Common Causes for Your Dishwasher Not Draining

Clogged Filter

One of the most common culprits behind drainage issues is a clogged dishwasher filter. Over time, food particles, grease, and debris can collect in the filter and prevent water from draining smoothly. Most modern dishwashers have easily removable filters that you can rinse under warm water. Be sure to clean the filter regularly to keep water flowing smoothly.

Blocked or Kinked Drain Hose

The drain hose carries wastewater from the dishwasher to your garbage disposal or drain line. If this hose becomes kinked, clogged, or blocked, it can stop the water from draining out properly. Check for any obvious bends or buildup and clear the hose as needed. In some cases, you may need to disconnect it to inspect for blockages internally. If a blocked or kinked drain hose is the problem, reach out to a nearby plumbing repair service for help.

Garbage Disposal Connection Issues

If your dishwasher drains into a garbage disposal, be sure the knockout plug inside the disposal’s drain inlet was removed when it was installed. A newly installed garbage disposal can have the plug still in place, which blocks the dishwasher from draining. Also, a clogged or full disposal can back up the dishwasher’s drainage system, so running the disposal before starting the dishwasher is a good habit.

Faulty Drain Pump

The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the dishwasher during the drain cycle. If the pump is malfunctioning, water may remain in the tub. A faulty pump may make strange noises or stop working altogether. It’s advisable to call a local plumbing repair service to replace a faulty drain pump. This is not your typical DIY plumbing repair task.

Air Gap Problems

Many dishwashers have an air gap, which is a small cylindrical fitting mounted on the sink or countertop, to prevent dirty water from siphoning back into the dishwasher. If the air gap is clogged with debris, it can stop water from draining. The solution is to remove the cap and clean out any buildup with a small brush or pipe cleaner.