How do you unclog a dishwasher? Dishwashers drain wastewater through a filter and into a sump, which pumps water into a drain hose connected to your pipes. During this process, food gets caught and causes clogs. By cleaning the filter and sump and by clearing clogs in the drain hose, you can restore your dishwasher to functionality without help from a plumber.
Older dishwashers may be more prone to clogs than newer dishwashers. Years of wear and tear on your dishwasher can cause food waste and other substances to build up in the pipes and filter, thus preventing your dishwasher functioning. If you have an older dishwasher, clogs may be a problem you experience more frequently than if your dishwasher is brand new. Here's what you need to know.
How To Unclog Your Dishwasher
Prep the Dishwasher
- Turn off the dishwasher and empty the dishes from the appliance.
- Cut power to the dishwasher, either by unplugging it or by flipping the switch on your electrical box.
- Drain all standing water from the bottom of the dishwasher with a bucket and towels.
Clean the Filter Basket and Sump
- Remove the filter basket from the bottom of the dishwasher. If you're not sure how to do this and it's not immediately obvious when you look at the filter basket, consult with the owner's manual.
- Clean the filter basket in hot water and mild soap.
- Remove the sump from the dishwasher (found under the filter basket).
- Clear any food waste from the sump.
- Replace the sump.
- Replace the filter basket in its place in the bottom of the dishwasher.
Clean the Drain Hose
- Pour baking soda and several cups of vinegar into the filter basket and allow the solution to sit in the drain for an hour.
- Pour near-boiling water into the filter basket to flush the baking soda and vinegar away.
- Straighten any kinks in the drain hose.
- Restore power to the dishwasher.
Once you've cleaned the filter and have taken steps to clean the drain hose, run the dishwasher again. If the dishwasher is still clogged, check with your owner's manual. Many dishwashers will come with an owner's manual that describes clearly how to troubleshoot clogs. If you can't find the source of the problem, contact a professional plumber.
Who Needs Dishwasher Drain Cleaning Services?
Everyone should clean their dishwasher filter basket and sump periodically, even if they haven't noticed a clog. Cleaning these parts of the dishwasher can prevent clogs. The same goes for pouring vinegar and boiling water down your dishwasher drain.
What To Know About Dishwasher Clog Prevention and Treatment
Just to recap, you can unclog your dishwasher by cleaning the filter basket and sump, and by flushing your drain hose with vinegar. Dishwasher clogs can be prevented through regular maintenance. It's also helpful to get the latest model dishwasher. Newer dishwashers are designed to work longer and harder than older model dishwashers, with fewer maintenance problems. Check out the latest models at Don's Appliances.