If your KitchenAid dishwasher won’t drain, check for clogs in the drain hose or garbage disposal. If those are clear, the issue may be with the drain pump or float switch.
Dealing with a malfunctioning dishwasher can be frustrating, especially if you’re not sure what the problem is. It’s essential to identify the reason why the dishwasher won’t drain to fix the issue. A clogged drain hose or garbage disposal can be a quick and easy fix, but if this isn’t the problem, it may be necessary to call in a professional to diagnose and repair the issue.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to troubleshoot and fix common dishwasher drainage problems. By following these simple steps, you can save both time and money by avoiding unnecessary repairs or call-outs.
Signs Your Kitchenaid Dishwasher Is Not Draining
Is your KitchenAid dishwasher leaving water at the bottom of the tub, or is it leaking water onto your kitchen floor? If so, it could suggest that the unit is not draining correctly. Ignoring this issue can lead to poor cleaning results and even property damage.
Look for the following signs to determine if your dishwasher is not draining correctly.
The Dishwasher Is Not Draining After The Cycle Has Completed
If the dishwasher has finished the wash cycle, but you discover standing water in the bottom of the tub, it means the dishwasher did not drain correctly. Even though there is no significant damage in this situation, it is essential to carry out some standard troubleshooting to identify the problem.
Below are the possible reasons why this could be happening:
- A malfunctioning solenoid in the drain valve
- Clogging in the drain pump
- A defective motor
- The air gap is blocked, meaning dirty water cannot drain out.
Excessive Water Remains At The Bottom Of The Dishwasher
Another clear indication that your KitchenAid dishwasher is not draining correctly is when there is excess water in the tub. This could be a result of different reasons. In most cases, a straightforward and quick fix can solve this issue.
Here are some reasons this could be happening:
- You’re overloading the dishwasher with dishes
- Dirty filters that clog the water pump and the plumbing
- A drain pump that is no longer functioning
- The drain hose has split or is kinked, reducing the water flow.
Water Is Leaking Onto The Floor From The Dishwasher
If you find water on the kitchen floor beneath your dishwasher, it means that the appliance is not draining properly. Leaking water is a severe issue that demands immediate attention. Not only can it damage your floors, but it can also lead to electrical issues.
Check the following to fix the problem:
- Gasket failure around the door
- Cracks or deformities in the dishwasher tub
- Broken spray arm or holes in the arm
- Defective pump or impeller.
Remember, taking quick action when your Kitchenaid dishwasher is not draining correctly can save on costly repairs and prevent unnecessary damage. Check each of the factors above, and you will undoubtedly find the root cause of the problem.
Causes Of Your Kitchenaid Dishwasher Not Draining
It’s irritating when your KitchenAid dishwasher won’t drain, and the water runs right onto the floor. So, what is triggering this issue? Let’s have a look at the potential motives for a malfunctioning dishwasher that won’t drain.
Clogged Drain Hose Or Air Gap Preventing Water From Draining
A clogged drain hose or air gap is the most common reason for a KitchenAid dishwasher not draining. A drain hose may be obstructed by food particles, grease, detergent, or mineral buildup over time. It could also cave in, trapping water and preventing it from draining.
Similarly, an air gap, although not linked to the drain hose but to the garbage disposal, can be clogged by grease and food particles, reducing the amount of water draining from your dishwasher.
Here are some signs to see if your drain hose or air gap is the cause of the problem:
- Water remains in the dishwasher even after the wash cycle
- Drain noises during the wash cycle
- Dishes are still wet after the dishwasher cycle is over
The garbage Disposal Unit Is Clogged, Preventing Dishwasher Water From Draining
The garbage disposal unit can be another possible reason for your Kitchenaid dishwasher not draining. Because the dishwasher and the garbage disposal are joined, if its drain or disposal itself clogs, the dishwasher won’t drain either.
Here are a few ways to know if your clogged garbage disposal could be the culprit:
- The dishwasher’s wash cycle was completed successfully, but the water is still in the dishwasher
- Water covers the bottom of the sink when running the garbage disposal
Damaged Or Malfunctioning Drain Pump
A damaged or malfunctioning drain pump is another culprit that leads to a KitchenAid dishwasher not draining. The drain pump works to pump out the water from the dishwasher and will make a humming sound during operation. Sometimes the pump malfunctions, gets damaged by becoming clogged with debris or gets broken due to wear and tear.
Here are some symptoms that likely point to a faulty drain pump:
- Water is present in the bottom of the dishwasher after the wash cycle
- There is no humming sound while running a wash cycle
By identifying the symptoms, you can determine the root cause of the issue, whether it’s a clogged drain, garbage disposal, or even a malfunctioning drain pump. Fixing these issues can make your KitchenAid dishwasher run correctly without causing any problems.
Troubleshooting Steps To Fix A Kitchenaid Dishwasher That Won’t Drain
Kitchenaid dishwasher won’t drain: troubleshooting steps to fix a Kitchenaid dishwasher
Is your Kitchenaid dishwasher not draining properly after completing a cycle? Don’t worry; it’s a common issue that can occur with any dishwasher. Luckily, troubleshooting the problem isn’t difficult. Here are some practical steps to follow to fix your KitchenAid dishwasher that won’t drain.
Turn Off The Dishwasher And Unplug It From The Power Source
Before proceeding with troubleshooting, it is essential to turn off your KitchenAid dishwasher and unplug it from the power source to avoid any potential electrical hazards.
Check For Any Clogs In The Drain Hose Or Air Gap
Clogs in the drain hose or air gap can cause your dishwasher to not drain. To check for clogs, follow these steps:
- Remove the dishwasher’s bottom rack.
- Check the drain hose for any clogs or obstructions and remove it carefully.
- Check the air gap and clean it if it’s dirty.
Steps To Check For Clogs
You can use these steps to verify whether there are any clogs in the drain hose or air gap:
- Disconnect the drain hose from the sink drain or garbage disposal unit at the dishwasher end.
- Place the disconnected end of the hose in a bucket.
- Turn on your garbage disposal unit and check to see if water begins to drain out.
- If water doesn’t drain out, clear the clogs using a plumbing snake, then reconnect it and try running the dishwasher again.
Check The Garbage Disposal Unit For Any Clogs
Sometimes, the garbage disposal unit causes clogs that prevent your dishwasher from draining. Here’s how to check it:
- Turn off the power to the garbage disposal.
- Check the connection between the garbage disposal and the dishwasher.
- Remove any debris or clogs from the garbage disposal.
Steps To Clear The Garbage Disposal Unit
You can follow these steps to unclog your garbage disposal unit:
- Turn off the power to the garbage disposal unit.
- Use a flashlight to check for any clogs in the disposal unit and remove any food debris by hand.
- Place an old toothbrush into the disposal unit and turn it in both directions to clear any clogs.
- Turn on the garbage disposal to check if it’s working properly.
Check The Drain Pump For Any Damage Or Malfunctions
The drain pump helps to remove water from the dishwasher during the drainage process. If the pump isn’t working correctly, your dishwasher won’t drain. Here’s how to inspect and replace the drain pump if necessary:
- Remove the lower kickplate of your dishwasher and locate the drain pump.
- Check for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks.
- Check the impeller, which is a plastic blade that helps move water through the drain pump.
- If the impeller is damaged or clogged, remove it and clean it.
Steps To Inspect And Replace The Drain Pump (If Necessary)
You can use these steps to inspect and replace your dishwasher’s drain pump:
- Unplug your dishwasher from the power source and turn off the water supply.
- Remove the lower kickplate of your dishwasher and locate the drain pump.
- Remove any dirt or debris around the pump and check if it’s damaged or needs to be replaced.
- Remove the drain pump assembly carefully and replace it with a new one, if necessary.
- Reinstall the lower kickplate and turn on the power and water supply.
Don’t panic if your Kitchenaid dishwasher won’t drain. Follow these troubleshooting steps to identify and resolve the issue quickly. If the problem persists, it’s best to contact a professional technician to fix it.
Tips For Preventing Your Kitchenaid Dishwasher From Not Draining In The Future
Kitchenaid dishwasher won’t drain: tips for preventing your Kitchenaid dishwasher from not draining in the future
Having a dishwasher that won’t drain can be frustrating. To prevent this from happening again, there are a few tips you can follow:
Regularly Clean The Dishwasher’S Filter And Check The Drain Hose For Any Clogs
The filter in your dishwasher plays a crucial role in ensuring it runs efficiently. Over time, however, debris such as food particles and soap scum can accumulate and cause blockages that impair drainage. Cleaning the filter every few weeks helps keep this vital component in top condition.
Checking the drain hose for kinks, cracks, or debris is also crucial. A clogged or obstructed hose hinders proper drainage. Therefore, it’s advisable to inspect the drain hose regularly and remove any debris or objects that might be preventing water from passing through.
Ensure That The Garbage Disposal Unit Is Clear Before Running The Dishwasher
Before running your Kitchenaid dishwasher, ensure that your garbage disposal unit is clean to provide stable drainage. The garbage disposal and dishwasher’s drain line are often connected and, therefore, share the same drain line.
It’s best to run your garbage disposal unit for a few seconds before starting your dishwasher to prevent any blockages and ensure that water drains efficiently.
Use A Dishwasher Cleaner Once A Month To Prevent Buildup That Can Cause Clogs
Dishwasher cleaners are a great way to prevent buildup that can cause clogs and damage your dishwasher in the long run. Using dishwasher cleaners at least once a month helps eliminate mineral deposits, grease, and food debris that build up in the dishwasher over time, leaving your unit clean and odor-free.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Following these simple tips will help you prevent your Kitchenaid dishwasher from not draining in the future while ensuring its longevity and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions: Kitchenaid Dishwasher Won’t Drain
Why Is My Kitchenaid Dishwasher Not Draining Properly?
There could be blockages in the filter or drain hose. Pump malfunctions or clogs in the garbage disposal could also cause this issue.
How Do I Troubleshoot A Clogged Dishwasher?
Inspect and clean the filter and drain hose; remove visible debris from the drain pump, dispose of food waste; run a disposal cycle if available.
Can I Manually Drain The Dishwasher?
Yes, but you need to bail out as much water as you can before you remove the filter and drain the remaining water. Additionally, use a towel to dry up the excess water.
What Should I Do If My Kitchenaid Dishwasher Stops Mid-Cycle?
Make sure the door is securely latched, and close it. Check the thermal fuse, unclog the drain, and stop the dishwasher to reset it to clear a heavy load. If the problem persists, seek help from a professional.
How Often Should I Clean The Dishwasher Filter?
Clean the dishwasher filter once every month or as needed, especially if the dishwasher seems to be draining poorly.
Conclusion
After going through the above-discussed troubleshooting steps, it is evident that there could be various reasons why your Kitchenaid dishwasher is not draining. It could be due to a faulty drain pump, a clogged drain hose, or a malfunctioning check valve. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the root cause of the problem to ensure that your dishwasher works efficiently.
Moreover, to prevent such issues in the future, it is advisable to clean your dishwasher regularly and refrain from putting large food particles in it. Following the manufacturer’s instructions and maintenance tips can also help prolong your dishwasher’s life and keep it in optimal condition.
If the issue persists, seeking the assistance of a licensed technician is the best solution. With proper care and maintenance, your Kitchenaid dishwasher will continue to serve you for many years to come.
