Amana Dishwasher Not Draining? Here’s What to Do

Do you own an Amana dishwasher but feel frustrated because it’s not draining? You’re definitely not alone! We’ve been there too, and while it can be tempting to call a professional for help, repairing an Amana dishwasher that isn’t draining is usually something you can fix yourself. 

In this blog post, we’re going to share with you step-by-step instructions on how to diagnose the issue and repair your appliance, as well as some tips on prevention in case this happens again in the future. Hopefully, by following the steps outlined below, you’ll be able to get your Amana dishwasher up and running like new again—safely and efficiently.

Check the Garbage Disposal

First, check the garbage disposal for any blockages or clogs preventing the water from draining. 

In some dishwasher models, the water supply flows through your sink’s garbage disposal, so overloading or not properly running the garbage disposal can lead to clogs over time. Or, a utensil can fall in and clog the system.

Checking the garbage disposal for blockages or clogs is an important step in troubleshooting an Amana dishwasher that isn’t draining properly. However, before inspecting the garbage disposal, ensure it is switched off and unplugged to avoid any electric shocks. 

Once all safety precautions have been taken, you can use a flashlight and pliers to find any debris blocking the water flow. If there are any obstructions, carefully remove them using the pliers before restarting the garbage disposal. After this has been done, you can then check for problems within the dishwasher itself.

Check the Dishwasher Filter

If the garbage disposal is clear, then you should check the dishwasher’s trap and filter for any debris that may be blocking the water flow. To do this, locate the dishwasher’s trap or filter on the bottom of the unit. It usually looks like a small mesh screen. Remove any standing water with a cup or a shop vacuum, if available. Remove any visible debris from the filter, and then pop the filter out of its housing. 

Next, rinse the filter under the sink and scrub it with a brush to clean it thoroughly. If there is visible debris in the filter basin, remove it before replacing the cleaned filter at the bottom of the dishwasher. After these steps have been taken, your dishwasher should start draining properly.

Make Sure the Dishwasher Is Loaded Correctly

When loading the dishwasher, ensure all the dishes are evenly spaced out to prevent any blockages. Additionally, check to make sure that no large items, such as pots and pans, are blocking the spray arms or wash cycle. It is also essential to avoid overloading the dishwasher as this can strain its motor excessively and prevent it from draining correctly. These simple steps will help keep your dishwasher running smoothly and draining properly!

Next, You May Need to Clean the Air Gap

An air gap in a dishwasher drainage system plays a vital role in helping to prevent water from overflowing the sink. It acts as a physical barrier between the drain hose and the actual fixture or disposal unit, allowing for backflow or sewage to be diverted from the sink. This helps to ensure that clean water does not become contaminated. 

As water passes through the air gap, this barrier will break up any potential vacuum and allow proper draining. However, if the air gap becomes clogged with debris or food particles, it needs to be cleaned to restore normal draining. To clean an existing air gap, remove the cap (the two-inch high cylinder beside the sink) and remove any visible debris using tweezers or a small brush.

Now Check the Drain Pump

To check for any blockages in the drain pump of your dishwasher, first unplug the appliance and turn off the water supply. Next, use a screwdriver to remove the screws at the bottom of the dishwasher and pop out the panel. The drain pump will be a small box connected to the drain hose – have a towel ready, as water may come out once it’s removed.

If it’s screwed in, use a screwdriver to remove its screws and then turn it counterclockwise to loosen it. Next, remove any visible obstructions before reattaching the pump and reversing all steps to reassemble your dishwasher. Finally, run a short cycle to ensure that everything is draining smoothly.

If there are any obstructions present in the drain hose, you may need to flush it out – see instructions on how to do this below.

Finally, Flush the Drain Hose

Over time, your dishwasher’s drain hose can become clogged with food particles, grease, and soap scum, resulting in slow or no drainage.

Fortunately, it is relatively easy to clean the drain hose. Begin by using a solution of baking soda and vinegar in the basket beneath the filter and running a normal cycle to clear small blockages.

If your dishwasher still doesn’t drain, try flushing out the drain hose:

1. Turn off the water to the dishwasher and unplug it.
2. Locate the end of the hose closest to the garbage disposal – you may want to use a bit of tape to mark which end goes where.
3. Use pliers to loosen the clamp that secures the hose to the disposal and pull it off easily.
4. Unscrew screws along the bottom panel of the dishwasher, remove the panel, and access the other end of the hose.
5. Loosen the clamp, detach the hose from the pump, then pull out the hose.
6. Check for any cracks or kinks – if present, replace the hose with a new one.
7. Using the garden hose on high pressure, flush it out with water.
8. Reattach the hose pump/disposal and tighten the clamps.
9. Run an empty cycle on the dishwasher to check that everything is draining properly.

We hope this gives you a stronger understanding of what to do if your Amana dishwasher isn’t draining properly. As always, feel free to contact Amana for additional help. One of their friendly customer service representatives will be happy to assist you.