If you’re here, you’re likely facing the frustration of a Miele washing machine not draining as it should. It’s a common issue, but one that can be particularly vexing when you’re looking forward to fresh, dry clothes. But fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we’re delving deep into the common culprits behind drainage problems and offering insights on how to fix them and keep them from recurring.
DIY Tips for a Miele Washing Machine Not Draining Water
We all know how irritating it can be when appliances don’t work as expected. Especially when you discover your Miele washing machine doesn’t drain after a long day. But understanding the reasons behind this issue can pave the way for efficient troubleshooting and quick solutions.
Manually Draining Water from a Miele Washing Machine
Before we diagnose what’s causing the drainage issue, we need to get the excess water out of your machine. While it’s a temporary measure, manually draining the washer can be a lifesaver, especially if you need to move your machine or access parts inside. Here’s how to do it safely and efficiently:
Safety First:
Always unplug the machine from the power source before attempting any manual interventions. This is essential to ensure your safety and protect the appliance from potential electrical short-circuits.
Gather Necessary Supplies:
Have some towels, a bucket, and a shallow tray on hand. There may be more water inside the machine than you expect, so it’s best to be prepared for potential spills.
Accessing the Emergency Drain Hose:
- Open the access door located at the bottom front of your Miele washing machine. This might require a screwdriver or might just be a push latch, depending on the model.
- You’ll find an emergency drain hose near the filter. This is typically a thin tube with a cap.
- Position your bucket or tray underneath this hose.

Draining the Water:
- Slowly remove the cap from the emergency drain hose. Water will start flowing out, so be ready to reposition your bucket as it fills.
- If water flow slows down but you can still hear water inside, tilt the machine slightly forward. This will help more water reach the drain hose. Be cautious and ensure you have a firm grip on the machine.
- Once the water is drained, tightly re-cap the emergency drain hose and ensure it’s secured back in its original position.
After Draining:
- Clean up any spills promptly to prevent slip hazards.
- Make sure to address the primary issue causing your Miele washing machine not to drain, so this manual process doesn’t become a regular occurrence.
Pro Tip:
It’s always a good idea to wear rubber gloves while manually draining the machine, not only for grip but also to protect your hands from detergent residues that might be present in the pooled water.
4 Causes and Solutions for a Miele Washer Not Draining
Now that the water is drained, start troubleshooting the cause of the problem by checking for these known issues:
Exceeding Washer Capacity
One of the primary reasons many people find their Miele washing machine not draining is overloading. When you cram too many clothes into your washing machine, it can’t spin efficiently, causing water to get trapped among the fabrics. It’s like trying to wring out a towel that’s three times its size – just not feasible!
Fixing the Issue:
Start by removing a portion of your laundry from the machine. Then, run a spin cycle to see if this rectifies the drainage problem. If it does, you’ve found your issue.
Staying Within Limits:
To prevent this from happening in the future, always refer to your Miele washer’s user manual for guidelines on load capacity. Keep in mind, evenly distributing the load can also improve drainage.
Drain Hose Is Clogged or Kinked
The Underrated Culprit:
The drain hose might be an overlooked component, but it plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the water exits your Miele machine smoothly. If it’s clogged or kinked, water can’t flow freely, resulting in your washer retaining water.
Troubleshooting Deep Dive:
- Always begin by unplugging the washing machine for safety.
- Gently disconnect the hose.
- Examine it meticulously for any obvious blockages or unnatural bends.
Taking Action:
For blockages, consider using a long, flexible brush or a plumber’s snake. If the hose appears kinked, straighten it out, but be wary of potential wear and tear that could lead to leaks.
Maintenance Tip:
Do a routine check of your drain hose every couple of months. This simple habit can save you from unexpected drainage issues.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter
More Than Just a Filter:
The drain pump filter is essential in catching debris and foreign objects, ensuring they don’t get into the drain. Over time, however, this can become a hotspot for clogs, especially if you wash clothes that shed a lot of fibers or if small items get loose in a wash cycle.
How Do I Clean the Drain on My Miele Washing Machine?
- Safety first: unplug the machine.
- Find the filter – typically situated at the bottom front of most Miele washers.
- Open the filter cover with care.
- Extract and clean the filter, removing lint, hair, coins, or any other obstructions.
Routine is Key:
Make cleaning the drain pump filter a monthly routine. It not only ensures effective drainage but can also enhance the overall washing performance.

Drain Pump Is Not Working
When Electronics Act Up:
If you’ve ticked off all the above and still find your Miele washing machine not draining, it might be the drain pump. The pump, being an electronic component, can sometimes fail due to wear, electrical issues, or blockages.
Spotting the Signs:
Listen for irregular sounds when the machine is supposed to drain or look for error codes on your Miele washer’s display.
The Professional Touch:
A malfunctioning drain pump usually requires expert attention. While it’s tempting to try a DIY fix, the intricacies of the electronic components demand a skilled hand. Leave it to the Miele repair professionals at Tiger Mechanical!
When DIY solutions don’t cut it, and your Miele washing machine still isn’t draining, Tiger Mechanical is just a call away. With our specialized knowledge in washing machine repair, you can trust us to set things right!