Why is My Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Draining?

The average American household runs its dishwasher at least twice per day. Busy households with kids, multi-generational members, and avid cooks will acutely feel the loss of a malfunctioning appliance, so getting it up and running again quickly is paramount.

Whirlpool dishwashers have a legacy of reliability, so their owners have high expectations, but issues can crop up when you least expect it. Liberty Home Guard’s home protection plans can provide much-needed support when essential appliances, like Whirlpool dishwashers, don’t operate as intended. 

Steps After You Notice Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Draining

If your Whirlpool dishwasher isn’t draining, you have a few options. First, we recommend emptying the appliance of all cups, silverware, and dishes. Next, thoroughly cleaning your dishwasher is a good idea, so debris, grease, and grime can be ruled out as a possible cause.

Your dishwasher likely came with an Owner’s Manual you can reference for manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean your Whirlpool dishwasher. If you don’t know where it is, you can search your model number + owner’s manual to find an online copy.

After cleaning it, try running your dishwasher to see if the malfunction was a one-time thing. If the problem persists, contact the dealer where you purchased the appliance for more details about your Whirlpool warranty coverage.

If you aren’t the original owner, or you know your dishwasher has outlived its manufacturer’s warranty, you can read the terms and conditions of your home warranty coverage or contact a local appliance repair technician. 

How to Fix a Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Draining

Your Owner’s Manual will likely include a Whirlpool dishwasher troubleshooting section to aid self-diagnosis and quick repairs. We recommend keeping this guide nearby for reference, as it will have more information on the exact location of specific components within your unit. That said, here’s a general guide on how to fix a Whirlpool dishwasher that’s not draining.

1. Inspect your garbage disposal. If your dishwasher and garbage disposal are interconnected, running your garbage disposal can address clogs on that end. 
2. Look for kinks and clogs in the drain hose. If your drain hose is kinked or clogged, use a wire coat hanger to straighten it.
3. Clear your air gap. The air gap can become clogged, contributing to a slowly draining dishwasher. You can remove the cap off the air gap––typically located next to your kitchen faucet––to ensure you’ve sufficiently cleaned it. 
4. Check or change the filter. Over time, food debris can get trapped in your filter. Thoroughly rinse the filter, clean away any debris, and consider a replacement if it’s too far gone. 
5. Ensure the check valve works properly. Remove the drain hose and inspect the check valve to confirm it opens and closes as intended. If unsure, you can look up a YouTube video for your specific model. 
6. Reset the unit or disconnect the power. Reference your manual to find out how to hard reset your dishwasher. You can also try cutting off power to the appliance from your electric breaker. 

Tips for Preventing Clogs in Your Whirlpool Dishwasher

The best way to avoid clogs in your Whirlpool dishwasher is to start at the source. Preventing clogs occurs in tandem with responsible and regular maintenance. We recommend following the routine maintenance instructions outlined in your User’s Manual. For example, the Whirlpool Gold Series dishwasher’s user manual suggests leaving the door cracked open after completing a cycle to prevent mold and mildew build-up.

We also suggest confirming that you use the correct detergent in appropriate quantities to avoid buildup. Frequently running the dishwasher, especially with the hot water setting, can keep it functioning optimally. Finally, scraping excess food off dishes can reduce debris that can lead to clogs.

Remember, the best maintenance procedures happen on a regular basis. Here’s a sample schedule and checklist to keep your Whirlpool dishwasher in tip-top shape: