Dishwasher Not Draining Water in Bottom

Quick answer

Turn off power and water. Check the drain hose for clogs, clean the filter, and inspect the pump. If water remains, the drain pump or float switch may need repair.

Confirm the symptom

• Water pools in the bottom of the dishwasher after a cycle
• Dishes are not fully dry
• Dishwasher emits a foul odor from standing water
• Drain hose is not visibly clogged but water still pools
• Error codes related to drainage appear on the display

Tools and prep

• Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, depending on model)
• Plunger or wet/dry vacuum
• Bucket or towels
• Flashlight
• Replacement parts (if needed)
• Turn off power at circuit breaker
• Turn off water supply to dishwasher

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Check for Standing Water
   Do: Open the dishwasher and look for water pooled in the bottom.
   Observe: Water is present after a completed cycle.
   Means: Drainage issue is confirmed.
   Next: Clean the filter and drain hose.
2. Clean the Filter
   Do: Locate and remove the filter (usually at the bottom of the tub). Rinse it under running water.
   Observe: Filter is clogged with debris.
   Means: Clogged filter is likely the cause.
   Next: Check the drain hose for clogs.
3. Inspect the Drain Hose
   Do: Locate the drain hose (connects to the sink or garbage disposal). Check for kinks, clogs, or blockages.
   Observe: Hose is clogged or kinked.
   Means: Drain hose issue is preventing water from draining.
   Next: Unclog or replace the drain hose.
4. Use a Plunger or Vacuum
   Do: Place a plunger over the drain or use a wet/dry vacuum to clear stubborn clogs.
   Observe: Water drains after plunging or vacuuming.
   Means: Clog was successfully removed.
   Next: Run a test cycle.
5. Inspect the Drain Pump
   Do: Locate the drain pump (usually near the bottom of the dishwasher). Check for debris or damage.
   Observe: Pump is clogged or damaged.
   Means: Drain pump failure may require replacement.
   Next: Replace the drain pump if damaged.
6. Check the Float Switch
   Do: Look for the float switch (if your model has one). Ensure it moves freely and is not stuck.
   Observe: Float switch is stuck or damaged.
   Means: Float switch malfunction may prevent drainage.
   Next: Replace the float switch.
7. Run a Test Cycle
   Do: Reconnect power and water. Run a short cycle to see if water drains properly.
   Observe: Water drains completely.
   Means: Issue is resolved.
   Next: Monitor for recurring issues.
8. Check for Error Codes
   Do: Consult the user manual to interpret any error codes related to drainage.
   Observe: Error code indicates a specific issue (e.g., drain pump failure).
   Means: Error code provides guidance for further action.
   Next: Address the specific issue indicated by the error code.

Common causes

Parts matching

Common parts needed to fix a dishwasher not draining water in the bottom include:

• Dishwasher Filter
• Drain Hose
• Drain Pump
• Float Switch
• Control Board (rarely needed)

Purchase parts compatible with your dishwasher model using the model number from the user manual or appliance label.

When to call a professional

• Water still pools after cleaning the filter and drain hose
• Drain pump is damaged and you're unable to replace it yourself
• Float switch is stuck and cannot be fixed with basic tools
• Error codes persist after troubleshooting
• You're unsure about electrical components or control board issues
• Drainage issues recur frequently after DIY fixes

FAQ

Related guides

• dishwasher not draining properly
• dishwasher not emptying water

Related searches: dishwasher water not draining, dishwasher has standing water, dishwasher drain pump not working, dishwasher filter clogged, dishwasher drain hose clogged, dishwasher water pooling at bottom, dishwasher drain issues, dishwasher won't drain after cycle, dishwasher drain pump replacement, dishwasher float switch problems