Fix a Dishwasher That Isn't Draining: Step-By-Step Guide

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IntroductionIntroduction
7 Most Common Drainage Issues7 Most Common Drainage Issues
Reason #1: There Are Filter Blockage IssuesReason #1: There Are Filter Blockage Issues
Reason #2: A Clogged Disposal DrainReason #2: A Clogged Disposal Drain
Reason #3: A Drain Hose Is BlockedReason #3: A Drain Hose Is Blocked
Reason #4: There Are Air Gap Blockage IssuesReason #4: There Are Air Gap Blockage Issues
Reason #5: Using the Wrong Kind of DetergentReason #5: Using the Wrong Kind of Detergent
Reason #6: A Faulty Drain PumpReason #6: A Faulty Drain Pump
Reason #7: A Clogged Sink DrainReason #7: A Clogged Sink Drain
Last Words About Clogged DishwashersLast Words About Clogged Dishwashers

Fix a Dishwasher That Isn't Draining: Step-By-Step Guide

Curated by

jenengevik

6 min read

1,309

A dishwasher that won't drain properly can be a frustrating household issue, often caused by clogs in the filter, drain hose, or garbage disposal. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps homeowners can take before calling a professional, potentially saving time and money on repairs.

7 Most Common Drainage Issues

worksplumbing.com

Here are the top reasons why dishwashers don't drain properly:

Clogged filter or trap: Food particles and debris can accumulate in the dishwasher's filter, impeding proper drainage.
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Blocked garbage disposal: If the dishwasher drains into the garbage disposal, a clog there can prevent water from draining.
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Kinked or clogged drain hose: The hose connecting the dishwasher to the drain can become kinked or obstructed, restricting water flow.
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Clogged air gap: If present, a blocked air gap can cause drainage issues.
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Using incorrect detergent: Liquid detergents or excessive amounts can create too many suds, hindering drainage.
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Faulty drain pump: A malfunctioning pump may fail to remove water effectively.
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Clogged sink drain: Blockages in the sink drain can cause water to back up into the dishwasher.
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Regular maintenance, such as cleaning filters and checking hoses, can help prevent many of these issues. If problems persist after addressing these common causes, it may be necessary to consult a professional appliance technician.

5 sources

Reason #1: There Are Filter Blockage Issues

ifixutah.com

Identifying filter blockage issues is crucial for maintaining your dishwasher's performance. Here's a quick guide to help you recognize and address common filter problems:

Sign of Filter Blockage	Possible Cause
Dirty dishes after cycle	Food particles trapped in filter 1
Unpleasant odors	Decomposing food residue in clogged filter 2
Reduced water flow	Debris obstructing water spray 2
Standing water in dishwasher	Trapped debris preventing proper drainage 2
Gritty or grimy dishes	Debris in fine screen filter 3

To address these issues, locate the filter at the bottom of your dishwasher, typically under the bottom rack

. Remove and clean the filter regularly with warm water and soap, using a soft brush to gently scrub away debris

. For optimal performance, clean the filter at least once a month, depending on usage and model

4 sources

Reason #2: A Clogged Disposal Drain

hunker.com

A blocked garbage disposal can significantly impact your dishwasher's ability to drain properly. The dishwasher typically shares a drain line with the garbage disposal, so any blockage in the disposal can cause water to back up into the dishwasher

. Common culprits for garbage disposal clogs include food particles, grease, and even small objects accidentally dropped down the drain. To address this issue, first ensure the disposal is turned off, then use a flashlight to inspect for visible obstructions

. If you spot any blockages, use pliers or tongs to carefully remove them. For stubborn clogs, try using a plunger or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break down the obstruction

. Regular maintenance, such as running the disposal daily with cold water and avoiding overloading it with large food chunks, can help prevent future blockages and ensure smooth dishwasher drainage

5 sources

Reason #3: A Drain Hose Is Blocked

amazon.com

A kinked or clogged drain hose is a common cause of dishwasher drainage issues. Here are key points to consider when troubleshooting this problem:

Check for visible kinks in the drain hose, especially near the connection points to the dishwasher and sink or garbage disposal.
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Ensure the hose isn't pinched or compressed by surrounding objects.
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Inspect the hose for clogs by disconnecting it and blowing through it to test airflow.
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Clean out any debris at the hose ends using a screwdriver or similar tool.
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Consider using a push-fit fitting or elbow to prevent kinking if the hose is positioned at an awkward angle.
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If the clog is in the middle of the hose or the hose is severely kinked, replacement may be necessary.
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Verify that the drain hose is properly installed and not too long, as excess length can cause sagging and potential blockages.
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For stubborn clogs, try using a drain cleaner solution or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
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Regular inspection and maintenance of the drain hose can prevent many drainage issues and extend the life of your dishwasher.

