Miele Dishwasher: waterproof error

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Miele dishwasher displays a 'Waterproof' error (F70), it indicates that the leak protection system has been triggered. This usually happens due to water accumulation in the base tray, signaling a potential leak. The dishwasher automatically cancels the current program and activates the drain pump to prevent flooding. Understanding the common causes can help you address the issue effectively.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Miele Models

  • Fault F70 specifically indicates the Waterproof system has reacted; Miele’s official guidance instructs closing the stopcock, switching off, unplugging, and contacting Miele Service because the unit is actively protecting against flooding.
  • Miele’s Waterproof System (WPS) is designed so leaks in the inlet solenoids/hose can channel water into the base tray, activating the float switch and stopping water intake while forcing the drain pump on.

Possible Causes

Water in the base tray (drip pan) triggering the float switch (leak protection activated)

How to Identify: Dishwasher stops mid-cycle, displays Waterproof/F70, and the drain pump runs continuously. Water may be found in the base tray when the toe-kick/lower panel is removed or when the unit is tilted slightly and water drains out.

Part: Base tray (drip pan) + float switch / leak protection switch

Leak from the Waterproof System (WPS) inlet hose/solenoid assembly (water travels down the outer sleeve into the base tray)

How to Identify: Water accumulates in base tray without obvious door leak; moisture or mineral tracks near inlet connection; leak may occur during fill. Some sources describe WPS solenoid leaks channeling water into the base tray via the outer sleeve.

Part: Waterproof System inlet hose (WPS/Aquastop), inlet solenoids, inlet filter/restrictor

Door seal (gasket) leak or door not sealing properly (water runs down into base tray)

How to Identify: Water visible at or under the door during/after cycles; damp floor directly in front of dishwasher; gasket shows cracks/warping/debris buildup; waterproof fault appears after cycles with heavy spray or high load.

Part: Door gasket / lower door seal, door alignment

Oversudsing/incorrect detergent causing foam overflow into base tray (false leak condition)

How to Identify: Excess foam visible inside tub; fault occurs soon after start or during wash; may happen after switching detergents or using non-dishwasher soap; sometimes occurs without any true plumbing leak.

Part: Wash system (detergent dosing) leading to foam overflow into base tray

Internal leak from circulation pump, sump, diverter, or hose/clamp inside the unit

How to Identify: Water in base tray returns even after drying/reset; leak only occurs during active wash (not just fill; signs of dripping near pump/sump area when side panel removed; may accompany poor wash performance if pump/seals are failing.

Part: Circulation pump assembly, sump seals, internal hoses/clamps, diverter/valves

Float switch stuck or contaminated (triggered even when base tray is dry)

How to Identify: Waterproof/F70 persists after confirming the base tray is fully dry; float does not move freely; switch remains actuated; no water evidence after extended drying time.

Part: Float switch mechanism or microswitch

DIY Solutions

Immediate safety shutdown + official reset steps (F70 Waterproof system)

Easy 5-10 minutes
  1. Close the water supply (stopcock/faucet) feeding the dishwasher.
  2. Switch the dishwasher off.
  3. Disconnect the electrical plug (unplug).
  4. Wait for the drain pump to stop running.
  5. If the fault returns after restart, proceed to base tray inspection/drying steps below.
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before removing panels or handling any internal components.

Dry the base tray and clear the float switch (most common DIY fix)

Moderate 30-90 minutes
Tools Needed: Torx or Phillips screwdriver (depends on model), Towels, Sponge or wet/dry vacuum (optional), Flashlight
  1. Unplug the dishwasher and shut off the water supply.
  2. Remove the toe-kick/lower front panel to access the base area (varies by model).
  3. Check for standing water in the base tray (drip pan).
  4. Absorb/remove water with towels/sponges or a wet/dry vacuum until the pan is completely dry.
  5. Confirm the float moves freely and drops back down as the base dries.
  6. Leave the machine powered off for additional drying time if needed (some guides suggest allowing ample time for full drying).
  7. Restore power and run a short cycle while observing for any new water entering the base tray.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not run the dishwasher with panels removed unless you can do so safely and without touching live components.

