Your Go-To for Appliance Know-How

Why Is My Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Draining? Troubleshooting And Solutions

Essential Information

  • The air gap is a small gap between the dishwasher’s drain hose and the sink drain.
  • Now that you know the common causes of a Whirlpool dishwasher not draining, let’s go through the steps to troubleshoot and fix the problem.
  • To test the drain pump, disconnect it from the dishwasher and connect it directly to a power source.

A dishwasher is a convenient appliance that saves time and effort in the kitchen. However, when it stops draining properly, it can be a major inconvenience. If you’re facing this issue with your Whirlpool dishwasher, don’t worry. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to troubleshoot and fix the problem.

Common Causes of Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Draining

There are several common causes why a Whirlpool dishwasher may not drain properly. These include:

  • Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose is responsible for carrying wastewater away from the dishwasher. If it becomes clogged with food particles, grease, or other debris, it can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly.
  • Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pumping the wastewater out of the dishwasher. If it fails, the dishwasher will not be able to drain properly.
  • Blocked Air Gap: The air gap is a small gap between the dishwasher’s drain hose and the sink drain. This gap prevents wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher. If the air gap becomes blocked, it can cause the dishwasher to not drain properly.
  • Defective Door Latch: The door latch is responsible for keeping the dishwasher door closed during the wash cycle. If the door latch is defective, it may not seal properly, allowing water to leak out and preventing the dishwasher from draining properly.

Troubleshooting and Fixing the Problem

Now that you know the common causes of a Whirlpool dishwasher not draining, let’s go through the steps to troubleshoot and fix the problem:

1. Check the Drain Hose: Inspect the drain hose for any clogs or kinks. If you find any clogs, remove them using a drain snake or a pair of pliers. If the drain hose is kinked, straighten it out.
2. Test the Drain Pump: To test the drain pump, disconnect it from the dishwasher and connect it directly to a power source. If the pump runs, it is working properly. If it does not run, it needs to be replaced.
3. Clear the Air Gap: Locate the air gap, which is usually installed near the sink drain. Unscrew the cap of the air gap and clean it thoroughly. Remove any debris or buildup that may be blocking the gap.
4. Inspect the Door Latch: Check the door latch for any signs of damage or wear. If the latch is damaged or worn, it may not be sealing properly, allowing water to leak out. Replace the door latch if necessary.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips that may help you fix the problem:

  • Run the dishwasher through a cleaning cycle: This can help to remove any buildup or debris that may be causing the dishwasher to not drain properly.
  • Use a dishwasher cleaner: Dishwasher cleaners can help to break down grease and food particles that may be clogging the drain hose or the drain pump.
  • Contact a qualified appliance repair technician: If you are unable to fix the problem yourself, contact a qualified appliance repair technician. They will be able to diagnose and fix the problem quickly and efficiently.

Conclusion

If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not draining properly, don’t panic. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this blog post, you can easily diagnose and fix the problem. If you are unable to fix the problem yourself, contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.

Was this page helpful?No
NW
About the Author
Nancy is the driving force behind AppliKnow, a blog dedicated to helping home cooks navigate the ever-evolving world of kitchen appliances. With over a decade of hands-on experience in the kitchen, Nancy has become an authority on the latest innovations in cooking technology.