Dishwasher not draining

A dishwasher that won’t drain can leave standing water in the bottom of the tub, dirty dishes, and a lingering odor. If your dishwasher is not draining properly, you’re not alone, it’s one of the most common appliance issues homeowners in Charlotte and beyond experience.

At Just Call Appliance Repair, we specialize in reliable dishwasher repair services across Charlotte. If you’re dealing with pooling water, strange sounds, or a dishwasher that won’t complete a cycle, our expert technicians are ready to help.

Why Won’t My Dishwasher Drain?

There are several reasons your dishwasher might not be draining. Below are the most frequent causes, and what they mean for your appliance:

1. Clogged Drain Hose

Food debris and grease can build up in the drain hose over time. A clogged hose can completely block water flow, leaving water sitting in the bottom of the dishwasher.

2. Dirty or Clogged Filter

If the filter is full of food particles or gunk, water won’t pass through efficiently. This is a common issue in homes where the filter hasn’t been cleaned regularly.

3. Faulty Drain Pump

The drain pump pushes the water out of the dishwasher. If it’s malfunctioning or blocked, it may not be able to do its job, causing the water to sit and stagnate.

4. Air Gap Blockage

If your system has an air gap, it can become clogged with food or soap residue, preventing drainage. This is often overlooked during troubleshooting.

5. Garbage Disposal Connection Issue

For dishwashers connected to a garbage disposal, a clogged disposal or an unremoved knockout plug can cause water to back up into the dishwasher.

6. Broken Check Valve

The check valve prevents water from re-entering the dishwasher after draining. If it’s stuck open, dirty water may flow back in, or not drain out fully at all.

7. Control Board or Sensor Malfunction

Sometimes the issue is electronic. A faulty sensor or control board can cause improper cycle timing, leaving water behind after a wash.

What to Do If Your Dishwasher Isn’t Draining

If you’re handy, here are a few things to check before calling a professional:

• Inspect the Drain Hose – Make sure it isn’t kinked or clogged. Remove and flush if needed.
• Clean the Filter – Remove and wash the filter thoroughly with warm water and soap.
• Run the Garbage Disposal – If your dishwasher connects to it, a full disposal may block drainage.
• Check the Air Gap – Twist off the top and clean out any buildup that may be blocking water flow.
• Reset the Machine – Power cycling your dishwasher can reset sensors and electronic components.

Still seeing standing water? It may be time to contact a professional appliance repair tech.

Local Dishwasher Repair Experts in Charlotte

At Just Call Appliance Repair, we diagnose and repair all major dishwasher drainage issues. From faulty drain pumps and stuck check valves to clogged hoses and filters, we offer fast and affordable dishwasher repair in Charlotte to get your kitchen running smoothly again.

We work on all major brands, offer same-day and next-day service, and back our work with a satisfaction guarantee. Don’t let a minor drainage problem turn into a bigger headache, schedule a service today!

FAQ: Dishwasher Not Draining

Is it worth fixing a dishwasher that won’t drain?

Yes, in most cases, a clogged hose or broken pump is affordable to fix and much cheaper than replacing the unit.

How much does it cost to repair a dishwasher that isn’t draining?

Drainage issues typically cost between $100–$250 to repair, depending on the part that needs replacing and your location.

What causes a dishwasher to stop draining suddenly?

Most often, it’s due to a clog in the filter, drain hose, or disposal connection. Electrical faults or sensor issues are also possible.