14 Reasons Why Kenmore Dishwasher Not Draining: How to Fix

Last Updated on September 21, 2022 by Jason Nguyen

If your Kenmore dishwasher isn’t draining, you’re going to have a dirty kitchen and dishes that won’t get clean. This can be a huge inconvenience, especially if you rely on your dishwasher to keep your dishes clean.

In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of a dishwasher not draining properly, as well as how to troubleshoot and fix the issue. So if your Kenmore dishwasher is giving you problems, don’t worry – we’ll help you take care of it!

Related: 9 Dishwasher Brands To Avoid and 3 Most Reliable Brands

Kenmore Dishwasher Not Draining: How to Troubleshoot and Fix

1. Drain Impeller

The drain impeller is a small, plastic piece with curved blades that helps push water through the dishwasher’s drain hose.

If the impeller is broken or damaged, it can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly.

Why does it fail?

There are a few reasons why the drain impeller might fail. One is simply wear and tear—over time, the blades can become worn down or broken. Another possibility is that something has become caught in the impeller, preventing it from turning properly.

How to fix it:

To check if the impeller is the problem:

-Remove the dishwasher’s lower rack and look for the impeller.

-If the impeller is broken, you will need to replace it.

Replacing the impeller is a fairly easy repair that you can do yourself. You will need to:

-Disconnect the dishwasher from power and water.

-Remove the dishwasher’s lower access panel.

-Locate the impeller and remove it.

-Install the new impeller and reassemble the dishwasher.

2. Drain Pump

The drain pump on your Kenmore dishwasher is responsible for pumping water out of the dishwasher and into your home’s drainage system. If your dishwasher is not draining properly, the first thing you should check is the drain pump.

There are a few things that can cause your dishwasher’s drain pump to fail. The most common cause is a blockage in the pump itself. This can be caused by anything from food particles to grease and soap buildup.

Another common cause of a dishwasher’s drain pump failure is a problem with the electrical connection. If the wiring to the pump is damaged, it can prevent the pump from working properly.

If you think your dishwasher’s drain pump is the problem, the first thing you should do is check for a blockage.

How to fix it?

If you find a blockage, you can try to remove it with a plunger or a pliers. If that doesn’t work, you may need to disassemble the pump and clean it out with a brush.

If you think the problem is with the electrical connection, you should check the wiring diagram for your dishwasher. If you’re not sure how to do that, you can call a qualified technician for help.

In most cases, a dishwasher’s drain pump can be repaired relatively easily. However, if the pump is severely damaged, it may need to be replaced.

When to replace?

If your dishwasher is still not draining properly after you’ve tried to repair the pump, it may be time to replace it. You can buy a new pump online or at a local appliance store.

Installing a new drain pump is relatively easy, but if you’re not sure how to do it, you can always call a qualified technician for help.

3. Drain Solenoid Kit

The dishwasher solenoid kit allows the dishwasher to properly drain water.

Why does it fail?

The dishwasher solenoid can fail due to a power surge, age, or corrosion.

How do you replace it?

If your dishwasher is not draining, you may need to replace the drain solenoid. This is an easy repair that anyone can do.

You will need:

-Drain Solenoid Kit

-Pliers

-Screwdriver

Instructions:

To replace the drain solenoid, first locate the old solenoid and disconnect it from the dishwasher. Use pliers to remove the old solenoid and then screw in the new one.

Be sure to tighted it securely. Reconnect the dishwasher and turn it on. The dishwasher should now be draining properly.

4. Drain Valve

The Kenmore dishwasher not draining can be caused by a few different things. One of the most common is a blockage in the drain valve.

The drain valve is located under the sink, and it is responsible for allowing water to flow out of the dishwasher. If this valve becomes clogged, it can cause the dishwasher to not drain properly.

If you are having this problem, the first thing you should do is check the drain valve to see if it is clogged. If it is, you can try cleaning it with a toothbrush or a small piece of wire. If this does not work, you may need to replace the drain valve.

