How To Troubleshoot A Dishwasher Not Draining

There's nothing more frustrating than having to deal with a dishwasher that is not draining correctly. Your dishes are going to end up sitting in dirty water, negating the purpose of running the dishwasher, they're not going to dry which means that you're going to have to rinse them off and dry them by hand, and you're going to have to deal with water spilling everywhere when you open the dishwasher. Here are some tips for troubleshooting a dishwasher that is not draining.

1. Check the Filter

The most obvious problem and the easiest one to resolve is the dishwasher filter. This is the filter that keeps all of the larger chunks of food from going down your drain and possibly making it smell. In order to find the filter, you are first going to need to check the bottom of your dishwasher's tub. If it's not there, then check the bottom of one of the lower spray arms. If the filter has been clogged, you will be able to see physical obstructions to the filter, which could cause it to take more time for the water to drain out of your dishwasher. Use a small scrub brush to loosen any particles that are adhered to the filter and then, while wearing gloves, pick up the food chunks that are causing the problem.

2. Check the Drain Hose

If you've checked the filter, cleaned it, and are still experiencing difficulties, then you are next going to want to check the drain hose. The drain hose is located underneath your dishwasher. Look for a small panel that you can remove with a small screwdriver, or without any tools at all. Look for a tube that has ridged edges and gently disconnect the end that you are able to access. Look into the hose to see if you see any physical obstructions. If you do, remove them with a gloved finger. If you don't, pour drain cleaner into the hose and allow it to sit for a few hours without anyone using the dishwasher. Reattach the hose and try running your dishwasher again on empty. This will force the drain cleaner down the hose and should take any errant food particles with it.

3. Check the Valve Brackeet

If that doesn't solve your problem, finally check the valve bracket by going to the same panel that you used to find the drain hose. Look for a small bracket that is likely underneath the drain hose. See if it is able to move. If it is not able to move, then it is too stiff to open and allow water to pass through the drain. You are going to need to call a plumber or an appliance repair specialist in order to resolve this problem.

For more information, talk to an appliance repair specialist like American Appliance INC.