Dishwasher Not Draining? Common Causes & Solutions

A dishwasher is one of the most convenient appliances in a home, saving time and effort on daily chores. But when it stops draining correctly, it can quickly become a significant inconvenience. If you’re an Atlanta homeowner wondering why your dishwasher is not draining and how to fix it, this guide will help you understand common causes and practical solutions. Have you asked yourself: “Why is my dishwasher not draining?” We can help.

At North PeachTree Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homeowners troubleshoot and repair dishwasher issues. In this article, we’ll walk you through daily maintenance tips, explain how to clean the dishwasher drain, and share professional advice to keep your dishwasher running smoothly.

Why Is My Dishwasher Not Draining?

If your dishwasher isn’t draining, it could be due to a few common issues. Here are some of the main reasons:

• Clogged drain filter or hose: Food particles, grease, and soap residue can build up and block water from flowing out.
• Faulty drain pump: If the pump motor fails or the impeller is broken, the dishwasher can’t push water out.
• Garbage disposal connection issue: If the drain hose is linked to a clogged or jammed garbage disposal, water can back up.
• Kinked or twisted hose: Bends in the hose can block water from draining.
• Air gap or high loop problems: If these are damaged or installed wrong, dirty water may not drain as it should.
  

If your dishwasher has standing water, checking these areas can help you find the cause and prevent damage to your appliance.

How to Clean Your Dishwasher Drain: Simple Daily Maintenance Tips

Keeping your dishwasher drain clean helps your appliance run smoothly and prevents clogs that can lead to standing water or dirty dishes. Here are some easy maintenance tips:

• Clean the drain filter regularly
  Most dishwashers have a removable filter at the bottom. Rinse it with warm water and gently scrub with a soft brush every week or two to remove food and buildup.
• Inspect and flush the drain hose
  Look for kinks or damage and flush the hose with warm water when possible to ensure smooth water flow.
• Run hot water before starting the dishwasher
  Let hot water run at the kitchen sink for a few seconds before starting a cycle to improve cleaning and reduce grease buildup in the drain.
• Use dishwasher cleaner or vinegar
  Run an empty cycle with a dishwasher-safe cleaner or a cup of white vinegar to clear out grease, soap scum, and mineral deposits.
• Don’t overload the dishwasher
  Avoid overpacking dishes, which can block spray arms and cause food particles to collect in the drain filter.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your dishwasher clean, efficient, and free of drainage problems.

Troubleshooting: What to Do When Your Dishwasher Won’t Drain

If your dishwasher isn’t draining correctly, try these steps:

• Check for standing water.
  A small amount at the bottom is normal. A large pool often means a drainage issue.
• Clean the drain filter.
  Remove the bottom rack and take out the filter. Rinse it under warm water to clear any food debris or buildup.
• Inspect the drain hose.
  Look for kinks, clogs, or twists. Straighten the hose and flush it if needed.
• Run the garbage disposal.
  If your dishwasher drains through it, built-up food could be causing water to back up.
• Listen for unusual sounds.
  Strange noises during the drain cycle may indicate that the drain pump is failing. A professional best handles this repair.
  

Still Need Help?

If your dishwasher still won’t drain, our licensed plumbers are ready to step in.

Speak with a technician about your options

We’ll take care of the issue so you can get back to a clean, working kitchen without the hassle.

When to Call a Professional Plumber if Dishwasher Not Draining

You can fix many dishwasher drainage issues with simple maintenance, but some problems require professional expertise. If the dishwasher continues to retain water after cleaning the filter and hose, if you suspect a faulty drain pump or electrical problem, if there are leaks around the dishwasher or plumbing connections, or if you need help with the garbage disposal or air gap, it’s time to call us.

North PeachTree Plumbing’s licensed plumbers quickly fix dishwasher drainage problems for Atlanta homeowners. We deliver reliable service to keep your kitchen running smoothly.

Keep Your Dishwasher Running Efficiently with Regular Maintenance

Regular care can prevent most dishwasher drainage problems. Cleaning the drain filter every week or two, inspecting the drain hose for damage every few months, running a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a commercial dishwasher cleaner monthly, and avoiding overloading the dishwasher are simple steps to keep your appliance in top shape.

Checking your garbage disposal regularly, especially if your dishwasher drains into it, also helps prevent backups.

By following these daily and periodic maintenance habits, you can extend your dishwasher’s lifespan and keep your dishes spotless.

Schedule Professional Maintenance to Avoid Costly Repairs

Dishwasher drainage issues don’t have to disrupt your daily routine or lead to expensive repairs. Preventive maintenance and timely repairs can save you money and headaches in the long run.

Don’t let dishwasher problems pile up. We also handle garbage disposal repairs that might be affecting your dishwasher’s drainage.