If you’ve just opened your dishwasher only to find that your dishwasher is not draining, you’re not alone. A dishwasher that won’t drain is one of the most common kitchen appliance issues we see at Express Appliance Repair. While it can be frustrating, the good news is that the problem is often easy to diagnose—and sometimes even fix on your own. Here’s a breakdown of what might be going wrong, and when it’s time to call a professional.
Your dishwasher’s filter catches food debris and prevents it from entering the drain pump. Over time, it can get clogged and prevent proper drainage. Remove the bottom rack, locate the filter (usually under the spray arm), and clean it thoroughly with warm water and soap.
The drain hose carries water from your dishwasher to your sink drain or garbage disposal. If it’s clogged, bent, or kinked, it can stop water from exiting the appliance. A quick inspection behind the unit can help determine if the hose needs adjusting or replacing.
If your dishwasher was recently installed and connected to a new garbage disposal, the drain plug might not have been removed. This small plug blocks water flow and must be knocked out before use. Check your installation instructions or consult with a technician.
The drain pump pushes water out of your dishwasher. If it’s faulty or blocked by debris, it won’t work properly. You may hear a humming sound without water draining, which is often a sign the pump motor needs attention.
Some dishwashers include an air gap to prevent backflow of water. If it’s clogged, it can cause water to back up into your dishwasher. You can usually find it near your kitchen sink faucet and remove the top to check for blockages.
Run your garbage disposal to clear any possible blockages.
Check the dishwasher filter and remove debris.
Inspect the drain hose for clogs or kinks.
Reset the dishwasher by turning off the power for 5–10 minutes.
If you’ve tried these steps and the water still won’t drain, the issue may require professional dishwasher repair.
While some drainage problems can be resolved at home, others—like electrical issues, broken pumps, or complex clogs—are best left to professionals. At Express Appliance Repair, our licensed technicians are experienced with all major dishwasher brands and models. We offer fast, same-day service and provide upfront quotes so there are no surprises.
Don’t let a non-draining dishwasher disrupt your kitchen routine. If you’re dealing with standing water, foul odors, or repeated draining issues, Express Appliance Repair is here to help. Contact us today for prompt, reliable service across Canada.
📞 Call us at (647) 492-7773
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