5 sources

Reason #4: There Are Air Gap Blockage Issues

familyhandyman.com

A clogged air gap can cause water to spurt out of the chrome cylinder on your sink, leading to drainage issues for your dishwasher. The air gap prevents contaminated water from siphoning back into the dishwasher, but it can become blocked by food particles or debris over time.

To clean a clogged air gap, remove the chrome cover and plastic cap, then clear out any accumulated material.

You can use a bottle brush to dislodge debris in the line leading to the garbage disposal, or employ a wet/dry vacuum to suction out the clog.

Regular maintenance of the air gap, including checking the hose connecting it to the sink drain or garbage disposal, is essential for optimal dishwasher performance and preventing backups.

5 sources

Reason #5: Using the Wrong Kind of Detergent

walmart.com

Choosing the right detergent is crucial for optimal dishwasher performance and preventing drainage issues. Here are key points to consider when selecting and using dishwasher detergent:

Use detergent specifically designed for dishwashers, not regular dish soap which can create excessive suds and overflow
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Opt for liquid detergent or liquid pods, as they dissolve more completely than powdered versions and are less likely to leave residue in pipes
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Consider your water hardness when selecting detergent - harder water may require more detergent or a specific formula
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Follow manufacturer recommendations for detergent type and amount to avoid oversudsing and potential drainage problems
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Store detergent in a cool, dry place to prevent clumping and maintain its effectiveness
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Replace old or expired detergent, as it may not dissolve properly and can affect cleaning performance
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If switching brands, monitor dishwasher performance closely to ensure compatibility with your machine
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By choosing the appropriate detergent and using it correctly, you can help prevent drainage issues, ensure clean dishes, and prolong the life of your dishwasher.

4 sources

Reason #6: A Faulty Drain Pump

ransomspares.co.uk

Identifying a faulty drain pump in your washing machine or dishwasher is crucial for maintaining proper drainage. Here are some key signs and methods to diagnose a malfunctioning drain pump:

Error codes: Look for specific error codes on your appliance's display panel that indicate drain pump issues.
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Strange noises: Listen for grinding or humming sounds when the machine attempts to drain water.
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Standing water: Check for water remaining in the appliance after a cycle completes.
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Slow draining: Observe if the appliance takes longer than usual to drain water.
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Multimeter test: Use a multimeter to check the drain pump's continuity. A reading between 160 to 260 ohms typically indicates a functioning pump.
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Visual inspection: Look for visible damage or obstructions in the pump impeller.
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Manual activation: Try manually activating the drain pump to see if it's working properly.
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If you suspect a faulty drain pump, it's important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to your appliance. For complex issues or if you're unsure, consider consulting a professional technician for a thorough diagnosis and repair.

3 sources

Reason #7: A Clogged Sink Drain

peaksewer.ca

Clogged sink drains are a common household issue that can often be resolved without calling a plumber. Here are several effective methods to unclog a sink drain, listed in order of increasing complexity:

Boiling water: Pour boiling water down the drain to dissolve soap scum and loosen minor clogs.
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Baking soda and vinegar:
- Pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain
- Follow with 1 cup of white vinegar
- Cover the drain and wait 5-10 minutes
- Flush with boiling water
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Plunger: Use a sink plunger to create suction and dislodge the clog. Ensure other openings are sealed for maximum effectiveness.
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Drain snake or auger: Insert a plumbing snake into the drain to manually break up or remove the clog.
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Remove and clean the P-trap: Disassemble the curved pipe under the sink to remove any debris caught there.
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Preventive measures:
- Use sink strainers to catch food and hair
- Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain
- Perform monthly maintenance with baking soda and vinegar
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If these methods fail to clear the clog, it may be time to consult a professional plumber.

4 sources

Last Words About Clogged Dishwashers

foodnetwork.com

In conclusion, addressing dishwasher drainage issues requires a systematic approach, considering various potential causes such as clogged filters, blocked garbage disposals, kinked drain hoses, air gap blockages, incorrect detergent usage, and faulty drain pumps. Regular maintenance, including cleaning filters and inspecting hoses, can prevent many common problems. When troubleshooting, it's essential to check for error codes, listen for unusual noises, and observe drainage patterns. If DIY solutions prove ineffective, consulting a professional technician is advisable. Ultimately, proper care and timely intervention can extend the lifespan of your appliance, ensuring optimal performance and clean dishes. Remember, a well-functioning dishwasher not only saves time but also contributes to household efficiency and hygiene.

5 sources

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