Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Draining? A Comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide
Is your Whirlpool dishwasher stubbornly refusing to drain, leaving you with a pool of murky water and a sink full of dirty dishes? This is a frustrating problem, but before you call a repair technician, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to diagnose and potentially fix the issue yourself. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most common causes of a Whirlpool dishwasher not draining, providing detailed instructions and helpful tips to get your appliance back in working order.
Understanding the Dishwasher Drainage System
Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s helpful to understand how your Whirlpool dishwasher’s drainage system works. The process generally involves these key components:
* **The Drain Basket/Filter:** This is the first line of defense, catching large food particles and debris that could clog the drain system. It’s typically located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, often near the spray arm.
* **The Drain Pump:** This electric pump is responsible for forcing the dirty water out of the dishwasher and into your home’s drain system. It’s usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher, behind a lower access panel.
* **The Drain Hose:** This flexible hose connects the drain pump to either the garbage disposal or a dedicated drain line under your sink.
* **The Air Gap (if applicable):** An air gap is a small, cylindrical device installed on the sink countertop, near the faucet. It’s designed to prevent wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher, acting as a one-way valve.
* **The Garbage Disposal (if applicable):** If your dishwasher drains through the garbage disposal, the disposal needs to be clear for the dishwasher to drain properly.
When any of these components are blocked or malfunctioning, the dishwasher may fail to drain effectively.
Safety First!
Before you begin any troubleshooting or repair work, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety:
* **Disconnect the Power:** Turn off the dishwasher’s circuit breaker at your home’s electrical panel. This will prevent any accidental electrical shocks.
* **Turn off the Water Supply:** Locate the water shut-off valve for the dishwasher, usually located under the sink, and turn it off. This will prevent water from leaking during the troubleshooting process.
* **Wear Gloves:** Protect your hands from dirty water and potential contaminants by wearing rubber gloves.
Troubleshooting Steps: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’ve taken the necessary safety precautions, let’s move on to troubleshooting the drainage problem. Work through these steps in order, starting with the simplest and most common causes:
1. Check the Drain Basket/Filter
This is often the culprit behind a dishwasher that won’t drain. Over time, food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate in the drain basket/filter, restricting water flow. Here’s how to clean it:
* **Locate the Drain Basket/Filter:** Consult your Whirlpool dishwasher’s user manual if you’re unsure of its location. It’s typically at the bottom of the dishwasher tub.
* **Remove the Filter:** Most Whirlpool dishwashers have a two- or three-piece filter system. Twist and lift the filter to remove it. Some models may have a separate screen filter underneath the main filter.
* **Clean the Filter(s):** Rinse the filter(s) thoroughly under running water. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to scrub away any stubborn debris. Pay close attention to removing any grease or food particles that are blocking the filter’s mesh.
* **Reinstall the Filter:** Once the filter is clean, reassemble the filter system and place it back into the dishwasher, ensuring it’s properly seated and locked into place.
* **Run a Test Cycle:** After cleaning the filter, run a short rinse cycle to see if the dishwasher now drains properly.
2. Inspect the Drain Hose
A kinked, clogged, or improperly installed drain hose can also prevent the dishwasher from draining. Follow these steps to inspect the hose:
* **Locate the Drain Hose:** The drain hose is typically located under the sink, connecting the dishwasher to either the garbage disposal or a dedicated drain line.
* **Check for Kinks:** Carefully inspect the entire length of the drain hose for any kinks or bends that might be restricting water flow. If you find a kink, try to straighten it out. You may need to reposition the dishwasher or the hose to prevent future kinking.
* **Check for Clogs:** Disconnect the drain hose from the garbage disposal or drain line. Be prepared for some water to spill, so have a bucket and towels ready. Shine a flashlight into the hose to check for any visible obstructions. You can also try flushing the hose with water to dislodge any clogs.
* **To flush the hose:** Hold one end of the hose over a bucket and use a garden hose or sink sprayer to force water through the other end. This can help dislodge any debris that may be trapped inside.