How to replace it?

Replacing the drain valve is a fairly simple process. First, you will need to turn off the water to the dishwasher. Next, remove the hose that goes from the dishwasher to the sink. Once this hose is removed, you will be able to see the drain valve.

To replace the valve, simply unscrew it from the dishwasher and screw in the new one. Be sure to tighten it securely so that there are no leaks. After the new valve is in place, you can reattach the hose and turn the water back on.

5. Wrong Type of Detergent

If you are using a dishwasher for the first time, you need to be careful about the kind of detergent you use. If you use the wrong type of detergent, it can cause your dishwasher to not drain properly.

There are two types of dishwasher detergents: powder and liquid. You want to use a powder detergent for your Kenmore dishwasher.

Liquid detergents can cause your dishwasher to not drain properly because they can form a film on the inside of your dishwasher. This film can clog up the drains and prevent water from draining out of your dishwasher.

If you use the wrong type of detergent, it can also cause your dishwasher to not clean your dishes properly. So, be sure to use a powder detergent for your Kenmore dishwasher. You can find this type of detergent at most stores that sell dishwashers.

6. Pump and Motor Assembly

The pump and motor assembly is located at the bottom of your dishwasher. If your dishwasher is not draining, the problem may be with the pump and motor assembly.

Why does it fail?

The pump and motor assembly can fail for a number of reasons. The most common reason is a clog in the drain line. Other reasons include a failed seals or bearings, or a problem with the dishwasher’s electrical system.

How do I fix it?

To check if the problem is with the pump and motor assembly:

-remove the lower access panel

-locate the pump and motor assembly

-check for any blockages or debris

-if the pump and motor assembly is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

7. Garbage disposal

If your dishwasher isn’t draining properly, there’s a good chance that your garbage disposal is to blame. When the dishwasher drains, water is supposed to flow through the hose and into the disposal.

However, if there’s something blocking the hose or the connection between the two isn’t tight enough, water can back up into your dishwasher.

There are a few things you can do to fix this problem. First, check the hose that connects your dishwasher to the disposal.

Make sure there’s nothing blocking it and that it’s securely attached at both ends. If the hose is clear and snug, try running your disposal to see if that clears the issue.

8. Check Ball

The check ball is located in the back of the dishwasher, near the drain. It is a small, round, black rubber ball that prevents water from draining out of the dishwasher.

If your dishwasher is not draining properly, the first thing you should check is the check ball. It is possible that the check ball has become dislodged and is blocking the drain.

To check this, simply remove the dishwasher from its power source and then look inside the dishwasher near the drain. If you see a small, round, black rubber ball, then that is the check ball.

To fix this problem, simply put the check ball back in its rightful place. If the check ball is not the problem, then there are a few other things you can check, such as the drain hose and the garbage disposal.

9. Check Valve

The check valve is located on the drain line and prevents water from flowing back into the dishwasher. If this valve is not working properly, it could cause your dishwasher to not drain properly.

Why does it fail?

The check valve can fail for a number of reasons. The most common reason is that it becomes clogged with food or other debris. This can happen over time as the dishwasher is used.

How to fix it:

You will need to clean or replace the check valve. To do this, you will first need to locate the valve. It is usually located on the drain line near the dishwasher. Once you have found the valve, you will need to clean it or replace it.

10. Drain Filter

If your Kenmore dishwasher won’t drain, the first thing you should do is check the drain filter. The drain filter is located under the lower spray arm.

To access it, remove the lower spray arm by loosening the screws that hold it in place. Then, remove the drain filter and clean it out with a brush. If the filter is clogged, this could be causing your dishwasher to not drain properly.

Once you’ve cleaned the drain filter, reassemble the lower spray arm and screw it back into place. Then, run a test cycle to see if the dishwasher is draining properly. If it still isn’t draining, there could be another issue causing the problem.

