How to Fix a Dishwasher with Drainage Issues: Troubleshooting & Solutions

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

You open your dishwasher to put away your sparkling clean dishes only to find a massive puddle at the bottom of the machine. Don’t panic! Troubleshooting and fixing most dishwasher drainage issues is a quick and easy process. In this article we’ll explain how to check the different components of your dishwasher, pinpoint the problem, and take care of it yourself. If you're ready to get your dishwasher back to full functionality, scroll down!

Things You Should Know

  • Take out the dishes and disconnect the power. Then, soak up the standing water inside the dishwasher with towels so you can access the parts.
  • Remove and clean the filter with warm, soapy water to get rid of food debris and buildup.
  • Check the drain hose for kinks and blockages. If the drain hose looks damaged, you may need to replace it.

Get Product Support Solve Any Problem

wH
Hi there! Do you have a question about how to use or repair your home appliance? I’ve read the manuals so you don’t have to. Select your product, brand, and model, then ask away!
*
*
1

Remove any dishes and cut the power.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6e\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-1-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-1-Version-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6e\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-1-Version-9.jpg\/v4-728px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-1-Version-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Just place the dishes in the sink for now. It's also important to turn off the power before you start troubleshooting to avoid electrical shock. Just unplug the dishwasher or shut off the circuit its connected to and you're ready to go. [1]
    2. Advertisement
2

Soak up standing water with towels.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2f\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-2-Version-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-2-Version-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2f\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-2-Version-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-2-Version-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If the standing water is pretty deep, it'll be faster to scoop it out with a cup and then soak the last of it up with towels. If you have a wet/dry vac, you can use that instead and get the job done a little faster. [2]
    • If you'd like, spread towels on the floor around the dishwasher to catch splashes or spills.
3

Clean the drain filter and drain.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/00\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-3-Version-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-3-Version-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/00\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-3-Version-7.jpg\/v4-728px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-3-Version-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The filter may be covered with fine mash. Every filter is a little different, but the removal process is basically the same—lift it straight up out of the dishwasher. Then, scrub the filter thoroughly with hot, soapy water and put it back in place. [3]
    • The drain (also known as the sump) is the hole beneath the filter in the bottom of the dishwasher. Put on a pair of gloves and clean out the drain with your fingers. Remove solid chunks of food and any other debris inside it.
    • If you’re having trouble identifying the dishwasher parts, check online for your model number and download the user manual.
    2. Advertisement
4

Clean out the air gap cylinder.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-4-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-4-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-4-Version-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-4-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You can find the air gap mounted right next to your sink faucet. It looks like a raised cylinder or knob. Remove the small cylindrical covering to access the air gap (which is usually white). Remove any built-up grime you see with tweezers or an old toothbrush, then pop the cylinder back into place. [4]
    • Your plumbing may not feature an air gap, so don't panic if you don't see one. [5]
5

Run the garbage disposal.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/60\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-5-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-5-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/60\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-5-Version-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-5-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Most dishwashers are connected to the garbage disposal. To see if your garbage disposal is causing the problem, just turn it on like you normally would for about 60 seconds to clear away any leftover food. [6]
    • If the garbage disposal makes unusually loud sounds and struggles to function normally, try cleaning out your drains .
    2. Advertisement
6

Check the drain hose for kinks.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/ff\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-6-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-6-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/ff\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-6-Version-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-6-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You’ll see the hose underneath the sink running between it and the dishwasher. Use a flashlight to follow the hose to the drainage area. If you see any bends or kinks in the hose, straighten them out with your fingers. [7]
    • You may need to remove the kick plate on the front of the dishwasher to access the drain hose.
7

Remove the drain hose and clean it.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-7-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-7-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-7-Version-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-7-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Disconnect the hose and scrub the inside with a long, flexible brush to clear away any clogs. Reconnect the hose when you’re done. [8]
    • If the drain hose or connection points look damaged, you may need to replace the drain hose altogether.
    • Be sure to put the drain hose back in place when you’re done! Otherwise, water will go all over the place when you turn the dishwasher on.
    • Also, make sure you install a high loop in the drain hose under the sink to ensure proper draining of the dishwasher. If you aren't comfortable with this, call a professional plumber or appliance technician to install this for you.
    2. Advertisement
8

