Having trouble with your Kitchenaid dishwasher not draining? Learn how to quickly diagnose and fix this common issue with our easy-to-follow guide.
At some point in your dishwasher’s lifespan, you may encounter the problem of water not draining out properly. This can be a frustrating and inconvenient issue, but fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to address the problem.
In this article, we will explore the common causes of a KitchenAid dishwasher not draining and provide you with some solutions to fix the issue.
Understanding how a dishwasher drains
Before we dive into the common causes of a KitchenAid dishwasher not draining, let’s first understand how a dishwasher drains. When you start a dishwasher cycle, the appliance fills up with water, which is then heated to the appropriate temperature.
The dishwasher then sprays water onto the dishes, cleaning them with detergent. After the cleaning cycle is complete, the water needs to be drained from the appliance.
In most dishwashers, a drain pump is responsible for removing the wastewater from the appliance. The pump is located at the bottom of the dishwasher and pushes the water through a drain hose and into your home’s plumbing system. However, several factors can cause the dishwasher not to drain properly.
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Common causes of a KitchenAid dishwasher not draining
Clogs in the drain hose
A clog in the drain hose is one of the most common causes of a KitchenAid dishwasher not draining. Over time, food particles, soap scum, and other debris can accumulate in the hose, obstructing the flow of water. To check for a clog in the drain hose, first, turn off the dishwasher and disconnect it from the power source.
Then, locate the drain hose at the back of the appliance and detach it from the sink drain or garbage disposal. Use a long, flexible brush or a plumbing snake to remove any debris from the hose.
Blocked garbage disposal
If your KitchenAid dishwasher is connected to garbage disposal, a clog in the disposal can also cause the dishwasher not to drain. When the disposal is clogged, it can prevent water from flowing through the drain hose, causing standing water in the dishwasher.
To check for clogged disposal, first, turn off the power to the disposal and unplug the dishwasher. Then, inspect the disposal for any visible debris or obstructions. If you find a clog, use a plunger or an auger to clear it.
Clogged dishwasher filter
The dishwasher filter is responsible for trapping food particles and other debris to prevent them from entering the drain pump and causing damage. Over time, the filter can become clogged, preventing water from draining properly. To clean the dishwasher filter.
Use a towel or a sponge to remove any visible debris from the filter. If the filter is removable, take it out and rinse it under running water. Make sure to remove any food particles or other debris from the filter before reinstalling it.
Faulty drain pump
If the drain pump is faulty, the dishwasher will not be able to remove the wastewater from the appliance. You can test the drain pump by first turning off the dishwasher and disconnecting it from the power source.
Then, locate the drain pump, which is usually at the bottom of the dishwasher, and check for any visible damage or obstruction. If the pump appears to be damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Malfunctioning drain valve
The drain valve controls the flow of water from the dishwasher to the drain hose. If the valve is not functioning correctly, it can cause the dishwasher not to drain. You can test the drain valve by first turning off the power to the dishwasher and disconnecting it from the water supply. Then, remove the valve and inspect it for any visible damage or obstructions. If the valve is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
How to troubleshoot and fix a KitchenAid dishwasher not draining
If your KitchenAid dishwasher is not draining properly, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix the issue. Here are some DIY solutions you can try:
- Check for clogs in the drain hose: As mentioned earlier, a clog in the drain hose is a common cause of a dishwasher not draining. To fix the issue, detach the hose from the sink drain or garbage disposal and remove any visible debris with a brush or a plumbing snake.
- Inspect and clean the garbage disposal: If your dishwasher is connected to a garbage disposal, a clog in the disposal can also cause the dishwasher not to drain. To fix the issue, inspect the disposal for any visible debris and clear it using a plunger or an auger.
- Clean the dishwasher filter: A clogged dishwasher filter can also cause the appliance not to drain. To fix the issue, remove the filter and clean it using a sponge or by rinsing it under running water.
- Test the drain pump: If the drain pump is faulty, it can cause the dishwasher not to drain. To test the pump, detach it from the power source and inspect it for any visible damage. If the pump is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
- Test the drain valve: If the drain valve is malfunctioning, it can cause the dishwasher not to drain. To test the valve, detach it from the water supply and inspect it for any visible damage. If the valve is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
If the above solutions do not fix the issue, it may be time to call a professional appliance repair technician to diagnose and fix the problem.
FAQs
Why is my KitchenAid dishwasher not draining after I cleaned the filter?
Cleaning the filter is an important step in fixing a dishwasher not draining. However, if the issue persists after cleaning the filter, it may be caused by a clog in the drain hose, a malfunctioning drain pump, or a faulty drain valve.
Can a clogged garbage disposal cause a dishwasher not to drain?
Yes, a clogged garbage disposal can prevent water from flowing through the drain hose and cause the dishwasher not to drain. It’s important to inspect and clean the garbage disposal if your dishwasher is connected to one.
How do I remove a clog in the drain hose?
To remove a clog in the drain hose, detach the hose from the sink drain or garbage disposal and use a brush or a plumbing snake to remove any visible debris.
How often should I clean the dishwasher filter?
It’s recommended to clean the dishwasher filter at least once a month to prevent clogs and ensure proper drainage.
How can I prevent my KitchenAid dishwasher from not draining in the future?
To prevent your dishwasher from not draining in the future, make sure to regularly clean the filter, inspect and clean the garbage disposal, and avoid putting large food particles or other debris down the drain. If you notice any issues, such as slow draining or unusual noises, address them promptly to prevent further damage to the appliance.
Conclusion
A KitchenAid dishwasher not draining can be a frustrating issue to deal with. However, by understanding the common causes and solutions, you can troubleshoot and fix the problem quickly and efficiently. Remember to check for clogs in the drain hose, inspect and clean the garbage disposal, clean the dishwasher filter, test the drain pump, and test the drain valve.
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