Dishwasher Not Draining: What to Check First
Standing water after a cycle is often caused by a clogged filter, drain hose, garbage-disposal connection, or pump problem.
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Before you startUse only the checks you can perform safely. Disconnect power before homeowner-serviceable cleaning or inspection. Stop when a repair involves gas, exposed wiring, high voltage, a roof, structural components, or anything outside your experience.
Common signs
- Water remains in the tub
- Dishwasher smells unpleasant
- Cycle ends but dishes stay wet and dirty
Most likely causes
1. Clogged filter
Food debris can restrict water leaving the tub.
2. Kinked drain hose
A pinched hose reduces or stops drainage.
3. Garbage disposal connection
A new disposal may still have the dishwasher knockout plug installed.
4. Drain pump issue
A jammed or failed pump can prevent water from leaving.
Safe checks to try first
- Turn power off to the dishwasher before removing the filter.
- Clean the filter and visible sump area according to the manufacturer instructions.
- Inspect the drain hose under the sink for kinks.
- If connected to a disposal, verify the dishwasher connection is open.
When to call a professional
Call for service if the pump hums without draining, leaks appear, or the machine must be disassembled.
Bottom line
Start with the simplest visible cause, change one thing at a time, and avoid repeated resets or disassembly when a safety device keeps tripping. A recurring problem usually deserves a proper diagnosis rather than a temporary workaround.