Step-by-step guide: cleaning a whirlpool dishwasher pump for optimal performance

Is your Whirlpool dishwasher not draining properly? If so, the pump may be clogged. A clogged pump can prevent your dishwasher from draining water, which can lead to flooding and other problems. Cleaning the pump is a relatively easy task that can be done in a few minutes.

Signs of a Clogged Dishwasher Pump

There are several signs that may indicate your dishwasher pump is clogged. These include:

• The dishwasher is not draining properly.
• The dishwasher is making a loud noise.
• The dishwasher is leaking water.
• The dishwasher is not washing dishes properly.

Tools You’ll Need

To clean the dishwasher pump, you will need the following tools:

• A flashlight
• A screwdriver
• A pair of pliers
• A bucket
• A sponge or rag

Safety Precautions

Before you begin cleaning the dishwasher pump, be sure to unplug the dishwasher from the electrical outlet. Also, turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Locate the dishwasher pump. The dishwasher pump is typically located at the bottom of the dishwasher, behind the kickplate. To access the pump, you will need to remove the kickplate.
2. Remove the pump. Once you have located the pump, you will need to remove it. To do this, disconnect the hoses from the pump and then unscrew the pump from the dishwasher.
3. Inspect the pump. Once you have removed the pump, inspect it for any clogs. The most common clogs are caused by food debris, such as pieces of food, grease, and soap scum.
4. Clean the pump. If you find any clogs, remove them from the pump. You can use a flashlight to help you see inside the pump. You can also use a screwdriver or a pair of pliers to remove any stubborn clogs.
5. Reinstall the pump. Once you have cleaned the pump, reinstall it in the dishwasher. To do this, screw the pump back into the dishwasher and then reconnect the hoses.
6. Test the dishwasher. Once you have reinstalled the pump, test the dishwasher to make sure it is working properly. To do this, run a cycle with a few dishes in it.

Tips for Preventing Clogs

There are several things you can do to prevent clogs from forming in your dishwasher pump. These include:

• Rinse dishes thoroughly before loading them into the dishwasher.
• Avoid putting large pieces of food in the dishwasher.
• Use a dishwasher detergent that is designed to prevent clogs.
• Clean the dishwasher filter regularly.

Troubleshooting

If you have followed the steps above and your dishwasher is still not draining properly, there may be another problem. Some common problems include:

• A kinked drain hose
• A clogged drain pipe
• A faulty pump

If you are unable to fix the problem yourself, you should call a qualified appliance repair technician.

In a nutshell: Keep Your Whirlpool Dishwasher Running Smoothly

By following the steps in this guide, you can easily clean the pump in your Whirlpool dishwasher. This will help to prevent clogs and keep your dishwasher running smoothly.

Popular Questions

1. How often should I clean my dishwasher pump?

You should clean your dishwasher pump every 6-12 months, or more often if you notice any signs of a clog.

2. What are the signs of a clogged dishwasher pump?

The signs of a clogged dishwasher pump include:

• The dishwasher is not draining properly.
• The dishwasher is making a loud noise.
• The dishwasher is leaking water.
• The dishwasher is not washing dishes properly.

3. How do I know if my dishwasher pump is faulty?

If you have cleaned the dishwasher pump and it is still not working properly, the pump may be faulty. You can test the pump by running a cycle with a few dishes in it. If the dishes are not washed properly, the pump may be faulty.