## How to Fix Miele Error F20 (Heating Fault)
The Miele F20 error code is one of the most common issues on older Miele washing machines. It indicates that the machine has detected an issue with the heating system and is unable to reach or maintain the required wash temperature.
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### 1. Explanation: What Miele Error F20 Means
The F20 error is a **Heating Fault**. Simply put, the washing machine has started a wash cycle, requested the water be heated, but has failed to detect the required temperature increase within a set timeframe.
**The most likely culprits are:**
1. **Faulty Heating Element:** The element has burned out or developed a short, preventing it from heating the water. (This is the primary cause).
2. **NTC Thermistor Malfunction:** The sensor that measures the water temperature is providing inaccurate readings or has failed.
3. **Wiring Issue:** A loose or corroded wire connecting the element or sensor to the main control board.
4. **Control Board Failure (Rare):** The main electronic control unit (PCB) is failing to send power to the heating element.
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### 2. Step-by-Step Fix: How to Diagnose the Heating Element
Before proceeding, **unplug the machine completely** to avoid the risk of electrical shock.
The heating element and NTC thermistor are usually accessed by removing the rear panel of the washing machine.
#### Step 1: Check the Thermistor (NTC Sensor)
The NTC sensor is usually a small probe fitted directly onto the heating element (or located very close to it).
1. **Locate the Sensor:** Identify the two small wires running to the small sensor plug near the main element terminals.
2. **Test Resistance (Ohms):** Use a Multimeter set to Ohms (Ω). Disconnect the sensor plug and test the resistance across the two sensor terminals.
* **Expected Result:** A working sensor should register approximately **12,000 Ohms (12 kΩ)** at room temperature (20°C/68°F). If the resistance is zero (short circuit) or infinite (open circuit), the sensor is faulty.
#### Step 2: Test the Heating Element for Continuity
This is the most critical diagnostic step to confirm the element is the issue.
1. **Locate Terminals:** Find the two main thick wires leading to the element (these supply power).
2. **Test Resistance (Ohms):** Set your Multimeter to Ohms (Ω). Place the probes across the two main terminals of the heating element (where the thick wires connect).
* **Expected Result:** A healthy Miele heating element should show resistance between **20 and 30 Ohms**.
* **Fault Confirmation:** If the Multimeter shows an **”OL” or “1” (Open Line)** reading (indicating infinite resistance), the element is blown and needs replacement.
#### Step 3: Check for Earth Leakage (Short to Ground)
A blown element often trips the F20 error because it is shorting power to the chassis (earth/ground).
1. **Test Terminals to Earth:** Keep the Multimeter on Ohms (Ω). Place one probe on one of the main element terminals. Place the second probe firmly on a bare metal part of the machine chassis (ground).
2. **Expected Result:** A functional element should show an **”OL” or “1” (infinite resistance)** reading.
3. **Fault Confirmation:** If the Multimeter shows *any* resistance reading (e.g., 50 Ohms or less), the element is shorting to ground and is severely faulty.
#### Step 4: Replacement
If the element test (Step 2 or 3) confirms it is blown or shorted, you must replace the entire heating element assembly.
1. **Remove Wires:** Carefully disconnect all wires (power and sensor) from the old element. Note their locations.
2. **Unfasten Element:** Miele elements are held in place by a central nut or bolt that compresses a rubber gasket. Partially unscrew this nut (do not remove it completely).
3. **Wedge and Remove:** Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the old element out of its housing. Water may leak out, so have a towel ready.
4. **Install New Element:** Ensure the new rubber gasket is seated correctly. Push the new element firmly into the hole and tighten the central bolt/nut. This expands the gasket, creating a watertight seal.
5. **Reconnect and Test:** Reconnect all wires, plug the machine back in, and run a short, hot wash cycle (e.g., 60°C) to confirm the F20 error is cleared.
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**Check the price for a replacement Heating Element here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Miele+Heating Element&tag=trivian-20**