Step-by-Step guide to learn how to fix a Miele Dishwasher and troubleshoot common issues. Quickly resolve problems and get your dishwasher running smoothly again.
Miele’s dishwashers offer heavy-duty performance and even go through strict stress and endurance tests before they go to market, making them excellent, durable options for long-time investments.
However, sometimes even the top appliances break down. Keep reading if your Miele dishwasher isn’t working properly.
Dishwasher not Draining
Check the Garbage Disposal
Your dishwasher is connected to your home’s plumbing drain system, so it’s possible that clogging and improper draining may occur. If you notice standing water at the bottom of the appliance, you’ll want to check a few things to determine the culprit.
The first place to check is the garbage disposal. Since most dishwashers drain through the garbage disposal, it’s important to keep the disposable clear of debris or harmful items that may be blocking the water. If you need to clean the disposal manually to clear out the clog, always turn off the breaker beforehand.
Determine the Type of Drain Connection You Have
The next step in troubleshooting a Miele dishwasher that’s not draining is determining the type of drain connection you have beneath the sink. The following drain connections are the most common.
High Loop
The high loop ensures proper wastewater drainage during the drain cycle and prevents siphoning. This method entails looping the drain line to the highest possible spot under the sink before running back down to connect to the drain system or garbage disposal. Occasionally, the hose can get tangled or blocked. Look for any kinks that could be causing the problem. You can also blow through the hose or poke into it to check for clogs.
Clean the Air Gap
An alternative to having a high loop is to install an air gap. An air gap is a small metal or plastic fitting installed on the countertop or sink and allows fresh air into the drain hose if there is a backup causing negative pressure. The device has two hose fittings on its underside, below the sink or countertop. The incoming dishwasher drain hose connects to one fitting, while a secondary hose runs from the other fitting to the kitchen sink’s drain pipe or garbage disposal.
An air gap can become clogged with residue, preventing the dishwasher from draining correctly and leaving standing water in the dishwasher. To investigate, twist the air gap counterclockwise to remove it and check it for gunk. Then, clean the air gap with water and a stiff brush, replace it, and rerun the dishwasher cycle.
Dishwasher Not Heating Up
Your dishwasher should clean your dirty dishes with hot water to kill bacteria. If the water in your Miele dishwasher isn’t heating up, we know how frustrating this can be. Fortunately, there’s most likely a straightforward solution to this problem.
Check the Heating Element
First, check your dishwasher’s heating element to ensure it’s properly regulating water temperature and drying dishes. Although heating elements tend to be long-lasting, they can occasionally experience an electrical fault. If you believe the heating element is why your dishwasher isn’t heating up, you’ll want to replace it. If it seems to be working correctly, you may also want to check it with a multimeter. Make sure to check for a wiring failure, control failure, or a blown fuse in the heating circuit.
Test the Thermostat
The thermostat is another component that can cause the dishwasher to have trouble heating up. It signals to the healing element whether to turn on or off to reach the appropriate temperature. To troubleshoot the thermostat, test it with a multimeter to ensure its resistance measures near zero ohms. Replace the thermostat if you see a different reading.
Dishwasher Not Cleaning Dishes
No one wants to load their dishwasher full of dirty dishes only to have them come out still grimy. If you’re washing your dishes by hand due to a broken Miele dishwasher, it’s time to start troubleshooting.
Clean the Filter
Your dishwasher’s filter should be cleaned thoroughly to be free of buildup. In Miele dishwashers, you can find the filter assembly in the back corner near the spray arm. Twist the cylindrical filter counterclockwise and lift straight up. Then, remove the coarse mesh filter and clean with warm water and soap. Once the filter is clear of debris, slip in the coarse mesh filter, followed by the cylindrical filter. Miele recommends using IntenseClean every 6-8 weeks to remove grease and odor and maintain your machine.
Check the Sprayer Arms
The dishwasher’s sprayer arm should be free of leftover food bits and residue. To clean, remove the arm and place it into a water and vinegar solution. Allow it to soak until the waste falls off.
Practice Proper Loading Techniques
The best thing you can do to keep your Miele dishwasher working in tip-top shape is to practice proper loading techniques. While Miele produces highly efficient and hardworking appliances, we still recommend scraping off large food particles or anything solid. With that being said, there is no need to pre-rinse your dishes prior to loading them in the dishwasher.
Like any other dishwasher, it’s best to load plates, pots, and other heavy-duty dishes on the bottom rack where the water pressure and heat are most intense. Load glasses, bowls, cups, large utensils, and dishwasher-safe Tupperware on the top rack. Of course, load silverware in the silverware rack. It’s best to hand wash knives, wood, brass, cast iron pans, china, and crystal.
Contact iFiX Today for Your Miele Dishwasher Repair
Don’t wait another minute to diagnose your Miele dishwasher issue. Since the dishwasher is a complicated machine, it’s best to contact a professional for repairs. Allow us to eliminate this potential problem by maintaining and repairing your appliances, particularly your dishwasher.
Call our locally-owned and operated appliance repair service at 435.241.3600 for all your dishwasher needs.
