Dishwasher Not Draining
Standing water pooled at the bottom of the tub after a finished cycle — here’s what’s behind it.
The Usual Causes
The most common cause we find, and also the easiest for homeowners to check themselves.
The next most likely cause after the filter.
The small cylinder near your kitchen faucet that some dishwasher installations include.
A Quick Check Before You Call
Pull out the bottom rack and look at the filter assembly. Food debris and small buildup there is common and simple to clean out, and it resolves a real share of the “not draining” calls we get without needing a technician at all.
What It Usually Costs
Filter cleaning or air gap clearing typically runs under $150. A drain pump replacement is a bigger job, generally $200 to $300.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my dishwasher have standing water even though it seems to run fine otherwise?
Standing water specifically points to a drainage problem, not a cleaning or filling issue — usually the filter, pump, or air gap.
Is it safe to run the dishwasher again if there’s standing water?
We’d hold off — running it again with existing standing water usually doesn’t help and can make the eventual cleanup messier.