Unveiling the mystery: why your whirlpool dishwasher is holding water hostage

A malfunctioning dishwasher can be a major inconvenience in the kitchen. One of the most common issues is a dishwasher that’s not draining properly. If you’re facing this problem with your Whirlpool dishwasher, don’t despair. This comprehensive guide will delve into the potential causes and provide step-by-step solutions to get your dishwasher draining again.

Clogged Drain Hose

A clogged drain hose is a common culprit behind a non-draining dishwasher. Food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate over time, obstructing the flow of water. To check for a clogged drain hose:

1. Disconnect the dishwasher from the power supply.
2. Locate the drain hose, which is usually connected to the garbage disposal or sink drain.
3. Disconnect the drain hose and inspect it for any visible blockages.
4. If you find any debris, use a flashlight to check if there’s more buildup further down the hose.

Obstructed Drain Pump

The drain pump is responsible for pumping the water out of the dishwasher. If the pump is blocked, it can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly. To check for a clogged drain pump:

1. Disconnect the dishwasher from the power supply.
2. Locate the drain pump, which is usually at the bottom of the dishwasher.
3. Remove the drain pump and inspect it for any blockages, such as food particles or broken glass.
4. If you find any debris, remove it and reinstall the drain pump.

Faulty Check Valve

The check valve is a one-way valve that prevents water from flowing back into the dishwasher. If the check valve is faulty, it can cause the dishwasher to drain slowly or not at all. To check for a faulty check valve:

1. Disconnect the dishwasher from the power supply.
2. Locate the check valve, which is usually connected to the drain hose.
3. Disconnect the check valve and inspect it for any visible damage or debris.
4. If you find any damage or debris, replace the check valve with a new one.

Malfunctioning Drain Motor

The drain motor powers the drain pump. If the drain motor is malfunctioning, it can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly. To check for a malfunctioning drain motor:

1. Disconnect the dishwasher from the power supply.
2. Locate the drain motor, which is usually at the bottom of the dishwasher.
3. Disconnect the drain motor and test it with a multimeter.
4. If the multimeter indicates that the drain motor is not receiving power or is not functioning properly, replace the drain motor with a new one.

Broken Float Switch

The float switch detects the water level in the dishwasher. If the float switch is broken, it can cause the dishwasher to overfill and not drain properly. To check for a broken float switch:

1. Disconnect the dishwasher from the power supply.
2. Locate the float switch, which is usually attached to the bottom of the dishwasher.
3. Inspect the float switch for any visible damage or debris.
4. If you find any damage or debris, replace the float switch with a new one.

Kinked Drain Hose

A kinked drain hose can restrict the flow of water and prevent the dishwasher from draining properly. To check for a kinked drain hose:

1. Disconnect the dishwasher from the power supply.
2. Inspect the drain hose for any kinks or bends.
3. If you find any kinks, straighten out the drain hose and reconnect it to the dishwasher.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Reset the dishwasher: Unplug the dishwasher from the power supply for a few minutes and then plug it back in. This may reset the dishwasher and resolve the draining issue.
• Clean the dishwasher filter: The dishwasher filter can become clogged with food particles and debris. Clean the filter regularly to prevent it from obstructing the flow of water.
• Use a dishwasher cleaner: Dishwasher cleaners can help to remove grease and debris from the dishwasher and prevent clogging. Use a dishwasher cleaner once a month to keep your dishwasher in good working order.

Wrapping Up

If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not draining properly, there are several potential causes to consider. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can identify and resolve the issue to get your dishwasher draining again. Remember to always disconnect the dishwasher from the power supply before performing any repairs. If the problem persists, it’s best to contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Why is my Whirlpool dishwasher not draining completely?
A: The drain hose may be clogged, the drain pump may be blocked, or the check valve may be faulty.

Q: How can I prevent my Whirlpool dishwasher from clogging?
A: Clean the dishwasher filter regularly, use a dishwasher cleaner once a month, and avoid putting large food particles or grease in the dishwasher.

Q: What should I do if my Whirlpool dishwasher is overflowing?
A: Disconnect the dishwasher from the power supply and check the float switch for damage or debris. If necessary, replace the float switch with a new one.