Dishwasher Not Draining? Filter, Hose, Knockout Plug and Air Gap
Updated
Short answer
Clean the filter, check the drain hose for kinks or clogs, make sure a connected disposer is clear, and on a new installation confirm the disposer's knockout plug was removed. Clear the air gap if you have one. That is Whirlpool's and KitchenAid's list; Bosch adds checking the drain pump cover.
- Filter: remove and clean it under running water (KitchenAid).
- Drain hose: check for kinks, pinches or clogs from the dishwasher to the sink (Whirlpool).
- Disposer: make sure it is clear, and on a new install that the knockout plug was removed.
- Air gap: clear it per its maker's instructions.
- Bosch: remove the drain pump cover, clear standing water and debris, and refit it so it clicks closed (Bosch).
Codes
- KitchenAid F9E1: long drain
- Bosch E24 and E25: drain pump or hose
If the pump itself has failed, Angi puts a dishwasher pump at $150 to $350 and drainage repairs at $100 to $250 (Angi).
Quick answers
Why won't my new dishwasher drain?
On new installs, the most common cause is a knockout plug left in the garbage disposer's dishwasher inlet. Whirlpool lists it among its first checks.
Where is the dishwasher filter?
At the bottom of the tub under the lower spray arm on most models. KitchenAid says to remove and clean it under running water.
Rather have someone fix it?
Tell us the appliance, the brand, the model number and what it is doing. A local technician calls back with a time and a price before any work starts.