* **Check the High Loop:** Ensure that the drain hose is properly installed with a high loop. The high loop is a section of the drain hose that is raised above the connection point to the garbage disposal or drain line. This prevents wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher.
* If the drain hose doesn’t have a high loop, create one by securing the hose to the underside of the countertop using clamps or zip ties.
* **Reinstall the Drain Hose:** Once you’ve cleared any kinks or clogs and ensured the high loop is in place, reconnect the drain hose to the garbage disposal or drain line, making sure the connection is secure.
* **Run a Test Cycle:** Run a short rinse cycle to see if the dishwasher now drains properly.
3. Check the Air Gap (if applicable)
If your dishwasher is equipped with an air gap, it’s essential to check it for clogs. The air gap can become clogged with food debris and grease, preventing proper drainage.
* **Locate the Air Gap:** The air gap is a small, cylindrical device installed on the sink countertop, near the faucet.
* **Disassemble the Air Gap:** Most air gaps can be easily disassembled by unscrewing or lifting off the top cover.
* **Clean the Air Gap:** Once disassembled, you’ll see a small opening and possibly some internal components. Use a small brush or toothpick to remove any debris or clogs from the opening and the internal parts.
* **Reassemble the Air Gap:** Once clean, reassemble the air gap and ensure it’s securely in place.
* **Run a Test Cycle:** Run a short rinse cycle to see if the dishwasher now drains properly.
4. Inspect the Garbage Disposal (if applicable)
If your dishwasher drains through the garbage disposal, a clogged disposal can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly. Follow these steps to check and clear the disposal:
* **Run the Garbage Disposal:** Turn on the garbage disposal for a minute or two to see if it clears any clogs.
* **Check for Obstructions:** If the disposal is still clogged, turn it off and unplug it from the power outlet. Use tongs or pliers to remove any large objects that may be lodged in the disposal chamber.
* **Reset the Overload Protector:** Most garbage disposals have an overload protector, which is a small red button located on the bottom of the unit. Press the reset button to reset the disposal.
* **Run the Garbage Disposal Again:** Plug the disposal back in and run it again to see if it’s now working properly.
* **Run a Test Cycle:** Run a short rinse cycle on the dishwasher to check if the draining issue is resolved.
5. Examine the Drain Pump
The drain pump is responsible for actively pumping the water out of the dishwasher. If the pump is malfunctioning or blocked, the dishwasher will not drain.
* **Locate the Drain Pump:** The drain pump is typically located at the bottom of the dishwasher, behind a lower access panel. Refer to your dishwasher’s user manual for the exact location.
* **Access the Drain Pump:** Disconnect the power to the dishwasher before accessing the drain pump. Remove the lower access panel using a screwdriver.
* **Inspect the Pump for Obstructions:** Carefully inspect the drain pump for any visible obstructions, such as food particles, small objects, or debris. Use needle-nose pliers or tweezers to remove any obstructions.
* **Check the Pump Impeller:** The pump impeller is the rotating part of the pump that forces the water out. Make sure the impeller is not broken or damaged. If the impeller is damaged, you may need to replace the entire drain pump.
* **Test the Drain Pump Motor (Advanced):** If you have experience with electrical testing, you can use a multimeter to test the drain pump motor for continuity. If the motor does not have continuity, it may be faulty and need replacement.
* **Reassemble the Dishwasher:** After inspecting and cleaning the drain pump, reassemble the dishwasher by replacing the access panel and reconnecting the power.
* **Run a Test Cycle:** Run a short rinse cycle to see if the dishwasher now drains properly.
**Important Note:** Working with electrical components can be dangerous. If you are not comfortable performing these tests, it’s best to consult with a qualified appliance repair technician.
6. Check for a Clogged Drain Line
In rare cases, the drain line that connects to the dishwasher can become clogged, preventing proper drainage. This is more common in older homes with older plumbing systems.
* **Locate the Drain Line:** The drain line is the pipe that connects the dishwasher drain hose to the home’s plumbing system. It’s usually located under the sink.
* **Disconnect the Drain Hose:** Disconnect the dishwasher drain hose from the drain line. Be prepared for some water to spill, so have a bucket and towels ready.
