If you've misplaced your owner's manual, it might be a bit overwhelming to figure out how to operate certain household appliances. With so many features that are controlled with a multitude of buttons, instructions can really be helpful. If you have a Miele dishwasher and are wondering how to start it, we can help. We researched this appliance in depth so that you'll know for sure how to get it running.
You can start your Miele dishwasher by following a few simple steps:
- Be sure the water supply is turned on
- Add detergent
- Inspect spray arms
- Press the start button
- Select your program
Now that we know the steps to start the Miele dishwasher, we'll break all of them down so that they are easier to follow. You might also be curious why your Miele dishwasher is not starting or how you can reset one of these models. For the answers to these questions and more, read ahead in this post to see what we've uncovered in our research.
Step-By-Step Guide On How To Start Your Miele Dishwasher
Some of the steps we listed earlier in this post are fairly self-explanatory. But there are a few that do warrant some details. For you to get the most out of your Miele dishwasher, it's important to understand not only how to start it but also what each feature will do.
While this guide is not all-inclusive to every feature and program of the Miele dishwasher, it will give you the ability to start the appliance and run a full load of dirty dishes. It will also help you decide what program button you should select.
Below, we'll elaborate on all of the steps listed above. Follow them in order, and you'll soon be listening to the hum of your Miele appliance.
1. Be Sure The Water Supply Is Turned On
Before you begin, it's very important to locate the water supply of your Miele dishwasher.
If you've just moved into your home and are starting this appliance up for the first time, there's a great chance that the water supply has been turned off. Locating the water supply should be easy, and turning it on is a simple task.
The water supply line for dishwashers will almost always be under the sink that the appliance has been installed next to. Sometimes, it will be coupled with the supply line for the sink itself. So, if the water is running in your sink, it will also be running to the dishwasher.
If you see a second shutoff valve, it will most likely belong to the dishwasher. A water line will extend from this valve and run toward the direction of the appliance. If you can turn this valve counterclockwise, then the supply has been turned off. Turn it, and you will hear water running in the line to the dishwasher.
2. Add Detergent
Once the water supply has been confirmed, you'll want to release the catch on the top of the dishwasher door and open it. Locate the detergent trap on the inside of the Miele dishwasher door. You will be able to pop it open gently with your fingers.
Fill the trap with your desired brand of dishwasher detergent. You can use the old-fashioned powder kind or a pod if you choose.
Close the flap firmly, and you'll be ready for the next step. Just be sure that you are using a detergent made specifically for a dishwasher. If you use any other type of soap, you'll be in for a giant sudsy mess!
3. Inspect Spray Arms
On the bottom of the dishwasher's interior will be the spray arms. These rotate quickly when the appliance is running a cycle, spraying jets of hot water onto your dishes. For them to operate properly, they will need to be free of obstructions.
Inspect these arms to make sure that they are in place. Look to see if there is anything that might impede their rotation, like a stray utensil or any other small object that could have been overlooked by the last user.
As soon as you can confirm that the path of the spray arms is clear, you'll be ready to fire up your Miele dishwasher.
4. Press Start Button
The start button is on the top of the dishwasher door. While the door is still open, press and hold the start button for at least two seconds.
The indicator light will flash with the program to be selected. As soon as you have selected the desired program, the dishwasher will begin its cycle. But before you press any program button, you might want to know what the program options are. This will help you pick the right one for the job.
5. Select Your Program
The program selection button is the one marked "V." Pressing this will enable you to scroll through the various programs or cycles.
The default mode will be set to "normal." But there are several others that you will most likely need to use at some point. The various program cycles are:
- Normal
- Pots and Pans
- China and Crystal
- Quick-Intense Wash
- SaniWash
- Rinse and Hold
- Extra Quiet
- Energy Saver
- Economy
- Grates and Filters
- Clean Machine
- Sensor Wash
Once you have hit start and have selected the desired program, you will have to shut the dishwasher door promptly.
If you do not close the door firmly within four seconds of selecting your program, the dishwasher's indicator lights will flash "OK Start." You will then have to press this button, close the dishwasher door within four seconds, and then the appliance will begin its cycle.
Why Is My Miele Dishwasher Not Starting?
There can be several reasons why your Miele dishwasher will not start. Before you call in a repairman, let's take a look at some common causes that you can troubleshoot on your own. If any of these are the issue, then you'll be saving some money on labor.
Look For The Latch And Door Obstructions First
Be sure nothing is obstructing the latch. If the door cannot close properly, then the appliance will not start its cycle. Are the racks protruding? Is there a large utensil blocking the way? Or maybe the latch itself has an obstruction. Clear the way, and the appliance will begin to run.
If Your Miele Dishwasher Doesn't Have Power, Check These Items
But what if there is no power to the appliance? This can be for several reasons. First, check to see that nothing has been unplugged from the appliance. Inspect the power supply line to see that it has not been damaged.
Your dishwasher will be on a circuit breaker. Check to see that it has not been tripped.
Certain Issues Will Require The Help Of A Professional
If none of the above is the reason why your Miele dishwasher will not start, then the issue is most likely a blown thermal fuse or a defect with the control panel. Either of these should be taken care of by a professional.
How Do I Reset My Miele Dishwasher?
If you need to reset your Miele dishwasher, you'll be able to do so quickly and easily. First, you will want to press the on/off button to turn the unit on. Then, press and hold down on the start button. Look for a red light on the unit to blink.
Once the red light is flashing, release the start button. Press the on/off button to turn the appliance off. Then, press it one more time to turn the Miele dishwasher on again.
This will give your appliance a factory restart, hopefully correcting any electronic glitches with the programs, timers, or other features.
How Long Will A Miele Dishwasher Last?
The Miele name is known worldwide for its quality and dependability. These units are not the cheapest on the market, and consumers who spend the extra money on a great dishwasher will be relieved to know that these units will last for quite a while.
A Miele dishwasher is built to last an average of 20 years. Some consumers report that their units have lasted even longer.
Take proper care of your Miele dishwasher and use it according to the manufacturer's guidelines, and you'll have it in your service for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Starting the cycle on a Miele dishwasher is simple and fast. It will help you to know what the different program options are and what each one means. Take good care of your Miele appliance, and you'll see it last 20 years or longer.
We hope this post on the Miele Dishwasher answered all of your questions. For additional helpful information, we recommend reading the following posts:
What Dishwashers Have Stainless Steel Racks Or Tubs? [11 Options To Consider]
Can You Run A Dishwasher Without Hot Water?
Does A Dishwasher Heat Up Its Own Water?
