed) for 3 seconds

  • Enter your input number by pressing start repeatedly
  • Save the settings by holding Setup (or SpeedPerfect) again for 3 seconds
Water hardness dishwasher

Some dishwasher models may vary

If your appliance doesn't reflect the guide above please check your instruction manual.

Frequently asked questions

Bosch dishwasher set up.
Dishwasher hubEverything you need to set up, use and maintain your dishwasher.Dishwasher hub
Repair Service
Need to book a repair? Arrange for an engineer.
Repair Service
User Manuals
Find your user manual for product support.
User Manuals
Contact Us
Contact us for further support and help.
Contact Us
Spare Parts
Search our store for original spare parts.
Shop parts