Miele F138: leak alert from the Waterproof system. Unplug the machine, drain the water as the manual describes, then arrange service.
Model compatibility
Miele reuses codes across series and model years, so F138 may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What thiscode means
F138 means the Waterproof system has been triggered by a leak and water is in the floor tray.
What the display is saying
F138 reports water in the floor tray. Miele’s Waterproof system has switched on after detecting a leak inside the washing machine or washer-dryer.
At a glance
Code
F138
What it means
F138 means the Waterproof system has been triggered by a leak and water is in the floor tray.
What you can check
Unplug the machine and let any water drain through the pump access panel using a tray, watching for hot suds and keeping clear of the turning drum. Tighten the filters firmly afterward.
When to call a technician
After draining, a technician must remove the remaining water and fix the leak, so arrange a service visit. Do not keep using the machine.
Do this in order
Unplug the machine from the mains.
Expect hot suds if the last load was washed hot: scalding is a risk.
Leave the emergency door release alone until the water is out, as a lot may be inside.
Open the drain pump access panel and set a container, such as a universal tray, below.
Unscrew the drain filters slowly to release water. Re-tighten them whenever you need to stop the flow.
Once the flow stops, screw the filters tight; check they are inserted correctly, since loose ones leak.
Record how much water came out.
Release the door with a screwdriver, open and close it, then close the panel.
Drum warning
A turning drum can injure. Make sure it is still before you reach in.
After draining
The manual directs you to Miele Customer Service to remove the rest of the water and fix the leak. Codes close to this one are F140, a high water level in the dispenser’s mixing container, and F19, a stiff flowmeter.
Miele washer repair for leaks in our service area
In the Miele service-center area covering Miami, New York, Houston, Los Angeles and San Diego, call (844) 459-5005. Tell the team the code, the model number and the water quantity you noted.
Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Get started
Seeing this code on your Miele appliance?
Book a specialist Miele service visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair. Experienced technicians, clear diagnostics, and workmanship coverage on completed repairs.