Frigidaire Dishwasher Not Draining? Troubleshooting and Solutions

Is your Frigidaire dishwasher leaving you with a sink full of dirty, soapy water after each cycle? A dishwasher that won’t drain is a common problem, and thankfully, often a fixable one. Before you call a repair technician, let’s explore the potential causes and step-by-step solutions to get your Frigidaire dishwasher draining properly again.

This comprehensive guide will cover everything from simple checks to more involved repairs, empowering you to diagnose and resolve the issue. We’ll focus specifically on Frigidaire dishwashers, but many of the principles apply to other brands as well. Remember to always disconnect the power to your dishwasher before attempting any repairs.

## Understanding the Frigidaire Dishwasher Drain System

Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s helpful to understand how your Frigidaire dishwasher’s drain system works. The process generally involves these key components:

* **Dishwasher Sump:** This is the lowest part of the dishwasher tub, where water collects during and after the wash cycles. It contains the drain pump and often a filter to catch food particles.
* **Drain Filter:** Located inside the sump, the drain filter prevents large food particles and debris from entering and damaging the drain pump.
* **Drain Pump:** The heart of the drain system, the drain pump is an electric motor that forces the water out of the dishwasher and into the drain hose.
* **Drain Hose:** This flexible hose connects the drain pump to the house’s drain system, usually either the garbage disposal or a dedicated drain pipe under the sink.
* **Air Gap (Optional):** An air gap is a small device installed on the sink deck, designed to prevent wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher. Not all dishwashers have one.
* **Check Valve:** Some models incorporate a check valve within the drain pump assembly to prevent backflow.

## Common Causes of a Frigidaire Dishwasher Not Draining

Several factors can contribute to a Frigidaire dishwasher failing to drain. Here’s a breakdown of the most common culprits:

1. **Clogged Drain Filter:** This is the most frequent cause. Food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate in the filter, restricting water flow.
2. **Clogged Drain Hose:** The drain hose can become blocked with food particles, grease, or even kinks that restrict or stop water flow.
3. **Clogged Air Gap:** If your dishwasher has an air gap, it can become clogged with debris, preventing proper drainage.
4. **Faulty Drain Pump:** A malfunctioning drain pump is unable to effectively pump water out of the dishwasher. This can be due to a damaged impeller, a burned-out motor, or an electrical issue.
5. **Obstructed Impeller:** The impeller is the rotating part of the drain pump that moves the water. It can become jammed by small objects like broken glass or plastic.
6. **Kinked or Damaged Drain Hose:** A kinked drain hose restricts water flow. Damage to the hose can also lead to leaks and drainage problems.
7. **High Loop Installation Issue:** If the drain hose isn’t properly installed with a high loop to prevent backflow, it might be siphoning water back into the dishwasher.
8. **Clogged Garbage Disposal:** If the dishwasher drain hose is connected to the garbage disposal, a clogged disposal can prevent the dishwasher from draining.
9. **Check Valve Issues:** A faulty or stuck check valve can prevent proper drainage.
10. **Control Board Malfunction:** Although less common, a faulty control board can sometimes cause the drain pump to not activate.

## Troubleshooting Steps: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s get into the troubleshooting process. Follow these steps in order, starting with the simplest checks and progressing to more complex solutions.

**Step 1: Safety First! Disconnect the Power**

Before you begin any troubleshooting or repair work, always disconnect the power to your Frigidaire dishwasher. Locate the circuit breaker that controls the dishwasher and turn it off. This will prevent electrical shock and ensure your safety.

**Step 2: Check for Error Codes**

Many modern Frigidaire dishwashers have digital displays that show error codes. Consult your dishwasher’s owner’s manual to identify the meaning of any error codes displayed. Some error codes specifically relate to draining issues, which can provide valuable clues.

**Step 3: Remove Standing Water**

Before you can inspect the drain filter or pump, you’ll need to remove the standing water from the dishwasher tub. You can do this in several ways:

* **Use a Cup or Container:** Manually scoop out the water with a cup or small container. This is the most basic method, but it can be time-consuming.
* **Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum:** A wet/dry vacuum is an efficient way to remove large amounts of water quickly. Be careful not to damage any of the dishwasher’s internal components.
* **Use a Sponge or Towels:** Absorb the water with a sponge or towels. This method is suitable for smaller amounts of water.

