What to Do When Your Dishwasher Is Not Draining

While dishwashers can be very convenient, they have their fair share of problems. One of the most common problems that dishwashers “suffer” from is not draining correctly.

If you open your dishwasher door after a cycle and see that there is still an inch or two of water at the bottom, then there are some simple steps you can take to solve the problem.

Unfortunately, while it may be an easy fix, there are many reasons why a dishwasher won’t drain, and some problems may need an experienced eye to diagnose.  

5 DIY Steps to Solve Your Dishwasher Draining Problem

1. Check the Drain Hose for Kinks or Clogs

Sometimes, dishwashers won’t drain because the drain hose is blocked in some way. The drain hose is usually located in the sink cabinet or whatever cabinet is adjacent to your dishwasher.

1. Unplug your dishwasher for safety reasons
2. Inspect the hose for any kinks and straighten if there are any
3. Remove one end of the hose by unscrewing the clamp that is holding it in place
4. Blow through the hose to check for blockage
5. If a clog is suspected, use a thin wire and run it through the hose to remove any blockages
6. Reattach the hose and give your dishwasher a test run

2. Clean the Filter

Over time, food particles can block the filter which can cause draining problems. The filter is located at the bottom of your dishwasher over the drainage hole.

1. Remove the filter 
2. Carefully rinse and wash the filter using a soft sponge
3. Once cleaned, re-insert the filter and give your dishwasher a test run

3. Reset Your Dishwasher

A dishwasher, like a laptop or a smartphone, sometimes needs to be “rebooted” to solve any problems like an incomplete wash cycle.

1. Hold the start/stop button or power button until the dishwasher resets or powers down
2. Then, turn the washer back on and give it a test run 

4. Unclog Your Sink Drain and Garbage Disposal

Believe it or not, your dishwasher may be completely fine, and the real “culprit” is a clogged sink or garbage disposal.

1. Check for clogs in your sink drain and garbage disposal
2. Check under the sink to ensure that all the valves are in an open position
3. If the sink is clogged, pour a certified and safe draining solution down the drain
4. Once unclogged, give your dishwasher a test run

5. Examine Your Detergent Use

Too much detergent or using the wrong kind can cause drainage problems. 

1. Check to see how much detergent you should use and what kind
2. Clean the filter
3. Give your dishwasher a test run with the proper amount of detergent

When to Call a Professional

If none of these solutions work, then your dishwasher may have a more complicated problem, like a faulty drain pump or impeller. In these cases, it is best to call a professional to avoid any further problems.

That is where we at Puls can help. Puls has a wide network of experts that can quickly diagnose and fix any problems your dishwasher is experiencing. So, if you have any questions or want to get started, feel free to contact us here.