Why won’t my whirlpool dishwasher drain? unlocking the secret

If your Whirlpool dishwasher isn‘t draining properly, don’t despair. Understanding the potential causes can help you troubleshoot and restore its functionality.

Clogged Drain Hose

A clogged drain hose is one of the most common reasons for a dishwasher not draining. Food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate in the hose, obstructing the flow of water. To resolve this issue:

• Disconnect the drain hose from the dishwasher and the sink.
• Use a drain snake or a wire hanger to clear any blockages.
• Flush the hose with hot water to remove any remaining debris.

Faulty Drain Pump

The drain pump is responsible for pumping the water out of the dishwasher. If the pump is malfunctioning, it may not be able to generate enough pressure to drain the water. To check the drain pump:

• Listen for the sound of the pump running during the drain cycle.
• If you don’t hear the pump running, it may be faulty.
• You may need to replace the drain pump if it’s not working.

Obstructed Air Gap

The air gap is a small device installed on the countertop that prevents dirty water from flowing back into the dishwasher. If the air gap is obstructed, it can create a vacuum that prevents the dishwasher from draining properly. To clean the air gap:

• Remove the cap from the air gap.
• Use a toothpick or a small wire to clean out any debris.
• Reinstall the cap and check if the dishwasher drains properly.

Faulty Door Switch

The door switch is a safety feature that prevents the dishwasher from operating when the door is open. If the door switch is faulty, it may not be able to detect when the door is closed, preventing the dishwasher from draining. To test the door switch:

• Open the dishwasher door and look for a small button or lever on the door frame.
• Press the button or lever and listen for a clicking sound.
• If you don’t hear a clicking sound, the door switch may be faulty.

Clogged Spray Arm Holes

The spray arms rotate during the wash cycle to distribute water over the dishes. If the spray arm holes are clogged, the water pressure may not be sufficient to rinse the dishes and drain the dishwasher. To clean the spray arm holes:

• Remove the spray arms from the dishwasher.
• Use a toothpick or a small wire to clear any blockages in the holes.
• Reinstall the spray arms and check if the dishwasher drains properly.

Worn-out Gasket

The gasket is a rubber seal around the dishwasher door that prevents water from leaking out. If the gasket is worn out or damaged, water may leak out and prevent the dishwasher from draining properly. To inspect the gasket:

• Open the dishwasher door and examine the gasket around the edges.
• Look for any tears, cracks, or gaps in the gasket.
• If the gasket is damaged, you may need to replace it.

Overflow Switch Activated

The overflow switch is a safety feature that shuts off the dishwasher if it detects an overflow of water. If the overflow switch is activated, it may prevent the dishwasher from draining. To reset the overflow switch:

• Locate the overflow switch, which is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher.
• Press the reset button on the overflow switch.
• Check if the dishwasher drains properly.

Conclusion: Troubleshooting Success

By addressing these potential causes, you can troubleshoot your Whirlpool dishwasher and restore its draining functionality. Remember, regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent these issues from occurring in the future.

FAQ

Q: Why is my Whirlpool dishwasher not draining after a power outage?
A: A power outage can reset the dishwasher’s control panel. Try resetting the dishwasher by turning it off and back on again.

Q: Can I use a chemical drain cleaner to unclog my Whirlpool dishwasher?
A: No, it’s not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners in a dishwasher. They can damage the dishwasher’s components.

Q: How often should I clean my Whirlpool dishwasher‘s drain hose?
A: It’s recommended to clean the drain hose every 3-6 months to prevent clogs.