Miele Dishwasher Not Draining: Causes & Fixes

If your Miele dishwasher is having issues with draining, it could be due to a number of problems. Using some basic troubleshooting tips, you should be able to get the dishwasher working again. 

In this guide, we’ve outlined the most common causes of Miele Dishwasher Not Draining and the right fixes to apply.

miele dishwasher not draining 

Miele Dishwasher Not Draining: Likely Causes

Below are the most common causes of Miele Dishwasher Not Draining: 

  • Clogged drain or garbage disposal
  • Clogged drain hose
  • Dirty dishwasher filter
  • Blocked drain pump

Miele Dishwasher Not Draining: DIY Fixes

1. Clogged Kitchen Drain

In most cases, the drainage problem with a dishwasher often comes from the kitchen garbage disposal. If the drain is clogged, the dishwasher will become clogged as well since the two systems are connected.

To resolve this, you will need to run the garbage disposal to clear the drain. After that you will have to remove the knockout plug that blocks the dishwasher fitting to the disposal.

2. Clogged Dishwasher Hose 

The drain hose on the Miele dishwasher may get clogged, kinked, or blocked. When this happens, it could cause drainage problem problems. To prevent this from happening ensure that the drain hose is located less than 8 inches above the floor.

This allows the dishwasher to drain properly. To check the hose for clogs, you need to disconnect it from the dishwasher and clean it out before reconnecting it and straightening it out to clear our kinks.

3. Dirty Dishwasher Filter

With continuous use, the Miele dishwasher could get obstructed and causes drainage problems. You will find the filter on the bottom of the dishwasher next to the bottom spray arm.

  • To clean the filter, you need to turn off the dishwasher and disconnect it from power before starting the process 
  • After that, you need to turn the filter handle in a counterclockwise direction. 
  • You can lift the filter and clean it with water and a nylon brush.
  • You should turn the filter over and push the clips on the bottom of the filter together to open the filter flap. This can also be cleaned with water as well and then closed until the clip reengages. 
  • When done, the filter is clean and can be placed back into the dishwasher. Turn the handle clockwise until the filter handle locks into place.

4. Clogged Drain Pump

You might also want to check if the Miele dishwasher pump has become blocked as this will prevent proper drainage. 

  • To check if the drain pump is clogged, turn off the unit and remove the power plug from the outlet. 
  • Follow the filter removal steps we have listed above. 
  • Using a small cup, scoop any water out of the cabinet. 
  • You will find a locking clamp on the side of the filter housing. This should be titled to the side. When done, you will find the non-return valve, which looks like a round disc. You need to pull it up and out. 
  • Once removed, clean any objects from the non-return valve and set it aside.
  • You will find the drain pump beneath the non-return valve. Check the drain pump for any objects or debris
  • Clean the drain pump if you find any debris. 
  • After that, spin the impeller back and forth to ensure it moves freely. 
  • When done, replace the non-return valve and lock it into position with the clamp. 
  • Listen for the clamp to click into position.

Miele Dishwasher: Troubleshooting and Fault Codes

Miele dishwasher fault F11

This error code indicates that the water is not draining away. As stated above, this could be due to the filter combination of the cabinet becoming blocked, or an object obstructing the drain pump. In other cases, it could be also due to deposits in the drain hose or drainage system, or a kinked drain hose.

Miele dishwasher fault F12/F13

This is a water intake error. This error code can be caused by a closed stopcock, a clogged water inlet filter, or a kink in the inlet hose. 

Miele dishwasher fault F14

This could indicate a problem with the water intake. A problem with the heater pressure switch could be the reason for the water intake fault. If this is the problem, you will notice that the dishwasher will overfill.

Miele dishwasher fault F24

This error code detects problems with the heater relay contacts. The function of the relay is to control the heating system within the dishwasher. If it is faulty then the water won’t heat.

Miele dishwasher fault F32

This error code would be displayed if the door isn’t locked or the door lock won’t close. This issue could occur when the door is manually closed too quickly. If the dishwasher features an automatic door closing feature, it could be faulty. 

Miele dishwasher fault F70

When this code appears, it could indicate an issue with the float switch and activate the waterproof system. The function of the float switch is to detect the level of water in the dishwasher as well as the opening and closing an electrical circuit to pump water in or out. If this is faulty the appliance won’t be able to operate properly.

Miele dishwasher fault F78

This error code indicates a problem with the circulation pump. There could be due to an interruption between the electronic and the circulation pump. It also indicates that they’re no longer connected. It could also be a sign that the frequency converter electronic device may be faulty or the circulation pump itself may have low or excess voltage.

Miele dishwasher troubleshooting

The display turns off

The reason for this could be due to energy-saving features. The dishwasher might have gone into standby mode to save energy. All you need to do is press any button to turn on the display again. On some models, the display is only for the delay start function and the wash time remaining won’t be shown.

If you notice that the display is blank and there is no fault with the dishwasher, updating the dishwasher or resetting it would solve the problem.