Dishwasher Not Draining? Easy Fixes and Utah Repair Help

Last checked: October 25, 2026

Quick answer

Most dishwashers that leave water in the bottom have a clogged filter, a kinked drain hose, or a blocked disposal or air gap. If those are clear, the drain pump may have failed.

Note: Refrigerate LLC, the shop affiliated with this site, does not repair dishwashers. The shops listed below say they service dishwashers.

Likely causes

Clogged filter at the bottom of the tub
Kinked or clogged drain hose under the sink
Garbage disposal knockout plug never removed after a new install, or a clogged disposal
Clogged air gap on the sink (if you have one)
Failed or jammed drain pump
Clogged kitchen sink drain

Safe DIY checks

Safety first: unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker before touching anything inside, and shut off the water or gas supply where it applies. If you smell gas, leave the house and call your gas utility from outside.

Turn off power to the dishwasher. Scoop or sponge out the standing water.
Remove and clean the filter. Many models twist out from the bottom of the tub.
Run the garbage disposal to clear it, since many dishwashers drain through it.
If the disposal is new, check that the knockout plug was removed.
Check the drain hose under the sink for kinks.
If you have a small air gap cap on the sink, pop it off and clear debris.

When to call a pro

The filter, disposal and hose are clear and water still stands
You hear humming with no water moving
Water is backing up into the sink or leaking
An error code keeps showing

Typical repair cost in Utah

Call for a quote. Costs depend on the brand, the part and the shop, so ask for a written quote after diagnosis. Most Utah shops charge a diagnostic or trip fee, and many credit it toward the repair.

Repair or replace?

Filters, hoses and drain pumps are common fixes. On an older, low-cost dishwasher with other problems, replacing can make more sense. Read the repair or replace guide.

Still stuck? These Utah shops service dishwashers: