Why Is Your Dishwasher Not Draining? Here’s The Surprising Reason You’ll Never Believe

A dishwasher is a convenient appliance that saves time and effort in cleaning dishes. However, when it stops draining properly, it can be a frustrating experience. There are several reasons why a dishwasher may not drain, ranging from simple clogs to more complex mechanical issues. In this blog post, we will explore the most common causes of dishwasher drainage problems and provide step-by-step solutions to help you resolve the issue.

1. Clogged Drain Hose:

The drain hose is responsible for carrying wastewater from the dishwasher to the drainpipe. A clog in the drain hose can prevent the water from draining properly.

Solution:

1. Disconnect the drain hose from the dishwasher and the drainpipe.
2. Inspect the hose for any kinks, clogs, or damage.
3. If there is a clog, use a plumber’s snake or a long, thin object to clear the obstruction.
4. Reconnect the drain hose to the dishwasher and the drainpipe.

2. Clogged Drain Filter:

The drain filter is designed to catch food particles and other debris to prevent them from entering the drain hose. Over time, the filter can become clogged, restricting the flow of water.

Solution:

1. Locate the drain filter, which is usually at the bottom of the dishwasher tub.
2. Remove the filter by unscrewing it or lifting it out.
3. Rinse the filter under running water to remove any debris.
4. Inspect the filter for damage or holes. If the filter is damaged, replace it with a new one.
5. Reinstall the filter in the dishwasher.

3. Faulty Drain Pump:

The drain pump is responsible for pumping the wastewater out of the dishwasher. If the drain pump fails, the water will not drain properly.

Solution:

1. Check if the drain pump is receiving power. Use a multimeter to test the voltage at the pump’s terminals.
2. If the pump is not receiving power, check the wiring connections and the circuit breaker or fuse that supplies power to the dishwasher.
3. If the pump is receiving power but not working, it may need to be replaced. Contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.

4. Faulty Check Valve:

The check valve prevents water from flowing back into the dishwasher after it has been drained. If the check valve fails, water may accumulate in the dishwasher, causing it to not drain properly.

Solution:

1. Locate the check valve, which is usually connected to the drain hose.
2. Inspect the check valve for damage or wear. If the check valve is damaged, replace it with a new one.
3. Reinstall the check valve in the dishwasher.

5. Kinked or Crushed Drain Hose:

A kinked or crushed drain hose can restrict the flow of water, causing the dishwasher to not drain properly.

Solution:

1. Inspect the drain hose for any kinks or crushes.
2. If the hose is kinked, straighten it out.
3. If the hose is crushed, replace it with a new one.

6. Faulty Door Switch:

The door switch is responsible for detecting when the dishwasher door is closed. If the door switch fails, the dishwasher may not start or may not drain properly.

Solution:

1. Check if the door switch is working properly. Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the switch when the door is open and closed.
2. If the door switch is faulty, replace it with a new one.

Wrapping Up:

If you have tried the solutions mentioned above and your dishwasher is still not draining properly, it is recommended to contact a qualified appliance repair technician for further assistance. They will be able to diagnose the exact cause of the problem and perform the necessary repairs to get your dishwasher draining again.