If your Electrolux dishwasher isn't draining properly, it can leave standing water in the bottom of the tub and prevent your dishes from getting cleaned efficiently. The cause of this problem often lies in one or more components within the drainage system. This guide will take you through each step of the troubleshooting process, explaining how to identify the issue and resolve it effectively.

By following the instructions in this post, you’ll be able to restore proper drainage in your Electrolux dishwasher and get it running smoothly again.

Common Causes of an Electrolux Dishwasher Not Draining

When your dishwasher isn’t draining, there are several possible causes to consider. Most commonly, issues arise from clogged filters, a blocked drain hose, or a faulty drain pump. Each of these components plays a crucial role in ensuring proper drainage, and one of them could be responsible for preventing your dishwasher from draining completely.

1. Clogged Filters

The filters in your Electrolux dishwasher trap food debris, grease, and other particles to prevent clogs in the drain system. Over time, food particles and grease can build up in the filters, causing them to become clogged. When the filters are clogged, the water can’t flow freely through the system, leading to drainage issues.

2. Blocked Drain Hose

The drain hose is responsible for carrying wastewater from the dishwasher to the sink or garbage disposal. If the hose is kinked, twisted, or clogged with debris, water cannot flow out of the dishwasher, resulting in standing water at the bottom of the tub.

3. Faulty Drain Pump

The drain pump is responsible for pumping water out of the dishwasher during the draining cycle. If the pump is damaged or malfunctioning, it will be unable to expel water from the dishwasher, leading to drainage issues. A faulty drain pump can prevent the water from being pushed out of the tub, no matter how clean the filters or hoses are.

Step-by-Step Guide to Troubleshooting Drainage Issues

Step 1: Clean the Filters

The first thing you should check when your Electrolux dishwasher isn’t draining is the filter system. The filters are responsible for trapping food particles and grease to prevent clogs in the drainage system. When the filters become clogged with food debris or grease, water can’t drain properly, and it may end up collecting at the bottom of the dishwasher.

• Remove the bottom rack from the dishwasher to access the filters located at the bottom of the tub.
• Twist the fine filter anticlockwise to remove it, then lift it out.
• Separate the coarse filter from the fine filter and remove it from the tub.
• Rinse the filters under warm, soapy water to remove any food particles, grease, or residue.
• Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub away any stuck debris.
• Reinstall the filters in reverse order. Place the coarse filter back into position, followed by the fine filter.

Step 2: Inspect the Drain Pump Impeller

If cleaning the filters didn’t fix the issue, the next thing to check is the drain pump impeller. The drain pump impeller helps to push the water out of the dishwasher during the drain cycle. If the impeller is blocked by debris, the pump will not be able to expel the water, which can lead to standing water at the bottom of the tub.

• Unplug the dishwasher from the electrical outlet or turn off the power at the circuit breaker to avoid any accidents.
• Turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.
• If there is any standing water in the dishwasher, use a towel or sponge to soak it up.
• Remove the filters and check the drain pump impeller in the sump area. You may need to remove a cover or plastic cap to reach the impeller.
• Inspect the impeller for any debris, such as pieces of glass, plastic, or food particles, that could be blocking its movement.
• Gently spin the impeller manually to check if it moves freely. If it’s stuck or blocked by debris, remove the obstruction carefully.

Step 3: Check the Drain Hose

If your dishwasher’s filters and pump impeller are clean but it’s still not draining, the drain hose could be the culprit. The drain hose connects the dishwasher to the sink or garbage disposal, allowing the wastewater to exit the appliance. If the hose is kinked, clogged, or improperly installed, it can prevent water from draining.

• Inspect the entire length of the drain hose for any visible kinks, twists, or crushing. The hose should be routed properly to avoid any restrictions to the water flow.
• Disconnect the drain hose from both the dishwasher and the sink or garbage disposal. Check the connection points for any clogs or obstructions.
• Flush the hose with water or use a drain clearing tool to ensure there are no remaining clogs.
• Reattach the hose securely to both the dishwasher and the sink or garbage disposal, making sure there are no twists or kinks in the hose.

Step 4: Test the Drain Pump

If cleaning the filters, checking the hose, and inspecting the pump impeller didn’t fix the problem, the drain pump itself may be faulty. A malfunctioning drain pump will prevent water from being expelled during the drain cycle, causing water to accumulate in the dishwasher.

• Run a drain cycle by pressing the Start/Pause or Cancel button on the dishwasher.
• Listen for the sound of the drain pump motor. If you hear a humming sound but no water is draining, the impeller may be jammed, or the pump may need to be replaced.
• If you don’t hear any sound at all coming from the drain pump, it’s likely that the pump motor is defective. Use a multimeter to check for continuity.
• If the multimeter shows a reading outside the normal range (typically 15-40 ohms), the pump motor is defective and should be replaced.

Step 5: Reassemble and Test the Dishwasher

After cleaning the filters, inspecting the hose, and testing the pump, it’s time to reassemble the dishwasher and test its drainage function.

• Reinstall the filters: Place the filters back in the dishwasher tub and ensure the fine filter is locked clockwise.
• Reinstall the bottom panel: Slide the bottom panel back into position and secure it with screws.
• Reconnect the drain hose: Make sure the drain hose is securely reconnected to both the dishwasher and the sink or garbage disposal.
• Restore power and water supply: Plug the dishwasher back in, or turn on the circuit breaker to restore power. Turn the water supply back on.
• Run a test cycle: Run a short test cycle to check the drainage function. Water should drain properly by the end of the cycle.

Commonly Asked Questions about Electrolux Dishwashers

1. Why is my Electrolux dishwasher still not draining after cleaning the filters?

Even after cleaning the filters, the issue may persist due to problems with other components like a blocked drain pump, clogged drain hose, or a faulty pump. Inspect the drain hose, clear any blockages from the pump impeller, and check the pump motor’s functionality.

2. How often should I clean the filters in my Electrolux dishwasher?

Cleaning the filters regularly is crucial for maintaining proper drainage. Clean the filters at least once a month, or more frequently if the dishwasher is used often. After heavy use, clean the filters immediately to prevent buildup.

3. What if my drain hose is clogged but I can’t remove the blockage?

If the drain hose is clogged and you can’t remove the blockage, inspect the hose for visible kinks, crushing, or twists. Flush the hose and if it doesn’t work, consider replacing it or calling a technician.

4. Can I fix the drain pump myself?

You can attempt to fix the drain pump if you are comfortable with DIY appliance repairs. If the pump impeller is jammed or the pump motor is defective, you can replace it yourself with basic tools. However, if the pump is difficult to reach, it’s best to call a professional.

5. Why is there still standing water at the bottom of my dishwasher?

Standing water usually indicates a clogged filter, a blocked drain hose, or a faulty drain pump. Check and clean the filters, inspect the hose for clogs, and test the drain pump for issues.

6. Can I replace the drain pump without professional help?

Replacing the drain pump is possible if you’re comfortable with appliance repairs. Inspect the pump and attempt to clear any debris. If the motor is faulty, consider replacing the pump or contacting a professional technician.