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Error code reference

Miele Dishwasher Error Code Intake

Water intake fault

Water intake fault - the dishwasher is not receiving sufficient water due to closed valve, blocked inlet filter, waterproof system activation, or insufficient flow pressure.

First step from the service manual

Open the water valve; if already open, check and clean the water inlet filter.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What Intake means on a Miele dishwasher

The Intake fault on a Miele dishwasher indicates that the appliance is not receiving an adequate supply of water during the fill phase of the wash cycle. The dishwasher's control system monitors incoming water flow and triggers this fault when the expected water level is not reached within a set time period. This is a protective measure to prevent the machine from running dry, which could damage the pump, heating element, and other internal components.

The most common causes fall into a few categories: a closed or partially closed water supply valve, a blocked inlet filter screen at the hose connection point, insufficient household water pressure, or activation of Miele's integrated waterproof system. The inlet filter is a small mesh screen located where the fill hose connects to the back of the dishwasher. Over time, mineral deposits and debris accumulate on this screen and restrict flow to the point where the machine cannot fill properly.

Miele dishwashers are equipped with a waterproof system that includes a float switch in the base pan and a solenoid-controlled valve on the inlet hose. If water has leaked into the base pan, the float switch activates and the solenoid shuts off the water supply entirely as a flood prevention measure. When this system trips, the Intake fault will appear and the dishwasher will not fill until the base is dried out and the underlying leak is repaired. Diagnosing which of these conditions is responsible is the key first step before attempting any repair.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Intake

  1. 01

    Closed or partially closed water supply valve

    Wiring / connection

    The shutoff valve under the sink or behind the dishwasher may be fully or partially closed, restricting water flow. Confirm the valve handle is parallel to the supply pipe and turned fully to the open position.

  2. 02

    Blocked water inlet filter

    Wiring / connection

    A mesh filter screen is located at the point where the inlet hose connects to the back of the dishwasher. Sediment, mineral scale, and debris collect on this screen over time and reduce water flow enough to trigger the fault. The screen can be removed and rinsed clean under running water.

  3. 03

    Waterproof system activation

    Part replacement

    Miele's integrated waterproof system uses a float switch in the appliance base pan to detect leaks. If water has accumulated in the base, the solenoid valve on the inlet hose is automatically closed and the Intake fault appears. The base pan must be dried and the source of the leak identified and repaired before normal operation can resume.

  4. 04

    Insufficient household water pressure

    Wiring / connection

    The dishwasher requires a minimum flow pressure to fill correctly within the allowed time. If household water pressure is low due to a supply issue or a failing pressure regulator, the machine may time out before reaching the required water level.

  5. 05

    Kinked or damaged inlet hose

    Part replacement

    The fill hose running from the supply valve to the dishwasher may be kinked, pinched, or internally damaged, restricting water flow. Inspect the full length of the hose and straighten any bends, or replace the hose if it is damaged.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Intake

What does Intake mean on a Miele dishwasher?
The Intake fault means the dishwasher is not receiving enough water to begin or continue a wash cycle. The control system detected that water did not reach the required level within the allowed fill time. Common reasons include a closed supply valve, a clogged inlet filter, low water pressure, or activation of the built-in waterproof flood protection system.
How do I fix the Intake error on my Miele dishwasher?
Start by confirming the water supply valve is fully open. Next, disconnect the inlet hose from the back of the dishwasher and remove the small mesh filter screen, then rinse it clean under running water and reinstall it. If those steps do not resolve the fault, check the inlet hose for kinks and verify that your household water pressure is adequate. If the waterproof system has activated, the base pan will need to be dried and any leak repaired before the machine will fill again.
Will resetting my Miele dishwasher clear the Intake error?
A reset may clear the fault display temporarily, but it will not resolve the underlying cause. If the condition that triggered the fault, such as a closed valve, blocked filter, or activated waterproof system, is still present, the Intake error will return as soon as the machine attempts to fill again. The root cause must be corrected first for the fault to stay cleared.
Is the Intake error on a Miele dishwasher a safety concern?
The fault itself is a safety feature rather than a hazard. The dishwasher stops operating to prevent dry running, which protects internal components. However, if the Intake fault was triggered by the waterproof system activating due to a leak in the base, the underlying water leak should be addressed promptly to avoid further water damage to cabinetry or flooring.
How much does it cost to repair the Intake fault on a Miele dishwasher?
If the fix is simply opening a supply valve or cleaning the inlet filter, there is no parts cost and only your time is required. Replacing a damaged inlet hose typically costs between 15 and 50 dollars for the part. If the waterproof system has activated due to a faulty water inlet valve, pressure switch, or other internal component, professional repair costs can range from 100 to 300 dollars or more depending on the part and labor involved.

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