Dishwasher Not Draining? Try These 3 Easy Fixes Before You Call a Pro

When your dishwasher suddenly stops draining, it can disrupt your entire kitchen routine. But before you call for professional dishwasher repair, there are a few quick and simple steps you can try to fix the problem yourself.

Here are three common reasons your dishwasher won’t drain—and how to fix them.

1. 🧰 Check for Clogs in the Drain Hose or Pump

A blocked drain hose or pump is often the main culprit when your dishwasher won’t drain.

What to do:

• Locate the drain hose: Usually found under the kitchen sink or behind the dishwasher.
• Inspect for blockages: Keep an eye on food bits, grease, or debris.
• Clear the obstruction: Use a long brush long brush or flexible tool Remove any clogs carefully.

Don’t forget the pump:

• To reach the pump area, remove the bottom rack and access the pump area (check your manual).
• Look for stuck debris like glass, bones, or paper.
• carefully Remove and rerun the cycle to test.

2. 🧼 Clean the Dishwasher Filters

Dishwasher filters trap food particles and keep the water clean. These filters have the potential to clog over time and impede adequate drainage.

How to clean the filters:

• Check the user manual for the filter location.
• Twist and remove the filters (some models have multiple).
• Scrub gently with a toothbrush under warm water.
• Test the cycle after reinstalling the filters

Regular Cleaning every few weeks helps prevent drainage issues in the future.

3. 🔍 Inspect the Drain Valve

The drain valve allows water to exit your dishwasher. If it’s stuck or broken, it may stop draining entirely.

Steps to check the valve:

• Access the drain valve at the base of the dishwasher.
• Check for food buildup or gunk blocking the valve.
• Clean it gently using a small brush.
• If it still doesn’t work, the valve might need replacing.

🚨 Still Not Draining? Call a Professional

If you’ve tried all the above and your dishwasher still won’t drain, it might be time to call an expert. Internal parts like the motor or control board may be at fault.

At Advance Appliance Ltd., we provide fast and reliable dishwasher repair in Edmonton. Our certified technicians will diagnose and fix your appliance quickly—so you can get back to enjoying a clean kitchen.

👉 Call us today or book a service online for same-day dishwasher repair!