11. Drain Hose

If your dishwasher doesn’t seem to be draining properly, the first thing you should check is the drain hose. Over time, the hose can become clogged with food particles and other debris, which can prevent water from flowing through it properly.

If you suspect that the drain hose is the problem, disconnect it from the dishwasher and clean it out with a brush or a vacuum cleaner. You may also need to replace the hose if it is damaged or cracked.

12. Water Pump Belt

The water pump belt is located under the dishwasher. It is a black rubber belt that helps to pump the water out of the dishwasher. If this belt breaks, the dishwasher will not be able to drain properly.

To fix this:

You will need to replace the water pump belt. This is a relatively easy repair that can be done at home.

First, you will need to unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet. Then, you will need to remove the lower panel of the dishwasher. This will give you access to the water pump belt.

Next, you will need to remove the old water pump belt and replace it with a new one. Make sure that the new belt is tight and secure before you put the panel back on.

Finally, plug the dishwasher back in and turn it on. The dishwasher should now be able to drain properly. If it does not, you may need to call a professional for further assistance.

13. Air Gap

The air gap is a small, plastic fitting that sits on your sink and has a hose connected to your dishwasher. The other end of the hose goes into a hole in the dishwasher.

The air gap allows water to flow out of the dishwasher while keeping dirty water from flowing back in. If your dishwasher isn’t draining, the air gap might be the problem.

You can check to see if the air gap is clogged by removing the hose and running water through it. If the water doesn’t flow freely, you’ll need to clean out the air gap.

To clean out the air gap:

-Remove the hose from the air gap

-Take apart the air gap (usually just a matter of unscrewing the top) and clean out any debris

-Reattach the hose and screw the air gap back together

14. Timer

If your dishwasher doesn’t seem to be draining properly, one possibility is that the timer isn’t working correctly. The timer controls how long the dishwasher runs, and if it’s not working properly, the dishwasher may not run long enough to finish its cycle.

To check the timer, first make sure that it’s turned on. Then, set it for a longer cycle and see if that solves the problem. If not, you may need to replace the timer.

Replacing the timer is a relatively easy repair that you can do yourself. Simply unplug the dishwasher, remove the control panel, and then unscrew the timer. Once the old timer is out, screw in the new one and reassemble the dishwasher.

Related:

Kenmore elite dishwasher will not drain completely?

kenmore elite dishwasher not drain completely

There are a few things that could be causing your dishwasher to not drain properly. The first thing you should check is the garbage disposal. If the garbage disposal is clogged, it could be preventing the dishwasher from draining.

Another possible cause is a blockage in the dishwasher’s drainage hose. If this is the case, you will need to clean out the hose.

Finally, if your dishwasher’s pump is not working properly, it could also be causing the dishwasher to not drain properly. If you are unsure of what is causing your dishwasher to not drain properly, it is best to call a professional for help.

If you have checked the garbage disposal and there is no clog, the next thing you should do is check the dishwasher’s drainage hose. The hose could be clogged with food or other debris.

To clean out the hose, disconnect it from the dishwasher and use a plunger to clear any blockages. Once the blockage is cleared, reconnect the hose and turn on the dishwasher to see if it is now draining properly.

If the dishwasher is still not draining properly, the next step is to check the pump. The pump is responsible for moving water from the dishwasher to the drain. If the pump is not working properly, it could be causing the dishwasher to not drain properly.

To check the pump, disconnect the dishwasher from the power source and remove the pump. Inspect the pump for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If you find any damage, it is best to replace the pump.

Kenmore dishwasher drain pump test?

If your dishwasher isn’t draining properly, the first step is to check the drain pump. The drain pump helps expel water from the dishwasher during the draining cycle.

If the drain pump is defective, it won’t be able to expel all of the water from the dishwasher, causing your dishwasher to back up and flood your kitchen.

To test the drain pump, remove the lower dish rack and look for the drain pump on the bottom of the dishwasher.

