Miele PT7135C Condenser Tumble Dryer Trips the RCD Mid-Cycle
Hello, I recently purchased a Miele PT7135C condenser dryer. During the initial test, I only ran the machine for approximately 5 minutes with a pair of wet swimming trunks, solely to verify that the heater assembly was functioning. The laundry became warm, so I assumed the heating system was working correctly. After installing the dryer in its permanent location, I ran a full automatic programme with approximately 5–6 kg of wet laundry. During this cycle, I noticed that no condensate water was discharged through the drain outlet, which seemed unusual. After approximately 35–40 minutes, the rCD (residual current device / earth leakage breaker) tripped, causing the machine to shut down. As part of my troubleshooting, I have: * Replaced the motor carbon brushes. * Thoroughly cleaned the machine and removed all accumulated lint. During the inspection, I also found that several of the thinner heating element coils in the heater assembly are broken. Despite this, the dryer still produces heat, and the laundry becomes warm during operation, indicating that at least part of the heating element is still functioning. Could the damaged heating element be responsible for the rCD tripping, or are there other common failure points on the PT7135C that I should investigate? Also, should condensate water be discharged continuously during a normal drying cycle, or could the lack of drainage indicate a separate fault / be the culprit of rDC tripping? In Sweden we use a like-german setup in our fuseboxes, don’t know if this helps in anyway. Br, Mr. William Sundell
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Hi William,
Thanks for your question regarding your Miele PT7135C Condenser Tumble Dryer.
I'll explain the issue and what you can do about it.
First, the heating element might be broken on one part. There are usually two circuits: high temperature and low temperature. The high setting uses both parts of the element, while the low setting uses just one. This is why some heat is still being generated.
As the clothes dry, the water turns into vapour and should go to the condenser at the bottom left. The water then condenses on aluminium plates and goes to a pump system, which moves it to the collection tray.
The problem might be that the condenser is blocked or the pump isn't working, stopping water from reaching the tray. This moist air could go back to the heating element and trip your RCD.
Replace the heating element, but check if we have a second-hand one, as Miele parts can be expensive. Clean all airflows thoroughly and make sure the pump is working properly.
I'll include a maintenance video to help you understand what to do. It's not for a Miele machine but should still be useful.
I hope this helps. Thanks again for your question!
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