Why is my dishwasher not draining water at the end of cycle?

Standing water in your dishwasher is usually a clogged filter, drain hose, or air gap. Clear the blockage to restore proper draining.

Category:Appliances

Difficulty:Easy

Time:20 min

Success:50%

Updated:Jun 15, 2026

quick_referenceQuick Answer

For Why is my dishwasher not draining water at the end of cycle?, start with "Clean the dishwasher filter": Remove the bottom rack. Twist and lift out the cylindrical filter assembly at the bottom. Rinse it under hot water and scrub off any debris with a soft brush. Stop DIY if water is pooling under the dishwasher on the floor. This is listed as a easy recovery and usually takes about 20 min.

verifiedGuide Snapshot

Repair areaAppliances

Estimated time20 min

DifficultyEasy

Stop conditions3

Last updated Jun 15, 2026. Review the stop conditions before continuing.

account_treeRecovery State

DeviceDishwasher

Current stateDrainage Problem

Specific stateWater Remains

Failed stepDrain Clog

Likely failure typeBlocked Path

DIY boundaryDIY recovery first

paymentsCost decision

help1. Understand the Problem

When a dishwasher finishes its cycle but leaves standing water, something is blocking the drain path. Common culprits include food debris in the filter, a kinked drain hose, or a clogged air gap on the countertop. The dishwasher's drain pump may also fail, but that's less common. Most drain issues are cleared without removing the unit.

build_circle2. Try This First

Best First Step

Clean the dishwasher filter

Remove the bottom rack. Twist and lift out the cylindrical filter assembly at the bottom. Rinse it under hot water and scrub off any debris with a soft brush.

visibility3. Visual Guidance

See what's happening and how to try the first recovery step.

Check the air gap for clogsIf you have a small chrome cylinder next to the faucet, remove its cap. Use a toothpick or small brush to clear any debris inside the air gap body.

Inspect the drain hose for kinksPull the dishwasher out slightly (disconnect power first). Look under the unit for the drain hose. Straighten any kinks and ensure it has a high loop under the counter.

Run a drain cleaning cyclePour 1 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher. Let it foam for 15 minutes, then run a rinse cycle to flush the drain line.

autorenew4. If That Doesn't Work

Try the next recovery options.

Replace the drain pumpIf the pump motor is silent or humming without moving water, the impeller may be broken or the motor burned out. This requires removing the dishwasher.

chevron_right

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dishwasher have standing water after every cycle?expand_more

Check the filter first—it's the most common cause. If it's clean, the drain hose or air gap is likely clogged. A failing drain pump is a last resort.

Can I use Drano in my dishwasher?expand_more

No. Chemical drain cleaners can damage the rubber seals and plastic parts. Use baking soda and vinegar or a manual cleaning method instead.

What does the air gap do?expand_more

The air gap prevents dirty water from the sink drain from siphoning back into the dishwasher. It's a small device on the countertop near the faucet.

How do I know if the drain pump is bad?expand_more

Listen during the drain cycle. If you hear a humming sound but no water moves, the pump impeller may be jammed or the motor may be dead. You'll need a multimeter to test it.

Will a garbage disposal clog affect dishwasher draining?expand_more

Yes. If your dishwasher drains into the garbage disposal, a clogged disposal can block the dishwasher. Run the disposal first, then check the dishwasher drain.