The most common dishwasher fault is a clogged drain, causing water to sit at the bottom. Learn how to fix it yourself before calling a technician and avoid costly repairs.
Dishwasher Not Draining? Common Causes and Fixes
When your dishwasher not draining, a common appliance malfunction where water remains in the tub after a cycle ends. Also known as a clogged dishwasher drain, it’s one of the most frequent repair calls we get in South Shields—often fixable in under an hour. This isn’t just annoying; standing water can lead to mold, bad smells, and even damage to your kitchen floor. Most people assume it’s a big, expensive problem, but in over 70% of cases, it’s something simple you can check yourself.
The dishwasher drain, the pathway that carries wastewater out of the machine and into your home’s plumbing system can get blocked by food scraps, grease, or even a kinked hose. Start by pulling out the bottom rack and checking the filter, a removable mesh screen at the base of the dishwasher that catches debris before it enters the pump. It’s usually under a plastic cover—twist it off, rinse it under warm water, and snap it back. If that doesn’t help, look at the drain hose, the flexible tube connecting your dishwasher to the sink or garbage disposal. Is it pinched behind the appliance? Is it installed in a high loop? A flat or sagging hose won’t let water flow out properly.
Another frequent culprit is the drain pump, the motorized component that actively pushes water out of the dishwasher. If the filter and hose are clear but water still sits, the pump might be clogged with a small object—like a piece of plastic or a bottle cap—or worn out. You can test it by listening for a humming sound during the drain cycle. If it hums but doesn’t pump, the pump may need replacing. Less common but still possible: a faulty control board, the electronic brain that tells the dishwasher when to drain. If your dishwasher runs through all cycles but skips draining, the board might not be sending the right signal.
Don’t waste money on expensive service calls right away. Many of these fixes cost less than £20 and take 15 minutes. We’ve seen homeowners fix their dishwashers with just a screwdriver, a cup of vinegar, and a little patience. And if you’re not comfortable getting under the machine? That’s fine—we’re local, we’re fast, and we’ve fixed over 2,000 dishwashers in South Shields and nearby towns. Below, you’ll find real fixes from people who’ve been there—no fluff, no guesswork, just what actually works.