A dishwasher is one of the most used appliances in a kitchen. If it stops working, it can be frustrating. One of the most common problems is when the dishwasher won’t drain. In this article, we will discuss how to fix a dishwasher that won’t drain.
What Causes a Dishwasher to Not Drain?
Before we discuss how to fix a dishwasher that won’t drain, let’s understand what causes this problem. There are several reasons why a dishwasher won’t drain:
- Clogged drain hose
- Clogged air gap
- Faulty drain pump
- Blocked garbage disposal
- Broken or clogged dishwasher filter
Identifying the root cause will help you fix the problem effectively.
Steps to Fix a Dishwasher That Won’t Drain
Step 1: Turn off the Power
Safety should be your top priority. Before you start fixing the dishwasher, make sure to turn off the power supply. You can do this by unplugging the dishwasher from the power source or turning off the circuit breaker.
Step 2: Clean the Filter
The dishwasher filter is located at the bottom of the dishwasher. If it’s clogged, the dishwasher won’t drain. Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly. If the filter is broken, you may need to replace it.
Step 3: Check the Drain Hose
The drain hose is responsible for draining water from the dishwasher. If it’s clogged, the dishwasher won’t drain. Check the drain hose for any obstructions. If you find any, remove them. If the drain hose is damaged, you may need to replace it.
Step 4: Inspect the Air Gap
The air gap prevents wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher. If it’s clogged, the dishwasher won’t drain. Inspect the air gap and clean it thoroughly. If it’s broken, you may need to replace it.
Step 5: Check the Garbage Disposal
If your dishwasher is connected to a garbage disposal, make sure it’s not clogged. A clogged garbage disposal can prevent the dishwasher from draining. Run the garbage disposal to clear any obstructions.
Step 6: Test the Drain Pump
The drain pump is responsible for pumping water out of the dishwasher. If it’s faulty, the dishwasher won’t drain. Test the drain pump by running a cycle and listening for any unusual sounds. If you hear any strange noises, the drain pump may need to be replaced.
FAQs
Q: Can a clogged dishwasher filter cause the dishwasher to not drain?
A: Yes, a clogged dishwasher filter can prevent the dishwasher from draining. Make sure to clean the filter regularly to avoid this problem.
Q: How often should I clean the dishwasher filter?
A: You should clean the dishwasher filter at least once a month to prevent clogging.
Q: Can a broken drain hose cause the dishwasher to not drain?
A: Yes, a broken drain hose can prevent the dishwasher from draining. If you find any damage, replace the drain hose.
Q: How can I prevent my dishwasher from not draining?
A: You can prevent your dishwasher from not draining by cleaning the filter regularly, checking the drain hose for obstructions, and running the garbage disposal before running the dishwasher.
Conclusion
A dishwasher that won’t drain can be a frustrating problem, but it’s not difficult to fix. By following these simple steps, you can troubleshoot and fix the problem effectively. Remember to always prioritize your safety and turn off the power supply before fixing the dishwasher.