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Why Does My Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Drain? Urgent Solutions Inside!

Quick summary

  • The air gap is a small gap between the dishwasher’s drain hose and the sink drain.
  • When the dishwasher is overloaded, the dishes can block the water jets and prevent the water from draining properly.
  • A damaged or kinked drain hose can restrict the flow of water and prevent the dishwasher from draining properly.

If you’re facing the issue of your Whirlpool dishwasher not draining properly, you’re not alone. This is a common problem that can be caused by various factors. Here are some of the most prevalent causes:

1. Clogged Drain Hose: A clogged drain hose is one of the most common reasons why a Whirlpool dishwasher doesn‘t drain. Food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate in the hose over time, obstructing the flow of water.

2. Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pumping water out of the dishwasher. If the drain pump is malfunctioning, it can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly.

3. Blocked Air Gap: The air gap is a small gap between the dishwasher’s drain hose and the sink drain. This gap allows air to enter the drain hose, preventing water from siphoning back into the dishwasher. If the air gap is blocked, it can cause the dishwasher to not drain properly.

4. Overloading the Dishwasher: Overloading the dishwasher can prevent the dishes from getting properly cleaned and can also lead to drainage problems. When the dishwasher is overloaded, the dishes can block the water jets and prevent the water from draining properly.

5. Damaged or Kinked Drain Hose: A damaged or kinked drain hose can restrict the flow of water and prevent the dishwasher from draining properly.

6. Faulty Door Latch: A faulty door latch can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly. If the door latch is not properly engaged, the dishwasher may not be able to complete the drain cycle.

7. Clogged Filter: The filter in the dishwasher is designed to trap food particles and other debris. If the filter is clogged, it can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly.

Troubleshooting and Solutions

1. Check the Drain Hose: Inspect the drain hose for any clogs or kinks. If you find any clogs, remove them and clean the hose thoroughly. If the hose is damaged, replace it with a new one.

2. Test the Drain Pump: To test the drain pump, pour a gallon of water into the dishwasher. If the water drains out within 30 seconds, the drain pump is working properly. If the water does not drain out, the drain pump may be faulty and needs to be replaced.

3. Clear the Air Gap: Locate the air gap, which is usually a small, round device located near the sink drain. Clean the air gap by removing the cover and rinsing it with water. If the air gap is clogged, replace it with a new one.

4. Avoid Overloading the Dishwasher: Load the dishwasher properly to ensure that the dishes do not block the water jets. Make sure that there is enough space between the dishes so that the water can circulate freely.

5. Inspect the Drain Hose for Damage: Check the drain hose for any damage or kinks. If the hose is damaged, replace it with a new one.

6. Check the Door Latch: Ensure that the door latch is properly engaged before starting the dishwasher. If the door latch is not properly engaged, the dishwasher may not be able to complete the drain cycle.

7. Clean the Filter: Remove the filter from the dishwasher and clean it thoroughly with warm water and dish soap. Make sure to remove any food particles or debris from the filter.

Conclusion: Resolving Whirlpool Dishwasher Drainage Issues

By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can identify and resolve the cause of your Whirlpool dishwasher‘s drainage problem. If you are unable to resolve the issue on your own, it is recommended to contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.

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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.