Why Is There Water Sitting in Your Dishwasher?
Ever opened your dishwasher only to find a small pond at the bottom? Frustrating, right? Not only does it leave your dishes sitting in dirty water, but it also signals a possible issue with drainage. Don’t worry! Before you panic and call a repair technician, let’s walk through some easy ways to get that water out and figure out what’s causing it.
Step 1: Safety First—Turn Off Power
Water and electricity? Not a good mix. Before doing anything, unplug the dishwasher or switch off the circuit breaker to prevent electrical hazards.
Step 2: Remove the Standing Water
Now, let’s get that water out. Here are a few ways to do it:
- Use a cup or small container to scoop out the majority of the water.
- Sponge or towels can soak up the remaining puddle at the bottom.
- A wet/dry vacuum is the fastest method if you have one handy.
Step 3: Check the Drain Basket and Filter
Your dishwasher has a drain filter or basket, usually located at the bottom. Here’s what to do:
- Remove the bottom rack to access the filter.
- Unscrew or lift off the filter cover.
- Take out any food scraps, grease, or debris that might be clogging it.
- Rinse the filter under warm water to remove buildup.
Step 4: Inspect the Drain Hose
A clogged or kinked drain hose can prevent proper drainage. To check it:
- Locate the hose (typically under the sink, connecting to the garbage disposal or drainpipe).
- Straighten out any kinks.
- Detach the hose and run water through it to see if it’s blocked.
- Use a plumber’s snake or straightened wire hanger to clear any gunk inside.
Step 5: Check the Garbage Disposal
If your dishwasher drains through a garbage disposal, a clog there could be the culprit. Run the disposal to clear any food buildup, and check if the issue persists.
Step 6: Run a Test Cycle
After cleaning out any blockages, reconnect everything and run a short wash cycle. If the water drains properly—great! If not, you may have a more serious issue, such as a faulty pump or drain valve, which might require professional repair.
Keeping Your Dishwasher Drainage Clear
To avoid future standing water problems:
- Scrape off excess food before loading dishes.
- Regularly clean the filter and drain basket.
- Run a vinegar rinse cycle once a month to prevent buildup.