Clean the Filter Regularly
The triple filter in the base of the tub catches food debris, and a clogged filter is the most common cause of poor cleaning, residue on dishes, and slow draining. Twist it out, rinse it under the tap, and clear the coarse screen every week or two depending on use. This single habit prevents most Miele service calls.
| Task | Interval | Prevents |
|---|---|---|
| Rinse the base filter | Weekly to biweekly | Poor cleaning and F11 drain faults |
| Clear spray arm jets | Monthly | Unwashed sections of the load |
| Refill dishwasher salt | As indicated | Scale and cloudy glassware |
| Top up rinse aid | As indicated | Wet dishes at cycle end |
Keep Spray Arms and Jets Clear
Pull the upper and lower spray arms and check the jets for mineral scale and debris. Blocked jets leave whole sections of a load unwashed. In hard-water areas, scale builds faster, which is where the water softener and salt come in on Miele's system.
Salt, Rinse Aid and Detergent
Miele dishwashers with a built-in water softener need dishwasher salt in the reservoir, separate from detergent, to keep scale down and cleaning sharp. Keep rinse aid topped up for drying, and use a quality detergent. Running low on salt in a hard-water home leads to cloudy glassware and gradual scale buildup in the machine.
Understanding F Faults
Miele uses F-series fault codes. F11 points to a drainage problem, often a blocked filter, pump or hose, while F70 relates to water level and the float system. Knowing the code narrows the search quickly, though clearing the underlying blockage or fault is what actually resolves it. If a code returns after basic cleaning, it is worth a diagnostic.
Miele Dishwasher Acting Up?
Book a visit or call now. Diagnostic and travel fees, if applicable, are confirmed before the appointment and before repair approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does F11 Mean on a Miele Dishwasher?
F11 indicates a drainage fault. The machine is not pumping water out within the expected time, usually because of a clogged filter, a blocked drain hose, or a jammed drain pump. Clearing the blockage typically resolves it.
Why Does My Miele Leave a White Film on Glasses?
In hard-water homes this is usually scale from low dishwasher salt or no rinse aid. Refill the salt reservoir, keep rinse aid topped up, and clean the filter and spray arms to restore clear results.
Do I Really Need Special Dishwasher Salt?
If your Miele has a built-in water softener, yes. The salt regenerates the softener and keeps scale down. Table salt is not a substitute, and running without it in hard water gradually degrades cleaning and the machine.