How to Repair a Dishwasher That Fails to Drain

A dishwasher that fails to drain water after the washing cycle can often be repaired with a simple check and cleaning of the washer float mechanism. The float mechanism senses the water level and activates the pump that drains the water. Any homeowner can do this, and it solves the dishwasher's draining problem in a large majority of cases.

Things You'll Need

• Toothbrush
• 1 tsp. of dish-washing detergent dissolved in 1 cup of water

Instructions

1. Turn off the power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker.

2. Open dishwasher and remove the dish holding rack.

3. 

   Locate the float mechanism. Look on the side and in the lower recess of the dishwasher basin. The float mechanism resembles an upside-down cup with a dome-shaped top. (See photo.)

4. Determine whether the float mechanism on your dishwasher has a protective cover by grasping the sides and attempting to raise or lower it. If it will not move up or down, the float mechanism's cover will have to removed. The cover may snap in place or be secured by one or two screws. If there is no cover, go to step 5.

5. 

   Grasp the float mechanism on each side, and raise and lower it. The float should rise and fall with no restriction or binding. If any resistance is felt, remove the float by gently pulling up and unsnapping it.

6. Remove any accumulated debris or scum from inside the float and the float arm. Use a toothbrush to apply the dish-washing detergent, and gently scour the inside of the float and the float arm.

7. Reinsert the float and snap into place. Test for free movement as in Step 5. If the float continues to bind, it must be replaced.

8. Replace float protective cover (if present) and dish rack, and reset the breaker switch to "on."

Tips & Warnings

• Do not force parts when attempting to remove them. Not all dishwashers are the same, and although some plastic parts snap into position, others require the removal of screws or clamps.