Dryer Medium Severity
F78 Miele Error Code

Condensation Drain Fault

The F78 error code means the condensation drainage system in your Miele dryer is not working properly. The condensate cannot be pumped to the collection container or external drain.

~45%

DIY Fixable

$120-350

Typical Repair Cost

20 min – 1.5 hrs

Pro Repair Time

Quick Assessment

Answer to continue safely

Is it safe to keep using?

Maybe. If the container was simply full, emptying it resolves the issue. If the pump has failed, continued use may cause water to accumulate in the base.

Can I reset the code?

Yes. Yes. Empty the container, clean it, and reset.

When to stop immediately?

Stop if you notice: Water leaks onto floor, Pump makes no sound.

Symptoms You May Notice

Condensate container not filling

The pump is not delivering water to the container

Water collecting in the base

Condensation leaks into the base instead of being pumped

F78 during cycle

Appears when the condensate pump should be active

Poor drying performance

Without proper condensation removal, drying efficiency drops

Possible Causes

1

Full Condensate Container

The container is full and has not been emptied.

DIY Possible
2

Blocked Condensate Pump

Lint or debris has blocked the condensate pump.

Requires Professional
3

Blocked Drain Hose

If plumbed to a drain, the hose is kinked or blocked.

DIY Possible
4

Failed Pump

The condensate pump motor has failed.

Requires Professional
5

Float Switch Fault

The container full sensor is stuck or failed.

Requires Professional

Safe Checks You Can Do

These checks are safe for homeowners. No disassembly required. Do not remove panels or access internal components.
  1. 1

    Empty the Container

    Remove and empty the condensation collection container.

    Do this before every cycle.

  2. 2

    Clean the Container

    Rinse the container and check the float switch (small lever or ball) for lint or debris.

    The float switch must move freely.

  3. 3

    Check Drain Connection

    If connected to an external drain, verify the hose is not blocked or kinked.

    Flush with water to test flow.

  4. 4

    Power Reset

    Turn off at mains for 5 minutes.

    The pump controller may need to reinitialize.

  5. 5

    Listen for Pump

    During a cycle, listen for the condensate pump running periodically.

    No pump sound = pump failure or no power to pump.

When to Call a Professional

Contact a qualified Miele technician if:

  • Pump motor failed
  • Float switch stuck
  • Internal hose blocked
  • Under warranty

Need Professional Help?

Find qualified Miele technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.

Schedule Appointment

More Dryer Error Codes

View all codes →
F72 F69 F66 F40 F46 F36 F34 F16 F15 F14 F11 F09