Whirlpool dishwasher not draining

Why is my Whirlpool dishwasher not draining the water?

When your Whirlpool dishwasher isn't draining, start with the simplest checks. Blockages from food particles, debris, or other obstructions in the drain pump filter, garbage disposal, air gap, or drain hose are common reasons for this issue. The position of the drain hose might also cause a problem with draining. Addressing these problems can often get your dishwasher draining properly again without needing a major repair.

Check for Food Particles and Debris

Food particles and debris can easily cause dishwasher drain problems. These can build up at the bottom of the dishwasher tub or clog the drain pump filter, preventing water from draining away.

• Inspect the Bottom of the Tub: Open the dishwasher door and look for any visible food debris or particles around the sump area. Remove any buildup with a paper towel or cloth.

• Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Locate the drain pump filter, usually found at the bottom of the tub. You can check your owner's manual for its location. Remove the filter and rinse it under running water to clear out any food particles or debris. Make sure to securely reinstall the filter before running another cycle.

Check the Garbage Disposal

A clogged garbage disposal is another common reason a dishwasher won't drain. Dishwashers are often connected to the garbage disposal, and if the disposal is blocked, water won't drain properly from the dishwasher.

• Run the Garbage Disposal: Turn on the garbage disposal to clear any waste that may be blocking the drain path. Run water into the disposal for a few seconds after it stops to ensure the drain is clear.

• Inspect for a Knock-Out Plug: If a garbage disposal was recently installed, make sure the knock-out plug in the drain pipe connection was removed. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to remove this plug if it is still in place.

Check the Sink Air Gap

An air gap, installed on some kitchen sinks, prevents drain water from backing up into the dishwasher. If the air gap is clogged with debris, it can cause draining problems.

• Inspect and Clean the Air Gap: Remove the air gap cover and check for any clogs. Clean out any debris using a small brush or rinse it with water. Securely reinstall the air gap cover.

Check the Drain Hose

The dishwasher drain hose must be installed correctly to ensure proper draining. If the hose is kinked or if there isn't a high loop, it can cause water to back up into the dishwasher.

• Inspect the Drain Hose for Kinks or Blockages: Check the drain hose from the dishwasher to the sink or garbage disposal for any kinks or visible blockages. Straighten any kinks you find.

• Verify the Drain Hose Loop: Ensure the drain hose has a loop that is higher than the drain connection point. This high loop prevents water from siphoning back into the dishwasher. Adjust the hose if necessary to create the proper loop.

By following these steps, you can often resolve draining problems without needing professional help. If these checks don’t solve the issue, consider more advanced troubleshooting or contact a professional technician.

Advanced Troubleshooting for LG Dishwasher Draining Problems

If the simple checks haven’t resolved the issue and your dishwasher still won’t drain, it may be time for more advanced troubleshooting. This could involve checking for deeper clogs, a malfunctioning drain pump, or even electrical issues. Here are some steps to consider:

• Check the Dishwasher Drain Hose for Clogs: If the hose was previously inspected for kinks, it’s time to look deeper. Disconnect the drain hose and inspect it for clogs or buildup that might not be visible from the outside. Clear any obstructions before reconnecting it securely.

• Inspect the Drain Pump: The drain pump pushes water out of the dishwasher. If the pump is faulty or obstructed, it won’t function properly. Access the drain pump and look for visible obstructions or signs of damage. If the pump is damaged, it may need to be replaced.

• Examine Electrical Components: Sometimes, a control board or wiring issue can prevent the dishwasher from draining. Check for any loose wires or burnt connections that might indicate an electrical problem. If you are not comfortable checking these components yourself, it’s best to call a professional technician.

For a detailed guide on how to perform these simple and more advanced troubleshooting steps, watch this video:

What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool dishwasher not draining issue

How is the not draining problem fixed?

Correcting most not draining problems usually involves replacing the drain pump, drain hose or electronic control board. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a dishwasher that is not draining

When the dishwasher is not draining it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts, we recommend scheduling a Whirlpool dishwasher repair with a Sears Home Services professional who can perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of dishwasher failures.

What to look out for with a dishwasher not draining diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dishwasher problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

Ensuring Your Whirlpool Dishwasher Drains Completely

When it comes to a dishwasher not draining completely, Whirlpool and its family of brands are not immune. This issue can often be traced to common problems such as clogs in the drain system, a clogged filter, or a malfunctioning drain pump. You might be able to fix the problem yourself by checking for any blockages in the drain hose, drain pump, or the sink drain. Cleaning these components can sometimes resolve the issue.

Next, inspect and clean the dishwasher filter, as a clogged filter can hinder proper drainage. Additionally, examine the drain hose for any kinks, clogs, or damage, and straighten or clean it as necessary. If these steps do not resolve the problem, the drain pump may be at fault and could require professional testing and replacement.
When your Whirlpool dishwasher wraps up with water still inside, drain obstructions or a bad pump commonly deserve blame. Standing water cultivates odor and future wash issues. Rather than cleaning out the tub yourself, opt for who fixes dishwashers. Efficient drainage keeps each load fresh and residue-free.