What To Do When Your Dishwasher Won’t Drain?
If your dishwasher is holding water after a cycle, don’t panic! Usually, the fix is straightforward. The most common solutions involve checking and cleaning the drain components, such as the filter, drain hose, and air gap, and only when those simple solutions fail should you consider contacting a professional.
Understanding Dishwasher Drain Issues
A dishwasher that refuses to drain can be frustrating and messy. Standing water not only prevents you from unloading clean dishes but also can create a breeding ground for bacteria and unpleasant odors. Before calling a repair technician, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to identify and resolve the problem yourself. Understanding the basics of your dishwasher’s drain system is the first step.
The Dishwasher Drain System: A Quick Overview
The dishwasher’s drain system is a relatively simple setup that relies on gravity and a pump to remove wastewater. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
- Dishwasher Filter: This catches large food particles, preventing them from clogging the drain pump and hose.
- Drain Pump: This motor forces water through the drain hose and out of the dishwasher.
- Drain Hose: This flexible hose carries wastewater to the sink drain, garbage disposal, or a dedicated drain line.
- Air Gap (Optional): This small device, usually located near the sink, prevents wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher in case of a drain backup. Some installations bypass the air gap entirely.
Step-by-Step Guide to Troubleshooting a Clogged Dishwasher
Here’s a systematic approach to diagnosing and fixing your dishwasher drain issue:
Safety First: Disconnect the Power. Before you start any work, turn off the dishwasher’s power at the circuit breaker to avoid electrical shock.
Check the Dishwasher Filter:
- Locate the filter (usually at the bottom of the dishwasher).
- Remove the filter assembly.
- Rinse the filter under running water, removing any trapped food particles. Use a brush for stubborn debris.
- Reinstall the filter securely.
Inspect the Drain Hose:
- Disconnect the drain hose from the garbage disposal or sink drain.
- Check for kinks, bends, or clogs.
- Straighten any kinks.
- Flush the hose with water to dislodge any blockages. A garden hose can be helpful for this.
- Reconnect the drain hose.
Clean the Air Gap (If Applicable):
- Remove the air gap cover.
- Clean out any debris or buildup inside the air gap.
- Reassemble the air gap.
Check the Drain Pump:
- Accessing the drain pump usually requires removing the lower access panel of the dishwasher. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
- Check the pump impeller for obstructions. Small objects like broken glass or toothpicks can jam the pump.
- Carefully remove any debris blocking the impeller.
- Reassemble the pump (if disassembled).
Reset the Dishwasher: Many dishwashers have a reset button or sequence. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to reset your specific model.
Run a Test Cycle: After completing the above steps, run a short wash cycle to see if the dishwasher now drains properly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overlooking the Filter: This is the most common culprit. Clean it regularly!
- Ignoring Kinks in the Drain Hose: A kinked hose can severely restrict water flow.
- Using Excessive Detergent: Too much detergent can create excessive suds, hindering drainage.
- Forgetting to Remove Large Food Scraps: Pre-rinsing dishes (to a degree) helps prevent clogs.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above and your dishwasher still won’t drain, it’s time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. You might have a more serious issue, such as a faulty drain pump, a clogged drain line within the house plumbing, or a problem with the dishwasher’s control board.
Using Vinegar and Baking Soda
While often touted as a universal cleaning solution, using vinegar and baking soda together in a dishwasher is not generally recommended. The mixture can create excessive foam and pressure, potentially damaging the appliance and not being very effective at unclogging drains. Instead, focus on the steps listed above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my brand new dishwasher not draining?
A new dishwasher not draining is frustrating but can be easily fixed. The most common cause is improper installation of the drain hose. Ensure the hose isn’t kinked or crushed, and that the high loop is above the drain connection. Also, check that the knock-out plug inside the garbage disposal (if connected) has been removed.
How often should I clean my dishwasher filter?
You should clean your dishwasher filter at least once a month, or more frequently if you notice food particles accumulating or the dishwasher is not cleaning effectively. A clean filter ensures proper drainage and prevents clogs.
Can I use a drain cleaner in my dishwasher?
Using chemical drain cleaners in a dishwasher is strongly discouraged. These cleaners can damage the dishwasher’s internal components, especially plastic and rubber parts, and may leave harmful residues. Stick to mechanical methods like cleaning the filter and drain hose.
What does it mean if my dishwasher is making a humming noise but not draining?
A humming noise, especially when the dishwasher is supposed to be draining, often indicates a problem with the drain pump. The pump motor may be struggling to turn because it’s blocked by debris or has failed completely. Inspection and cleaning of the pump impeller are necessary.
How do I access the drain pump in my dishwasher?
Accessing the drain pump varies by dishwasher model. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions. Generally, you’ll need to disconnect the power, remove the lower access panel, and possibly other components to reach the pump.
What is a dishwasher air gap, and do I need one?
An air gap is a small device that prevents wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher in case of a drain backup. While not required in all jurisdictions, it’s a valuable safety feature. If you have one, ensure it’s clear of debris.
Why is my dishwasher only partially draining?
Partial draining often suggests a partial blockage in the drain hose or filter. Even a small amount of debris can restrict water flow. Thorough cleaning of these components is crucial.
Can a clogged garbage disposal cause my dishwasher not to drain?
Yes, a clogged garbage disposal can definitely prevent the dishwasher from draining properly, especially if the dishwasher drain hose is connected to the disposal. Ensure the garbage disposal is clear and functioning correctly.
What should I do if I find standing water in my dishwasher after cleaning the filter and drain hose?
If the filter and drain hose are clear, and there’s still standing water, the drain pump is likely the culprit. It may be damaged or obstructed and require professional repair or replacement.
Is it possible to use a wet/dry vacuum to unclog my dishwasher drain?
Yes, a wet/dry vacuum can be very effective in removing standing water and dislodging clogs. Connect the vacuum hose to the drain opening in the dishwasher tub and suck out any debris. This is especially useful after cleaning the filter and drain hose.
How can I prevent my dishwasher from clogging in the future?
Preventative measures are key to avoiding future clogs. Scrape dishes thoroughly before loading them into the dishwasher. Regularly clean the filter (at least monthly). Avoid using excessive detergent. And, occasionally run a high-temperature cycle with a dishwasher cleaner.
Why does my dishwasher drain when I open the door, but not during the cycle?
This unusual behavior often indicates a problem with the vent or flapper valve in the drain system. When you open the door, you’re manually creating a pressure change that allows the water to escape. This requires professional diagnosis and repair.