Dishwasher Not Draining? Here's Why
While a puddle of lingering water after a wash cycle suggests a draining problem, the cause may not be as clear. Wondering why is my Frigidaire dishwasher not draining water? A dirty filter can block water flow, causing puddles inside the dishwasher. Learn four tips that streamline Frigidaire dishwasher troubleshooting to quickly resolve drainage issues.
Frigidaire Dishwasher Not Draining Water? This Could Be Why…
As mysterious as that puddle in your dishwasher may seem, there are really just several likely causes. We’ll list the most common reasons for a Frigidaire dishwasher not draining water and how the right DIY tip can solve the problem.
Drain Hose Is Blocked
The drain hose is a light, plastic hose that connects the dishwasher to the sink drain or garbage disposal so water can exit. It typically loops under the sink and can be subject to kinks that block water flow if it’s moved or crowded by objects. While you may be able to gently straighten any kinks to undo the blockage, a damaged hose must be replaced.
If the hose isn’t kinked, it may have an interior clog that’s preventing water from draining. While unclogging the hose is best done by a professional, an experienced DIYer may be up to the task.
These steps provide general guidelines for removing drain hose blockages:
Unplug the dishwasher.
Use your Frigidaire dishwasher manual to locate the drain hose. Most are behind a lower front panel.
Disconnect the drain hose from the pump. Inspect the hose for clogs, gently removing any blockages with a screwdriver or straightened wire hanger.
If the clog isn’t reachable, the hose may need to be disconnected from the sink drain or disposal. The drain hose must be replaced if the clog can’t be reached.
Need To Clean Dishwasher Filter
A dishwasher filter screens out large food particles to prevent them from clogging the drain pump or hose. Over time, the filter itself can become clogged with debris and block water from draining. Fortunately, cleaning the filter can be a simple solution when your Frigidaire dishwasher won’t drain. Most dishwasher cleaning tips recommend monthly filter cleanings to prevent blockages.
Here’s how to clean a Frigidaire dishwasher drain filter:
Remove the dishwasher’s bottom rack.
Press down on the wash arm while rotating the filter handle counterclockwise.
Pull up the spray arm to remove it with the filter.
Separate the filter from the wash arm and rinse it under running water to remove debris.
Reconnect the spray arm and filter and place it back in its compartment.
Rotate the filter handle clockwise and press down on the spray arm to lock it in place.
Dishwasher Drain Pump Issue
A Frigidaire dishwasher drain pump facilitates draining by using an impeller to push water out of the dishwasher and through the drain hose. Sometimes food particles and debris can block the impeller, preventing proper draining. Refer to your user manual to determine how to access the drain pump and remove any blockages.
In other cases, the drain pump motor may fail, leaving the pump unable to expel water. Pump motor failure is usually confirmed with multimeter testing. If the pump shows a lack of continuity, it should be replaced by a professional dishwasher repair service.
Air Gap And Garbage Disposal Problems
Sometimes, a Frigidaire dishwasher not draining water is due to an air gap or garbage disposal clog and not a dishwasher issue. If you have an air gap or garbage disposal, they likely share a common drain with the dishwasher. When either device becomes blocked with debris, it can clog this shared drain. Water will then backflow into the dishwasher during a wash cycle.
Running the disposal before starting a wash cycle can clear the drain of debris that can block water flow. Air gaps can be easily cleaned by opening the cap and removing any visible debris with a paper towel or nylon bristle brush.
Don’t let a Frigidaire dishwasher not draining water leave you handwashing every dirty dish. Call Precision Appliance Repair to solve the problem or resolve any dishwasher issue!
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