Dishwasher Not Draining? Common Causes and Simple Fixes

Clean the filter

Most modern dishwashers have a removable filter at the bottom of the tub, under the lower spray arm. Twist it out, rinse it under hot water, and scrub away grease and food with a soft brush. Many manufacturers recommend doing this monthly, and few people ever do.

Check the garbage disposal connection

If your dishwasher drains into a garbage disposal, run the disposal for a few seconds before starting the dishwasher. On a newly installed disposal, the knockout plug inside the dishwasher inlet may never have been removed, which will stop the dishwasher from draining entirely.

Inspect the drain hose

Look under the sink for a kinked, crushed, or clogged drain hose. The hose should also have a high loop (or connect to an air gap) so dirty sink water can't flow back into the dishwasher.

Signs it's the pump or control

• You hear a humming sound during the drain portion of the cycle but no water moves.
• The dishwasher displays a drain-related error code.
• The filter and hose are clear but water still sits in the tub.
• Water drains slowly and you hear grinding or rattling.

These usually point to a failed drain pump, a blocked pump impeller, or a check valve problem. These parts are replaceable and a repair is typically far cheaper than a new dishwasher.

Prevent it from happening again

• Scrape plates well; you don't need to pre-rinse, but large food scraps clog filters.
• Clean the filter monthly.
• Run hot water at the sink before starting a cycle so the dishwasher fills with hot water.
• Use the right amount of detergent; too much can leave residue that traps debris.