How To Clean A Clogged Dishwasher Drain Jun 2026

Check the knockout plug. If your dishwasher was recently installed or the disposal is new, a small plastic plug inside the disposal inlet (where the dishwasher hose connects) may not have been removed.

Use a towel or sponge to remove the last bits of water from the sump area (the well at the bottom). 2. Clean the Drain Filter how to clean a clogged dishwasher drain

Most modern dishwashers have a manual filter located at the bottom of the tub. This is the easiest component to clean and should be checked monthly. Check the knockout plug

Before you grab your tools, it helps to understand where the clog is likely hiding. Your dishwasher doesn't just "flush" water away; it relies on a pump to push water through a specific gauntlet of filters and hoses. Before you grab your tools, it helps to

| Cause | Prevention | |-------|-------------| | Not scraping dishes before loading | Scrape large food scraps into trash | | Grease buildup | Avoid putting oily pans in dishwasher; wipe excess grease | | Broken glass or hard objects | Check filters weekly; remove visible debris | | Improper high loop in drain hose | Ensure hose is clamped high under countertop | | Clogged air gap | Clean air gap monthly |

If you have cleared the filter, checked the hose, and verified the connections, yet the water still won't drain, you may have a failed drain pump or a broken control board. These are electrical components that require professional service.

: Use a cup or bowl to scoop out pooled water, and soak up the rest with old towels or a wet/dry vac. 2. Clean the Dishwasher Filter