Not draining

9% of dishwasher problemsDifficulty: EASYFix rate: 38%

Figure out why your dishwasher will not drain by learning how to test a drain pump motor, timer and drain hose.

Most Likely Causes

Pump and Motor Assembly

Most common causeappliancepartspros

There's a motor responsible for driving an impeller, which pushes water out through the drain hose during the drain cycle. If this motor operates during the drain cycle check for any obstructions in the drain line that might be causing a blockage. If the motor doesn't run when it's supposed to during the drain cycle, or if it only makes a humming sound without proper functioning, it's likely that the pump and motor assembly would need to be replaced.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power to dishwasher at circuit breaker. Shut off for safety before servicing.
2.Remove lower kick panel and drain hose from pump. Detach hose clamp to separate parts.
3.Note position of wires on motor terminals for reconnecting later. Take clear photos if needed.
4.Disconnect wires from existing pump motor one at a time. Carefully remove without damaging.
5.Remove mounting screws securing pump body to dishwasher tub. Lift out entire assembly.
6.Clean area where new pump will mount. Remove debris from mounting surface.
7.Mount replacement pump body using screws removed earlier. Align mounting holes properly.
8.Reconnect wires individually matching positions noted earlier. Refer to photos as needed.
9.Reattach drain hose to new pump with clamp. Make sure you have a tight secure connection.
10.Replace lower panel and reconnect power. Run test cycle to check new pump operation.
11.Inspect installation and make adjustments as needed.

Drain Pump

Most common causeappliancepartspros

Check drain pump, make sure it's clear of any debris or clogs. If that is clear then you will need to check for power at the pump when it should be on. If you have power at the pump and it's not coming on then you will need to replace the pump. You can use a multimeter to test for power, you will need to use your tech sheet or service manual for guidance on testing.

Repair Steps

1.Unplug dishwasher and disconnect hoses. Remove the power cord from the outlet and disconnect the drain and inlet water hoses from theold pump.
2.Remove kick panel. Look for mounting screws, tabs or clips along the bottom front of the appliance. Use a screwdriver to release any fasteners holding the kick panel in place.
3.Locate and remove old pump. The pump is usually located near the bottom center or bottom right corner inside the dishwasher. Use a wrench to remove any mounting bolts. Carefully pull out the old pump.
4.Clean area around new pump site. Wipe away any debris or standing water near where the new pump will mount.
5.Install new drain pump. Set the new pump in place and secure it with the mounting bolts. Hand-tighten bolts securely.
6.Reconnect hoses to pump. Push drain and inlet hoses securely over barbs at pump. Make sure the hose clamps are tight.
7.Replace kick panel. Align panel and secure with any screws or fasteners removed earlier.
8.Plug in and test dishwasher. Reconnect power cord and run a short cycle to check for leaks and ensure new pump is functioning properly.

Control Board

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The control board in your dishwasher is like its electrical command center. It's responsible for providing power to the drain pump. When this control board is not functioning properly, it might fail to send power to the drain pump. If it is not sending power to the drain pump then the board will need to be replaced.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power at circuit breaker. Turn off power to dishwasher before servicing.
2.Remove lower access panel or kick panel. Find and remove securing screws along bottom.
3.Note positions of all wire connections to board. Take photos to reference during reconnection.
4.Disconnect all wires from old control board. Gently detach each wire one at a time.
5.Remove mounting screws from board enclosure. Usually 2-4 screws secure electronic board assembly.
6.Detach old control board from enclosure base. Carefully lift board out once fully disconnected.
7.Clean mounting area inside enclosure base. Wipe away any debris from new board mounting area.
8.Mount replacement control board into base. Set into position and start securing screws.
9.Reconnect wires one by one, matching positions. Reference photos to precisely reconnect wires.
10.Replace lower access panel removed earlier. Secure with screws.
11.Reconnect power and test functions. Run cycle while checking for proper operations.

