Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Draining – Follow These 5 Steps To Fix It

Is your Whirlpool dishwasher giving you trouble with draining? It’s a common issue that can usually be fixed in a few steps. We will guide you through the possible reasons why your Whirlpool dishwasher won’t drain and provide you with practical solutions to get it working properly again.

Dishwasher Not Draining Help Tips:

• A clogged filter is one of the most common causes of a Whirlpool dishwasher not draining.
• Other potential causes include a clogged drain hose, a malfunctioning drain valve, a blockage in the garbage disposal, or a dirty air gap.
• Prevent future clogs by removing food particles from dishes, running hot water cycles, regularly cleaning the dishwasher filter, and using dishwasher detergent.
• If the issue persists, troubleshoot other possible culprits like the drain pump, garbage disposal, air gap, and drain hose.

Common Causes of a Clogged Whirlpool Dishwasher

A clogged filter is one of the most common causes of a Whirlpool dishwasher not draining. Food particles and debris can get caught in the dishwasher’s filter, preventing water from draining properly. Clogged Whirlpool dishwasher can also occur due to a clogged drain hose, a malfunctioning drain valve, a blockage in the garbage disposal, or a dirty air gap.

To identify the specific cause, you can start by checking the dishwasher’s filter. Remove the filter and rinse it under running water to remove any accumulated debris. If the filter is damaged or excessively dirty, cleaning a Whirlpool dishwasher filter may not be enough, and it may need to be replaced with a new one.

If the filter is not the culprit, inspect the drain hose for any clogs or kinks. Ensure that the hose is properly connected and free from any obstructions. If necessary, you may need to remove and clean the drain hose to restore proper drainage.

The drain valve is responsible for controlling the drain’s opening and closing. A malfunctioning valve can result in a clogged dishwasher. Consult your owner’s manual or contact Whirlpool support for guidance on inspecting and repairing the drain valve.

A blockage in the garbage disposal can also cause a clogged dishwasher. Check the garbage disposal for any trapped food particles or debris. Use tongs or a small brush to remove any obstructions. Clearing the garbage disposal can often resolve the draining issue.

In addition, a dirty air gap can cause drainage problems in a Whirlpool dishwasher. The air gap prevents water from backflowing into the dishwasher. Clean the air gap by removing the cap and rinsing it thoroughly. Use a small brush or toothpick to dislodge any debris stuck inside the air gap.

How to Unclog a Whirlpool Dishwasher in 5 Steps

If you’re dealing with a clogged Whirlpool dishwasher, don’t panic. With just five simple steps, you can unclog your dishwasher and restore it to its efficient glory. Follow these instructions to get your dishwasher up and running again:

Step 1: Check the Dishwasher Drain

The first step is to inspect the dishwasher drain for any visible clogs. Start by removing the bottom dish rack to access the drain area. Look for any food debris or foreign objects that may be obstructing the drain. Clear out the blockage using a long, thin tool like a pipe cleaner or toothpick. Be careful not to damage the drain components.

Step 2: Clean the Dishwasher Filter

Next, locate the dishwasher filter. It is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher, beneath the spray arm. Remove the filter and rinse it under running water to remove any debris or residue. Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub away stubborn grime. Once the filter is clean, reinstall it back into the dishwasher.

Step 3: Check the Drain Hose

Inspect the dishwasher drain hose for any kinks, twists, or blockages. Ensure that the hose is properly connected to both the dishwasher and the drain pipe. If you notice any issues, straighten the hose or remove any obstructions. You may need to disconnect the hose to thoroughly clean it using a brush or pipe cleaner.

Step 4: Clear the Garbage Disposal

If your dishwasher is connected to a garbage disposal, it’s essential to check for clogs in the disposal unit. Turn off the power to the disposal and remove any visible debris. Use a flashlight to check for clogs and clear them out using a plunger or an Allen wrench. Once the disposal is clear, run water through it to ensure proper drainage.

Step 5: Run a Cleaning Cycle

Finally, run a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. This will help remove any remaining buildup or odors in the dishwasher. Follow the instructions on the cleaning product’s packaging for the best results.

By following these five simple steps, you can easily unclog your Whirlpool dishwasher and get it back to its optimal performance. Remember to perform routine maintenance, such as cleaning the filter and inspecting the drain, to prevent future clogs. Now you can enjoy hassle-free dishwashing once again!

Tips to Prevent Dishwasher Clogs

To prevent dishwasher clogs, you can take several preventive measures. By following these tips, you can maintain the efficiency and proper functioning of your Whirlpool dishwasher.

1. Remove crumbs and leftover food: Before loading dishes into the dishwasher, make sure to remove any crumbs or leftover food. This will help prevent food particles from clogging the dishwasher’s drains.
2. Choose a hot water cycle: Opt for a hot water cycle when running your dishwasher. Hot water helps dissolve grease and food particles, preventing them from settling in the dishwasher’s interior and causing clogs.
3. Regularly check and clean the dishwasher filter: Cleaning the dishwasher filter on a regular basis is essential for preventing clogs. Remove the filter and rinse it under running water to remove any debris or residue. A clean filter allows water to flow freely, preventing drain issues.
4. Run the dishwasher often: Running the dishwasher regularly helps keep the appliance clean and prevents the build-up of food particles. If the dishwasher is left unused for an extended period, food residue can harden and lead to clogs.
5. Always use dishwasher detergent: Use dishwasher detergent specifically designed for use in dishwashers. Other detergents, such as dish soap or hand soap, can create excessive suds that may clog the dishwasher’s drain system.

