When your Miele dishwasher shows a flashing drain light, pauses mid-cycle, displays error codes like F11 or F12, or doesn’t fill or drain properly—it’s stressful. But most problems can be solved at home with smart checks and cleaning, not guesswork.
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1. Dishwasher Won’t Start or Shows Intake/Drain Light
Begin troubleshooting by clearing simple faults:
- Reset the unit: Power off at the breaker for at least one minute. Some models require holding Start with the door open for 4 seconds to reset. ([turn0search8])
- Check for water under the unit: If safety pan floats detect water, it may refuse to start. Contact support.
2. Drainage Issues (F11 Code or Light Flashing)
If your dishwasher shows F11 or you see a flashing drain/intake light:
- Clean the triple filter: Remove lower rack, open filter cover, rinse filter and cover thoroughly. Miele recommends weekly cleaning. ([turn0search16])
- Check the non-return valve and drain hose: Inspect and clean the one-way valve and straighten or clear the hose. A clogged non-return valve is a frequent cause too. ([turn0search12])
- Drain pump impeller check: After removing the drain cover, spin the impeller by hand—it should move freely. ([turn0search6])
- Deep clog resolution: For build-up in hose, use a drain snake and follow with a vinegar + baking soda flush. ([turn0news18])
3. Water Intake Errors (F12 / F13 Codes)
If F12 or F13 appear, it means there’s a water filling issue:
- Ensure stopcock is open: Clean inlet filter and hose.
- Inspect flow meter and inlet valve: F12 happens within first 5 seconds of fill if no pulses. F13 arrives if filling takes too long. ([turn0search7])
4. Leak or Overflow Fault (F14 / F15 / F70 Codes)
Error codes like F14, F15, or F70 signal water level or leak sensing issues:
- F14: Heater pressure switch fault—may cause overfill. Usually requires technician replacement. ([turn0search1])
- F70: Water detected in drip-pan. Tilt unit, dry base, check float switch and gasket. ([turn0search1])
- F15: Occurs when hot water is supplied—Miele units require cold water connection only.
5. Heating and Temperature Errors (F01 / F02 / F24 / F25 / F26)
Temperature-related codes indicate sensor or circuit faults:
- F01 / F02: Thermistor (NTC) short/open fault. Needs diagnostic and replacement. ([turn0search3])
- F24 / F25: Heater relay or temperature target fault—may need relay or heating element replacement. ([turn0search1])
- F26: Boiling protection: too hot (>90 °C). Indicates sensor or control module failure. (Reset/cool first.) ([turn0search3])
6. Pump, Circulation, or Motor Failures (F78 / F79 / F69 / F68)
Pump and motor errors are serious but diagnosable:
- F69: Circulation pump blocked—often debris in impeller or low pressure. Clean or replace. ([turn0search3])
- F78: Pump stuck or electronic converter fault. Try pouring very hot water with rinse aid around filter to free the pump—then reset and retry cycle. ([turn0search3])
- F79: Communication fault between wash pump and control board—check wiring or replace components. ([turn0search3])
- F68: Pump runs after cycle—signaling failed shutoff, usually requiring pump or control repairs. ([turn0search3])
7. Door or Interface Issues (F32 / F33 / F36 / F42 / F47)
Door and electronic errors often involve latch or board faults:
- F32/F33/F36: Door lock faults—either won’t close or open. Check latch, alignment, or replace lock module. ([turn0search1])
- F42: Line frequency registration fault—power supply abnormal. Consult electrician or technician. ([turn0search11])
- F47: Electronic interface fault between keypad/BAE unit and control board—reset first, then inspect wiring or replace boards if persistent. ([turn0search11])
🛠 Quick Reference Table
| Error/Issue | Likely Cause | DIY Fix or Advice |
|---|---|---|
| F11 / Flashing drain light | Drain clog, filter, non-return valve | Clean filter & valve, straighten hose |
| F12 / F13 | No water fill or slow fill | Open stopcock, clean inlet flow meter |
| F14 / F70 | Overfill sensor or leak detection | Dry base, test float, check level |
| F01 / F02 | Temperature sensor fault | Test or replace NTC thermistor |
| F24 / F25 / F26 | Heating relay or boil protection fault | Reset; refer to service manual |
| F69 / F78 / F79 | Pump blockage or communication fault | Clean pump area, test wiring or pump |
| F32–F36 | Door lock faults | Inspect latch alignment or replace lock |
| F42 / F47 | Power supply or electronic interface issue | Check wiring; likely technician repair |
Routine Maintenance Tips
- Clean drain filters weekly: Debris buildup is a top cause of drainage faults. ([turn0search16])
- Inspect non-return valve: Clean this critical component—often overlooked. ([turn0search12])
- Use hot water flush cycles: Monthly vinegar or baking soda rinse keeps pump and hoses clean. ([turn0news18])
- Ensure unit level and stable: Proper setup reduces leak sensing faults and door errors.
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When to Call a Professional
- Coded errors persist after resets and cleaning.
- Drain or circulation pumps fail or hum without draining.
- Temperature relay or sensor errors (F14, F24, F25).
- Control board or keypad interface faults (F42, F47).
- Flood sensor activation (F70) or repeat overflow situations.
Conclusion
Miele dishwashers are high-quality but need routine care. Common issues—like drainage (F11), inlet faults (F12/F13), or pump/motor errors—can often be resolved with clear cleaning steps and simple resets. Use this guide to interpret error codes, maintain your machine, and know when to seek expert help.
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