Drainage System Fault
The F11 error code means your Miele dishwasher has detected that water is not draining properly. The control board triggers this code when the drain pump cannot empty the tub within the expected time frame.
~60%
DIY Fixable
$120-350
Typical Repair Cost
30 min – 1.5 hrs
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. Running cycles without proper drainage can cause water overflow, damage to seals, and bacterial buildup. Do not continue using the dishwasher until F11 is resolved.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. Yes — turn off at the mains for 5 minutes. If the code returns on the next cycle, the physical blockage or pump issue still exists and needs to be addressed.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Water is leaking onto the floor from under the machine, The drain pump makes a loud grinding or clicking sound.
Symptoms You May Notice
Standing water in the tub
Water remains at the bottom of the dishwasher after a cycle ends
Cycle stops mid-program
The dishwasher halts during the wash or rinse phase and displays F11
Gurgling or humming sounds
The drain pump runs continuously or makes unusual noises trying to evacuate water
Unpleasant odor
Stagnant water left in the tub begins to smell, especially after 24–48 hours
Possible Causes
Blocked Drain Filter
Food debris, glass fragments, or grease have clogged the mesh filter or coarse filter at the bottom of the tub. This is the most common cause (~50% of cases).
DIY PossibleKinked or Blocked Drain Hose
The rubber drain hose behind the machine is bent, pinched, or obstructed — preventing water from reaching the household drain.
DIY PossibleDrain Pump Failure
The impeller inside the drain pump is jammed by debris (toothpick, olive pit, broken glass) or the pump motor has burned out.
Requires ProfessionalBlocked Siphon or Household Drain
The kitchen sink drain or the shared siphon connection is clogged, creating back-pressure that stops the dishwasher from draining.
DIY PossibleFaulty Pressure Switch / Water Level Sensor
The sensor that tells the control board the tub is empty gives incorrect readings, so the board thinks water is still present.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Power Reset
Turn off the dishwasher at the mains. Wait 5 minutes. Turn it back on and start a short rinse cycle to see if the code clears.
A reset alone fixes the issue in about 10% of cases — typically after a one-time glitch.
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2
Clean the Drain Filters
Open the dishwasher door. Remove the lower rack. Twist out the cylindrical coarse filter and lift the mesh screen. Rinse both under running water and clear any debris from the sump area.
Check for small items like broken glass, fruit pits, or label stickers — they slip past dishes easily.
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3
Check the Drain Hose
Carefully pull the dishwasher out enough to see the drain hose at the back. Make sure it is not kinked, crushed, or bent sharply. If connected to a sink siphon, detach the hose end and check for blockages.
The hose should rise to at least 60 cm (24 in) before descending to the drain — this prevents backflow.
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4
Test the Kitchen Sink Drain
Run water in the kitchen sink. If the sink drains slowly, the problem may be in the shared plumbing rather than the dishwasher itself.
A slow sink drain often points to a siphon blockage — clearing it may fix both the sink and the dishwasher.
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5
Run a Drain-Only Program
Some Miele models allow you to start a drain-only cycle (check your manual). This forces the pump to run without filling, which can dislodge minor blockages.
If the pump sounds normal but no water comes out, the blockage is likely downstream.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified Miele technician if:
- F11 returns after thorough filter and hose cleaning
- The drain pump does not run at all (no sound when draining should start)
- The pump runs but no water is expelled
- You see water leaking from the base of the machine
- The dishwasher is under warranty — avoid opening internal components
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified Miele technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
Schedule Appointment