**Step 4: Inspect and Clean the Drain Filter**

The drain filter is the most common culprit behind drainage problems. Here’s how to inspect and clean it:

1. **Locate the Drain Filter:** The drain filter is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, near the spray arm. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location if you’re unsure.
2. **Remove the Filter:** The filter usually twists or lifts out. Some models may have a two-part filter system.
3. **Inspect the Filter:** Examine the filter for any signs of blockage, such as food particles, grease, or debris.
4. **Clean the Filter:** Rinse the filter thoroughly under running water. Use a brush or sponge to remove any stubborn debris. For greasy buildup, you can soak the filter in hot, soapy water.
5. **Reinstall the Filter:** Once the filter is clean and dry, reinstall it securely in its original position.

**Step 5: Check the Drain Hose for Kinks and Obstructions**

The drain hose can become kinked or blocked, preventing water from flowing properly. Here’s how to check it:

1. **Locate the Drain Hose:** The drain hose is usually connected to the drain pump at the bottom of the dishwasher and runs to either the garbage disposal or a dedicated drain pipe under the sink.
2. **Inspect for Kinks:** Check the entire length of the hose for any kinks or bends that might be restricting water flow. Straighten out any kinks you find.
3. **Disconnect the Drain Hose:** Disconnect the drain hose from both the dishwasher and the drain connection (garbage disposal or drain pipe). Be prepared for some water to spill out.
4. **Check for Obstructions:** Inspect the inside of the hose for any blockages. You can use a long, flexible brush or a straightened coat hanger to dislodge any debris. You can also try flushing the hose with water from a garden hose.
5. **Reinstall the Drain Hose:** Once the hose is clear, reconnect it securely to both the dishwasher and the drain connection. Make sure the connections are tight to prevent leaks.

**Step 6: Inspect and Clean the Air Gap (If Applicable)**

If your dishwasher has an air gap, it’s important to check it for clogs. Here’s how:

1. **Locate the Air Gap:** The air gap is a small, cylindrical device usually located on the sink deck, near the faucet.
2. **Remove the Air Gap Cover:** The cover usually twists or pulls off.
3. **Inspect for Obstructions:** Check the air gap for any signs of blockage, such as food particles or debris.
4. **Clean the Air Gap:** Use a small brush or toothpick to remove any debris from the air gap. You can also flush it with water.
5. **Reinstall the Air Gap Cover:** Once the air gap is clean, reinstall the cover securely.

**Step 7: Check the Garbage Disposal (If Applicable)**

If your dishwasher drains into the garbage disposal, a clogged disposal can prevent the dishwasher from draining. Here’s how to check it:

1. **Run the Garbage Disposal:** Turn on the garbage disposal to see if it’s working properly. If it’s clogged or not running, try to clear the clog following the manufacturer’s instructions for your garbage disposal model.
2. **Check the Knockout Plug:** When a new garbage disposal is installed, there’s a knockout plug that needs to be removed to allow the dishwasher drain hose to connect properly. If this plug wasn’t removed, it will block the dishwasher drain. This is especially common with new disposal installations. Locate the inlet where the dishwasher drain hose connects. It may be necessary to disconnect the hose to check if the knockout plug is still in place. Use a screwdriver and hammer to carefully knock it out if it’s still there.

**Step 8: Inspect the Drain Pump**

If the previous steps haven’t resolved the issue, the drain pump might be faulty. Inspecting the drain pump involves a few more steps and requires caution.

1. **Access the Drain Pump:** The location of the drain pump varies depending on the Frigidaire dishwasher model. In many cases, you’ll need to remove the lower access panel or kick plate to access the pump. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
2. **Visually Inspect the Pump:** Look for any signs of damage to the pump housing or wiring. Check for any visible obstructions around the pump impeller.
3. **Check the Impeller:** The impeller is the rotating part of the pump that moves the water. Try to manually turn the impeller with your finger. It should spin freely. If it’s stuck or difficult to turn, it might be jammed by an object.
4. **Remove Obstructions (If Possible):** If you can see an obstruction blocking the impeller, carefully try to remove it with pliers or tweezers. Be careful not to damage the impeller blades.
5. **Test the Drain Pump with a Multimeter (Advanced):** If you have experience with electrical testing, you can use a multimeter to check if the drain pump is receiving power. Disconnect the wires from the pump and use the multimeter to measure the voltage while the dishwasher is in a drain cycle. If the pump is not receiving power, the problem might be with the control board or wiring.
6. **Consider Replacing the Drain Pump:** If the drain pump is damaged, not receiving power, or not functioning properly, you might need to replace it. You can purchase a replacement drain pump from an appliance parts store or online retailer. Make sure to get the correct part for your Frigidaire dishwasher model.

