Home appliances troubleshooting

Dishwasher is not draining

A blocked filter, drain hose, air gap, disposer connection, or pump can leave dirty water in the bottom of a dishwasher.

Updated Jul 17, 20265 minute guideDishwasher
Guided check

Match the symptom, then work through the safe checks.

0/3 checked

1. What best matches what you observe?

2. Complete only the checks that are safe for you.

Stop before pump removalInternal pump and wiring access requires qualified service.Professional
3 user-level checks are available in this guide.Stop immediately if any warning condition applies.
Show stop conditions
  • Broken glass may be in the sump
  • Water reaches wiring or the floor
  • Internal pump access is required

Likely causes

  • The filter or sump is blocked with debris
  • The drain hose is kinked or restricted
  • The sink air gap or disposer connection is blocked
  • The drain pump is jammed or not running
  • The cycle was interrupted before the final drain

Quick checks, in order

Cancel and drain once

Listen for the drain pump and observe whether water reaches the sink drain.

safe

Clean the removable filter

Disconnect power and follow the model instructions for filter removal.

caution

Inspect the drain path

Check the hose, air gap, high loop, and disposer inlet for a visible restriction.

safe

Stop before pump removal

Internal pump and wiring access requires qualified service.

Professional

What happens during drain?

The pump hums

A blockage, jam, or restricted hose is likely.

The pump is silent

The pump, wiring, door switch, or control may need diagnosis.

Water returns after draining

The hose routing, air gap, sink drain, or check valve may allow backflow.

Stop and get qualified help when

Do not continue troubleshooting if any of these apply:
  • Broken glass may be in the sump
  • Water reaches wiring or the floor
  • Internal pump access is required

Frequently asked questions

Is a small amount of water under the filter normal?

Some models retain a small amount in the sump. Water covering a large part of the tub is not normal.

Can a newly installed disposer cause drainage problems?

Yes. The dishwasher inlet plug must be removed during installation where applicable.

Keep diagnosing

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