Beyond Bending Tell You How
Having a dishwasher is a great convenience, but it can be frustrating when it is not draining properly. Not only does it leave your dishes dirty, but it can also cause water damage if not fixed. However, you don’t have to call a repair person right away. In this article, we will guide you on how to fix a dishwasher that is not draining properly.
Check the Garbage Disposal
The first step in fixing a dishwasher that is not draining properly is checking the garbage disposal. If your dishwasher is connected to your sink’s garbage disposal, make sure it is not clogged. Run the disposal to clear any debris that may be blocking the connection between the dishwasher and the garbage disposal.
Check the Drain Basket
The next step is to check the dishwasher’s drain basket. The drain basket is located at the bottom of the dishwasher and catches any large food particles or debris. Remove the drain basket and clean it thoroughly. This can help improve drainage.
Check the Drain Hose
The drain hose is another area to check. This hose connects the dishwasher to the garbage disposal or drain. Make sure it is not kinked, twisted or clogged. If you find any obstruction, remove it to allow water to flow freely through the drain hose.
Check the Air Gap
The air gap is a device on the sink that prevents wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher. It can become clogged with debris or food particles. Remove the air gap and clean it thoroughly. This can help improve drainage and prevent water from backing up into the dishwasher.
Check the Pump and Motor
If none of the above steps have solved the problem, then it’s time to check the dishwasher’s pump and motor. These are responsible for moving water through the dishwasher and out of the drain hose. If they are not functioning properly, the dishwasher will not drain properly. You may need to replace the pump or motor if they are broken.
Check the Float Switch
The float switch is a safety device that prevents the dishwasher from overfilling with water. It can become stuck or malfunction, causing the dishwasher to not drain properly. Check the float switch by removing it and cleaning it. If it is still not working, you may need to replace it.
Check the Drain Solenoid
The drain solenoid is responsible for opening the drain valve to allow water to flow out of the dishwasher. If it is not working properly, the dishwasher will not drain properly. Check the drain solenoid by testing it with a multimeter. If it is faulty, you may need to replace it.
Check the Drain Valve
The drain valve is responsible for allowing water to flow out of the dishwasher. If it is not working properly, the dishwasher will not drain properly. Check the drain valve by testing it with a multimeter. If it is faulty, you may need to replace it.
Check for Clogs
If none of the above steps have solved the problem, then it’s time to check for clogs in the drain line. Use a plumbing snake or a wire hanger to clear any clogs in the drain line.
Check for Blockages
Another area to check is the dishwasher’s spray arms. If they are clogged, water may not be able to flow freely through the dishwasher. Remove the spray arms and clean them thoroughly.
Check for Damage
If your dishwasher is still not draining properly, it may be due to damage. Check the dishwasher’s hoses, pump, and motor for any signs of damage. If you find any damage, you may need to replace the affected parts.
Call a Professional
If you have tried all of the above steps and your dishwasher still won’t drain properly, it may be time to call in a professional. They can diagnose and fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
Preventive Measures
To prevent your dishwasher from not draining properly in the future, make sure to rinse dishes before placing them in the dishwasher. This will help prevent food particles from clogging the drain. Additionally, use a dishwasher cleaner regularly to remove any buildup or debris from the dishwasher.
Conclusion
A dishwasher that is not draining properly can be frustrating, but it can be fixed. By following the steps outlined above, you can troubleshoot and fix the problem on your own. If you are not comfortable performing any of these steps, call in a professional. Remember to take preventive measures to prevent this problem from occurring in the future.