By following these preventive tips, you can ensure a clog-free dishwasher and enjoy hassle-free dishwashing with your Whirlpool dishwasher.

Cleaning the Dishwasher Filter

The dishwasher filter plays a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency of your dishwasher and preventing clogs that can hinder proper drainage. Regularly cleaning the filter is essential to ensure optimal performance.

To clean the dishwasher filter, follow these simple steps:

1. Remove the bottom dish rack: Before accessing the filter, remove the bottom dish rack from the dishwasher.
2. Locate the filter assembly: Look for the filter assembly, which is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher.
3. Remove the filter cover: Depending on your dishwasher model, the filter may be covered by a cage or grille. Remove the cover by either lifting it with your hands or using a screwdriver.
4. Rinse the filter: Take the filter to the sink and rinse it thoroughly under the faucet. Make sure to remove any visible debris or food particles.
5. Scrub away stubborn build-up: If necessary, use a soft brush to scrub away any stubborn residue or mineral build-up on the filter. Be gentle to avoid damaging the filter.
6. Replace the cleaned filter: Once the filter is clean and free of debris, carefully place it back into the dishwasher in its original position.

By regularly cleaning the dishwasher filter, you can prevent unpleasant odors, eliminate detergent and mineral build-up, and ensure that your dishwasher runs smoothly for years to come.

For a visual guide on how to clean the dishwasher filter, refer to the image below:

Troubleshooting Other Possible Culprits

If cleaning the filter doesn’t resolve the draining issue, it’s important to check for other potential culprits. Here are some troubleshooting steps you can take:

1. Inspect the drain pump: The drain pump plays a crucial role in removing water from your dishwasher. Look for any debris or damage that could be causing a blockage or preventing proper drainage. If necessary, clean or repair the drain pump.
2. Check the garbage disposal: If your dishwasher is connected to a garbage disposal, it’s important to ensure that it’s not clogged. Clear any obstructions that may be preventing water from draining properly.
3. Remove knockout drain: During installation, a knockout drain is often used to connect the dishwasher drain hose to the garbage disposal. Make sure that the knockout plug has been removed, as leaving it in place can cause drainage issues.
4. Clean the sink’s air gap: The air gap is a small device located near your sink faucet. It prevents dirty water from flowing back into your dishwasher. If it’s clogged or blocked, it can impede drainage. Clean the air gap by removing the cap and clearing any debris.
5. Inspect the drain hose: Check the dishwasher’s drain hose for proper connection and any food or debris buildup. Make sure it’s not kinked or damaged, as this can disrupt the flow of water.

If you’ve followed these troubleshooting steps and your Whirlpool dishwasher still won’t drain properly, it may be time to seek professional help or consult your owner’s manual for further assistance.

Frequently Asked Whirlpool Dishwasher Questions:

What are the common causes of a clogged Whirlpool dishwasher?

The most common causes include a clogged filter, a clogged drain hose, a malfunctioning drain valve, a blockage in the garbage disposal, or a dirty air gap.

How can I unclog a Whirlpool dishwasher?

You can follow these 5 steps to unclog a Whirlpool dishwasher: 1) Remove the bottom dish rack. 2) Clean the filter by rinsing it under the sink faucet and scrubbing away any debris. 3) Check the drain pump for any debris or damage. 4) Inspect the garbage disposal for clogs and ensure the knockout drain on the dishwasher was removed during installation. 5) Clean the sink’s air gap if it’s clogged or blocked and check the dishwasher’s drain hose for proper connection and any food or debris buildup.

What preventive measures can I take to prevent dishwasher clogs?

To prevent dishwasher clogs, you can remove crumbs and leftover food from dishes before loading them, choose a hot water cycle on the dishwasher, regularly check and clean the dishwasher filter, run the dishwasher often, and always use dishwasher detergent.

How do I clean the dishwasher filter?

To clean the dishwasher filter, remove the bottom dish rack and locate the filter assembly. Depending on the model, the filter may be covered by a cage or grille, which can be removed by hand or with a screwdriver. Rinse the filter under the sink faucet, scrub away any debris with a soft brush, and replace it back in the dishwasher. Regularly cleaning the filter will help prevent odors and the build-up of detergent and minerals.

What if cleaning the filter doesn’t fix the draining issue?

You should inspect the drain pump for any debris or damage, check the garbage disposal for clogs, make sure the knockout drain on the dishwasher was removed during installation, clean the sink’s air gap if it’s clogged or blocked, and check the dishwasher’s drain hose for proper connection and any food or debris buildup.

Do you need more help concerning Whirlpool dishwasher not draining? Please leave a comment below and we will be happy to have a professional appliance technician get back with you with an answer.