How to Fix a Dishwasher That Won't Drain and Get It Working Again

If your dishwasher isn’t draining, it’s usually because of a clog, a blocked or kinked drain hose, or a faulty drain pump. To fix it yourself, start by turning off power and cleaning the dishwasher filter and drain hose. Then inspect and test the drain pump and clear any blockages in the drain system. These steps often restore drainage without needing a technician.

Why is my dishwasher not draining?

The most common reasons a dishwasher won’t drain are a clogged filter, a blocked or kinked drain hose, or a malfunctioning drain pump. Food scraps and grease can accumulate in the filter and hose, stopping water from flowing out. The drain pump may get jammed by debris or fail electrically, preventing it from moving water. Also, if your dishwasher drains into a garbage disposal or sink drain, a clog there can cause water to back up into the dishwasher. Knowing these causes helps you focus your troubleshooting.

How to check the dishwasher filter and drain hose for blockages

1. Turn off power to the dishwasher by unplugging it or switching off the circuit breaker.

2. Open the dishwasher door and remove the bottom rack to access the filter, usually at the bottom center. The filter typically twists out or lifts up; check your manual if needed.

3. Rinse the filter under running water and scrub gently with a soft brush to remove trapped debris.

4. Locate the drain hose, which runs from the dishwasher to the sink drain or garbage disposal. Look for visible kinks or bends that could block water flow.

5. If possible, carefully detach the hose and check for clogs by running water through it or using a flexible brush to clear any blockage.

6. Reattach the hose securely after cleaning.

How to test and clean the dishwasher drain pump

1. With the dishwasher unplugged, remove the lower access panel to find the drain pump, usually near the bottom.

2. Check around the pump’s impeller (the spinning part inside) for debris and remove any you find.

3. To test the pump electrically, use a multimeter set to measure resistance. Disconnect the pump’s wiring harness and measure across its terminals.

4. Compare the reading to the specification in your dishwasher’s manual. A reading of zero or infinite resistance indicates a faulty pump.

5. If the pump is clogged, cleaning it may restore function. If the pump is electrically faulty, it likely needs replacement.

6. If you’re uncomfortable with electrical testing, focus on clearing debris and consider professional help for electrical issues.

How to clear clogs in the drain system beyond the dishwasher

1. Check the garbage disposal or sink drain if your dishwasher drains into them.

2. Run water and observe if the drain clears properly. If the disposal has a reset button, press it.

3. Use a plunger or plumber’s snake to clear blockages in the sink drain.

4. Avoid chemical drain cleaners because they can damage plumbing and dishwasher parts.

5. If the dishwasher drain hose connects to a garbage disposal, ensure the knockout plug inside the disposal inlet has been removed. If not removed, water can’t exit the dishwasher.

Clearing these external clogs often fixes drainage problems without opening the dishwasher further.

How to verify the dishwasher is draining properly after fixing

1. After cleaning filters, hoses, and pumps, reassemble everything and restore power.

2. Run a short rinse cycle and watch to see if water drains completely.

3. Open the dishwasher at the end of the cycle to check for standing water.

4. If no water remains, the problem is likely fixed. If water still pools, there may be a remaining blockage or pump fault.

5. Repeat cleaning steps if necessary or consider professional help.

When should I call a professional to fix my dishwasher?

Call a professional if cleaning the filter, hose, and pump doesn’t restore drainage. Also seek help if you hear unusual pump noises, the pump shows no electrical continuity, water keeps backing up, or the dishwasher leaks.

If you’re not comfortable working with electrical parts or plumbing, or if you need to replace parts beyond cleaning, a technician can diagnose and fix the problem safely. Some repairs require special tools or parts not easily handled at home.

Conclusion

Following these steps should restore your dishwasher’s drainage. If problems persist or you notice mechanical or electrical faults, professional service will prevent further damage. Regularly cleaning the filter and drain areas helps avoid future drainage issues.