A dishwasher that won't drain is a common and frustrating problem, leaving a pool of dirty, stagnant water at the bottom of your appliance. This indicates a blockage or component failure within the drainage system that requires immediate attention. For homeowners in Edmonton, Calgary, and Red Deer, understanding the cause is the first step to a solution, whether it's a simple DIY fix or a professional repair.
What the Problem Means
That pool of murky water is a clear symptom of a bigger issue. Before you even notice the standing water, you've likely experienced other warning signs. This problem means your dishwasher can't complete its cycle, leading to unsanitary conditions and potential water damage.
Common symptoms homeowners notice include:
- Standing Water: A visible puddle of dirty water at the bottom of the tub after a cycle.
- Foul Odors: A smell of stagnant water and rotting food particles coming from the dishwasher.
- Dirty Dishes: Food debris and grime are left on dishes because the dirty water wasn't removed.
- Unusual Noises: Gurgling or straining sounds as the drain pump struggles to force water out.
These symptoms signal that your dishwasher's ability to self-clean and function is compromised. Ignoring them can lead to bacteria growth, inefficient cleaning, and eventually a leak that could damage your kitchen floors and cabinets. If you're already seeing water on the floor, you might be dealing with a related issue, like a leaking dishwasher.
Common Causes of Dishwasher Drainage Issues
To help you pinpoint the issue, we've created a table outlining the most common causes our technicians encounter in Alberta homes. This chart details each problem, its repair difficulty, and the associated safety risks.
| Cause | Description | Difficulty | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clogged Filter | Food debris, grease, and labels build up in the filter assembly at the bottom of the tub, physically blocking water from entering the drain. | Low | Low |
| Blocked Drain Hose | The flexible hose connecting the dishwasher to the sink drain or garbage disposal is kinked, pinched, or clogged with hardened food buildup. | Low-Medium | Low |
| Clogged Air Gap | If your sink has a countertop air gap, it can become filled with debris, preventing the dishwasher from draining correctly. | Low | Low |
| Garbage Disposal Blockage | Food waste in the garbage disposal is preventing water from the dishwasher from passing through. The knockout plug may not have been removed during a new installation. | Medium | Low |
| Faulty Drain Pump | The pump's motor has burned out or its impeller is broken or jammed with hard debris (like glass or a bone), preventing it from forcing water out. | High | High (Electrical Shock) |
| Failed Check Valve | A small valve that prevents dirty water from flowing back into the dishwasher is stuck closed or clogged. | Medium-High | Medium (Requires disassembly) |
| Failed Timer or Control Board | The electronic brain of the dishwasher is not sending the electrical signal to activate the drain pump at the correct time in the cycle. | High | High (Electrical Shock) |
While some causes like a clogged filter are simple fixes, others like a faulty drain pump or control board involve electrical components and require professional expertise. Sometimes, the blockage isn't in the dishwasher itself but further down the line, pointing to a need for specialized drain cleaning services. Learn more about why specific components like Whirlpool dishwasher motors fail and what causes it.
Troubleshooting Steps
Before calling a technician, there are several safe steps you can take to diagnose and potentially resolve a minor drainage issue.
Safety Warning: ALWAYS disconnect the dishwasher from power at the circuit breaker and shut off the water supply valve under the sink before attempting any inspection or repair. Failure to do so can result in serious injury or electrical shock.
- Check and Clean the Filter: Carefully remove the bottom dish rack. Locate the filter assembly (usually a cylindrical piece that twists to unlock) at the bottom of the dishwasher tub. Remove it and wash it thoroughly under hot running water with a brush to remove all food debris and grease.
- Inspect the Sump: With the filter removed, look into the sump area (the small well where the filter sits). Use a paper towel to scoop out any standing water and carefully check for debris like glass shards, bones, or plastic that could be blocking the drain opening.
- Inspect the Drain Hose: Pull the dishwasher out slightly (if possible) to inspect the drain hose for any visible kinks or pinches. Ensure the hose has a high loop—it should arc up towards the underside of the countertop before connecting to the sink drain or garbage disposal to prevent backflow.
- Run the Garbage Disposal: If your dishwasher drains into a garbage disposal, turn on the cold water and run the disposal for 30 seconds. This can clear any food waste that may be obstructing the dishwasher drain connection.
- Clean the Air Gap: If you have a small cylinder-shaped fixture on your sink deck, this is an air gap. Unscrew the top cover, then lift off the inner plastic cap. Clean out any gunk or debris you find inside with a small brush or paper towel.
