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Reviewed by Elena Volkova — Senior Editorial Reviewer — Electrical, Smart Home & Appliances

Fix it yourself · Appliance Repair Technician

Dishwasher Not Draining After Cycle: fix it yourself, or call a appliance repair technician

Standing water at the bottom of the dishwasher after a completed cycle usually points to a clogged drain filter, a blocked or kinked drain hose, or a failed drain pump. Food debris, grease, and small fragments of broken glass are the most common culprits that accumulate in the filter basket and restrict flow. If the garbage disposal shares the same drain line, a plugged disposal or a missing knockout plug on a new installation can also prevent drainage. An appliance-repair technician can diagnose whether the issue is a simple filter cleaning, a hose obstruction, or a pump motor that needs replacement.

Is this your problem?

Symptoms to look for

  1. 01

    A pool of dirty water remains in the tub after the cycle ends

  2. 02

    The dishwasher displays a drain-error code or the drain light blinks

  3. 03

    A foul odor comes from inside the dishwasher between loads

  4. 04

    Dishes on the bottom rack come out still wet and grimy

Fix it yourself

How to fix dishwasher not draining after cycle

Dishwasher Not Draining After Cycle

easy 20–60 min

Tools: cup and towels, screwdriver, flashlight, pliers · Materials: baking soda and vinegar

Steps

  1. Bail the standing water out with a cup and towels, then remove and clean the filter at the bottom of the tub.
  2. Check the sump under the filter for glass, labels or a bone blocking the drain impeller — switch the power off before reaching in.
  3. Under the sink, make sure the drain hose rises in a high loop before joining the disposal or drain, and is not kinked behind the machine.
  4. If the dishwasher drains into a garbage disposal that was installed recently, check the knockout plug in the disposal inlet was removed.
  5. Run the disposal with water to clear it, then run a rinse cycle and watch whether it empties.

Stop and call a pro if

  • the drain pump hums but does not pump, or is silent
  • water backs up into the dishwasher when the sink drains — the sink drain is clogged
  • the machine shows a drain error after the hose and filter are clear

What a pro does that you can't

An appliance technician replaces a failed drain pump or check valve; a plumber clears a blocked sink drain that is backing up into the machine.

DIY cost: $0–10

Get a free quote

Who to call

Appliance Repair Technician

An appliance technician replaces a failed drain pump or check valve; a plumber clears a blocked sink drain that is backing up into the machine.

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Who should I call for: Dishwasher Not Draining After Cycle?

Call a licensed appliance repair technician. Appliance Repair Technicians have the specialized training, tools, and insurance to diagnose dishwasher not draining after cycle safely and stand behind the fix. Most offer free quotes and can visit the same day or the next.

Can I fix this myself?

Often, yes: the guide above has 5 steps (easy, 20–60 min, $0–10). Stop and call a appliance repair technician if the drain pump hums but does not pump, or is silent.

How fast can a pro come out?

Most appliance repair technicians offer same-day or next-day visits for non-emergency issues. True emergencies (burst pipes, gas smell, no heat in winter) are typically handled within 1–4 hours.

How much does it cost to fix?

Costs vary by severity and your location. Submit a free quote request to get real pricing from local pros in your area.

What are the signs of: Dishwasher Not Draining After Cycle?

A pool of dirty water remains in the tub after the cycle ends. The dishwasher displays a drain-error code or the drain light blinks. A foul odor comes from inside the dishwasher between loads. Dishes on the bottom rack come out still wet and grimy.

Who to call

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