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Restore your kitchenaid dishwasher’s drainage: expert hacks for a smooth flow

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • If the hose is clogged, use a drain snake or wet/dry vacuum to remove the obstruction.
  • The air gap is a small device located near the sink that prevents water from flowing back into the dishwasher.
  • Check the drain hose for a kink near the connection to the garbage disposal.

If your KitchenAid dishwasher is giving you drainage problems, don’t fret! This comprehensive guide will walk you through a step-by-step process on how to get your dishwasher draining efficiently again.

Identify the Cause of the Clog

Before attempting any troubleshooting, it’s crucial to determine the root cause of the clog. Common culprits include:

  • Food debris and grease buildup
  • Foreign objects (e.g., utensils, toys)
  • Detergent residue
  • Mineral deposits

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

1. Clear the Drain Basket

  • Locate the drain basket at the bottom of the dishwasher.
  • Remove the basket and inspect it for debris.
  • Clean the basket thoroughly with hot, soapy water.

2. Check the Drain Hose

  • Disconnect the drain hose from the dishwasher and inspect it for kinks or blockages.
  • If the hose is clogged, use a drain snake or wet/dry vacuum to remove the obstruction.

3. Clean the Drain Pump

  • Locate the drain pump at the bottom of the dishwasher.
  • Remove the pump cover and check for debris or foreign objects.
  • Clean the pump impeller and housing with a damp cloth.

4. Inspect the Air Gap

  • The air gap is a small device located near the sink that prevents water from flowing back into the dishwasher.
  • Check the air gap for clogs or debris.
  • Clean the air gap by removing the cap and flushing it with water.

5. Reset the Dishwasher

  • Sometimes, a simple reset can resolve drainage issues.
  • Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet.
  • Wait 30 seconds and then plug it back in.

6. Call a Professional

  • If you’ve tried all the above steps and your dishwasher is still not draining, it’s best to contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Preventing Future Clogs

  • Regularly clean the drain basket and filter.
  • Avoid overloading the dishwasher with dishes.
  • Use a rinse aid to prevent detergent residue buildup.
  • Run the dishwasher on a hot water cycle once a month to dissolve mineral deposits.

Troubleshooting Specific KitchenAid Dishwasher Models

KitchenAid KUDS30FXSS0

  • Check the drain hose for a kink near the connection to the garbage disposal.
  • Ensure the air gap is properly installed and not clogged.

KitchenAid KDTM354DSS0

  • Access the drain pump by removing the bottom panel of the dishwasher.
  • Clean the pump impeller and housing thoroughly.

KitchenAid KDFE104DSS0

  • Inspect the drain hose for any blockages or kinks.
  • Clean the drain basket and filter regularly.

What You Need to Know

Q: Why is my KitchenAid dishwasher not draining completely?

A: The clog could be located in the drain basket, drain hose, drain pump, or air gap.

Q: How often should I clean the drain basket and filter?

A: It’s recommended to clean them after every few uses or as needed.

Q: Can I use a drain cleaner to unclog my KitchenAid dishwasher?

A: No, it’s not recommended to use drain cleaners as they can damage the dishwasher’s components.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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