- Assess and Stop: If you have completed these steps and the dishwasher still does not drain after reconnecting power and running a "Drain/Cancel" cycle, the problem is internal. STOP HERE. Do not attempt to diagnose or replace the drain pump, motor, or electronic controls. These are complex repairs that pose a high risk of electrical shock and water damage if done incorrectly. It is time to call a professional technician.
For a detailed walkthrough, our guide on how to clean your dishwasher provides additional tips.
Repair Cost Breakdown
Understanding the potential cost of a professional repair helps you make an informed financial decision. The following is a transparent breakdown of what homeowners in Alberta can expect for dishwasher repair services.
Please Call to get exact Rates:
Effective starting in 2026, service call fees are no longer waived. The service call fee covers the technician’s travel time, professional appliance diagnosis, and helps support ongoing operational expenses required to deliver reliable, high-quality service. We remain committed to keeping our fees fair, transparent, and aligned with reasonable repairability standards.
- Estimated Service call / diagnostic: $120–$250. This covers the expert diagnosis to identify the exact cause of the draining failure.
- Estimated Parts: $150–$650. A new drain hose is less expensive, whereas a new drain pump, motor, or main control board for a high-end brand will be at the upper end of this range.
- Estimated Labor: $150–$260 per hour. The time required depends on the repair's complexity, from clearing a stubborn clog to replacing an internal motor assembly.
Important Considerations:
- GST is not included in the estimates above.
- Prices vary by Edmonton, Calgary, and Red Deer due to regional operational factors.
- Rates are subject to market and economic changes.
For a broader perspective on repair pricing, see our average appliance repair cost breakdown.
Failure Rate & Repair Cost Chart
When diagnosing a dishwasher that isn't draining, data shows a clear trend in component failures. Imagine a chart where gray bars represent last year's data and light blue bars represent this year's data.
The chart would show that Clogged Filters and Drain Hoses have the highest failure rate but the lowest average repair cost, as these are often simple fixes. In contrast, Drain Pump and Motor Failures would have a moderate failure rate but a significantly higher repair cost, with a noticeable increase in cost this year due to rising parts prices. Finally, Control Board Failures would be shown as the least common issue but carry the highest average repair cost, also showing a slight cost increase this year compared to last. This visual would confirm that while pump failures are common and costly, basic clogs remain the most frequent and affordable problem to solve.
Repair vs Replace
Deciding whether to repair or replace your dishwasher involves weighing cost, age, and brand value.
We advise homeowners to follow the 50% rule: if the estimated repair cost exceeds 50% of the cost of a new, comparable dishwasher, replacement is generally the more economical choice.
The appliance's age is also a critical factor. The average dishwasher lifespan is 9-12 years. Investing a significant amount into a 10-year-old machine with a failing pump may not be wise, as other components are likely to fail soon.
Brand also plays a significant role. Repairing a high-end appliance from brands like Miele, Bosch, or Thermador is often a sound investment due to their high replacement cost and long-lasting build quality. Conversely, a major repair on an aging, entry-level model may not provide good long-term value.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
You can prevent most dishwasher drainage issues and extend the life of your appliance with these simple maintenance habits:
- Scrape, Don't Rinse: Scrape large food solids off plates before loading. A little residue helps the detergent work, but large chunks clog the filter.
- Clean the Filter Weekly: Make it a habit to remove and rinse the filter under hot water once a week to prevent buildup.
- Run a Monthly Cleaning Cycle: Use a dishwasher cleaning tablet or run an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar on the top rack to dissolve grease and mineral deposits.
- Inspect the Spray Arms: Regularly check that the holes in the spray arms are not clogged with food particles. Use a toothpick to clear any blockages.
- Check the Drain Hose Loop: Ensure the drain hose is secured in a high loop under the sink to prevent dirty sink water from flowing back into the dishwasher.
- Use the Right Amount of Detergent: Using too much detergent can create excessive suds that the pump struggles to drain, leaving a residue.
- Run Hot Water First: Before starting a cycle, run the hot water tap at your kitchen sink until the water is hot. This ensures the dishwasher starts its cycle with hot water for better cleaning and draining.
- Avoid Blocking the Sump: Load dishes carefully to ensure no small items, like plastic lids or utensils, can fall into the bottom and block the sump or filter area.
- Schedule Annual Professional Inspection: A certified technician can spot early signs of wear on the pump, motor, and seals, preventing unexpected breakdowns and costly emergency repairs.
