How to Drain a Dishwasher That Won’t Turn On: A Complete Guide

A dishwasher that won’t turn on can be a real headache, especially if it’s full of water. Whether it's due to a power issue, a faulty control panel or an internal malfunction, your priority now is to drain the standing water to prevent spills, smells and potential damage.

Fortunately, draining a dishwasher manually is straightforward, even if it won’t turn on. With just a few basic tools and some simple steps, you can get the water out and inspect for any possible clogs or issues.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of safely draining your dishwasher and discuss when it might be time to call a professional. Let’s get started on tackling this issue and getting your dishwasher back on track.

Common Reasons a Dishwasher Won’t Turn On

Here are some common reasons why your dishwasher might not be turning on:

• Power supply issues: One of the most straightforward problems is often a lack of power. If the dishwasher isn’t plugged in properly or the circuit breaker has tripped, it won’t turn on. Check to see if other appliances in the same area have power, and reset the breaker if necessary.
• Door latch problems: Most dishwashers won’t start unless the door is securely latched. If the latch is broken or not engaging properly, it can prevent the dishwasher from running. Listen for a click when you close the door; if you don’t hear one, the latch might be the culprit.
• Control panel malfunctions: Sometimes, the control panel itself can fail due to electrical issues or moisture build up. This can cause unresponsive buttons or error codes, indicating that the dishwasher can’t start.
• Internal component failures: Key parts like the motor, pump, or wiring can wear out over time. If any of these components are damaged, your dishwasher might not receive the signal to start, or it might not be able to complete a cycle.

How to Drain a Dishwasher Manually

Here’s how you can manually drain your dishwasher when it won’t turn on:

1. Turn off the power: Always put safety first. Make sure the dishwasher is unplugged, or if it’s hardwired, switch off the circuit breaker. This helps prevent any accidental shocks while you’re working.
2. Remove standing water: Open the dishwasher door and use a cup or bowl to scoop out as much water as you can. For any remaining water, place towels at the bottom of the dishwasher to soak it up.
3. Clear the drain filter: Most dishwashers have a filter near the bottom that can trap food particles and debris. Carefully remove the filter, rinse it under warm water, and check for any blockages that might be causing the issue.
4. Inspect the drain hose: If the filter looks fine, the problem might be with the drain hose. Look for the hose under the sink or behind the dishwasher, detach it and check for clogs (more details below). If you find any, clear them out before reconnecting the hose.

By following these steps, you can safely drain your dishwasher and troubleshoot potential blockages.

Inspecting and Cleaning the Drain Hose

Here’s how to inspect and clean the drain hose of a dishwasher that won’t turn on:

• Locate the drain hose: First, find the drain hose connected to your dishwasher. It’s usually attached under the sink or behind the dishwasher. Make sure the dishwasher is powered off before you start.
• Detach the hose: Using a screwdriver, loosen the clamp that secures the hose. Place a towel or bucket underneath, as there may be some residual water. Gently pull the hose free from both the dishwasher and the sink drain connection.
• Check for clogs: Shine a flashlight into the hose to see if you can spot any blockages. You can use a long, flexible brush or a piece of wire to carefully remove any build up. Be cautious not to damage the hose while clearing out debris.
• Rinse and reattach: Rinse the hose with warm water to remove any remaining particles. Once clean, securely reattach it to the dishwasher and sink drain, tightening the clamp back in place.

These steps should help clear any blockages and restore proper drainage to your dishwasher.

When to Call a Professional Electrician

If you’ve tried everything to drain your dishwasher and it’s still not cooperating, it might be time to bring in a professional. While some draining issues can be solved with a bit of DIY effort, others point to more serious problems.

If you’ve noticed persistent blockages, unusual noises, or if water keeps pooling even after you’ve manually drained it, these could be signs of a bigger issue like a damaged pump, clogged drain valve, or electrical problems.

Another reason to call a professional is if your dishwasher isn’t responding at all − no lights, no sounds, nothing. This could mean there’s an electrical fault that needs expert attention.

Trying to fix it yourself can sometimes make things worse, especially if it involves wiring or complex components. A trained technician has the tools and knowledge to diagnose the issue correctly and safely get your dishwasher back up and running.

In the long run, calling in the pros can save you time, stress, and potentially costly repairs down the road.

Get the Dishwasher Up and Running

Draining a dishwasher that won’t turn on may seem daunting, but with a few basic steps, you can handle it yourself. By checking for common issues like power supply problems, door latch malfunctions and clogged drain filters, you can often identify the cause and resolve it.

If manual draining is necessary, simply gather some towels, unplug the dishwasher, and carefully remove any standing water.

Inspecting the drain hose for clogs can also help restore proper drainage and prevent future issues. However, if you find that the problem persists or involves more complex repairs, don’t hesitate to call a professional.

Getting expert help can ensure your dishwasher is repaired safely and effectively, saving you time and potential headaches down the road.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.