Dishwasher not draining: causes, quick checks and repair cost
An inch of dirty water in the bottom after every cycle. Six causes, most of them cheap.
In order of likelihood: 1) a clogged filter or sump, 2) a blocked or kinked drain hose or air gap, 3) a garbage-disposal knockout plug never removed (new disposal installs), 4) a failed drain pump or impeller, 5) a stuck check valve, 6) a control or timer fault that never starts the drain. Repairs run $100–$300; cause 3 costs nothing but a screwdriver.
Which symptom do you have? Quick checks and what they mean
Safe checks only — anything involving line voltage, gas or refrigerant is for the technician.
| What you see | What it usually means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Water stays every cycle, pump never sounds | Drain pump dead or control not calling for drain. | Call |
| Pump hums / whines, no drain | Blocked impeller, sump debris, glass shards. | Clear the filter if accessible; else call |
| New disposal installed recently | Knockout plug still in the disposal inlet. | Remove plug (disposal off), or ask the company |
| Air gap on the sink gurgles or spits | Clog between air gap and disposal. | Clear the air gap cap; call if it repeats |
| Drains partly, error code shown | Slow drain — hose kink, check valve, weak pump. | Call and mention the code |
What each repair typically costs
| Repair | Typical cost (parts + labor) |
|---|---|
| Filter / sump / impeller clearing | $80 – $180 |
| Drain hose or air gap | $100 – $220 |
| Drain pump | $150 – $300 |
| Check valve | $100 – $200 |
| Control board | $200 – $400 |
Repair or replace?
Repair if the quote is under half the price of a comparable new unit and the appliance is not near the end of its typical lifespan. The repair-or-replace calculator gives a quick answer for your appliance and age.
What happens when you call
Brand, model, what it does and does not do — two minutes.
An independent repair company covering your ZIP code.
Visit fee confirmed up front; repair on approval, often the same visit.
Common questions
Is a little water in the bottom of the dishwasher normal?
A small amount in the sump (below the filter) is normal — it keeps the seals wet. Water covering the bottom of the tub is not.
Bosch E24, Samsung 5C, LG OE, Whirlpool F9E1 — same problem?
Yes, all are drain-timeout codes. The fix is the filter, hose or pump depending on the machine. Mention the code when you call.
Can I run the dishwasher with water left in it?
You can, but it will not clean well and a failed pump can trip a leak sensor and lock the machine. Better to book the visit.
How much is a dishwasher drain pump?
Typically $150–$300 installed, including the visit fee.
Published 2026-09-22 · Updated 2026-09-22