A dishwasher cannot drain if its motor is not operating properly.
It can be an unpleasant surprise to open your dishwasher at the end of a cleaning cycle and find that it's still full of water. While your first priority is likely getting rid of the water, finding the cause of your dishwasher's drainage issue is key to preventing the situation in the future. Several factors may keep your dishwasher from draining properly, but most of them can be resolved without the assistance of a repair technician.
Listen for the Motor
If your dishwasher does not drain, verify that the motor is running. The appliance cannot drain if the motor is not working. If you do not hear any sounds coming from the motor, confirm that the dishwasher has power by checking your home's circuit breaker or fuse box. If the motor makes noise but is not working, it may be broken and need to be replaced. Your dishwasher may also fail to drain if the motor is stuck so try turning it by hand to loosen it.
Clean the Filter
Your dishwasher is equipped with a drain at the bottom of the basin that catches large food particles and other debris. If the filter is clogged with food items, it may prevent water from draining from the appliance. To prevent blockages that might affect drainage, clean the filter regularly, according to the instructions in your owner's manual. Typically, cleaning the filter, once a week, is enough to avoid these issues.
Check the Drain Line
If your dishwasher's motor is functional and the filter is clean, the drainage issue is likely due to a problem with the drain line. The drain line allows water to flow out of the machine at the end of the wash cycle, and any clogs, kinks or damage to the hose may prevent proper drainage. Check the area where the drain hose connects to your home's main drain line or the garbage disposal, looking for kinks in the line. Remove the hose and clean out any debris that might prevent water from draining as well. In addition, consult your dishwasher's installation instructions to verify that the hose is at the proper height as many dishwashers need the line elevated in order to provide proper drainage.
Check the Pump
While your dishwasher relies on the drain line to provide a path for water to exit the machine, the drain pump is actually responsible for pushing the water out. If there is any damage to your dishwasher's drain pump, it may be unable to drain fully. The pump is typically found near the dishwasher's motor, so you can access it at the bottom of the basin. If you notice an obstruction, clear the drain pump, according to the instructions in your owner's manual. Inspect the pump's blades for signs of damage and contact a service technician to replace it if necessary.
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