What this error means
Drainage fault — the washing machine cannot empty water from the drum
The F11 error means the machine has failed to drain within the expected time. On Miele washing machines this is most commonly caused by a blocked pump filter, a kinked drain hose, or a foreign object jamming the pump impeller. Miele machines often feature a secondary lint trap in addition to the main pump filter — both must be checked. A failing drain pump motor will also produce this fault.
What you'll need first
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Step-by-step
Symptoms to look for
- Water visible in the drum at the end of a cycle
- Machine stops mid-programme with water remaining in the drum
- Straining, gurgling, or loud humming from the pump area during draining
- F11 displayed near the end of a wash or rinse phase
How to fix it
Unplug the machine — this step is not optional. Lay several old towels on the floor and get a shallow baking tray ready. Even after a failed drain there can be 3 to 5 litres of water trapped inside.
At the bottom front, open the small flap or kick-strip panel. Place your tray under the round filter cap. Turn the cap anti-clockwise by a quarter turn only to release water as a controlled trickle. Empty the tray as needed, then unscrew the cap fully and pull the filter out.
Miele washing machines often have both a main pump filter and a secondary fine mesh lint trap — consult your model's user manual for the lint trap location, which is typically behind the same access panel. Rinse both under warm running water and scrub all mesh holes with an old toothbrush to clear lint, fibre, and debris completely.
Shine a torch into the filter cavity. At the back you should see the impeller — a small plastic fan. Try to rotate it gently with one finger. It should spin freely with light resistance. If stiff or completely seized there is a blockage in the pump body or a broken impeller blade.
Trace the corrugated drain hose to the standpipe or sink. Straighten all kinks and bends. The hose end must be inserted no more than 15 cm into the standpipe and must not be sealed against the pipe walls. The lowest point of the hose must be at least 60 cm from the floor.
Refit the filter firmly clockwise. Plug back in and select Spin Only or a Drain programme. You should hear the pump activate within seconds and water should flow from the drain hose.
When to call an engineer
- Pump impeller cracked or will not turn by hand after filter removal
- Pump hums but produces no water movement — motor winding has failed
- F11 returns immediately after filter and lint trap cleaning and hose check
- Burning smell or scorch marks in the pump area under the machine
Frequently asked questions
Can I drain the drum manually when F11 stops mid-cycle?
How often should I clean the Miele pump filter?
Why does F11 return after I cleaned the filter?
Does Miele have a secondary lint filter I should clean?
🎯 What is likely causing this fault?
⚠️ Estimates based on common faults — not a guaranteed diagnosis. Always verify before ordering parts.
Parts you may need
Enter your model number to filter results to your exact machine
Usually found on a label inside the door frame or on the back panel of the machine.
| Part | Approx. UK Cost | Find it |
|---|---|---|
| Drain Pump | £20 - £60 | 🏷️ eBay UK → |
ℹ️ Prices are approximate. Always check the part number matches your model before ordering. Not sure of your model number? Find out how to locate it here.