Dishwasher Water Problem: Find Out Why And How To Fix It

If you’ve noticed water pooling at the bottom of your dishwasher, you’re not alone. This is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most common reasons why dishwashers have water in the bottom and provide step-by-step solutions to fix the issue.

Possible Causes of Water in Dishwasher Bottom

• Clogged Drain Hose: A clogged drain hose is one of the most common causes of water in the bottom of a dishwasher. Food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate in the hose over time, blocking the flow of water.
• Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pumping water out of the dishwasher. If the pump is faulty, it may not be able to pump out all of the water, resulting in water pooling at the bottom.
• Damaged Door Gasket: The door gasket is a rubber seal that prevents water from leaking out of the dishwasher. If the gasket is damaged, water can leak out during the wash cycle and accumulate at the bottom.
• Overloading the Dishwasher: Overloading the dishwasher can prevent the dishes from getting properly cleaned and can also block the drain hose. This can lead to water pooling at the bottom of the dishwasher.
• Incorrect Water Level: If the water level in the dishwasher is too high, it can overflow and leak out into the bottom of the dishwasher.
• Clogged Spray Arms: The spray arms are responsible for distributing water throughout the dishwasher. If the spray arms are clogged with food particles or debris, they may not be able to spray water effectively, resulting in water pooling at the bottom.
• Malfunctioning Float Switch: The float switch is a device that detects the water level in the dishwasher. If the float switch is malfunctioning, it may not be able to accurately detect the water level, which can lead to overfilling and water pooling at the bottom.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check the Drain Hose:

• Disconnect the drain hose from the dishwasher and check for any blockages.
• If the hose is clogged, clear the blockage using a wire or pipe cleaner.

2. Test the Drain Pump:

• Pour a cup of water into the bottom of the dishwasher.
• If the water drains out quickly, the drain pump is working properly.
• If the water does not drain out, the drain pump may be faulty and needs to be replaced.

3. Inspect the Door Gasket:

• Open the dishwasher door and inspect the gasket around the edges.
• If the gasket is damaged or torn, it will need to be replaced.

4. Avoid Overloading the Dishwasher:

• Load the dishwasher carefully, leaving space between the dishes.
• Do not overload the dishwasher, as this can prevent the dishes from getting properly cleaned and can also block the drain hose.

5. Adjust the Water Level:

• Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct water level for your dishwasher.
• If the water level is too high, adjust it according to the instructions.

6. Clean the Spray Arms:

• Remove the spray arms from the dishwasher.
• Check for any blockages in the spray arms and clean them using a wire or pipe cleaner.

7. Replace the Float Switch:

• If the float switch is malfunctioning, it will need to be replaced.
• Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for how to replace the float switch.

When to Call a Professional

If you have tried the troubleshooting steps above and the water in the bottom of your dishwasher persists, it is recommended to call a qualified appliance repair technician. They can diagnose the problem and perform any necessary repairs.

Prevention Tips

• Regularly clean the drain hose and spray arms to prevent blockages.
• Avoid overloading the dishwasher.
• Use a rinse aid to help prevent water spots and buildup.
• Run the dishwasher regularly, even if it is not full.

Tips for Cleaning Water from Dishwasher Bottom

• Use a sponge or towel to soak up the water from the bottom of the dishwasher.
• Pour a cup of white vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher and let it sit for 30 minutes. This will help to disinfect and deodorize the dishwasher.
• Wipe down the inside of the dishwasher with a clean cloth.

What You Need to Know

Q: Why does my dishwasher have water in the bottom even after it has finished running?
A: The most likely cause is a clogged drain hose or a faulty drain pump.

Q: Can I use bleach to clean the water in the bottom of my dishwasher?
A: No, it is not recommended to use bleach to clean the dishwasher. Bleach can damage the dishwasher’s components.

Q: How often should I clean the drain hose and spray arms?
A: It is recommended to clean the drain hose and spray arms every 3-6 months to prevent blockages.

Q: What is the best way to prevent water from pooling in the bottom of my dishwasher?
A: The best way to prevent water from pooling in the bottom of your dishwasher is to regularly clean the drain hose and spray arms, avoid overloading the dishwasher, and use a rinse aid.

Q: How much does it cost to repair a dishwasher with water in the bottom?
A: The cost of repairing a dishwasher with water in the bottom can vary depending on the cause of the problem. However, most repairs will cost between $100 and $300.