Whirlpool dishwashers are rated as one of the best in the industry. The brand name is mentioned along with giants like Bosch, Samsung, GE, and LG. Whirlpool appliances are known for reliability, durability, and affordability.
One of the most common issues a Whirlpool dishwasher users experience is the draining problem. If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not draining and you are looking for a quick fix, you are at the right place.
Whirlpool Dishwasher not Draining (Fixing Guide)
Simple solutions can fix most drainage problems, and not all drainage problems warrant a professional inspection.
Let’s check out the probable causes and their fixes!
Cause 1: Incomplete Wash Cycle
Make sure that your dishwasher completes the wash cycle properly. If your Whirlpool dishwasher has a “clean” indicator light or alarm for completing the wash cycle, the light should be illuminated, or the alarm should ring.
If not, the wash cycle may have been interrupted. Close the door and press the start button to complete the wash cycle.
Cause 2: Blocked Filter
Most drainage issues happen due to blocked filters. Food particles clog the filter and drain opening. You can remove the filter at the bottom of the machine and take out the filter.
Dip the filter in a bowl of white vinegar for 20-30 minutes. Use an old toothbrush to clean the filter and rinse it with tap water.
Cause 3: Clogged Drain
If you have a garbage disposal, run it. A blockage in the garbage disposal can cause drainage issues for your dishwasher.
Cause 4: Kinked Drain Hose
Kinks in your drain hose can cause dishwasher drainage problems. The drain pipe runs from the bottom of your dishwasher to the drain pipe. Make sure that it is not pinched or kinked. You may need to replace the hose with a new one if it doesn’t work out.
Cause 5: Clogged Drain Hose
Apart from a kinked hose, blockages in the drainpipe can also cause drainage problems. To check for blockages, remove the drain hose end from the nipple it’s connected to below the sink or disposal. Insert the end in a bucket, and drain the dishwasher to see if a garbage clog comes out.
If no clog comes out, but you notice small drops or trickles of water, you will have to pull out the dishwasher and remove the drain hose to clean it or replace it. There may be water in your dishwasher, so placing a drain pan under is suggested while removing the hose.
Cause 6: Faulty Garbage Disposal Installation
A faulty installation can be a culprit behind drainage problems. If you have recently installed a new garbage disposal, ensure that the knock-out plug was removed. The knock-out plug is right inside the nipple where the drain hose from the dishwasher attaches to the disposal.
Cause 7: Blocked Check Valve
The check valve is located underneath the dishwasher, right before the drain hose. The check valve ensures that drain water doesn’t come back to the dishwasher. If you suspect blockage there, remove the drain hose from the dishwasher and check to ensure the valve is clean and opens correctly.
Cause 8: Failed Drain Pump
If the drainage system is working all right, then inspect the drain pump. A blocked drain pump can be cleared by removing stuck food particles. If the problem persists, you will need to replace the pump.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to unclog a Whirlpool dishwasher that won’t drain?
If your Whirlpool dishwasher is not draining, it could be due to a clogged filter. Remove the lower dish rack and access the filter present at the corner of the dishwasher’s tub near the spray arms. Unclog the filter with a scrub brush and rinse with ample water.
2. What causes the Whirlpool dishwasher not to drain?
A clogged drain hose and air gap cause the Whirlpool dishwasher not to drain. Besides this, a blocked garbage disposal valve, cloggy check valve, and faulty drain pump could be the other possible causes that don’t allow your dishwasher to drain properly.
3. Where is the drain valve in the Whirlpool dishwasher located?
The drain valve, which is also known as the check valve, is located before the drain hoses, the underside of the dishwasher. This valve allows dirty water to drain in one way and restricts its backflow in the dishwasher. If you want to clean the drain valve, you have to remove the drain hose first; then you can reach the drain valve for cleaning.
Final Words
We have listed the generic steps for solving dishwasher drainage problems for Whirlpool dishwashers and other brands. It is recommended that you go through the troubleshooting guide of your dishwasher for to the point and manufacturer recommended information. If the problem persists after applying the above fixes, it is best to seek professional help.
