Having a dishwasher is a convenient and time-saving addition to any kitchen. However, when your Whirlpool dishwasher fails to drain at the end of the cycle, it can leave you with a sink full of dirty water and a sense of frustration. In this article, we will explore eight tips to help you troubleshoot and fix this common issue. Whether you have a Whirlpool dishwasher or another brand, these tips can generally be applied to resolve drainage problems.
Understanding the Dishwasher Drainage System
Before we dive into the troubleshooting tips, it's important to have a basic understanding of how a dishwasher's drainage system works. A dishwasher typically consists of three main components: the drain pump, the drain hose, and the drain filter. The drain pump is responsible for expelling water from the dishwasher, the drain hose carries the water out of the machine and into the sink or a disposal unit, and the drain filter catches any solid debris to prevent clogging. When any of these components encounter issues, it can result in a dishwasher not draining properly.
Tip 1: Check for Clogs in the Drain Hose
One of the most common causes of a Whirlpool dishwasher not draining is a clogged drain hose. Over time, food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate and block the flow of water through the hose. To check for a clog, follow these steps:
- Turn off the power to the dishwasher by flipping the circuit breaker or unplugging it from the outlet.
- Locate the drain hose at the back of the dishwasher. It is typically connected to the sink drain or garbage disposal.
- Detach the hose from the sink drain or disposal unit.
- Inspect the hose for any visible clogs or obstructions. If you notice any, use a pipe cleaner or a long, flexible brush to remove the blockage.
- After clearing the clog, reconnect the hose and ensure it is securely attached.
Tip 2: Clean the Drain Filter
The drain filter is designed to catch large food particles and prevent them from clogging the drain pump or hose. However, if the filter becomes clogged itself, it can interfere with the dishwasher's drainage process. Follow the steps below to clean the drain filter:
- Locate the drain filter. It is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher, beneath the lower spray arm.
- Remove the lower spray arm by unscrewing or lifting it off, depending on the model of your dishwasher.
- With the spray arm removed, you should see the drain filter. Carefully remove it by twisting or lifting it out.
- Rinse the filter under running water to remove any debris or buildup.
- Inspect the filter for any damage. If it appears worn or damaged, consider replacing it with a new one.
- Reinstall the clean or new filter, ensuring it is properly seated in its position.
- Put the lower spray arm back into place.
Tip 3: Ensure the Drain Pump is Functioning Properly
The drain pump is responsible for pumping water out of the dishwasher and into the drain hose. If the pump fails to operate correctly, it can result in poor drainage or no drainage at all. To check the functionality of the drain pump, follow these steps:
- Locate the drain pump. It is typically located at the bottom of the dishwasher, near the front.
- Disconnect the power supply to the dishwasher.
- Access the drain pump by removing the bottom front panel of the dishwasher. The exact method for removing the panel may vary depending on the model of your dishwasher.
- Once the panel is removed, you should be able to see the drain pump.
- Inspect the pump for any visible signs of damage or blockage. Clear any obstructions you find.
- Manually rotate the pump impeller to check if it moves freely. If it feels stiff or does not move at all, the pump may need to be replaced.
- Reinstall the front panel and restore power to the dishwasher.
Tip 4: Check the Air Gap (If Present)
An air gap is a small device usually installed on the sink countertop or on the top of the sink itself. Its purpose is to prevent water from flowing back into the dishwasher. If the air gap becomes clogged, it can cause drainage issues. To inspect the air gap, follow these steps:
- Locate the air gap. It is typically located near the faucet on the sink countertop or on the top of the sink.
- Remove the cover of the air gap by twisting or lifting it up, depending on the design.
- Inspect the inside of the air gap for any debris or blockage. Clean it out using a brush or by running water through it.
- Replace the cover of the air gap and ensure it is securely in place.
Tip 5: Verify the Dishwasher's High Loop or Air Gap Connection
In addition to the air gap, a dishwasher should have either a high loop or an air gap connection to prevent backflow. These measures ensure that water cannot flow from a sink or disposal unit back into the dishwasher. To check if your dishwasher has a high loop or an air gap connection, follow these steps:
- Consult the dishwasher's installation manual or look for the presence of a high loop or air gap connection under the sink.
- If a high loop is present, it should be created by attaching the drain hose to the underside of the sink cabinet, forming a loop higher than the sink drain or disposal unit. Ensure the loop is securely fastened with a clip or zip tie.
- If an air gap connection is present, it should be connected to the air gap device mentioned earlier. Ensure the connection is secure and free from any obstructions.
Tip 6: Check the Dishwasher's Drain Pump Impeller
The drain pump impeller is responsible for pumping water out of the dishwasher. Over time, the impeller can become clogged with debris, causing drainage issues. To clean the drain pump impeller, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the power supply to the dishwasher.
- Access the drain pump by removing the bottom front panel of the dishwasher, as mentioned earlier.
- Locate the drain pump impeller, which is typically connected to the motor shaft.
- Carefully remove any debris or blockage from the impeller by using a small brush or a pair of tweezers.
- Ensure the impeller can rotate freely by manually rotating it. If it feels stiff or does not move at all, the impeller may need to be replaced.
- Reinstall the front panel and restore power to the dishwasher.
Tip 7: Check the Dishwasher's Check Valve
The check valve is a device that prevents water from flowing back into the dishwasher after it has drained. If the check valve becomes stuck or fails to close properly, it can interfere with the dishwasher's drainage process. Here's how to inspect the check valve:
- Disconnect the power supply to the dishwasher.
- Access the check valve by removing the bottom front panel of the dishwasher, as mentioned earlier.
- Locate the check valve, which is usually located near the drain pump.
- Inspect the check valve for any visible signs of damage or blockage. Clear any debris you find.
- Manually operate the check valve to ensure it moves freely and closes properly. If it appears stuck or fails to close, consider replacing the valve.
- Reinstall the front panel and restore power to the dishwasher.
Tip 8: Seek Professional Assistance
If you have followed all the previous tips and your Whirlpool dishwasher still fails to drain at the end of the cycle, it may be time to seek professional assistance. A qualified technician will have the knowledge and experience to diagnose and repair more complex drainage issues.
Conclusion
A Whirlpool dishwasher not draining at the end of the cycle can be a frustrating problem. However, by following these eight tips, you can troubleshoot and fix the issue in many cases. Remember to check for clogs in the drain hose, clean the drain filter, ensure the drain pump is functioning properly, inspect the air gap, verify the high loop or air gap connection, clean the drain pump impeller, check the check valve, and seek professional assistance if needed. With these tips, you can restore the proper drainage function of your Whirlpool dishwasher and enjoy clean and spotless dishes after every cycle.