Brand-Specific Notes
Our experience servicing appliances across Alberta has given us insights into brand-specific quirks. Here’s what you need to know about common brands regarding drainage issues.
- Amana: Known Issues: Prone to clogged filters and pump failures on older models. Parts Availability: Generally good and affordable. Repair Difficulty: Low to Medium.
- Asko: Known Issues: Complex drainage systems; can have sensor or control board issues. Parts Availability: Can be limited and expensive. Repair Difficulty: High.
- Alliance Laundry: Primarily commercial; not applicable to residential dishwashers.
- Bosch: Known Issues: Very reliable, but susceptible to blockages if filters aren't cleaned. Drain pumps can fail but are well-built. Parts Availability: Excellent. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- Bravos: This is a Maytag washer line, not a dishwasher brand.
- Beko: Known Issues: Can experience pump and sensor issues. Parts Availability: Improving, but can sometimes be delayed. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- Blomberg: Known Issues: Similar to Beko; filter clogs and pump issues are the main culprits. Parts Availability: Good. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- Café: Known Issues: Advanced features mean potential for electronic control issues. Drain systems are generally robust. Parts Availability: Very good (GE brand). Repair Difficulty: Medium to High.
- Caloric: An older brand; parts are now very difficult to source.
- Cabrio: This is a Whirlpool washer line, not a dishwasher brand.
- Crosley: Known Issues: Basic models prone to pump clogs and motor failure. Parts Availability: Fair, as they are often rebranded models. Repair Difficulty: Low to Medium.
- Dacor: Known Issues: High-end electronics can be sensitive; drainage issues often tied to control boards. Parts Availability: Can be expensive and require special order. Repair Difficulty: High.
- Danby: Known Issues: Common issues with clogged filters and smaller pumps getting jammed. Parts Availability: Good for recent models. Repair Difficulty: Low to Medium.
- Electrolux: Known Issues: Generally reliable, but drain pumps can fail. Check for clogs first. Parts Availability: Very good. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- Fisher & Paykel: Known Issues: DishDrawer models can have unique drain hose connection issues. Parts Availability: Good, but can be pricey. Repair Difficulty: Medium to High due to compact design.
- Frigidaire: Known Issues: Prone to clogged filters and pump failures. A common and straightforward repair. Parts Availability: Excellent and affordable. Repair Difficulty: Low to Medium.
- Frigidaire Gallery: Known Issues: Similar to standard Frigidaire, but with more electronics that can fail. Parts Availability: Excellent. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- GE: Known Issues: Very common pump and filter clogs. The knockout plug issue with garbage disposals is frequent. Parts Availability: Excellent. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- GE Profile: Known Issues: More complex electronics than standard GE; can have control or sensor-related drain problems. Parts Availability: Excellent. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- Gaggenau: Known Issues: Highly complex machines. Drainage issues are rare but almost always require a specialist. Parts Availability: Limited and very expensive. Repair Difficulty: High.
- Gibson: Older brand, parts are largely obsolete.
- Goldstar: Now LG. See LG section.
- Haier: Known Issues: Pumps can be weak and prone to jamming. Parts Availability: Fair to good. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- Hisense: Known Issues: Filter and drain pump clogs are common. Parts Availability: Getting better. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- Hitachi: Not commonly sold in Alberta; parts are very difficult to source.
- IKEA: Known Issues: Made by Whirlpool or Electrolux; see those brands for common issues. Parts Availability: Good, sourced through the manufacturer. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- Insignia: Known Issues: Basic design; prone to simple clogs in the filter and pump. Parts Availability: Fair, as they are a house brand. Repair Difficulty: Low to Medium.
- JennAir: Known Issues: Similar to high-end KitchenAid/Whirlpool models. Can have chopper assembly or pump failures. Parts Availability: Very good. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- Kelvinator: Older brand, parts are difficult to find.
- Kenmore: Known Issues: Depends on the manufacturer (usually Whirlpool, LG, or Frigidaire). The model number prefix identifies the maker. Parts Availability: Excellent. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- KitchenAid: Known Issues: Reliable but can suffer from clogged filters and foreign objects jamming the pump/chopper assembly. Parts Availability: Excellent. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- LG: Known Issues: Drain motors can fail; also prone to error codes related to drainage sensors. Parts Availability: Good. Repair Difficulty: Medium to High.
- Liebherr: Primarily refrigeration; not applicable to dishwashers.
- Magic Chef: Known Issues: Simple designs; filter clogs are the number one cause. Parts Availability: Fair for newer models. Repair Difficulty: Low.
