Dishwasher Not Draining
Standing water at the bottom of your dishwasher after a cycle is complete. This is usually caused by a clogged filter, blocked drain hose, or faulty drain pump.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Try these fixes before calling a technician
Clean the dishwasher filter
Most modern dishwashers have a removable filter at the bottom of the tub. Twist and pull it out, then rinse it under running water. Food particles, grease, and glass shards commonly clog this filter. Clean it monthly.
Check the garbage disposal connection
If your dishwasher drains through the garbage disposal, run the disposal to clear it. A clogged disposal blocks dishwasher drainage. Also check that the knockout plug was removed when the disposal was installed.
Inspect the drain hose
The drain hose runs from the dishwasher to the disposal or sink drain. Check under the sink for kinks or blockages. The hose should have a high loop near the countertop to prevent backflow.
Clear the air gap (if present)
Some installations have an air gap device on the countertop next to the faucet. Remove the cap and check for blockages inside. Debris in the air gap prevents drainage.
When to Call a Professional
If the filter and hoses are clear but water still remains, the drain pump, check valve, or control board may be faulty. Dishwasher drain pumps are not user-serviceable and require professional replacement.
West Metro Appliance Repair has completed 2,623 dishwasher repairs across 70+ Twin Cities communities. Our technicians see this exact problem regularly and can diagnose it quickly.
More Dishwasher Troubleshooting
Dishwasher Not Cleaning Dishes Properly
Dishes come out with food residue, film, or spots. Before replacing your dishwasher, try these steps — the problem is…
5 stepsDishwasher Won't Start
You close the door, select a cycle, and press start — but nothing happens. No water, no sounds, no lights…
4 stepsDishwasher Leaking Water
Water on the floor in front of or under your dishwasher. Leaks can come from the door gasket, hose connections,…
5 stepsDishwasher Repair Service
Factory-certified dishwasher repair across 70+ Twin Cities communities.