Opening your dishwasher to find a pool of dirty water at the bottom is frustrating — and it means your dishes aren't getting properly cleaned or sanitized. Expert Appliance Inc. has been fixing dishwashers in Brooklyn, NY and Marlboro, NJ since 1988, and a dishwasher not draining is one of our most common service calls.
Common Causes of a Dishwasher Not Draining
1. Clogged Filter or Drain Basket
Most modern dishwashers have a filter at the bottom of the tub that catches food particles. If it's clogged, water can't drain properly. Fix: Remove and clean the filter under running water. This should be done monthly.
2. Blocked Drain Hose
The drain hose connects the dishwasher to your sink drain or garbage disposal. If it's kinked, clogged, or improperly installed, water will back up. Fix: Check the hose for kinks. If it's clogged, it will need to be cleared or replaced.
3. Faulty Drain Pump
The drain pump forces water out of the dishwasher. If the pump motor fails, water stays in the tub. Fix: Listen for a humming sound during the drain cycle — if the pump hums but doesn't drain, the pump impeller may be jammed. This requires professional repair.
4. Garbage Disposal Connection Issue
If your dishwasher drains through your garbage disposal, a clogged disposal or a blocked knockout plug (on new disposal installations) can prevent draining. Fix: Run your garbage disposal before starting the dishwasher, and make sure the knockout plug was removed during installation.
5. Defective Check Valve
The check valve prevents drained water from flowing back into the dishwasher. If it's stuck open, water can re-enter the tub. Fix: The check valve is located near the drain pump and typically needs to be replaced by a technician.
6. Control Board Issues
In some cases, the electronic control board may not be sending the signal to start the drain cycle. This is more common in newer, high-tech dishwashers. Fix: A technician can diagnose and replace the control board.
Call Expert Appliance for Same-Day Dishwasher Repair
If your dishwasher isn't draining and basic troubleshooting hasn't worked, Expert Appliance Inc. can diagnose and fix the problem quickly. We service all major brands including Bosch, Whirlpool, GE, Samsung, LG, KitchenAid, and Miele.
- Brooklyn, NY: 718-858-5444
- Marlboro, NJ: 732-946-0999