Check for door gasket leaks and clean/inspect sealing surfaces

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: Soft cloth, Mild dishwashing soap, Flashlight
  1. Inspect the door gasket for cracks, tears, deformation, or debris buildup.
  2. Clean the gasket and mating surfaces (frame edge) with warm water and mild soap; remove grease and food residue.
  3. Confirm racks and dishes are not preventing the door from closing fully.
  4. Run a short cycle and check for water escaping around the door area.
⚠️ Safety First: Avoid harsh cleaners that can degrade rubber seals.

Rule out oversudsing (foam-triggered Waterproof alarm)

Easy 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: Towels, Bowl or cup, Optional: dishwasher-safe defoamer recommended by a technician
  1. Open the door carefully and check for excessive foam.
  2. If foam is present, stop the cycle, unplug, and allow foam to collapse.
  3. Remove standing suds/water from the tub bottom (scoop with a cup and towel dry).
  4. Ensure only dishwasher detergent is used (no hand soap). Reduce detergent amount and avoid pre-rinsing with soap residues.
  5. After cleaning/drying, run a rinse-only cycle and observe whether foam reappears.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not add non-approved chemicals; if using a defoamer, follow product instructions.

Inspect inlet connection and WPS hose/filter for seepage (visual check only)

Moderate 20-40 minutes
Tools Needed: Flashlight, Adjustable wrench (for supply connection), Towels
  1. Unplug dishwasher and shut off water supply.
  2. Inspect the inlet hose/WPS connection at the faucet and where it enters the dishwasher for moisture or mineral deposits.
  3. If accessible and model permits, check the inlet filter screen for clogging and clean it carefully (do not damage mesh).
  4. Restore water briefly and look for slow drips at the connection points (turn off immediately after).
⚠️ Safety First: Always shut off the stopcock before disconnecting any water line.

Professional Repairs

Replace Waterproof System (WPS/Aquastop) inlet hose/solenoid assembly if leaking

Estimated Cost: $250 - $600 (parts) + labor

Replace door gasket / lower door seal and verify door alignment

Estimated Cost: $60 - $200 (parts) + labor

Diagnose and repair internal leak (circulation pump/sump seals/hoses/diverter)

Estimated Cost: $300 - $1,200+ (parts + labor depending on component)

When to Call a Professional

Waterproof/F70 returns after drying the base tray and the unit immediately re-enters continuous drain mode.
You observe active leaking from inside the unit, the inlet/WPS assembly, or electrical components in the base area.
You suspect the Waterproof System (WPS/Aquastop) module is leaking or malfunctioning (typically replaced as a complete assembly).
There is evidence of an internal leak from the circulation pump/sump area requiring disassembly and seal replacement.
The dishwasher is hardwired (not plug-in), making safe disconnection more complex.

Preventive Maintenance

  • Inspect and clean the door gasket and sealing surfaces to remove grease and debris that can prevent proper sealing.: Door leaks that can trigger Waterproof/F70
    Frequency: monthly
  • Use only dishwasher detergent and follow dosage guidance; avoid hand soap and excessive detergent to prevent oversudsing.: Foam overflow that can trigger Waterproof/F70
    Frequency: every use
  • Periodically inspect the inlet and drain hose connections for slow drips or mineral deposits and ensure clamps are secure.: Slow leaks into the base tray triggering Waterproof/F70
    Frequency: every 6-12 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Miele Dishwasher waterproof error?
The error may be caused by water in the base tray, leaks from hoses, or oversudsing.
How do I fix Miele Dishwasher waterproof error myself?
Shut off water, dry the base tray, check door seals, and inspect for oversudsing.
How much does it cost to fix waterproof error?
Professional repairs can range from $60 to $1,200+, depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for waterproof error?
Call a technician if DIY fixes don't resolve the issue or if you suspect internal leaks.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Water accumulation in the bottom pan (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Extracted water from the pan under the dishwasher or wiped it dry

    Success rate: 100.0%
Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Waterproof error on Miele dishwasher - it won't stop running...
  2. Miele G7156 SCVI dishwasher Waterproof Error

Community Discussions

waterproof error, won't stop running, can't open

Extracted water from the pan under the dishwasher, which resolved the waterproof error.

DIY View on Reddit →

Waterproof error

Checked the bottom pan for water, wiped it dry, and the machine is now working again.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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