Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Draining?

Remove the lower dish rack and locate the filter assembly in the bottom center. On newer Whirlpool models, twist the upper filter counterclockwise and lift it out. Rinse both the upper cylindrical filter and the lower flat filter under running water. This should be done monthly for optimal drainage.

The drain hose runs from the pump under the dishwasher to either the garbage disposal inlet or the sink drain. Make sure the hose isn’t kinked or compressed, especially where it passes through the cabinet wall. A kinked hose is the second most common cause of drainage failure.

Whirlpool specifically requires the drain hose to be installed in a high loop — the hose should go up to the underside of the countertop before going down to the drain connection. Without this, dirty water siphons back into the dishwasher.

If you have a garbage disposal, make sure the drain inlet knockout plug has been removed. Use a screwdriver and hammer to punch it out from inside the disposal opening, then fish out the plug so it doesn’t clog the disposal.

If your installation has an air gap (a small dome-shaped fitting on the countertop), remove the cap and clear any debris from inside. Food particles can accumulate here and block drainage from the dishwasher.