Symptoms
- Water pooled at the bottom after the cycle ends
- Bad smell from standing water
- Dishes and tub feel greasy or dirty
- Cycle takes longer than normal or stalls
Likely causes
- CommonClogged filter or food trapFood debris builds up in the removable filter at the bottom of the tub and blocks drainage.
- CommonKinked or clogged drain hoseA pinched hose or one clogged with debris stops water from reaching the disposal or drain.
- PossibleClogged air gap or garbage disposalIf the dishwasher drains through the disposal, uncleared disposal debris or a blocked air gap backs water up.
- PossibleFailed drain pumpThe pump motor or impeller can wear out or jam, especially after grinding glass or bones.
- Less commonFaulty drain valve or check valveSome models use a valve that can stick closed and block flow.
What to do
- Unplug the dishwasher or shut off its breaker before reaching into the tub.
- Remove the bottom rack and take out the filter assembly; rinse it under running water and clear any trapped food.
- Check the drain hose where it connects to the disposal or air gap for kinks, and straighten or reroute it if pinched.
- If you have a garbage disposal, run it to clear any clog; a new disposal often has a knockout plug that must be removed for the dishwasher to drain.
- Check the air gap cylinder on the sink (if present) and clean out any debris inside it.
- Look in the tub for broken glass or labels stuck in the drain pump impeller area and remove any debris you can safely reach.
- Run a short cycle to see if it drains; if not, the drain pump motor likely needs professional testing or replacement.
Tools and parts
- Towels
- Small bowl or cup for bailing water
- Screwdriver
Dishwasher drain hoseSearch: “dishwasher drain hose replacement”
Dishwasher filter assemblySearch: “dishwasher filter replacement”
When to call a pro
If the filter and hose are clear but water still won't drain, call an appliance repair technician to test and replace the drain pump.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.