Instead of calling the service technician, repair dishwasher drainage problems yourself.
Dishwashers move heated water and detergent around your dishes via spray arms. The inlet hoses fill the tub with water, and the drainage hoses then take away the dirty water. If the dishwasher isn't draining properly, your dishes remain wet and water can rush out of the front of the tub when you open it. Figure out the source of the problem, and repair it yourself, avoiding service fees.
Normal Operation/Hoses
Most dishwashers normally leave a small amount of water on the bottom of the tub after the cycle is complete. This keeps the water seal from drying out, which can cause leaks if the seal cracks. Verify that the cycle is actually complete. Close the door, and restart the cycle. Wait for the cycle to complete before opening the door again. Check the drainage hose, and see if it's clogged or kinked. Dig out the debris with a plastic spoon, or straighten the hose.
Plumbing/Pump
Your home plumbing can also cause drainage problems with your dishwasher. Check the home drain, and clean it if it's clogged. If the plumbing pipes are clogged, use plumbing cleaning tools or products. If necessary, call a plumber for assistance. See if the pump is filled with debris. The pump is located underneath the bottom rack and spray arm. Remove these components, and clean out the pump with a plastic spoon. Examine the pump for cracks or broken parts. Get a new pump since you usually can't fix this part.
Drain Valve/Timer
The drain valve sits inside the drainage hose, and it opens to allow water to leave the tub. It closes to keep this water from reentering the tub. Clean the valve if debris is clogging it. If the valve still won't operate properly, it's defective. Purchase a new one from a dishwasher parts dealer. The timer regulates when parts get power. If the timer isn't working, your dishwasher may not drain properly. Test the timer motor with a multimeter, and see if it has continuity. If not, replace the timer since it's difficult to just fix the timer motor.
Additional Concerns
Clean the air gap if it's dirty. The air gap has a cap over it, and it is near the sink. If an air gap isn't installed, you must install a high drain loop by attaching the drainage hose to the base of the countertop. If you have a food waste disposer attached to the dishwasher, run it to clear out debris that can be clogging the drain. Remove the knockout plug if it's still installed. Check the motor and see if it's stuck, especially if you have not used the dishwasher for a while. Turn it until the motor freely moves. Get a new motor from a dishwasher parts dealer if the part is defective.
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