**Step 9: Check the Check Valve (If Applicable)**

Some Frigidaire dishwashers have a check valve within the drain pump assembly. This valve prevents water from flowing back into the dishwasher after it’s been pumped out. A faulty or stuck check valve can cause drainage problems.

1. **Locate the Check Valve:** The check valve is usually located near the drain pump outlet. Refer to your dishwasher’s parts diagram for the exact location.
2. **Inspect the Check Valve:** Check the valve for any signs of damage or blockage. Make sure the valve flap moves freely in one direction and seals properly in the other direction.
3. **Clean or Replace the Check Valve:** If the check valve is dirty or stuck, try cleaning it with a brush and soapy water. If the valve is damaged, you’ll need to replace it.

**Step 10: Check the High Loop Installation**

The drain hose should be installed with a “high loop” to prevent wastewater from siphoning back into the dishwasher. The high loop is a section of the drain hose that’s routed as high as possible under the sink, ideally near the countertop level.

1. **Inspect the Drain Hose Routing:** Check the routing of the drain hose under the sink. Make sure there’s a high loop that’s securely attached to the underside of the countertop or cabinet.
2. **Adjust the High Loop (If Necessary):** If the high loop is missing or not properly positioned, adjust the hose so that it forms a high loop. Secure the hose with clamps or zip ties to prevent it from sagging.

**Step 11: Reset the Dishwasher**

Sometimes, a simple reset can resolve minor glitches that might be causing drainage problems. To reset your Frigidaire dishwasher:

1. **Turn Off the Power:** Turn off the power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker for at least 5 minutes.
2. **Turn On the Power:** Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker.
3. **Run a Test Cycle:** Run a short wash cycle to see if the dishwasher is draining properly.

**Step 12: Check the Control Board (Advanced)**

In rare cases, a faulty control board can cause the drain pump to not activate. Diagnosing a control board issue requires advanced troubleshooting skills and specialized equipment. If you suspect a control board problem, it’s best to consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

## Preventing Future Drainage Problems

Once you’ve resolved the drainage issue, here are some tips to prevent future problems:

* **Scrape Plates Thoroughly:** Before loading dishes into the dishwasher, scrape off any large food particles. This will reduce the amount of debris that ends up in the drain filter and pump.
* **Clean the Drain Filter Regularly:** Clean the drain filter at least once a month, or more often if you notice a buildup of debris.
* **Run the Garbage Disposal Regularly:** If your dishwasher drains into the garbage disposal, run the disposal regularly to prevent clogs.
* **Use Dishwasher Detergent Properly:** Use the correct amount of dishwasher detergent and avoid using excessive amounts, as this can lead to buildup in the dishwasher.
* **Avoid Placing Small Items in the Dishwasher:** Small items like bottle caps or plastic pieces can fall into the drain pump and cause damage.
* **Check the Drain Hose Periodically:** Inspect the drain hose periodically for kinks or damage.

## When to Call a Professional

While many dishwasher drainage problems can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting, there are times when it’s best to call a professional appliance repair technician.

* **You’re Not Comfortable Working with Electrical Components:** If you’re not comfortable working with electrical components, it’s best to leave the more complex repairs to a professional.
* **You’ve Tried All the Troubleshooting Steps and the Dishwasher Still Won’t Drain:** If you’ve followed all the troubleshooting steps and the dishwasher still won’t drain, there might be a more serious underlying problem.
* **You Suspect a Control Board Issue:** Diagnosing and repairing control board issues requires specialized knowledge and equipment.
* **You’re Not Sure What’s Causing the Problem:** If you’re not sure what’s causing the drainage problem, a professional can diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate repairs.

## Conclusion

A Frigidaire dishwasher that won’t drain can be a frustrating problem, but with a little troubleshooting, you can often resolve the issue yourself. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can identify the cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to get your dishwasher draining properly again. Remember to always prioritize safety and disconnect the power to the dishwasher before attempting any repairs. And if you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician.