Find out why a dishwasher might not be draining properly and how to fix it.
Dishwashers help make quick work of messy dishes after a big meal.
These are seven possible reasons for a dishwasher backing up and ways to address the situation.
Credit:Emily Followill
The knob at the back of the sink is known as an air gap.
The purpose of this air gap is to prevent dirty sink water from draining back into the dishwasher.
Common Causes of a Dishwasher Draining Improperly
1.
To resolve this problem, turn on the disposal and run cold water to help scrub the blockage.
If the disposal remains clogged, you may have to dislodge the clog physically.
Turn the disposal off and unplug it, orturn off the breakerto the appliance.
Use a flashlight and a pair of long-handled tongs or pliers to identify and remove the obstruction.
Give the mixture five to 10 minutes to work, then rinse the disposal with cold water.
An air gap is a small, cylindrical knob positioned on the back edge of the kitchen sink.
A high loop system uses gravity to prevent wastewater from draining back into the dishwasher.
If this is the only problem with the dishwasher, the fix is relatively easy.
Incorrect Dishwasher Detergent
Typically, you should usedishwasher-specific detergentin your appliance.
There is a big difference between the two washing agents.
Empty the contents of the basket into the garbage, then rinse out any remaining debris.
Lightly clean the drain basket before reinstalling it in the base of the dishwasher.
Add the appropriate detergent and start a normal wash cycle to determine if this resolved the issue.
If this problem keeps occurring, it’s recommended to replace the drain hose.
Place an old towel under the dishwasher, then disconnect the hose from the pump.
Once you’ve disconnected it, use a flashlight to look into the hose for any signs of blockage.
Drain hoses aren’t designed to withstand the twisting and cutting motion of a plumber’s snake.
it’s recommended that you contact an appliance repair professional to sort out the problem.
More Appliance Repair Guides
A household has many appliances that keep our daily lives humming seamlessly.
Some repairs can be done DIY while others require a call to a pro.
Culprits for why therefrigerator isnt coolinginclude dirty condenser coils, blocked air vents, or broken gasket seals.
A professional repair person will be able to identify the issue.
Air Conditioner Leaks
Air conditioning units have many working parts.
Most of the issues can be repaired DIY, except if it has to do with a refrigerant leak.
A HVAC professional must be called in to assess and repair anything having to do with refrigerant.
Can you use dish soap in the dishwasher?Whirlpool.
