F11: the Drain Fault
F11 means the dishwasher could not drain within the expected time. Water is sitting in the base when it should have pumped out. The most common causes are a clogged filter in the base, a blocked or kinked drain hose, a clogged drain-pump impeller, or a blocked check valve. On many F11 events, cleaning the base filter and clearing the drain path resolves it. If F11 returns after that, the drain pump or check valve usually needs service.
F70: the Float and Water-Level Fault
F70 relates to the water level and the float system that Miele uses to detect a leak or an incorrect fill. It can trip when water has collected in the base tray, when the float is stuck, or when there is an actual leak the system is protecting against. Like F11, an F70 that clears after you dry the base and check the filter may have been a one-time event, but one that returns points to a model-specific leak or a float or sensor fault that needs a technician.
Miele F11 and F70 at a Glance
| Code | Meaning | First Checks | If It Returns |
|---|---|---|---|
| F11 | Drain fault | Clean filter, clear drain hose | Drain pump or check valve |
| F70 | Float / water-level fault | Dry base, check filter | Leak, float or level sensor |
What You Can Safely Do
For F11, remove and rinse the triple filter in the base, check that the drain hose is not kinked behind the machine, and confirm the drain connection under the sink is clear. For F70, dry the base if you can access it and check the filter. Then run a short cycle. If the code stays away, you are done. If it comes back, stop running the machine, since a returning F70 in particular can mean an active leak.
F70 Keeps Returning?
A repeating float fault can indicate an active leak. Stop the machine and book a repair rather than running it again. See our Miele repair page.
The Bottom Line
Miele F11 and F70 are water and drainage faults. Clean the filter and clear the drain path for F11, dry the base and check the filter for F70, and run a test cycle. A code that returns, especially F70, points to a pump, valve, float or leak that needs a proper diagnosis.
Want It Fixed Right?
Book a repair and we will bring the a part selected for the approved scope your model needs. Diagnostic and travel fees, if applicable, are confirmed before the appointment and before repair approval.