Dishwasher troubleshooting
Dishwasher Not Draining? How to Fix Standing Water
Standing water at the end of a cycle usually means a clog somewhere in the drain path. Most of it you can check yourself.
Common causes
Clogged filter or sump
You can checkFood debris collects in the bottom filter and blocks drainage — clean it first.
Blocked drain hose or air gap
You can checkThe hose to the disposal/sink or the countertop air gap can clog.
Disposal plug not removed
You can checkOn a new disposal install, the knockout plug is often left in, blocking the dishwasher drain.
Failed drain pump or check valve
Pro repairIf the path is clear but it won't drain, the pump or check valve has likely failed.
What you can check yourself
- Remove and rinse the filter at the bottom of the tub.
- Clean the air gap on the countertop (if you have one).
- If you recently installed a garbage disposal, confirm the knockout plug was removed.
- Run the disposal — a backed-up disposal stops the dishwasher draining.
When to call a pro
If the filter, hose, and air gap are clear but water remains, the drain pump or check valve needs replacing — an easy repair for a tech.
Most dishwasher repairs run $120–$400 — see our repair cost guide.
Other dishwasher problems
FAQ
Dishwasher not draining — questions
Standing water at the end of a cycle usually means a clog somewhere in the drain path. Most of it you can check yourself. The most common causes are clogged filter or sump, blocked drain hose or air gap, disposal plug not removed.
You can safely check a few things first: Remove and rinse the filter at the bottom of the tub. Clean the air gap on the countertop (if you have one). If you recently installed a garbage disposal, confirm the knockout plug was removed. If the filter, hose, and air gap are clear but water remains, the drain pump or check valve needs replacing — an easy repair for a tech.
Most dishwasher repairs run $120–$400 in the San Francisco Bay Area, parts and labor — you get a flat-rate quote before any work begins. See our repair cost guide for details.
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