Newly Installed Dishwasher Not Draining
Whirlpool Dishwasher is Not Draining
Have you recently installed a new dishwasher or had a new garbage disposal installed, and now the dishwasher won't drain? If so, there are some basic troubleshooting steps you can take.
Is the garbage disposer knockout plug removed?
Built-in dishwashers typically drain via the garbage disposal, so removing the knock-out plug is critical for draining the dishwasher. This sometimes neglected step is a common misdiagnosis of a clogged or not draining dishwasher. Follow the steps below on how to check:
- Disconnect power to the dishwasher
- Disconnect the dishwasher drain hose from the garbage disposal.
- When disconnecting the hose from the inlet, use a bucket or large bowl to capture any water in the drain hose.
- Inspect the connection point at the disposal to ensure the knockout plug has been removed. The knockout plug is recessed into the inlet and is not visible when looking at it from the side. Insert a pencil into the inlet and feel for the knockout plug. The knockout plug has been removed if the pencil can go into the disposer inlet about 3 inches.
Review Connecting Dishwasher Drain to Garbage Disposal for more information.
Is the drain hose installed correctly?
Review the Owner's Manual for specific installation instructions for your model.
- Your dishwasher comes with a new drain hose. If the hose is not long enough, use a new drain hose with a maximum length of 12 ft (3.7 m) that meets all current AHAM/IAPMO test standards, is resistant to heat and detergent, and fits the dishwasher's 1" (2.5 cm) drain connector. NOTE: Do not connect multiple drain hoses together.
- Make sure to connect the drain hose to the waste tee or disposer inlet above the drain trap in the house plumbing, and 20" (50.8 cm) minimum above the floor. It is recommended that the drain hose either be looped up and securely fastened to the underside of the counter or be connected to an air gap.
- Ensure that an air gap is used if the drain hose is connected to house plumbing lower than 20" (50.8 cm) above the subfloor or floor.
Is the drain hose kinked?
Sometimes, the drain hose can kink when you push the dishwasher into its final location. Ensure the drain hose is routed correctly; see the video below for installation tips.
Was the dishwasher cycle interrupted?
If the wash cycle doesn't finish, the dishwasher might not drain fully. The cycle could be interrupted by the door opening, a power outage, or other reasons. If this happens, you may be able to restart the cycle by pressing "Start," or a drain cycle can be initiated by holding the "Start" button for three seconds (varies by model). If a drain cycle is performed, it is recommended that the load be re-washed.
Is the garbage disposer clogged?
A clogged garbage disposal can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly. Check for any food or obstructions caught in the garbage disposer. Run the disposer to clear the blockage. Once the garbage disposer is unclogged, start a drain cycle on the dishwasher to remove the water.
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