If your Kenmore dishwasher is not draining properly, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. Standing water at the bottom of the tub can leave your dishes dirty and hinder the efficiency of your dishwasher. Thankfully, many drainage issues can be resolved by inspecting a few key components like the drain pump, drain hose, and other related parts. In this comprehensive guide, we will help you diagnose and fix the most common drainage issues in Kenmore dishwashers, focusing on the pump, hose, and other essential parts.

Common Causes of Kenmore Dishwasher Not Draining Properly

Several factors can contribute to drainage issues in Kenmore dishwashers, and many of them are easy to address with the right knowledge and tools. Some of the most common causes include:

• Clogged or blocked drain hose
• Faulty drain pump
• Obstructed filters or food traps
• Garbage disposal connection issues
• Issues with the air gap
• Clogged check valve
• Control board malfunctions

Let's break down the essential parts that might be causing your drainage issues and explore how to inspect, troubleshoot, and fix them.

Key Components to Inspect for Drainage Issues

1. Drain Pump (Motor & Impeller)

The drain pump is responsible for pushing water through the drain hose and out of the dishwasher. If the pump motor fails or the impeller becomes jammed, water cannot be expelled from the dishwasher, causing drainage problems.

How to Inspect the Drain Pump:

• Listen for unusual sounds during the drain cycle. If you hear a humming noise but no water movement, the motor might be working, but the impeller could be stuck with debris.
• Check for water at the bottom of the dishwasher. If there’s standing water after a cycle, it’s a strong indicator that the pump is not functioning.
• Test the pump using a multimeter. Disconnect the dishwasher from the power source, locate the drain pump, and check the motor for continuity. If the motor shows no continuity, it’s likely faulty and needs replacing.
• Inspect the impeller: Remove any visible debris from the impeller housing, as food particles or other debris can block the pump from properly expelling water.

2. Drain Hose

The drain hose carries wastewater from the dishwasher to the sink drain or garbage disposal. If the hose is kinked, clogged, or blocked, it will prevent the dishwasher from draining properly.

How to Inspect and Clear the Drain Hose:

• Disconnect the hose from both the dishwasher and the sink or garbage disposal.
• Check for visible kinks or obstructions. If the hose is twisted or kinked, straighten it out to allow for better water flow.
• Flush the hose: Place the disconnected hose into a bucket and pour water through it from the dishwasher side. If the water doesn’t flow freely, the hose is clogged and needs to be cleaned. Use a plumber's snake or pressurized water to clear any blockages.
• Inspect the hose for grease buildup: If the hose has accumulated grease, it could hinder proper drainage. Clean the hose thoroughly or replace it if it's too damaged to clean.

3. Filters & Food Trap

The filters and food trap are responsible for catching food debris and preventing it from clogging the pump or drain hose. Over time, food particles can build up in these components, leading to drainage issues.

How to Clean the Filter and Food Trap:

• Remove the bottom rack and locate the filter assembly at the bottom of the tub.
• Twist and remove the filter: The filter should come out easily. Rinse it under warm water to remove any food particles or debris.
• Check the food trap for any trapped debris. Clean it thoroughly with warm water and a mild detergent.
• Reinstall the filter and food trap after cleaning, making sure they are securely locked in place.

4. Garbage Disposal Connection

If your dishwasher is connected to a garbage disposal, an obstruction in the disposal or an improperly removed knockout plug can prevent the dishwasher from draining.

How to Check the Garbage Disposal Connection:

• Ensure the knockout plug in the disposal has been removed. If a new garbage disposal was recently installed, the knockout plug in the disposal’s drain port may not have been removed, which blocks water flow.
• Clear the disposal of any blockages or food debris.
• If the disposal is clogged, clear the blockage to allow the dishwasher to drain properly.

5. Air Gap (if applicable)

The air gap prevents wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher by creating a physical barrier. If the air gap is clogged, it can stop the dishwasher from draining.

How to Check the Air Gap:

• Inspect the air gap on your countertop. Remove the cap and clean any debris that may be blocking the flow of water.
• Check the drain line connected to the air gap for any obstructions or clogs.
• Flush the air gap with water to ensure it is functioning properly.

6. Check Valve

Some Kenmore dishwashers are equipped with a check valve to prevent backflow into the dishwasher. If the valve is stuck or clogged, it can stop the dishwasher from draining.

How to Inspect the Check Valve:

• Locate the check valve near the pump or drain hose.
• Ensure the flap is free to move. If the valve is stuck, use a tool to clear the obstruction or replace the valve if it’s damaged.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Your Kenmore Dishwasher Drainage Issues

Step 1: Turn Off the Power and Water Supply

Before working on any part of your dishwasher, disconnect the power to the appliance by unplugging it or turning off the circuit breaker. Also, turn off the water supply to prevent any accidental leaks or flooding.

Step 2: Clean the Filters and Food Trap

Start by cleaning the filters and food trap, as these are the most common culprits for drainage issues. Remove the bottom rack, twist and remove the filter, and rinse it under warm water. Check the food trap for debris and clean it thoroughly.

Step 3: Inspect the Drain Hose for Kinks or Clogs

Examine the drain hose for any visible blockages, kinks, or bends. If the hose is clogged, disconnect it and flush it with water. If necessary, use a plumber’s snake to clear the obstruction. Reattach the hose once it’s cleared.

Step 4: Check the Drain Pump and Impeller

Listen for sounds: If the dishwasher makes a humming sound without draining, the impeller may be jammed. If you don’t hear the pump running at all, the motor may be faulty.

Inspect the impeller for debris and clear it out. Test the pump for continuity using a multimeter. If the pump motor is faulty, it will need to be replaced.

Remove the access panel at the front of the dishwasher to reach the pump and check for any debris.

Step 5: Inspect the Garbage Disposal and Air Gap

If your dishwasher is connected to a garbage disposal, ensure that the knockout plug has been removed and that the disposal isn’t clogged. Clean any blockages from the disposal, and make sure the air gap is clear.

Step 6: Test the Drainage System

Once you've cleaned and inspected all key components, run a drain cycle to see if the issue is resolved. If the water drains properly, the issue is likely fixed. If the problem persists, the drain pump or control board may need replacement.

When to Call a Professional

If your Kenmore dishwasher is still not draining after performing these troubleshooting steps, it may be time to call a professional appliance repair technician. A professional can diagnose more complex issues, such as a faulty control board, pump motor failure, or electrical issues.

A Kenmore dishwasher not draining is a common problem, but most drainage issues are easily fixable with a bit of inspection and basic tools. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can identify and resolve common issues with the drain pump, drain hose, filters, and other key components. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the filters and checking for kinks in the hose, can prevent drainage problems from occurring in the future.

When replacement is necessary, using genuine OEM parts ensures compatibility, reliable performance, and longer lifespan, reducing the risk of recurring problems. By addressing drainage issues promptly and following these best practices, you can restore your dishwasher’s efficiency, prevent water damage, and enjoy worry-free operation for years to come.