Appliances · checked 5 Oct 2026
The dishwasher won't drain
Safety first
- Stop using the dishwasher.
- Stay out of pooled water near plugs, outlets, or wiring.
- Never add drain cleaner. Disconnect power before cleaning.
Fix it nowEight steps
- Switch off dishwasher breaker from dry footing; leave the panel cover installed.Control buttons alone do not disconnect power.
- Let water cool. Remove lower rack; bail water into a bucket.Towels around the base help contain spills.
- Follow your manual: remove, rinse, and securely reinstall the removable filter.Food buildup can block drainage; not every filter is removable.
The other five steps
- If fitted, remove sink-top air-gap cover and cap; clear debris, then reassemble.An obstructed air gap can prevent draining.
- Inspect visible under-sink drain hose; don't disconnect hoses or pull dishwasher out.Kinks restrict drainage; hidden blockages need further service.
- Check whether the sink drains normally. Stop if it backs up.A blocked sink can also block dishwasher drainage.
- If dry and fully reassembled, restore power; run your manual's cancel/drain command once.Observe drainage and stop immediately if leaking or grinding occurs.
- If water remains above the filter area, switch off; book appliance repair.Some recessed water is normal; persistent excess water needs service.
When to stop
Stop and get a appliance technician if:
- Water reaches outlets, plugs, or wiring: stay clear; don't touch wet electrical equipment.
- Smoke, sparks, or burning smell: stop. For smoke or fire, leave and call 911.
- The breaker trips, the pump grinds, or broken glass is visible: call appliance repair.
- The sink backs up, or trouble began after installation: stop and arrange professional service.
- Water remains after one drain test, returns, or leaks underneath: switch off and call appliance repair.
What it probably is
Clogged removable filterFood or greasy buildup covers the filter at the tub bottom.You can check
Blocked sink drain or disposalThe kitchen sink also drains slowly or backs up.For a pro
Blocked air gap or drain hoseWater spills from the sink-top air gap, or the visible hose is kinked.You can check
Installation problemTrouble began after dishwasher or disposal installation; a disposal drain plug may remain.For a pro
Jammed or failed drain pumpHumming, grinding, or no draining continues after accessible blockages are cleared.For a pro
Time and parts
- Time
- About 15–30 minutes for accessible cleaning and one test.
- Parts
- $0 for cleaning with supplies already on hand; replacement parts excluded.
Get it done
More than a quick fix? Vora gets quotes privately and recommends one appliance technician.
Checked against
- Dishwasher Not Draining — manufacturer troubleshooting and safety
- Dishwasher — Not Draining
- Dishwasher — Cleaning the Air Gap
- How to Unclog a Dishwasher Drain in 5 Steps
Written for Vora from these public sources and checked on 5 Oct 2026. General guidance, not a substitute for a pro on site. In danger, leave and call 911.