Run the dishwasher on a short cycle.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5c\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-8-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-8-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5c\/Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-8-Version-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Drain-a-Dishwasher-Step-8-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Once you’ve troubleshooted everything, run a new wash cycle without any dishes inside. Pick the shortest cycle so you won't have to wait long. Then, open the dishwasher and check for standing water. [9]
    • If your dishwasher is pretty dirty after having standing water in it, pour 3 cups (710 ml) of white vinegar in the bottom before you run the dishwasher using the hottest cycle. [10]
    • A very small amount of water in the bottom of a dishwasher is normal.
    • If the water is still deep and won’t drain, a faulty drain valve may be to blame. Working on the drain valve is best left to a professional, so call a plumber for assistance. [11]

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    What's an air gap?
    Gevorg Grigorian
    Appliance Repair Expert
    Gevorg Grigorian is an Appliance Repair Specialist and the Owner of G and R Appliance Repair in Los Angeles, California. With over 15 years of experience, Gevorg specializes in residential and commercial appliance repairs as well as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) services. Gevorg holds a BS in Business Administration and Management from California State University-Northridge.
    Gevorg Grigorian
    Appliance Repair Expert
    Expert Answer
    An air gap is what your dishwasher's drain hose connects to. It can sometimes become clogged and prevent your dishwasher from draining.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 5
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • Sometimes, if the dishwasher is not leveled properly, it can result in improper draining. If you’ve recently done any major kitchen remodeling, this could be the issue.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • Many times a dishwasher will not drain properly if a high loop is not installed under the sink with the drain hose. If you need to, call a professional plumber or appliance technician to install this for you.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Use Dishwasher Salt
      3 Easy Ways to Reboot a KitchenAid Dishwasher
      How to
      Reset a Frigidaire Dishwasher
      How to
      Reset a GE Dishwasher
      How to
      Fix Your Bosch Dishwasher and Restart It
      How to
      Load a Dishwasher
      How to
      Fit an Integrated Dishwasher Door
      How to
      Install a Built In Dishwasher
      How to
      Use the Sanitize Setting on a Bosch SilencePlus 50 dBA Dishwasher
      Replacing a Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve
      How to
      Fix a Leaky Dishwasher
      How to
      Use a Dishwasher
      How to
      Install a Samsung Dishwasher
      How to
      Unlock a Kitchenaid Dishwasher
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-unclog-a-dishwasher/
      2. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-unclog-a-dishwasher/
      3. ↑ Gevorg Grigorian. Appliance Repair Expert. Expert Interview. 30 July 2020.
      4. ↑ https://www.maytag.com/blog/kitchen/how-to-fix-a-clogged-dishwasher.html
      5. ↑ https://products.geappliances.com/appliance/gea-support-search-content?contentId=17895
      6. ↑ https://www.whirlpool.com/blog/kitchen/how-to-fix-a-clogged-dishwasher.html
      7. ↑ Gevorg Grigorian. Appliance Repair Expert. Expert Interview. 30 July 2020.
      8. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-unclog-a-dishwasher/
      9. ↑ https://www.mrrooter.com/austin/about-us/blog/2020/january/down-the-drain-10-reasons-why-your-dishwasher-is/
      1. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-unclog-a-dishwasher/
      2. ↑ https://www.maytag.com/blog/kitchen/how-to-fix-a-clogged-dishwasher.html

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To drain a dishwasher, start by turning off the power and waterline to the dishwasher. Then, use cups or containers to scoop up the water in the dishwasher and dump it down your kitchen sink. Use towels to soak up any water that you aren't able to get with the cups. Once you've emptied all of the water, try cleaning the dishwasher's filter to see if that helps it drain better. You may also need to repair the drainage hose or drainage valve. For help repairing your dishwasher so it drains properly, scroll down!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 804,964 times.
      If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission .

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement