Is your dishwasher not draining? Encountering a dishwasher that refuses to drain can be a significant inconvenience, transforming an essential kitchen appliance into a nuisance overflowing with murky water.
Before you consider calling a professional repair service, try these DIY approaches to potentially save time and money. Most issues related to dishwashers not draining can be addressed with a few straightforward checks and adjustments. Often, the solution is simpler than you think!
Reason 1: Blocked Filter
A primary reason dishwashers stop draining is a blocked filter. Filters capture food particles and debris, preventing them from damaging the internal mechanics of the dishwasher. However, if not cleaned regularly, these filters can clog, hindering water flow and drainage.
Solution: Step-by-step Guide to Cleaning Your Dishwasher’s Filter:
- Safety First: Disconnect your dishwasher from its power source to ensure safety before starting any repairs.
- Locate and Examine the Filter: Typically found under the bottom rack, the filter looks like a cylindrical or flat screen. Remove the bottom rack to access it. If you observe debris or food residue, it’s time to clean.
- Careful Cleaning: Gently remove the filter and rinse it under warm water. Use a soft brush to dislodge any stuck particles. Avoid harsh scrubbers as they can damage the filter mesh.
- Reinstall the Filter: After cleaning, replace the filter and any other components you removed. Make sure everything fits snugly before running the dishwasher again.
Prevention: How to Keep Your Dishwasher from Clogging
Most dishwasher clogs result from food particles left on plates. A common mistake is loading dishes without first removing sticky food residues or even small food particles. To prevent clogs, make it a practice to scrape your plates into the trash bin before placing them in the dishwasher.
Running your dishwasher on a hot water cycle can also help remove any build-up that cooler or shorter washes fail to address. Cooler and shorter washes may allow build-up to persist because they do not generate enough heat to break down deposits.
Reason 2: Blocked Drain Hose or Sink
Another common reason for a dishwasher not draining is a blocked or kinked drain hose, which can impede water flow and prevent the appliance from emptying properly.
Solution: Step-by-Step Guide to Maintaining the Drain Hose:
- Unplug and Locate: With the dishwasher unplugged, locate the drain hose. This is typically attached to the back of the machine and may run to the kitchen sink drain.
- Check for Obstructions: Look for bends or kinks in the hose that could restrict flow. Inspect the drain hose for any kinks or twists and straighten them if found. Keep in mind that once a drain hose develops a kink, it’s prone to kinking again in the same spot. If kinking persists, consider replacing the drain hose to ensure proper drainage and functionality.
- Clean Thoroughly: If accessible, remove the hose and use a high-pressure water stream to thoroughly flush out any clogs.
- Reattach and Test: Once cleaned, securely reconnect the hose. Run a short cycle to ensure the dishwasher drains properly.
Reason 3: Unbalanced Appliance
An improperly levelled dishwasher can lead to ineffective draining, as water might pool in areas away from the drain.
Solution: Detailed Instructions to Level Your Dishwasher:
- Use the Right Tools: Place a spirit level on the top edge of the dishwasher to check for levelness from front to back and side to side.
- Adjust Accordingly: If adjustments are needed, rotate the levelling feet at the bottom of the dishwasher. Most models have adjustable front and rear feet.
- Recheck Levels: After adjusting, use the level again to ensure the appliance is flat. Misalignment can cause functional issues, including improper drainage.
When to Contact a Professional
If you’ve followed the steps above but your dishwasher still isn’t draining, it may be necessary to consult a professional. Persistent drainage problems often suggest deeper issues such as a faulty drain pump, solenoid, or complications with the electronic systems of the dishwasher, which require expert attention.
Our professional repair service offers the expertise of skilled technicians who are well-equipped to diagnose and resolve both straightforward and complex appliance issues.
We stand behind the quality of our work with a robust one-year guarantee on all labour and parts installed. Should the problem recur within this timeframe, rest assured that we will return to address the issue at no additional cost to you, ensuring your dishwasher operates smoothly and efficiently.
