Miele dishwashers are known for their smart design and intuitive features. They have a diagnostic system that displays different codes and patterns of flashing lights to indicate the problems that your dishwasher may be facing.
However, these codes and lights can be confusing and hard to interpret, especially if you don’t have the manual handy.
That’s why we have created this guide to help you troubleshoot and fix your Miele dishwasher intake drain light flash.
What Do the Miele Dishwasher Intake Drain Light Flash Mean?
The Miele dishwasher intake drain light flashing can mean different things depending on the location, color, and frequency of the flashes.
Here are some of the most common flashing lights and what they mean:
- Inlet/Drain light: This light is located just under the dishwasher cycle indicator. It flashes when there is a problem with the water inlet or the drain system.
- Spray arm light: This light is located next to the Inlet/Drain light. It flashes when there is a problem with the spray arms.
- Rinse aid or salt light: These lights are located on the right side of the control panel. They flash when the rinse aid or salt dispenser is faulty or clogged.
- Program lights: These lights are located on the left side of the control panel. They flash when there is a problem with the program selection or the electronic control board.
- Time display: This display is located on the center of the control panel. It flashes when there is a problem with the door latch or the door switch.
How to Troubleshoot Your Miele Dishwasher with Flashing Lights?
Depending on the flashing light you see, there are different steps you can take to troubleshoot your Miele dishwasher intake drain light flash.
Here are some of the most common solutions for each flashing light:
Inlet/Drain light
If this light is flashing, you need to check the following parts:
- Water inlet: Make sure that the water supply is turned on and that the water pressure is adequate. Check the water inlet hose for any kinks, bends, or leaks. Also check the Miele dishwasher water inlet valve for any blockages or damages.
- Drain system: Make sure that the sink drain is not clogged and that the air gap is not blocked. Check the drain hose for any kinks, bends, or leaks. Check the drain pump and the drain filter for any blockages or damages.
- Circulation motor impeller: This part is located in the sump area of your dishwasher. To access it, you need to remove the filter. If it is stuck or blocked, you need to clean it or replace it.
Spray arm light
If this light is flashing, you need to check the following parts:
- Spray arms: Make sure that the spray arms are not blocked by any dishes or utensils. Check the spray arm holes for any clogs or debris. Also check the spray arm bearings and the spray arm mountings for any damages or wear.
- Water level: Make sure that the water level in your dishwasher is sufficient to reach the spray arms. If the water level is too low, it may be caused by a faulty Miele inlet valve, a faulty water level sensor, or a faulty electronic control board.
Rinse aid or salt light
If these lights are flashing, you need to check the following parts:
- Rinse aid or salt level: Make sure that the rinse aid or the salt reservoir is filled with the appropriate amount of rinse aid or salt. Follow the instructions in your manual to fill them correctly.
- Rinse aid or salt dispenser: Make sure that the rinse aid or the salt dispenser is working properly and that it is not clogged or damaged.
Program lights
If these lights are flashing, you need to check the following parts:
- Program selection: Make sure that you have selected the correct program for your dishes and that you have not changed the program during a cycle. If you have, you need to cancel the cycle and start a new one.
- Electronic control board: Make sure that the electronic control board is not damaged or faulty. If it is, you need to replace it.
Time display
If this display is flashing, you need to check the following parts:
- Door latch or door switch: Make sure that the door latch or the door switch is working properly and that it is not damaged or faulty. If it is, you need to replace it.
- Door alignment: Make sure that the door is aligned properly and that it is not warped or bent. If it is, you need to adjust it or replace it.
How to Fix Your Miele Dishwasher Intake Drain Light Flash Problem?
Now that you’ve troubleshoot your Miele intake drain light, it is time to fix the problem. Follow this step-by-step guide carefully and you should be able to restore your dishwasher to its normal function.
Step 1: Turn Off the Power and Water Supply
The first thing you need to do is to turn off the power and water supply to your dishwasher. To do this, simply unplug the dishwasher from the wall socket and turn off the water valve under the sink.
Step 2: Check the Filter and the Drain Pump
The next step is to check the filter and the drain pump for any blockages or debris. The filter is located at the bottom of the dishwasher, under the spray arm. Make sure to remove any food particles, grease, or dirt that may be stuck in the filter.
The drain pump is located behind the filter, in a small compartment. If you see any foreign objects, such as coins, toothpicks, or bones, you need to remove them carefully.
Step 3: Check the Drain Hose and the Water Valve
The third step is to check the drain hose and the water valve for any kinks, leaks, or defects. You can inspect the drain hose for any bends, cracks, or holes. If you find any, you need to replace the hose with a new one.
The water valve is the device that controls the water flow to the dishwasher. You can inspect the water valve for any signs of corrosion, wear, or damage. If you see any, you need to replace the valve with a new one.
Step 4: Reset the Dishwasher
The fourth step is to reset Miele dishwasher intake drain light and clear the error code. To do this, you need to plug the dishwasher back into the wall socket and turn on the water valve.
Then, you need to press and hold the start/stop button for at least 3 seconds. This will reset the dishwasher and restart the cycle.
Step 5: Run a Test Cycle
The final step is to run a test cycle and check if the dishwasher is working properly. To do this, you need to load some dishes into the dishwasher and select a normal program.
Then, you need to start the cycle and wait for it to finish. If the cycle completes without any issues, it means that your dishwasher is back to normal.
The Ultimate Guide to The Miele Dishwasher Intake Drain Light Flash – FAQs
What is the Miele dishwasher intake drain light flash?
It is an error code that shows a problem with the water supply or drainage of your dishwasher.
Do I need a professional to fix the intake drain light flash on my Miele dishwasher?
Not usually, but if the problem persists after following the steps, you may need to call Miele or a technician.
How often should I clean the filter in my Miele dishwasher?
It’s recommended to clean the dishwasher filter at least once a month. Regular cleaning helps prevent blockages and ensures your dishwasher operates efficiently.
How do I prevent the Miele dishwasher intake/drain light flash issue?
You need to maintain and clean your dishwasher regularly and use the right detergent and load size.