Down the Drain: 10 Reasons Why Your Dishwasher Isn’t Draining
Dishwashers need to drain properly so that your kitchen doesn’t flood with dirty, greasy water. However, an issue with the drainage system or the pipes could lead to a potential blockage. The solution might be as easy as changing your detergent, and you may be able to fix it yourself. However, there are some instances where it’s best to let a professional handle the matter.
Whether the situation is complicated or you’d prefer to trust your appliances with an expert, call the Waldman plumbers who have been servicing the North Shore area for over 100 years at 781.780.3184.
Potential Dishwasher Issues
When the dishwasher isn’t draining, chances are it’s an easier fix than you think. There are many things to troubleshoot, so it’s best to start with the simple potential solutions. Take a look at these reasons as to why your dishwasher isn’t draining.
Here are 10 potential issues with your dishwasher’s drain.
- Using liquid dish detergent. Most units, especially older models, were not designed around liquid dish soap, which sometimes causes so many suds that the machine is not able to wash away all the bubbles and drain properly. Switch to a powdered detergent and see if the matter resolves itself.
- The filter and trap have not been cleaned in a while. If you have been using the machine for a while, then you may need to find the filter and wipe it down. Often, it’s found by lifting the revolving piece up from its holding spot. Cleaning the dishwasher’s filter and trap regularly can ensure it stays working smoothly.
- Check the drain hose. There is likely a small black hose underneath the counter that connects your dishwasher to your garbage disposal. See if any kink or clog has formed and clear it.
- Check your garbage disposal. Often, the water from the dishwasher actually goes down the same drain as the garbage disposal, so make sure there’s no clog.
- Check the air gap. Some brands of dishwasher depend on a special air gap, which is housed in a small cylindrical cap on the counter. Try uncapping it and cleaning with a small brush and tweezers.
- Check the knockout plug. If your dishwasher is new, then there’s a chance the knockout plug may not have been removed during installation. This is a plug located in the drain hose, and you can dislodge it by hammering a dowel or other blunt tool into the dishwasher’s drain hose, and then running the machine.
- Replace the drain hose. If you think there is a clog in your current hose that you can’t dislodge, then it’s worth trying a replacement. Just don’t forget about the knockout plug!
- Check for a frozen valve. The water inlet valve, which is often found behind the control panel and bottom panels of the dishwasher may need to be unfrozen or even replaced.
- A power source failure. It’s unlikely, but try running the dishwasher again and keep a close eye on whether or not the electric supply to the kitchen is interrupted or not. If the breaker keeps tripping when you run the machine, you should consult an electrician.
- Overhaul your plumbing. Sometimes all your pipes are just too old or corroded to handle the flow from your dishwasher. This is a worst case scenario since replacing all your pipes can be a real headache and long-drawn out process.
If you want to talk to an expert to learn more about fixing your dishwasher, Walden Plumbing is here to help, servicing over 100 zip codes around the North Shore area for over 100 years. Call 781.780.3184 today!