Narrow it down
What this symptom can tell you
Dirty water covers the tub floor after the cycle
A filter, drain hose, sink connection, disposal connection, or pump path may be restricted.
Water returns after it drains
A missing high loop, sink backup, or backflow through the drain connection may be involved.
The dishwasher hums during drain
The drain system may be trying to run against a blockage or an internal component may need service.
These patterns narrow the next check; they do not confirm a failed part. Use the exact model number and any displayed code before ordering parts or authorizing repair.
Try these checks in order
Exact controls and access points differ by model. Stop when a step does not match your appliance or manual.
- 1
Cancel and drain
Close the door and use Cancel or Drain according to the control label. A cycle interrupted before the drain stage can leave water.
What you want: The drain pump runs and the water level falls. - 2
Clean the removable filter
Remove the lower rack. Follow the model manual to lift and rinse only the owner-removable filter. Watch for glass.
What you want: The filter and sump opening are clear. - 3
Check the sink drain
Run the kitchen faucet and confirm the sink drains normally. A blocked sink or shared trap can stop dishwasher drainage.
What you want: The sink drains quickly. - 4
Check a new disposal connection
If a garbage disposal was installed recently, confirm the dishwasher inlet knockout was removed by the installer.
What you want: The disposal inlet is open and connected. - 5
Inspect the visible drain hose
Look under the sink for a kink, crush point, loose connection, or missing high loop where required.
What you want: The hose has a smooth, supported path.
Most common categories
Possible causes to consider
- Food debris or residue in an owner-removable filter.
- A kinked, pinched, or incorrectly installed drain hose.
- A blocked sink drain, air gap, or garbage-disposal connection.
- A disposal inlet plug left in place after a new installation.
- A drain pump, check valve, wiring, or control issue requiring service.
Stop and arrange help when
- There is broken glass, sharp metal, or chemical cleaner in the standing water.
- Water leaks near wiring, the plug, or the control area.
- The pump grinds, smells hot, or the breaker trips.
- The hose or pump requires cabinet or floor disassembly.
If the problem remains
Find the full model number. Open the official manual, check for a recall, and describe which checks you completed before contacting service.
Outcome check
Did these checks resolve the problem?
Your answer helps identify which guides need improvement. No appliance details are submitted.
Common questions
Dishwasher not draining: FAQs
Is a small amount of water in the dishwasher normal?
Some models retain a small amount below the filter or sump area. Water covering the visible tub floor, returning after drainage, or smelling stale should be checked.
Why did the dishwasher stop draining after a garbage disposal was installed?
The dishwasher inlet on a new disposal may still be sealed, or the hose connection may be kinked. Installation work should be checked by a qualified person.
Can I use drain cleaner in a dishwasher?
Do not pour household drain cleaner into the dishwasher unless the appliance manufacturer explicitly instructs it. Caustic products can damage components and create a safety risk.
Research and verification
Source basis
This general guide was reviewed against official manufacturer support libraries and safety guidance. Exact controls, access points, installation limits, and reset procedures vary by model; the manual for your exact model takes priority.
See something unclear or incorrect?
Send the page link, appliance model, and the detail that needs review.