How to Fix Standing Water in Dishwasher

Introduction

Having standing water in your dishwasher can be frustrating and can lead to unpleasant smells and unsanitary conditions. Luckily, it’s a problem that can be fixed. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to fix standing water in your dishwasher.

Step 1: Check for Clogs

The first thing you should do is check for clogs. Clogs can cause water to back up in your dishwasher, leading to standing water. Start by checking the drain and the garbage disposal. Make sure they’re not clogged with food particles or other debris. If they are, remove the clog and run your dishwasher again to see if the standing water has been resolved.

Step 2: Clean the Filters

If clogs aren’t the issue, it’s possible that your dishwasher’s filters are dirty. Dirty filters can cause water to back up and lead to standing water. To clean the filters, remove them from the dishwasher and wash them with warm, soapy water. Rinse them thoroughly and put them back in place.

Step 3: Check the Drain Hose

If cleaning the filters doesn’t solve the problem, check the drain hose. The drain hose is responsible for carrying water out of your dishwasher and into your home’s plumbing system. If the drain hose is clogged or kinked, water won’t be able to flow out of your dishwasher, leading to standing water. Check the drain hose for any clogs or kinks and remove them if necessary.

Step 4: Check the Air Gap

If the drain hose isn’t the issue, check the air gap. The air gap is a device that prevents dirty water from flowing back into your dishwasher. If the air gap is clogged, water won’t be able to flow out of your dishwasher, leading to standing water. To clean the air gap, remove the cap and clean out any debris that’s inside. Rinse the cap and put it back in place.

Step 5: Check the Pump and Motor

If none of the above steps have resolved the standing water issue, it’s possible that there’s a problem with the pump or motor. These are the components that are responsible for moving water through your dishwasher. If they’re not working properly, water won’t be able to flow out of your dishwasher, leading to standing water. If you suspect that there’s a problem with the pump or motor, it’s best to call a professional to diagnose and fix the issue.

Conclusion

Standing water in your dishwasher can be a frustrating problem, but it’s not one that’s impossible to fix. By following these steps, you can diagnose and fix the issue and get your dishwasher running smoothly again. Remember to check for clogs, clean the filters, check the drain hose, check the air gap, and check the pump and motor if necessary. Good luck!