Clogged Dishwasher
Knowing Where to Look
Diagnosing a clogged dishwasher, many appliances exist in today’s technologically advanced world, especially plumbing systems. One device that has been around for quite a while but once upon a time helped lessen our cleaning load in the kitchen drastically is the dishwasher. It continues to make our everyday life a bit easier, but getting used to its convenience, we sometimes panic if the machine has some issue. Typically, this is not something that can’t be identified, so there is no need to worry. Below, we will discuss the three more than likely spots to check for Common Dishwasher Clogs.
There are many ways that you can run into Common Dishwasher Clogs. Sometimes this can be as simple as a label from some container coming loose and clogging the machine. Regardless of what or how you experience these Common Dishwasher Clogs, they usually can be rectified relatively quickly and with some essential tools. Thus, when you notice a dishwasher problem, below are the three common areas it most likely will be found.
Where are the Three Most Common Dishwasher Clogs Located?
The three main areas in which you will find Common Dishwasher Clogs are the air gap, the drain hose, and the filtration system. Below, we will detail each of these areas and how and where to look for each. Likewise, we will explain how to fix the problem in each area.
1- Air Gap
If your dishwasher uses an air gap, it could be the location of your Common Dishwasher Clogs. It is located on top of your sink near the faucet. The purpose of an air gap is to allow the dishwasher to drain without waste or dirty water from the sink backing up into the machine. Obviously, from that description, you can tell that a clogged air gap could lead to problems.
To clean out Common Clogged Dishwasher in the air gap:
• Take off the cover and plastic cap on the sink to access the drain hose from the dishwasher
• Use either an air gap brush or bottle brush to clean around your drain hose
• Push the brush through the line that runs to the sink until you can see it when looking into the drain.
How to Unclog Dishwasher – This video might be helpful!
2- Dishwasher Drain Hose
The drain hose attaches to the air gap or your sink and garbage disposal. If Common Dishwasher Clogs are experienced through the drain hose, below are steps to stop the problem.
• First, go to your breaker box and make sure the power to the dishwasher is shut off. So, if you also have a garbage disposal, be sure it is off.
• Shut off the water supply that runs to the dishwasher
• Place a towel with a shallow pan on top of it under your sink to catch spilling or splashing water
• Using the owner’s manual for your dishwasher, locate and then detach both ends of the drain hose
• Use a flexible brush to clean out any debris in the hose and all hose fittings, too
• Flush the drain hose with water using either a garden hose or the bathroom sink
• Reattach both ends of your drain hose
• Turn your power to these plumbing appliances back on and turn the water back on. Finally, run the dishwasher through its drain cycle (see video)
3- Filtration System
Our third and final location to look for Common Dishwasher Clogs is the filtration system. If you are unfamiliar with the filtration system, it is located under the spray arm on the bottom part of your dishwasher. With a filtration system, they can be configured differently depending on the brand or model of your dishwasher. So be sure to consult that owner’s manual (or look it up online) before cleaning it out.
If your filtration system is the issue, there is likely that a “non-food” item caused the problem. The reasoning behind assuming this is that the filtration system is good at taking care of chunks of food. Regardless of what is causing the clog, you’ll be happy to know the most advanced piece of equipment you’ll need to get rid of this clog is a screwdriver.
If These Common Dishwasher Clogs Aren’t the Problem
If you walked through all of these areas and still have Common Dishwasher Clogs, they may not be as common as initially thought. The problem could be with your garbage disposal or the sewer line. If this turns out to be, there is no need to worry. Just give us a call here at Poole’s Plumbing, and we are happy to assist with all your plumbing needs.
To contact the most trusted name in Raleigh plumbers, visit poolesplumbing.com.
