Miele Dishwasher: float switch activation

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Miele dishwasher is activating the float switch safety system, it may stop mid-cycle or refuse to run, indicating a potential overflow condition. This issue can manifest as a persistent wastewater alarm or continuous drain pump operation, even in the absence of visible leaks. Common causes include debris around the float mechanism, drain pump issues, or electrical failures.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Miele Models

  • Miele dishwashers often show error code F70 for float switch/waterproof system faults and require float switch inspection.

Possible Causes

Debris or obstruction around float mechanism

How to Identify: Float not moving freely when gently probed; debris visible at base of dishwasher near float cup.

Part: Float switch/float assembly

Drain pump not effectively removing water

How to Identify: Water pooling at bottom after cycle, pump runs longer than normal; error persists after cleaning float.

Part: Drain pump

Float switch electrical failure or corrosion

How to Identify: Multimeter continuity test fails to change state when float moves; visible corrosion on switch contacts.

Part: Float switch sensor / microswitch

Leak or moisture in base pan triggering waterproof system

How to Identify: Moisture in base pan, water under dishwasher, persistent float activation with real water leak.

Part: Waterproof leak detection system

DIY Solutions

Clean and free float mechanism

Moderate 15–30 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, soft brush, towel
  1. Disconnect dishwasher from power.
  2. Remove lower rack and locate float assembly.
  3. Gently lift float to see if it moves freely; clear debris with brush or cloth.
  4. Reassemble and test run.
⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before accessing internal components.

Ensure drain pump and filter paths are clear

Moderate 20–40 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, bucket, gloves
  1. Turn off power and water supply.
  2. Remove bottom front panel to access drain pump and drain hose.
  3. Clear any visible blockages in pump inlet and hose.
  4. Reassemble and run a cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Be careful with sharp edges under dishwasher base.

Professional Repairs

Replace float switch assembly

Estimated Cost: $60 - $150

Repair/replace drain pump

Estimated Cost: $150 - $300

When to Call a Professional

Float still triggers after cleaning and drain clearing
Visible signs of leak or water in dishwasher base pan
Electrical testing indicates switch failure

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean bottom tub and float area: Debris buildup causing float to stick
    Frequency: monthly
  • Periodically run with dishwasher cleaner: Mineral and detergent buildup affecting float and drain
    Frequency: quarterly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Miele Dishwasher float switch activation?
Common causes include debris around the float mechanism, drain pump issues, or electrical failures.
How do I fix Miele Dishwasher float switch activation myself?
Clean the float mechanism and ensure the drain pump and filter paths are clear.
How much does it cost to fix float switch activation?
Professional repairs range from $60 to $300 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for float switch activation?
Call a technician if DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you're uncomfortable with repairs.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Water leak in the base of the dishwasher triggering the float switch
  • Faulty float switch that is stuck or malfunctioning
  • Clogged drain or filter preventing proper drainage

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect the base of the dishwasher for any signs of water leakage. If a leak is found, identify the source and repair it. Ensure the dishwasher is unplugged before inspection.

  2. Test the float switch for functionality. Remove the float assembly, clean it, and check for any obstructions. If it is stuck, free it up or replace it if faulty.

  3. Check and clean the drain filter and hose for clogs. Remove any debris that may be blocking water flow to ensure proper drainage.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Miele Jubilee dishwasher error F70

Community Discussions

F70 error with two flashing lights, rinse aid and drain/inlet

Possible leak triggering the float switch; technician recommended for repair.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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