Beyond Bending Tell You How
Introduction
A dishwasher is a great appliance to have in your kitchen. It saves time and energy by washing and drying dishes for you. However, one of the most common problems with dishwashers is when they won’t drain. If you’re experiencing this issue, don’t worry, you can fix it yourself! In this article, we will guide you on how to fix a dishwasher that won’t drain.
Step 1: Check the Garbage Disposal
One of the most common reasons a dishwasher won’t drain is due to a clogged garbage disposal. The garbage disposal is connected to the dishwasher’s drain hose, and if it’s clogged, water won’t be able to flow through. To check if this is the problem, turn off the power to the garbage disposal and remove any debris or clogs.
Step 2: Check the Drain Hose
If the garbage disposal isn’t the issue, the next thing to check is the dishwasher’s drain hose. The drain hose should be free of any kinks or clogs that may prevent water from flowing through. Take off the hose and clean it thoroughly.
Step 3: Check the Air Gap
The air gap is a small device located on the kitchen sink that prevents dirty water from flowing back into the dishwasher. If the air gap is clogged, water won’t be able to drain from the dishwasher. To check the air gap, remove the cap and clean it with a toothbrush.
Step 4: Check the Drain Pump
If none of the above steps work, the problem may be with the dishwasher’s drain pump. The drain pump is responsible for pumping water out of the dishwasher, and if it’s malfunctioning, water won’t be able to drain. To check the drain pump, remove the dishwasher’s kick plate and locate the pump. Check for any clogs or debris and clean it thoroughly.
Step 5: Check the Float Switch
The float switch is a small device located at the bottom of the dishwasher that prevents it from overfilling with water. If the float switch is stuck, it can prevent water from draining. To fix this, remove the dishwasher’s bottom rack and check the switch. Gently lift it up and down to ensure it’s functioning properly.
Step 6: Check the Impeller
The impeller is a small device located inside the dishwasher’s drain pump that helps push water out of the dishwasher. If the impeller is damaged or broken, it can prevent water from draining. To check the impeller, remove the dishwasher’s drain pump and inspect it for any damage.
Step 7: Check the Check Valve
The check valve is a small device located in the dishwasher’s drain hose that prevents water from flowing back into the dishwasher. If the check valve is stuck or clogged, water won’t be able to drain. To check the check valve, remove the dishwasher’s drain hose and inspect it for any clogs or debris.
Step 8: Check the Drain Solenoid
The drain solenoid is a small device located in the dishwasher’s drain pump that controls the flow of water. If the drain solenoid is malfunctioning, water won’t be able to drain. To check the drain solenoid, remove the dishwasher’s drain pump and inspect it for any damage.
Step 9: Check the Timer
If none of the above steps work, the problem may be with the dishwasher’s timer. The timer controls when the dishwasher’s cycle starts and ends, and if it’s malfunctioning, water won’t be able to drain. To check the timer, consult your dishwasher’s manual for instructions.
Conclusion
Fixing a dishwasher that won’t drain can be frustrating, but with these steps, you can easily identify and fix the problem yourself. Remember to always turn off the power to your dishwasher before attempting any repairs. If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, it’s always best to consult a professional. By following these steps, you’ll have your dishwasher up and running in no time!
