Drainage Timeout
The F24 error code means your Miele dishwasher's drain pump ran for the maximum allowed time but the water level sensor still detects water in the tub. The machine was unable to fully empty within the expected time frame.
~55%
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. Continuing to run cycles when drainage is incomplete will leave dirty water in contact with your dishes and may overflow during the next fill phase. Resolve F24 before using the machine.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. Yes. Turn off at mains for 5 minutes. The reset clears the code, but if the drain path is still restricted, F24 will return on the next cycle.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: The drain pump makes no sound at all, Water overflows onto the floor during a cycle.
Symptoms You May Notice
Water remains in the tub after cycle
A visible pool of water sits at the bottom when you open the door
Cycle ends prematurely
The dishwasher aborts the program and displays F24 instead of completing normally
Drain pump runs for a long time
You can hear the pump running continuously for several minutes before the error appears
Dishes are wet and not clean
Because the dirty water was not fully evacuated, the rinse phase could not complete properly
Possible Causes
Partially Blocked Drain Filter
Food debris, grease, or small objects have partially clogged the filter — enough to slow drainage but not stop it completely.
DIY PossibleRestricted Drain Hose
The drain hose has a partial kink, a buildup of grease inside, or is routed too high — creating enough resistance to slow the flow.
DIY PossibleSlow Kitchen Drain
If the shared siphon or household drain pipe is partially blocked, back-pressure slows the dishwasher's ability to empty.
DIY PossibleWorn Drain Pump Impeller
The pump impeller is partially worn or chipped, reducing pumping efficiency. The pump runs but cannot move water fast enough.
Requires ProfessionalFaulty Water Level Sensor
The pressure switch or turbidity sensor gives incorrect readings, telling the board the tub still has water when it is actually empty.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Clean the Drain Filters Thoroughly
Remove the lower rack. Take out the coarse filter (twist counterclockwise) and the fine mesh screen. Wash both under running water. Check the sump cavity beneath for debris — a spoon, glass shard, or food clump may be sitting there.
Use a soft brush (old toothbrush works well) to scrub the mesh — grease can create an invisible film that slows water through the filter.
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2
Flush the Drain Hose
Disconnect the drain hose from the siphon or standpipe. Hold it over a bucket and run a drain cycle. If water flows freely, the hose itself is clear — the blockage is downstream.
If the water trickles rather than flows, the hose has internal buildup — consider replacing it.
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3
Check the Siphon Connection
If the dishwasher drains through the kitchen sink siphon, disassemble the siphon and clean it. Look for grease buildup or food debris trapped in the U-bend.
A clogged siphon is one of the most overlooked causes of slow dishwasher drainage.
Tools required -
4
Verify Drain Hose Height
The drain hose must rise to at least 60 cm (24 inches) above floor level before descending to the drain connection. If it drops straight down from the machine, water can siphon back in.
Miele includes a hose clip for wall mounting — make sure it is installed.
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5
Power Reset and Test
Turn off at mains for 5 minutes. Run a short rinse program and time the drain phase. It should complete within 2 minutes.
If drainage is slow but eventually completes, the problem is a partial blockage — not a pump failure.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified Miele technician if:
- F24 persists after thorough cleaning of all drain components
- The drain pump runs but water barely moves
- The pump is unusually loud or makes a grinding sound
- F24 and F11 appear together — suggesting a pump or sensor failure
- The machine is under warranty
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified Miele technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
Schedule Appointment