How to Drain a Dishwasher: A Step-by-Step Guide

A dishwasher that won’t drain is a major kitchen headache. Standing water not only prevents you from washing dishes, but it can also lead to unpleasant odors and even potential damage. Luckily, often you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue yourself without calling a plumber. This article will guide you through the steps to drain your dishwasher safely and effectively.

Why is My Dishwasher Not Draining?

Before diving into the draining process, it’s helpful to understand common reasons why your dishwasher might be retaining water. These include:

• Clogged Drain Basket/Filter: Food particles and debris accumulate over time, blocking the drain.
• Kinked or Blocked Drain Hose: A bent or obstructed hose can prevent water from flowing out.
• Clogged Air Gap: (If applicable) This small cylinder near your faucet helps prevent wastewater backflow. A blockage here can impede drainage.
• Faulty Drain Pump: The pump may be malfunctioning or have a blockage.

Draining Your Dishwasher: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s get to the process of draining that standing water. Remember to always disconnect the power supply to your dishwasher before doing any work.

Step 1: Safety First – Unplug the Dishwasher

Locate the power cord and unplug the dishwasher from the electrical outlet. This is a crucial safety measure to prevent electrical shock during the process.

Step 2: Remove Standing Water (If Possible)

If there’s a large amount of water, try to remove as much as possible manually. Use a sponge, towels, or a small container to scoop out the excess water. Be prepared for a bit of a mess.

Step 3: Inspect and Clean the Drain Basket/Filter

Most dishwashers have a removable filter at the bottom of the tub. Locate it (consult your dishwasher’s manual if needed) and carefully remove it. Clean out any food particles, debris, or other obstructions. Rinse the filter thoroughly under running water and set it aside.

Step 4: Check the Drain Hose

The drain hose is usually located under the sink. Inspect it carefully for any kinks, bends, or signs of damage. If you see any kinks, gently straighten them. Disconnect the drain hose from the garbage disposal or sink drain connection, and check for any clogs in the hose itself. You can use a stiff wire or a plumbing snake to clear any blockages. Reconnect the hose tightly.

Step 5: Check the Air Gap (If Present)

If you have an air gap installed, unscrew the cap and check for blockages. Clean it out if needed and reassemble.

Step 6: Test the Drainage

Reconnect the power to the dishwasher and run a short cycle (like a rinse cycle) to see if the issue is resolved. If the dishwasher is now draining correctly, congratulations! You’ve fixed the problem.

Step 7: What to do if the Dishwasher Still Isn’t Draining

If the dishwasher still has standing water, the issue may be with the drain pump. The drain pump could be clogged or the pump may have failed. At this point, it’s best to contact a qualified appliance repair technician. They can diagnose the problem and make necessary repairs. Do not try to repair the drain pump if you are not a qualified technician.

Preventing Future Drain Issues

Here are a few tips to help prevent future draining problems:

• Scrape Plates: Remove large food particles from your plates before loading them into the dishwasher.
• Regular Filter Cleaning: Clean the drain filter regularly (at least once a month, or more frequently depending on your use).
• Run the Garbage Disposal: Before running the dishwasher, run your garbage disposal to help clear any obstructions that may be in the waste lines.
• Inspect Hoses Regularly: Periodically check your drain hose for kinks or blockages.

Conclusion

Dealing with a clogged dishwasher can be frustrating, but with these steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. If these methods don’t solve the problem, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Regular maintenance is key to preventing future clogs and keeping your dishwasher in optimal working condition.