Drain Impeller

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The drain impeller in your dishwasher is a tiny plastic blade that plays a big role in sending water up through the wash arms. If this impeller is damaged or some of its fins are missing, it might not create enough pressure to move water properly through the pump. If this part is damaged it needs to be replaced.

Repair Steps

1.Unplug dishwasher and shut off water supply. Disconnect the power cord and turn off the water inlet valve.
2.Remove lower access panel or toe kick plate. Find and remove mounting screws or clips holding the panel in place.
3.Locate the drain impeller under the dishwasher. It is usually housed at the bottom of the tub interior near the drain pump assembly.
4.Disconnect drain pump hoses. Gently squeeze hose clamps and slip hoses off of drain pump ports.
5.Remove drain pump mounting screws. Use a nut driver or wrench to detach the drain pump from its mounting location.
6.Take out drain impeller from underside of pump. The impeller slides straight out of the center of the drain pump body.
7.Clean inside of pump housing thoroughly. Wipe away debris from area where new impeller will mount.
8.Slide new drain impeller into pump body. Align tabs and press fully into center opening until flush.
9.Reattach drain pump and hoses. Replace any gaskets, tighten mounting bolts and push hoses onto ports.
10.Reinstall access panel and test operation. Reconnect water and power to run a test empty cycle.

Drain Solenoid Kit

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The drain solenoid in your dishwasher serves an important role by opening the drain valve, allowing the water to flow out of the dishwasher. If this drain solenoid fails it means the valve won't open as it should. As a result, your dishwasher won't be able to drain the water, causing a drainage issue.

Repair Steps

1.Safety Precautions:
2.Locate the Drain Solenoid Kit:
3.Gather Necessary Tools and Replacement Parts:
4.Access the Bottom of the Dishwasher:
5.Disconnect Wiring and Hoses:
6.Remove the Old Solenoid Kit:
7.Prepare the New Solenoid Kit:
8.Install the New Solenoid Kit:
9.Attach Wiring and Hoses:
10.Reassemble the Dishwasher:
11.Plug In and Test:
12.Final Check:

Drain Valve

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The drain valve in your dishwasher may collect debris over time, which can block the flow of water. To maintain proper water flow, you will need to clean out the valve periodically. If cleaning the valve doesn't solve the problem and it still won't work as it should, you may need to replace it.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power to dishwasher and drain water from tub. Shut off power for safety.
2.Detach drain hose from existing valve and place in collection bucket.
3.Note wire connections to valve for reconnecting later. Take clear photos of positions.
4.Disconnect wires individually without damaging insulation. Carefully detach connections.
5.Remove mounting screws to lift out old drain valve from dishwasher.
6.Clean area where new valve will mount underneath tub. Remove any debris.
7.Position replacement drain valve and attach with screws removed earlier.
8.Reconnect wires one by one matching positions noted previously. Refer to photos.
9.Reattach drain hose securely to valve outlet. Make sure you have a tight seal without leaks.
10.Replace any access covers and reconnect power. Perform test run and check drainage.
11.Inspect installation and make adjustments if needed.

Main Control Board

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The main control board in your dishwasher is like its electrical command center. It's responsible for providing power to the drain pump. When this control board is not functioning properly, it might fail to send power to the drain pump. If it is not sending power to the drain pump then the board will need to be replaced.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power at circuit breaker. Turn off power to dishwasher before servicing.
2.Remove lower dishwasher panel. Find securing screws along bottom of dishwasher cavity.
3.Note wire connections to board. Take photos of positions for reconnection later.
4.Disconnect all wires from board. Gently detach each wire connection point by point.
5.Remove mounting screws from board. Typically 2-3 screws hold board securely in place.
6.Detach old board from mounting posts. Carefully lift out once fully disconnected.
7.Clean mounting area of any debris. Wipe surface where new control board will install.
8.Mount replacement control board. Set into position and start securing screws.
9.Reconnect wires one by one. Reference photos to precisely match wires and connectors.
10.Replace lower access panel removed earlier. Secure with screws.
11.Reconnect power and test functions. Run cycle while checking for proper operations.

