Viking dishwashers are premium, professional-grade appliances engineered for powerful cleaning, precise water usage, and long-term reliability. To achieve optimal performance, these dishwashers rely on accurate water level control during every wash cycle. Proper water volume ensures correct spray pressure, effective detergent activation, and consistent cleaning results.

Viking Dishwasher Error Code 8 appears when the appliance detects insufficient water inside the tub during the fill or wash phase. When the water level is too low, the dishwasher cannot operate efficiently or safely. As a protective measure, the control system interrupts the cycle and displays the error. While some low water level issues are easy to correct, others may indicate mechanical, sensor, or electronic problems that require professional repair.

What does Viking dishwasher error code 8 mean?

Error Code 8 indicates that the dishwasher failed to reach the required water level within a programmed time frame. Viking dishwashers are designed to monitor both how much water enters the tub and how long filling takes. If either parameter falls outside expected limits, the control board triggers this error.

How water level is monitored in Viking dishwashers:

• The water inlet valve opens to allow water into the dishwasher
• A float switch or water level sensor monitors the rising water level
• The control board evaluates sensor feedback and fill duration
• If the target level is not reached in time, Error Code 8 appears

Common causes of Error Code 8 include:

• Faulty or clogged water inlet valve
• Partially closed water supply valve
• Low household water pressure
• Kinked, clogged, or restricted inlet hose
• Stuck or defective float switch
• Mineral buildup affecting water level sensors
• Control board misinterpreting sensor signals

Low water levels prevent the spray arms from operating properly and reduce cleaning effectiveness, prompting the dishwasher to stop operation.

Symptoms of low water level issues

Low water level problems often produce noticeable symptoms before Error Code 8 appears. Common signs include:

• Dishwasher runs but cleans poorly
• Spray arms fail to rotate or move weakly
• Detergent does not dissolve fully
• Dishes come out dirty or greasy
• Dishwasher fills briefly, then stops
• Error Code 8 appears early in the cycle
• Unusual splashing or pump noises

These symptoms help confirm that the dishwasher is not receiving enough water to operate correctly.

Step-by-step troubleshooting guide

The following troubleshooting steps are safe for homeowners and do not involve accessing sealed electrical components.

Step 1: Check the Water Supply Valve

• Locate the water shut-off valve under the kitchen sink
• Ensure it is fully open
• A partially closed valve is one of the most common causes of low water levels

Step 2: Inspect the Water Inlet Hose

• Check the hose for:
  • Kinks
  • Bends
  • Crushing or twisting
• Straighten the hose if needed to restore full water flow

Restricted hoses significantly reduce fill volume.

Step 3: Clean the Inlet Screen

Sediment and mineral deposits can block the inlet screen.

• Turn off the water supply
• Carefully disconnect the inlet hose
• Inspect the small mesh screen at the valve inlet
• Clean debris with a soft brush if accessible

Clogged screens restrict water flow even when pressure is normal.

Step 4: Check Household Water Pressure

Viking dishwashers require adequate pressure to fill correctly.

• Typical operating range: 20–120 PSI
• Low water pressure may prevent the dishwasher from reaching the proper level

If water pressure is consistently low throughout the home, plumbing issues may be involved.

Step 5: Inspect the Float Switch

The float switch prevents overfilling, but if it sticks in the raised position, filling stops too early.

• Locate the float inside the tub
• Gently lift and release it
• Ensure it moves freely and drops fully

A stuck float can falsely signal that the tub is full.

Step 6: Reset the Dishwasher

• Turn off power at the circuit breaker
• Wait 5 minutes
• Restore power and restart the dishwasher

This clears temporary control board errors and allows the system to re-evaluate water level.

If Error Code 8 returns, internal components may require professional diagnosis.

When to call a professional technician

Professional service is recommended when:

• The water inlet valve does not open properly
• The float switch is defective or damaged
• Wiring to the water level sensor is faulty
• Error Code 8 persists after troubleshooting
• Household water pressure is normal but filling remains insufficient
• The control board fails to recognize correct water levels

A qualified technician can:

• Test inlet valve operation and electrical continuity
• Replace faulty float switches or water level sensors
• Inspect internal plumbing for restrictions
• Verify sensor-to-control board communication
• Diagnose and repair control board issues

Because Viking dishwashers rely on precise calibration, improper repairs can lead to recurring errors or reduced performance.

Preventing low water level problems

Routine maintenance and proper water supply management reduce the risk of Error Code 8.

Prevention tips include:

• Periodically clean inlet screens
• Maintain proper household water pressure
• Use dishwasher cleaner to reduce mineral buildup
• Keep inlet hoses free of kinks or obstructions
• Address plumbing issues promptly
• Schedule routine maintenance for premium appliances

Consistent water flow ensures reliable cleaning performance and extends the life of critical components.

Conclusion

Viking Dishwasher Error Code 8 indicates that the appliance is not receiving enough water to operate correctly. While some causes—such as closed valves or clogged screens—are easy to resolve, persistent low water levels usually point to faulty components or sensor issues that require professional repair. Prompt diagnosis restores proper performance, protects internal systems, and helps maintain the high standards expected from a Viking dishwasher.