Miele Washing Machine Flood Error Repair in Armidale

20th February 2026

A customer in Armidale contacted John Crawford Appliance Repairs after their Miele washing machine stopped mid-cycle and displayed a flood error code. The machine would not continue operating, leaving the owner concerned about possible internal damage or a major water leak.

Flood errors, sometimes described as “water in base” faults, are a common safety feature in modern washing machines. When this code appears, it usually means the machine has detected water where it should not be.

What Causes a Flood Error in Washing Machines

Most modern washing machines, including Miele models, are fitted with an internal flood protection system. In the base of the machine is a small safety switch connected to a styrofoam float disc.

If water leaks into the base, the float rises and activates the switch. The control system then shuts the machine down and displays a flood or waterproof error to prevent further filling and reduce the risk of household water damage.

Washing machines of all brands can develop leaks. Common causes include damaged hoses, worn seals, loose connections, or issues with the drain pump system. However, sometimes the cause is far simpler.

Diagnosis and Repair

In this Armidale repair, the issue was traced back to the filter inspection cap. This cap, located behind the lower front access panel, is designed to be removed for routine cleaning and is hand tightened back into place.

In this case, the cap had not been tightened firmly enough after cleaning. Although it felt secure, it was slightly loose. During operation, small amounts of water were able to trickle past the seal and slowly enter the base of the machine. Once enough water accumulated, it lifted the styrofoam float and activated the flood safety switch.

The repair involved:

  • Inspecting the machine for external and internal leaks
  • Confirming water in the base had triggered the safety switch
  • Correctly tightening and resealing the filter inspection cap
  • Drying the base and resetting the fault code
  • Testing the machine through full cycles to ensure correct operation

Once completed, the washing machine returned to normal function with no further fault codes.

Authorised Miele Service in Armidale

John Crawford is an authorised Miele service technician with over 30 years of experience in electrical and appliance repairs across Armidale and the New England region. We service all major washing machine brands and provide dependable, professional diagnostics and repairs.

If your washing machine displays a flood error, waterproof fault, or water in base message in Armidale, it is important to have it assessed properly. What appears to be a serious issue may have a straightforward solution, but accurate diagnosis is essential.

For reliable washing machine repairs in Armidale, contact John Crawford Appliance Repairs. We provide trusted local service backed by decades of experience.