Miele Washer Dryer: not draining properly, excessive drying time, error code UP

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Miele Washer Dryer is not draining properly, experiencing excessive drying times, and displaying the error code 'UP', you may have a blockage in the drain pump or hose. These issues can disrupt wash-dry cycles, leading to frustration. Understanding the potential causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Miele Models

  • Official resources list drainage faults and provide guidance on cleaning drain filter and pump. Specific meaning of "UP" error code is not documented in public manuals.

Possible Causes

Drain pump or drain filter blockage

How to Identify: Water remains in drum after cycle, slow or no draining, visible debris in filter area

Part: Drain pump, drain filter

Drain hose kinked or obstructed

How to Identify: Hose bends or debris preventing flow; water backs up into machine

Part: Drain hose

Error code UP – control system fault

How to Identify: Error code UP remains on display; machine stops mid‑cycle with related faults

Part: Electronic control board or sensors

Drying airflow restriction or heat pump efficiency loss causing long drying times

How to Identify: Drying cycles run long, clothes remain damp; lint buildup in filters or vents

Part: Dryer heat pump/airflow system

DIY Solutions

Clean drain filter and check drain pump

Moderate 15–30 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdriver, bucket or tray, gloves
  1. Power off and unplug machine.
  2. Open access panel to drain pump area.
  3. Place container under filter and slowly unscrew to release water.
  4. Remove and clean filter of debris.
  5. Check pump impellers can rotate freely; remove obstructions if possible.
  6. Reassemble filter and test a short cycle to confirm drainage.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure machine is unplugged before accessing pump area.

Inspect and straighten drain hose

Easy 5–10 minutes
  1. Inspect drain hose layout behind machine.
  2. Remove any kinks or bends in hose.
  3. Ensure no visible debris is blocking hose.
  4. Reposition hose according to installation guidelines.
  5. Run a short cycle to verify improved drainage.

Clean lint and dryer airflow paths

Easy 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: Vacuum or brush
  1. Remove dryer lint filter and clean thoroughly.
  2. Vacuum around lint filter housing.
  3. Check rear vent openings for lint blockage if accessible.
  4. Run a dry cycle with small load to test drying efficiency.

Professional Repairs

Replace drain pump

Estimated Cost: $80 - $200

Electronic control board diagnosis and repair

Estimated Cost: $200 - $500+

Heat pump/airflow system service

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Error code UP persists after power cycle and basic cleaning
Drain pump humming or making abnormal noises
Drying performance does not improve after cleaning airflow paths

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean drain filter: Drainage blockage and water retention
    Frequency: monthly
  • Clean dryer lint filter: Poor airflow and prolonged drying time
    Frequency: after every drying cycle

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Miele Washer Dryer not draining properly, excessive drying time, error code UP?
Common causes include a blocked drain pump, a kinked drain hose, or airflow restrictions affecting drying efficiency.
How do I fix Miele Washer Dryer not draining properly, excessive drying time, error code UP myself?
Clean the drain filter, straighten the drain hose, and check for lint blockages to improve drainage and drying.
How much does it cost to fix not draining properly, excessive drying time, error code UP?
Professional repairs can range from $80 for a drain pump replacement to $500+ for control board diagnostics.
When should I call a technician for not draining properly, excessive drying time, error code UP?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if the problem persists, it's advisable to contact a professional.

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: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Clogged drain filter or hose
  • Faulty drain pump
  • Incorrect load size or unbalanced load

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and clean the drain filter and hose. Locate the drain filter, usually at the front bottom of the washer. Remove it and clean any debris. Also, check the drain hose for blockages.

  2. Inspect the drain pump for any obstructions or damage. If necessary, replace the drain pump. This may involve removing the back panel of the washer.

  3. Ensure the load is balanced and not overloaded. Remove some items if necessary and run a shorter cycle to test.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Miele T1

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