My Dishwasher Isn’t Draining!

We ask a lot of sink drains and dishwashers. We put stuff in or down them, and just expect they’ll know what to do with it. You know, like it’s a job they’re trained for and by now should have down pat.

You see, no matter how much you may try not to, sometimes you either put too many – or the wrong – food scraps in your drain or dishwasher. At first, no problem. The garbage disposal does its job, and your dishes, glasses, and silverware all come out sparkling clean from the dishwasher. But then one fine day, they don’t. And now you’re stuck (in this case) with a dishwasher that won’t drain.

So, if you notice a bunch of standing water at the bottom of yours, here’s how to try fixing the problem on your own. 

What to do when you dishwasher is not draining 

1. Clear your garbage disposal. In many cases, dishwashers drain through garbage disposal. One sure way to find out: try clearing your disposal and then be mindful of keeping it that way. Make sure to run it thoroughly each to help prevent or loosen up any clogs. 

2. Clean your air gap. If you have an air gap on your counter next to the faucet, its purpose is to prevent sink water from backing up into your dishwasher. If the air gap is clogged, it can stop or impede your dishwasher from draining. Another sign of a clogged air gap is water pouring out onto your counter. So, whether it’s that or a draining problem with the dishwasher, remove the cap from your air gap and get the gunk out. 

3. Break up drain clogs with a homemade solution. If your dishwasher drain is clogged and causing water to back up, you can try using a homemade solution of vinegar, baking soda and hot water to break up the clog. First, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar in the basket at the bottom of the dishwasher, and let that sit for 10 minutes or so. Then, pour a pot full of boiling water in the same spot – that’s often all it takes to remove the clog.

Of course, when all else fails, Your 1 Plumber will be right here, just like always, to lend a helping hand – just like we are for all your home plumbing needs.  Contact us today or anytime for prompt and reliable service.