A Whirlpool dishwasher is a valuable tool that makes life easier. But, if you face a draining issue, it can be quite upsetting. This detailed guide will help you understand why your Whirlpool dishwasher is draining. It will also give you step-by-step instructions to fix it and get your appliance working again.
Common Reasons Your Whirlpool Dishwasher Isn’t Draining
Your Whirlpool dishwasher might not drain properly for a few reasons. One common problem is a clog in the drain hose. This can happen when food bits or small objects block the water flow. Another frequent issue is a dirty or blocked dishwasher filter. The filter catches food particles, but it can get clogged over time, which stops the water from draining right. Sometimes, a broken drain pump could be the problem too, and you may need a professional to fix it.
It’s important to figure out why your dishwasher is not draining correctly. This will help you find the right fix. Our step-by-step troubleshooting guide can help you look into these issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
Now you know the common reasons why your Whirlpool dishwasher might not be draining. Let’s dive into the step-by-step troubleshooting guide to resolve this issue effectively.
Checking for blockages in the drain hose or filter
This is the first and simplest step to fix a Whirlpool dishwasher that is not draining. Start by finding the drain hose under your sink. It connects your dishwasher to the garbage disposal or drain pipe.
- Check the hose: Look for any kinks or bends that may block water flow. If you see any, straighten the hose.
- Look for clogs: Disconnect the hose from the dishwasher. Use a straightened wire hanger or pliers to remove any clogs you can see. Place a bucket underneath to catch any spills.
Next, check the dishwasher filter, which is usually at the bottom of the dishwasher:
- Take out the filter: Depending on your model, you will either twist-to-lift or pull it out. Check your user manual for exact details.
- Clean the filter: Rinse the filter well under running water. Use a soft brush with dish soap to clean away any stuck food.
After cleaning, put the filter back and reconnect the drain hose. Make sure all connections are tight.
Ensuring the dishwasher is properly leveled
A dishwasher that is not level can cause bad drainage and other problems. Luckily, leveling a dishwasher is pretty easy.
Start by checking the feet of the dishwasher. Most dishwashers have feet in the front that can be adjusted. These are usually hidden behind the kickplate. You might need a screwdriver to make adjustments. The back feet often self-level, but it’s good to check that they are flat on the floor.
To see if the dishwasher is level, place a level on the bottom of the tub. Check both front-to-back and side-to-side. Adjust the front feet until the level shows that it is flat. When your dishwasher is level, water flows better and does not pool. This helps your Whirlpool dishwasher drain well.
Cleaning and resetting the drain pump
If the clogged filter or hose isn’t causing your drain problem, the drain pump may need help. The drain pump pushes the water out of the dishwasher. If it is clogged or not working, water can stay inside.
You may need to remove the lower access panel of your Whirlpool dishwasher to reach the drain pump. Check your user manual for details specific to your model. Before touching the pump, be sure to unplug the dishwasher.
Look closely at the drain pump for any debris. Use tweezers or pliers to take out anything that might be blocking it. If the pump is very dirty, you can clean it with warm soapy water and a soft brush. After cleaning, put the pump back together and plug the dishwasher back in. Lastly, run a short rinse cycle to see if the draining problem is fixed.
Checking for error codes and resetting the dishwasher
Modern Whirlpool dishwashers often display error codes that can indicate specific problems. These codes can be beneficial in diagnosing why your dishwasher isn’t draining. If you notice an error code on your dishwasher’s control panel, consult your user manual to understand its meaning.
Sometimes, a simple reset can resolve electronic glitches that might be affecting your dishwasher’s draining ability.
|
Error Code |
Description |
Possible Solution |
|
E1 |
Draining issue |
Check for blockages in drain hose or garbage disposal. |
|
E4 |
Overfill error |
Check for a faulty float switch or water inlet valve. |
|
F7 |
Drain pump problem |
Inspect the drain pump for clogs or malfunctions. |
To reset, unplug your dishwasher for a few minutes to allow it to reset completely. Plug it back in and run a short rinse cycle to see if the problem is solved.
Seeking professional help if all other fixes fail
While the solutions above can help fix common drainage problems, some issues may need a professional. If you have tried the steps and your Whirlpool dishwasher still isn’t draining, contact Whirlpool Appliance Repair. Trying to fix complex problems on your own can make things worse or even lead to safety risks. Our expert technicians have the skills and tools to find and solve serious issues, like a bad drain pump, control board problems, or other internal faults. This way, your dishwasher can work properly again. Also, we offer reliable Whirlpool dryer/washer repairs.
Conclusion
If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not draining well, you can try some simple steps to fix it. First, check for any blockages. Next, make sure the dishwasher is level. You should also clean the drain pump. These steps often help solve the problem. But if they do not work, you should get help from our professionals. For more detailed tips about dryer care and how to fix common problems, visit our guide on What to Do When Whirlpool Dryer is Not Heating Up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my dishwasher’s drain hose isn’t blocked but it’s still not draining?
If your Whirlpool dishwasher won’t drain even after you checked for a blocked drain hose, the problem could be with the drain pump, garbage disposal, or other parts inside. It’s a good idea to do more troubleshooting or get help from a professional in this situation.
How often should I clean my dishwasher’s filter to prevent drainage issues?
To keep your Whirlpool dishwasher running well and avoid draining issues, you should clean the filter at least once a month. If you often wash dishes with a lot of food bits, you may need to clean it more often.
Is it safe to use commercial cleaners to unclog my dishwasher?
It is important to be careful with what cleaners you use in your Whirlpool dishwasher. While some commercial cleaners are safe, you should look at your user manual first. Using the wrong chemical drain cleaners can harm the parts of the appliance or even be unsafe for your health.