Signs the problem is the drain, not the dishwasher
A dishwasher that won't drain is often a plumbing clog, not a broken machine. Until we get there, don't run it again. If the disposal or the sink drain assembly has failed, see sink repair and installation.
- The kitchen sink is slow too
- Dishwasher water comes up in the sink
- The disposal hums or drains slowly
- Gurgling under the sink during a cycle
- It started after a new disposal went in
- Standing water even with a clean filter
How we clear a dishwasher drain
We check the connection between the dishwasher, the disposal and the sink line, because that is where most of these clogs are. Worth reading first: three faults that look like a dead machine.
Check the drain hose
We look for kinks, food packed in the hose and a missing high loop, which lets sink water run back into the dishwasher.
Check the disposal inlet
A new disposal installed with its knockout plug still in place stops the dishwasher emptying. So does a clogged inlet.
Clear the kitchen line
If the sink and dishwasher share a clogged line, we clear it with a cable, or jet it when grease is the cause.
Run a drain cycle
We run the dishwasher and the sink together before we leave. If the dishwasher's own pump has failed, we tell you it is an appliance repair.
Why dishwashers stop draining in Shore homes
The dishwasher is usually the last stop for a clog that started in the sink.
Grease in the kitchen line
Grease from the sink narrows the line the dishwasher shares, until a full load of water has nowhere to go.
Shells and food scraps
Shells and scraps rinsed off plates collect in the disposal and at the drain hose connection.
Hard well water
Scale from hard well water builds in the drain hose and filter and slows the water leaving the machine.
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Questions We Get Asked About Dishwashers That Won't Drain
What people ask before they book a dishwasher drain visit.
How much does it cost to fix a dishwasher that won't drain?
Clearing a clogged dishwasher drain or kitchen line typically runs $175 to $450. A grease-lined line that keeps closing may need jetting, usually $450 to $900. You get the price before any work starts, and our drain cleaning cost guide has the full breakdown.
How soon can you come out?
Often the same day, and usually within the week. We work 8:00am to 9:00pm, seven days a week, so evening and weekend visits count too. Book online or call (757) 824-9862 for a time.
What happens when you get there?
We check the drain hose, the high loop, the disposal inlet and the kitchen line, then clear whatever is blocked. We run a drain cycle before we leave, and if the problem is the dishwasher's own pump we tell you straight.
Should I try to fix my dishwasher drain myself?
We don't recommend it. Chemical cleaners can damage the dishwasher's seals and the disposal, and pulling the drain hose off a full machine can flood the cabinet and floor.
Can you inspect the kitchen drain line before clearing it?
Yes. If the kitchen line keeps clogging, a camera inspection shows where and why. It typically runs $250 to $500 and is often credited if we go on to do the repair it finds.
Other clogs we clear
- Clogged toilet: Won't flush, rising water, backups
- Clogged kitchen sink: Grease, food waste, and disposals
- Clogged bathroom sink: Hair, soap, and slow drains
- Clogged bathtub drain: Standing water and slow tubs
- Clogged shower drain: Hair, sand, and pooling water
- Dishwasher not draining: Water left in the tub or sink
- Washing machine drain: Standpipe overflows and backups
- Clogged floor drain: Garages, laundry rooms, and kitchens
- Every drain backing up: Main line clog or septic
Explore related services
- Common clogs we clear on the Eastern Shore
- Sink repair, replacement, and installation on the Shore
- Your Dishwasher Is Probably Fine: Three Plumbing Faults That Look Like a Dead Machine
- What the Shore says about us
- One membership. Every plumbing system in your house, looked after
- Plumbers who actually live on the Eastern Shore
- How Much Does Drain Cleaning Cost on Virginia’s Eastern Shore
- Clogged toilet repair on the Eastern Shore
- Clogged kitchen sink and garbage disposal repair
- Clogged bathroom sink repair
- Clogged bathtub drain repair
- Clogged shower drain repair
- Washing machine drain backing up
- Clogged floor drain cleaning
- Every drain backing up? Main line clog or septic
Ready for a steady hand?
Book with our team, or call us seven days a week from 8am to 9pm.
Call (757) 824-9862