A flashing Inlet/drain indicator, or a water inlet message on models with a text display, means the Miele detected a problem bringing water in or pumping it out. The usual causes are simple: a closed supply valve, a dirty inlet filter, a kinked hose or a blocked filter combination.
Safety first: Switch off and unplug the dishwasher and close the water supply valve before cleaning any filter, and if the Waterproof system has been triggered, leave the repair to a technician.
Follow the diagnostic path
Step 1: Is the supply valve under the sink fully open?
If yes: Go to Step 2.
If no: Open it all the way. Valves often get left partly closed after plumbing work or a trip away.
Step 2: Is water left in the bottom of the dishwasher?
If yes: Start on the drain side. Clean the filter combination in the floor of the tub and check the drain pump area for debris; Miele specifically mentions things like fruit pits and broken glass. Make sure the drain hose isn't kinked or pulled tight. Water left standing is also a common odor source, which our guide to a dishwasher that smells bad covers.
If no: Go to Step 3, the inlet side.
Step 3: Is the inlet hose kinked or crushed behind the dishwasher?
If yes: Straighten it. A damaged hose should be replaced.
If no: Go to Step 4.
Step 4: Is the small filter at the water inlet connection dirty?
If yes: With the water off, clean it as your manual shows. Homes with sediment in their water see this more often.
If no: Go to Step 5.
Step 5: Is water pressure low at other taps too?
If yes: Low household pressure can trigger the fault. A plumber should check the supply.
If no: Go to Step 6.
Step 6: Does a Waterproof message appear, or does the fault return after these checks?
If yes: The Waterproof system may have detected a leak, or a part like the inlet valve or pump has failed. Close the supply valve, unplug the unit and call a technician.
If no: You've likely cleared it. Run a short cycle and watch for the indicator.
What your answer points to
| What you found | Most likely cause | DIY or technician |
|---|---|---|
| Valve partly closed | Restricted supply | DIY |
| Water left in the tub | Blocked filter combination or drain hose | DIY cleaning |
| Kinked inlet hose | Pinched supply | DIY |
| Dirty inlet filter | Sediment | DIY cleaning |
| Waterproof message or repeat fault | Leak detection or failed part | Technician |
Stop and call a technician if
- •The Waterproof system has activated.
- •The fault returns after cleaning every filter.
- •You see water under the dishwasher.
Keep it from coming back
- •Clean the filter combination regularly.
- •Rinse off seeds, pits and labels before loading.
- •Leave space behind the unit so hoses aren't crushed.
Owen's shop tip: A single cherry pit or a sliver of glass in the drain area can set this light off. If you rinse the filter combination at the sink, scan the sump too, carefully, before you lock the filter back in.
Fault won't clear? Call ProFix Boston at (617) 812-1425. We service Miele appliances across the area.