What this error means
Water level timing fault — the water level sensor has not confirmed the correct level within the expected time
The F13 error means the pressure switch — which monitors the water level in the drum — has not confirmed that the correct operating level was reached within the permitted time window after water began entering. This is distinct from a simple fill fault. F13 indicates the machine received water but the pressure switch did not register the expected level change. Common causes are a blocked pressure hose, a detergent-fouled pressure switch chamber, a failed pressure switch, or an outlet/syphon condition draining water as fast as it enters.
What you'll need first
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Step-by-step
Symptoms to look for
- Machine fills with water but the programme never progresses past the fill phase
- F13 displayed after the machine has been running for several minutes — water is present but level not confirmed
- Machine fills then drains immediately and repeats — drain hose syphon suspected
- F13 appears inconsistently — sometimes the cycle runs normally and other times faults at the fill stage
Diagnostic steps
Unplug the machine and hold the programme selector for 10 seconds to discharge the control board. Leave unplugged for 60 seconds. Plug back in and run a 40-degree programme. Observe whether F13 reappears and at which point — early in the fill suggests pressure hose blockage, later suggests a syphon draining issue.
Confirm the drain hose end is inserted no more than 15 cm into the standpipe and is not sealed against the pipe walls. Run the machine and watch the floor around the standpipe — if water appears to be draining immediately as it fills, a syphon is pulling water out continuously.
With the machine unplugged, remove the top panel by undoing the two rear screws. The pressure hose is a narrow plastic or rubber tube running from a stub on the outer drum body up to the pressure switch — a small cylindrical component with an electrical connector and the hose on its lower port. Check the full length for kinks, cracks, splits, or disconnection at either end.
Disconnect the hose from both the drum stub and the pressure switch. Blow gently through the full length — airflow should be completely unobstructed. Flush with warm water if restricted. Clear the drum stub with a cotton bud if blocked with dried detergent or limescale.
With the hose disconnected from the switch and the wiring connector removed, test across the terminals with a multimeter. Blow gently into the hose port — the resistance should change as pressure increases. A switch that reads the same in all states has failed.
Refit the pressure hose firmly onto both stubs. Replace the top panel. Run a 40-degree programme and confirm the fill phase completes normally without F13 appearing.
When to call an engineer
- Pressure hose drum stub is completely blocked with dried detergent — soaking in descaler required
- Pressure switch reads the same value in all states when blown into — switch has failed
- Drain hose confirmed syphoning — hose must be repositioned to the correct depth and height
- F13 persists after pressure hose clearing and switch test — control board pressure input circuit fault
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between F12 and F13 on a Miele washing machine?
Can a partially syphoning drain hose cause F13?
Is there an overfill risk with F13?
Can I clear the pressure hose stub myself?
🎯 What is likely causing this fault?
⚠️ Estimates based on common faults — not a guaranteed diagnosis. Always verify before ordering parts.
Parts you may need
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Usually found on a label inside the door frame or on the back panel of the machine.
| Part | Approx. UK Cost | Find it |
|---|---|---|
| Inlet Valve | £20 - £30 | 🏷️ 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.