Hose

33.8% of casesamazon_reviews

Pump

26.9% of casesamazon_reviews

Filter

25.4% of casesamazon_reviews

Valve

13.1% of casesamazon_reviews

Motor

9.2% of casesamazon_reviews

Gasket Seal

5.4% of casesamazon_reviews

Sensor

4.6% of casesamazon_reviews

Heating Element

4.6% of casesamazon_reviews

Piston & Nut Assembly

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Drain Pump & Motor

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Check Valve Flapper

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Belt

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Timer

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Drain Hose

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Check the drain hose for clogs, remove the hose from the dishwasher and sink drain to clean it out. If there is any damage to the hose it will need to be replaced.

Repair Steps

1.Shut off water supply and unplug dishwasher. Turn off the water supply valve and disconnect the power cord from the outlet.
2.Detach hose from disposal or sink drain. Disconnect the existing drain hose from the garbage disposal or sink drain tailpiece.
3.Detach hose from dishwasher pump. Locate the drain hose connection on the dishwasher drain pump. Gently squeeze the hose clamp and slide it up to detach the hose.
4.Remove old hose. Pull the drain hose completely out of the dishwasher cabinet. Inspect for cracks, leaks or buildup that could affect drainage.
5.Install new drain hose. Feed one end of the new drain hose into the connection on the drain pump. Push it fully on and slide the hose clamp down to secure it tightly.
6.Attach new hose to disposal/drain. Connect the other end of the replacement hose to the disposal inlet or sink drain tailpiece. Secure with a hose clamp.
7.Replace any removed parts. Reinstall any parts that were removed, like a kick panel or toe panel.
8.Turn water back on and test. Reconnect the water supply and run a test empty cycle to check for leaks on the new drain hose connections.

Filter Assembly

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Most dishwashers have two filters in their filter assembly: a coarse one and a fine one, located in the sump. When one or both of these filters become clogged, it can lead to problems like reduced water flow and poor cleaning. You can clean these filters with warm soapy water. If they are damaged or worn they will need to be replaced.

Repair Steps

1.Unplug dishwasher and shut off water supply. Disconnect power and turn off water inlet before starting repairs.
2.Open dishwasher door fully to access filter area. The filter housing is usually located inside the tub walls.
3.Locate handle or release button on used filter housing. Each manufacturer's design differs slightly.
4.Squeeze handle tabs or push release button to access filter. The housing door will pop open once released.
5.Remove dirty filter and rinse housing with water. Thoroughly clean both parts to remove debris and food residue.
6.Insert replacement filter into open housing. Make sure tab edges and rim are sealing correctly inside housing chamber.
7.Close housing door and press or slide until latching. Apply firm pressure evenly until handle clicks shut securely.
8.Run hot water wash cycle. Reconnect utilities and run a high temp empty cycle to flush system.
9.Check for leaks and latching after cooldown. Inspect housing door seal and retighten if needed before regular use.

Screen Filter

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Repair Steps

1.Unplug dishwasher and shut off water. Disconnect power and turn off water inlet before working inside.
2.Open dishwasher door fully for access. The screen filter is typically located inside the bottom tub area.
3.Locate tab or clips holding used screen in place. Designs vary between manufacturers.
4.Squeeze tab ends to detach screen. Compress plastic clips together then gently pull screen straight out.
5.Rinse out removed screen in warm water. Thoroughly clean screen to remove any built-up debris or food particles.
6.Insert new replacement screen into opening. Slide screen into correct position behind retaining clips or tab ends.
7.Push firmly on screen until clips engage. Apply steady pressure evenly until screen is fully secured in place.
8.Close dishwasher door when complete. Reconnect power and water supply lines before operating.
9.Run hot rinse cycle to flush any residue. Check screen remains fully intact after cooldown period.
10.Run regular cycles for best cleaning performance.

