Dishwasher Not Draining

Dishwasher Repair San Diego

Clogged airgap, clogged drain hose or kinked drain hose are common reason why the dishwasher not draining. Sometimes, the dishwasher will not drain due to failed or blocked drain pump. Proper draining is very important. If the dishwasher is not draining properly, it will wash dishes with dirty water. Certain dishwasher brands will interrupt the cycle until all the water is drained out of the tub.

Don't wait until it's too late to get your dishwasher serviced. Call us or schedule service visit online.


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dishwasher not draining

Clogged Airgap

Some dishwashers use airgap to prevent dirty water backup from sink, and contamination of your dishes. If airgap gets clogged, it can impact the appliance’s ability to drain. To tell if your dishwasher has an air gap, look for a small stainless cylindric cap sitting by the faucet. If you have one, check to see if it’s clogged by removing the top cover and pulling straight up. Then, depending on the design, unscrew or release the tabs on the inner cap. Remove any debris or food buildup that may have accumulated and then reassemble the airgap.

Clogged Drain Hose

The drain hose is most likely to clog where it connects to the drain underneath the sink. Loosen the drain hose clamp and carefully disconnect it from the airgap, and garbage disposal drain port. Inspect and clean any debris or food buildup from the drain connector or the end of the drain hose. Then reconnect it and tighten the hose clamp.

Kinked Drain Hose

First check to see if the issue is where the hose connects to the drain underneath the sink. Kinks commonly happen there if the weight of the hose isn’t supported properly. Kinks also occur where the hose passes through the cabinet underneath the sink to connect the dishwasher to the drain. Also, if the excess drain hose coiled behind or underneath the dishwasher. Inspect the drain hose in these three areas to make sure there are no sharp bends in the hose. Remove the kinks and test dishwasher drain operation.

Drain Pump Failure

First, check for AC or DC supply to the drain pump. Most drain pumps operate on 120V. If there is proper voltage supplied to the drain pump, and pump is not working, replaced the drain pump. If pump is working but not draining check for the debris in the pump or for broken impeller. If there is not proper voltage supplied to the drain pump, check electronic controls or wire harness.

If you haven’t had success using the steps above, it may be time to schedule your dishwasher service.

Call Us or Schedule a service appointment online.