The drain pump is usually a small, black, plastic piece with a white impeller inside. If you can see the impeller, spin it to make sure it’s not jammed. If it’s jammed, you’ll need to replace the drain pump.

If the impeller is not jammed, then the next step is to check for a blockage in the drain hose. The drain hose carries water from the dishwasher to the drainage system.

If there’s a blockage in the hose, it will prevent water from draining properly. To check for a blockage, disconnect the drain hose from the dishwasher and check for any kinks or bends. If you find a blockage, use a plunger to clear it.

Kenmore dishwasher not draining E24

Kenmore dishwasher error code E24 occurs when the dishwasher is not draining properly. One possible reason for this error code is that the dishwasher drain hose is clogged.

To fix this, first check the dishwasher drain hose for any blockages. If there are none, then check the dishwasher pump for any debris. Finally, if neither of these solutions work, then you may need to replace the dishwasher pump.

Kenmore dishwasher not draining at end of cycle?

kenmore dishwasher not drain at end of cycle

If your dishwasher isn’t draining all the water out at the end of the cycle, there could be a few different causes. First, check to make sure that nothing is blocking the dishwasher’s drain hose.

If the hose is clear, then the next step is to clean the dishwasher’s filter. A clogged filter can prevent proper drainage.

If cleaning the filter doesn’t solve the problem, then there may be an issue with the dishwasher’s pump or drain valve. These components can become damaged and will need to be replaced.

Kenmore dishwasher not draining and making noise?

If your dishwasher isn’t draining properly, it could be because the drain hose is clogged. To clean the hose, disconnect it from the dishwasher and flush it out with a garden hose.

If that doesn’t work, check the drain pump for debris. The pump is located under the dishwasher. To access it, remove the bottom panel of the dishwasher. Clean the pump by removing any debris that might be blocking it.

Another possible reason your dishwasher isn’t draining properly is because the float switch is stuck in the “up” position.

The float switch is located in the bottom of the dishwasher tub, and its purpose is to tell the dishwasher when to stop filling up with water.

If the float switch is stuck, it will prevent the dishwasher from draining properly. To fix this, simply push the float switch down and hold it in that position for a few seconds.

If your dishwasher is still not draining properly after trying these two fixes, then there may be something wrong with the drain pump itself. In this case, you’ll need to call a qualified appliance repair person to come and take a look at it.

Kenmore dishwasher not draining and burning smell?

kenmore dishwasher not drain burning smell

Check the following:

-Dishwasher is not draining water. Check the drain hose for clogs or kinks. The dishwasher may also be overfilling, causing water to back up into the sink.

-There is a burning smell coming from the dishwasher. This could be caused by a clogged filter or food particle build-up on the heating element. Clean the filter and scrub the heating element with a toothbrush to remove any food particles.

-The dishwasher is leaving water spots on dishes. This could be caused by hard water or a build-up of minerals in the water supply. Install a water softener or descaling system to solve this problem.

Old Kenmore dishwasher not draining?

If your dishwasher is not draining, there are a few possible causes. First, check to see if the drain hose is kinked or clogged. If it is, you will need to replace the hose.

Another possibility is that the garbage disposal is clogged. You can try to clear the clog yourself, or you can call a plumber. If neither of these solutions works, you may need to replace the dishwasher.

When your dishwasher is not draining properly, it can be a big inconvenience. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to try to fix the problem.

First, check the drain hose to see if it is kinked or clogged. If it is, you will need to replace the hose. Another possibility is that the garbage disposal is clogged.

You can try to clear the clog yourself, or you can call a plumber. If neither of these solutions works, you may need to replace the dishwasher.

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Conclusion

If your Kenmore dishwasher is not draining, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem. First, make sure that the drain hose is not kinked or blocked. Next, check the garbage disposal for any blockages. Finally, if all else fails, you may need to call a professional to take a look at your dishwasher.

With a little troubleshooting, you should be able to get your dishwasher draining properly in no time!