Strainer

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Repair Steps

1.Turn off power to the dishwasher at the breaker box and turn off water supply.
2.Open the dishwasher door and remove the lower rack.
3.Locate the strainer cover plate on the bottom of the dishwasher tub towards the center. Remove the screws or clamps holding the strainer cover in place.
4.Lift off the strainer cover plate to access the strainer. Remove any debris around the strainer.
5.Rotate the strainer counterclockwise to unlock and remove it.
6.Clean out the strainer basket thoroughly. Make sure no food debris remains trapped.
7.Insert the new strainer basket and turn clockwise to lock it into place.
8.Replace the strainer cover plate and screw or clamp it back down securely.
9.Replace the lower rack. Restore power and water supply.
10.Run a short test cycle to verify no leaks around the new strainer.

Control Board

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Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power at circuit breaker. Turn off power to dishwasher before servicing.
2.Remove lower access panel or kick panel. Find and remove securing screws along bottom.
3.Note positions of all wire connections to board. Take photos to reference during reconnection.
4.Disconnect all wires from old control board. Gently detach each wire one at a time.
5.Remove mounting screws from board enclosure. Usually 2-4 screws secure electronic board assembly.
6.Detach old control board from enclosure base. Carefully lift board out once fully disconnected.
7.Clean mounting area inside enclosure base. Wipe away any debris from new board mounting area.
8.Mount replacement control board into base. Set into position and start securing screws.
9.Reconnect wires one by one, matching positions. Reference photos to precisely reconnect wires.
10.Replace lower access panel removed earlier. Secure with screws.
11.Reconnect power and test functions. Run cycle while checking for proper operations.

Check Valve

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The check valve's job is to stop water from flowing back into the dishwasher once it has drained out.If the check valve gets stuck in the closed position, it can lead to issues with water not draining properly from the dishwasher. Try cleaning the check valve to see if that resolves the issue. If cleaning doesn't fix it then you will need to replace the part.

Repair Steps

1.Turn off power to the dishwasher at the breaker box and turn off the water supply.
2.Open the dishwasher door and remove the lower rack.
3.Locate the water supply line coming into the dishwasher. Follow it to find the check valve.
4.Use a basin to catch any water that may leak out when disconnecting the hoses.
5.Disconnect the water supply hoses from the check valve.
6.Unscrew the check valve from the dishwasher's water inlet valve.
7.Install the new check valve by screwing it onto the inlet valve. Use Teflon tape on the threads to prevent leaks.
8.Reconnect the water supply hoses to the check valve. Tighten firmly but do not overtighten.
9.Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. Tighten connections if needed.
10.Restore power to the dishwasher once no leaks are found.
11.Run a test cycle and verify proper operation of the dishwasher with the new check valve installed.

Check Ball

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In your dishwasher's check valve, there's a small plastic ball known as the check ball. This ball serves an important role in stopping water from flowing back into the dishwasher once it has drained. If the check ball becomes stuck, it can lead to issues with water not draining properly through the check valve. Make sure the check ball moves freely and is clear of any debris. If the part is damaged you will need to replace it.

Repair Steps

1.Turn off power to the dishwasher at the breaker box and turn off the water supply.
2.Open the dishwasher door and remove the lower rack.
3.Locate the water supply line coming into the dishwasher. Follow it to find the check ball housing.
4.Place a basin under the check ball housing to catch any water leaks.
5.Remove the check ball housing, typically held in place by a nut or clip.
6.Carefully remove the check ball from the housing. Note the orientation of the existing check ball.
7.Insert the new check ball in the same orientation as the old one.
8.Replace the check ball housing and tighten the retaining nut or clip.
9.Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. Tighten if needed.
10.Restore power to the dishwasher once no leaks are found.
11.Run a test cycle and verify proper dishwasher operation with the new check ball.

Clogged Sump Filters

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Clogged or Improperly Installed Garbage Disposer

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If you've recently installed a garbage disposer and your dishwasher isn't draining properly check whether the drain plug has been removed. All garbage disposers come with a solid plug in the drain tube. If your dishwasher isn't connected to the garbage disposer, the plug should stay in place. If the dishwasher is connected to the garbage disposer, that plug must be removed.

High Limit Thermostat

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Rinse Aid Dispenser

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