- Maytag: Known Issues: Known for powerful motors, but the hard food disposer/chopper can get jammed. Parts Availability: Excellent. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- Miele: Known Issues: Extremely reliable. Drainage issues are rare and often related to a blockage or, infrequently, a pump failure. Parts Availability: Good but expensive. Repair Difficulty: High.
- Monogram: Known Issues: High-end GE line. Robust, but any electronic failure requires expert diagnosis. Parts Availability: Very good. Repair Difficulty: High.
- Panasonic: Not commonly sold in Alberta; parts are difficult to source.
- Roper: Known Issues: A basic Whirlpool brand; prone to simple filter and pump clogs. Parts Availability: Excellent and affordable. Repair Difficulty: Low.
- Samsung: Known Issues: Known for sensor errors and drain pump failures. Check for error codes on the display. Parts Availability: Good. Repair Difficulty: Medium to High.
- Sharp: Primarily known for DishDrawer models (similar to Fisher & Paykel). Parts Availability: Fair. Repair Difficulty: Medium to High.
- Speed Queen: Primarily laundry; not applicable to dishwashers.
- Sub-Zero: Primarily refrigeration. Its companion brand, Cove, makes dishwashers. See Asko (manufacturer) for similar issues. Parts Availability: Limited, expensive. Repair Difficulty: High.
- Tappan: Older brand, owned by Electrolux. Parts may be limited.
- Thermador: Known Issues: High-end Bosch product. Very reliable; issues are rare but complex. Parts Availability: Good but expensive. Repair Difficulty: High.
- Thor: Known Issues: Can experience pump failures and electronic issues. Parts Availability: Fair. Repair Difficulty: Medium to High.
- Toshiba: Not commonly sold in Alberta; parts are difficult to source.
- Viking: Known Issues: Complex, high-performance machines. Drainage problems often require a specialist. Parts Availability: Limited and expensive. Repair Difficulty: High.
- Whirlpool: Known Issues: One of the most common brands. Filter clogs and drain pump failures are frequent and well-documented. Parts Availability: Excellent and affordable. Repair Difficulty: Medium.
- White-Westinghouse: Older brand, now part of Electrolux. See Frigidaire for similar issues. Parts Availability: Good. Repair Difficulty: Low to Medium.
- Wolf: Primarily cooking appliances. Its companion brand, Cove, makes dishwashers. See Asko (manufacturer) for similar issues. Repair Difficulty: High.
FAQs
Here are quick answers to the most common questions we receive from Alberta homeowners about dishwasher drainage problems.
Why is my dishwasher not draining?
The most common reasons are a clogged filter, a kinked or blocked drain hose, a blockage in your garbage disposal, or a failed drain pump. Start by cleaning the filter.
Can I use Drano in my dishwasher?
No, absolutely not. Harsh chemical drain cleaners can damage the plastic and rubber components of your dishwasher, such as seals, gaskets, and hoses, causing leaks and permanent damage.
Is it safe to fix a dishwasher that won't drain myself?
You can safely clean the filter, check the drain hose for kinks, and clear the air gap. However, any repair involving the drain pump, motor, or electronic control board carries a risk of electrical shock and should only be performed by a certified technician.
How much does it cost to have a dishwasher drain professionally unclogged?
In Alberta, a simple professional unclogging service typically costs between $200 and $350, including the service call and labor. If the drain pump needs replacement, the cost will be significantly higher.
Why is my brand-new dishwasher not draining?
This is almost always due to the knockout plug. If the dishwasher drains into a new garbage disposal, a plastic plug inside the disposal's dishwasher connection port must be removed during installation. If it's left in, water cannot drain.
What is the average lifespan of a dishwasher?
The average dishwasher lasts between 9 and 12 years. If your appliance is approaching this age and has a major drainage problem, replacement is often more cost-effective than a costly repair.
Final Summary
When your dishwasher fails to drain, the problem usually stems from a simple clog in the filter or drain hose, or a more serious failure of the drain pump or control board. While homeowners can safely perform basic troubleshooting like cleaning the filter, any work involving electrical components should be left to a professional to avoid safety risks and further damage. A professional diagnosis is the safest and most effective way to accurately identify the root cause and ensure a lasting repair.
Reviewed by certified appliance technicians at Advance Appliance Ltd serving Alberta homeowners.
Book Your Dishwasher Repair Today
Call: 587-882-3225
Book Online: https://advanceappliance.ca/scheduler/
Same-day or next-day appointments available. Certified technicians. Warranty on parts and labor.