* **Check for Clogs:** Shine a flashlight into the drain line to check for any visible obstructions. You can also try inserting a plumber’s snake or auger into the drain line to break up any clogs.
* **Flush the Drain Line:** Flush the drain line with water to remove any debris.
* **Reconnect the Drain Hose:** Reconnect the dishwasher drain hose to the drain line, making sure the connection is secure.
* **Run a Test Cycle:** Run a short rinse cycle to see if the dishwasher now drains properly.
7. Check the Dishwasher’s Control Board (Advanced)
In some rare cases, a malfunctioning control board can cause the drain pump not to activate, preventing the dishwasher from draining. This is a more complex issue that typically requires professional diagnosis and repair.
* **Locate the Control Board:** The control board is usually located behind the dishwasher’s control panel. Refer to your dishwasher’s user manual for the exact location.
* **Inspect the Control Board:** Carefully inspect the control board for any visible signs of damage, such as burned components or loose connections.
* **Test the Control Board (Advanced):** Testing the control board requires specialized knowledge and equipment. It’s best to consult with a qualified appliance repair technician if you suspect a problem with the control board.
**Important Note:** Working with electrical components can be dangerous. If you are not comfortable performing these tests, it’s best to consult with a qualified appliance repair technician.
8. Check the Float Switch and Float Assembly
The float switch and float assembly are designed to prevent the dishwasher from overfilling. If the float is stuck in the up position or the float switch is malfunctioning, it can prevent the dishwasher from draining.
* **Locate the Float Switch and Float Assembly:** The float is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, often near the front. It’s a small, plastic cylinder that moves up and down.
* **Check for Obstructions:** Make sure the float is not obstructed by any food particles or debris. Clean the area around the float to ensure it can move freely.
* **Test the Float Switch:** With the dishwasher turned off and unplugged, manually lift the float. You should hear a click as the float switch activates. If you don’t hear a click, the float switch may be faulty and need replacement.
* **Run a Test Cycle:** Run a short rinse cycle to see if the dishwasher now drains properly.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
To prevent future drainage problems, follow these preventative maintenance tips:
* **Scrape Dishes Before Loading:** Remove large food particles from dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. This will help prevent the drain filter from becoming clogged.
* **Clean the Drain Filter Regularly:** Clean the drain filter at least once a month, or more often if you notice food particles accumulating quickly.
* **Run the Garbage Disposal Regularly:** If your dishwasher drains through the garbage disposal, run the disposal regularly to prevent clogs.
* **Use High-Quality Dishwasher Detergent:** Use a high-quality dishwasher detergent that is designed to prevent mineral buildup and residue.
* **Descale the Dishwasher Periodically:** Periodically descale the dishwasher using a dishwasher cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. This will help remove mineral deposits that can clog the spray arms and drain system.
* **Check the Drain Hose Regularly:** Inspect the drain hose regularly for kinks, cracks, or other damage. Replace the hose if necessary.
* **Avoid Overloading the Dishwasher:** Overloading the dishwasher can prevent the spray arms from reaching all the dishes, leading to food particles being left behind and potentially clogging the drain system.
When to Call a Professional
While many dishwasher drainage problems can be resolved with these troubleshooting steps, there are some situations where it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician:
* **You’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the dishwasher still won’t drain.**
* **You suspect a problem with the dishwasher’s control board or other electrical components.**
* **You’re not comfortable working with electrical appliances.**
* **You’re not able to identify the cause of the drainage problem.**
A qualified appliance repair technician has the expertise and equipment to diagnose and repair more complex dishwasher problems.
Conclusion
A Whirlpool dishwasher that won’t drain can be a major inconvenience, but by following these troubleshooting steps, you can often diagnose and fix the problem yourself. Remember to prioritize safety by disconnecting the power and water supply before starting any repair work. By regularly cleaning the drain filter, inspecting the drain hose, and following other preventative maintenance tips, you can keep your dishwasher running smoothly and avoid future drainage problems. If you’re unable to resolve the issue yourself, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.
