What To Know
- If your dishwasher is making a loud noise when it drains, it may be a sign of a worn-out pump.
- If your dishwasher is not draining at all, it may be a sign of a faulty float switch or drain pump.
- The most common causes of a dishwasher not draining are clogs, a faulty drain pump, a clogged air gap, or a malfunctioning float switch.
If your KitchenAid dishwasher is acting up and refusing to drain, it can be a major inconvenience. But don’t despair! With a few simple troubleshooting steps, you can often fix the problem yourself and get your dishes sparkling clean again.
Check for Clogs
The most common cause of a dishwasher not draining is a clog. Food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate in the drain hose, pump, or filter, preventing water from flowing out.
To check for clogs:
- Inspect the drain hose: Disconnect the hose from the dishwasher and check for any kinks or blockages.
- Clean the pump: Remove the pump cover and use a small brush or toothpick to remove any debris.
- Check the filter: The filter is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher. Remove it and clean it thoroughly with hot, soapy water.
Reset the Dishwasher
Sometimes, a simple reset can solve the problem. To reset your KitchenAid dishwasher:
- Unplug the dishwasher: Disconnect the power cord from the outlet.
- Wait 30 seconds: This gives the dishwasher time to completely discharge.
- Plug in the dishwasher: Reconnect the power cord and turn on the dishwasher.
Check the Drain Pump
The drain pump is responsible for pumping water out of the dishwasher. If the pump is malfunctioning, the dishwasher will not drain properly.
To check the drain pump:
- Listen for humming: When the dishwasher is running, listen for a humming sound. If you don’t hear any humming, the pump may be faulty.
- Check for leaks: Inspect the pump for any leaks or damage.
- Test the pump: Disconnect the power to the dishwasher and remove the pump. Connect the pump to a power source and see if it runs.
Inspect the Air Gap
The air gap is a small device that prevents water from siphoning back into the dishwasher. If the air gap is clogged or damaged, it can cause the dishwasher to not drain properly.
To inspect the air gap:
- Locate the air gap: It is usually located near the sink or under the counter.
- Clean the air gap: Remove the cap and clean the inside with a small brush or toothpick.
- Check for damage: Inspect the air gap for any cracks or damage.
Check the Float Switch
The float switch is a safety feature that prevents the dishwasher from overflowing. If the float switch is stuck or malfunctioning, it can cause the dishwasher to not drain properly.
To check the float switch:
- Locate the float switch: It is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher.
- Check for movement: Gently press the float switch up and down. It should move freely.
- Inspect the switch: Look for any damage or debris on the switch.
Clean the Spray Arms
The spray arms rotate and spray water to clean the dishes. If the spray arms are clogged or damaged, the dishwasher will not drain properly.
To clean the spray arms:
- Remove the spray arms: Unscrew the spray arms from the dishwasher.
- Clean the holes: Use a small brush or toothpick to clean any clogged holes.
- Inspect the arms: Look for any damage or cracks on the spray arms.
Professional Help
If you have tried all of the above steps and your KitchenAid dishwasher is still not draining, it is best to call a professional appliance repair technician. They will be able to diagnose and fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If your dishwasher is making a loud noise when it drains, it may be a sign of a worn-out pump.
- If your dishwasher is draining slowly, it may be a sign of a clogged drain hose or pump.
- If your dishwasher is not draining at all, it may be a sign of a faulty float switch or drain pump.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Why is my KitchenAid dishwasher not draining?
A: The most common causes of a dishwasher not draining are clogs, a faulty drain pump, a clogged air gap, or a malfunctioning float switch.
Q: How do I reset my KitchenAid dishwasher?
A: To reset your KitchenAid dishwasher, unplug it from the outlet, wait 30 seconds, and then plug it back in.
Q: How do I clean the spray arms on my KitchenAid dishwasher?
A: To clean the spray arms, remove them from the dishwasher and use a small brush or toothpick to clean any clogged holes. Inspect the arms for any damage or cracks.
