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Dishwasher Not Draining: Clear the Water Fast

Water sitting at the bottom of the tub points to the filter, the drain hose, or the air gap — check them in that order.

By Ainsley Park3 min read read

Written by Sawyer Kincaid, Lead Technician — True Fix Houston. Factory-trained, EPA-certified, 6 years servicing Greater Houston.

A dishwasher that won't drain leaves a shallow pool sitting in the tub, but the blockage causing it is usually easy to get at.

Clean the Filter and Sump

Food particles collect in the sump area and block the path water needs to drain out.

Fix: Scoop out any visible debris and rinse the filter located under the lower spray arm.

Check the Drain Hose and Disposal

A kinked hose, or a newly installed garbage disposal with its knockout plug still in place, will both stop drainage cold.

Fix: Straighten out the hose, and if the disposal was just installed, knock out that plug.

Clear the Air Gap

The small cylinder mounted on the sink can clog and send water backing up into the dishwasher tub.

Fix: Twist off the cap and clear out whatever debris has collected inside.

Not sure what's wrong? Book online — every visit includes a free diagnosis.

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