What to Look for When the Dishwasher is not Draining

We have all had it happen before. You fill the racks up, set the correct cycle, and clean dishes are on the way. Right? Well, usually. However, what about when the cycle ends, and you open the door, and Your Dishwasher is not Draining?

A valid question for sure, and one that can have several different answers. One thing is for certain though. That is when Your Dishwasher is not Draining, the issue is not going to just go away or resolve itself. You have to either first, figure out and fix the problem on your own. If that is not possible, then you are going to have to have a professional look at the issue. Either way, in this post, we will address the reasons for which Your Dishwasher is not Draining. Likewise, we will give you pointers on what to do in troubleshooting this issue.

Oh No! Standing Water! The Dishwasher Must be Clogged…Right?

As you can probably tell from the headline above, the first thing you should do is identify whether or not your clog is actually in the dishwasher. So, your first clue that there is any issue will be standing water in the unit upon the completion of a washing cycle. But, to be sure it is the dishwasher that is your drainage issue, begin by checking other drains in the home.

If once you begin this check, you discover another kitchen or bathroom drain is the problem, then you are facing a larger plumbing system issue. If this happens, you should call us, the professionals at Poole’s Plumbing, right away. However, in the case that the other drains are working fine, then we can isolate the fact that your Dishwasher is not Draining to something in the unit.

Your Dishwasher is not Draining, let’s Troubleshoot the Problem

Ok, so eliminating the chance that your Dishwasher is not Draining due to a larger plumbing issue is a good thing. So, we have four different things for you to check on within the dishwasher.Basically, one of the following four problems below, once one is identified, you should be able to rectify the issue. Simply look inside your dishwasher to verify which of these is the problem.

1. Some type of visible obstruction at the bottom of your dishwasher.
2. The filter in your dishwasher has become too dirty to allow drainage
3. A disconnected or clogged drain filter
4. The drain valve bracket has become worn out

The Problem is Identified…Now for the Easy Fix!

 In the case of any of the above issues being discovered, you should have a fairly easy fix. Depending on which of these four you have found to be the problem, the simple solutions below will rectify the fact that your Dishwasher is not Draining.

1. If you found a visible obstruction or debris, remove it and dispose of it properly
2. In case, the filter is the problem, clean or clear it off
3. To clear any clogs you have found, simply blow throw the drain hose. Obviously, if it is seen that this has come disconnected, reconnect the hose.
4. Lastly. if the issue is with the valve bracket, replace it with a new one.

What If I am Still Not Sure Why my Dishwasher is not Draining?

Now, usually, one of these items is going to lead to the resolution of to the fact that your Dishwasher is not Draining. That being said, sometimes, the problem is more complex. Much as we advise above in the case you discover a clog elsewhere, it’s time to call for help.

The most trusted name in Raleigh area plumbers, Poole’s Plumbing is just a call email contact away. We will identify the issue and have your dishwasher and your kitchen back up and running in no time.

To contact us at Poole’s Plumbing, visit poolesplumbing.com.