Not Draining
KitchenAid Dishwasher
Severity: CriticalWhat Does This Error Mean?
A KitchenAid dishwasher that will not drain almost always has a clogged filter. Remove the bottom rack, lift out the filter, clean it under running water, and rerun a short cycle.
Affected Models
- KitchenAid Built-In Dishwasher
- KitchenAid Top Control Dishwasher
- KitchenAid Front Control Dishwasher
Common Causes
- Clogged filter — food debris blocking the drain
- Kinked or blocked drain hose
- Blocked garbage disposal or sink drain connection
- Drain hose not looped high enough to prevent back-siphoning
- Failed drain pump
How to Fix It
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Clean the filter.
Remove the bottom rack. Twist the cylindrical filter counter-clockwise and lift it out, then remove the flat filter below it. Rinse both thoroughly under running water. Refit and run a short cycle.
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Check the drain hose.
The drain hose should loop up to at least 20 inches (50 cm) above the floor before dropping to the drain — this prevents back-siphoning. Also straighten any kinks in the hose.
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Check the garbage disposal connection.
If your KitchenAid dishwasher drains through a garbage disposal unit, ensure the disposal knockout plug was removed when it was installed. Also run the disposal before starting the dishwasher to ensure it is clear.
When to Call a Professional
If cleaning the filter and checking the drain hose does not restore drainage, the drain pump has failed and needs replacement by a technician.