You’ve finished a wash cycle, opened your dishwasher — and there’s standing water at the bottom. Not only is it frustrating, but it can also leave your dishes dirty and your kitchen smelling unpleasant.
If your dishwasher isn’t draining properly, you’re not alone — this is one of the most frequent appliance repair requests in Ottawa. In this guide, Yanfix, your trusted local same-day appliance repair company, explains the most common reasons your dishwasher won’t drain and how to fix them.
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse — our trained technicians are ready to help today. We offer same-day appliance repair, transparent pricing, and a 90-day warranty on all work.
Clogged Filter or Drain Basket
Over time, food particles, grease, and debris can clog the filter or drain basket at the bottom of your dishwasher. This prevents water from flowing out after a cycle.
Quick Fix:
- Remove the bottom rack and check the filter.
- Clean it with warm water and a soft brush.
- Run a rinse cycle to see if the problem is solved.
Tip: Clean your filter once a month to keep water flowing smoothly.
Blocked or Kinked Drain Hose
The drain hose carries wastewater from your dishwasher to the sink drain or garbage disposal. If it’s clogged, bent, or improperly installed, water can back up into the machine.
Quick Fix:
- Disconnect the power and inspect the hose.
- Straighten any kinks.
- Flush it with hot water or compressed air to remove debris.
- Reconnect firmly and check for leaks.
If your hose connects to a garbage disposal, make sure the knockout plug (a small plastic tab) was removed during installation — this is a common oversight.
Faulty Drain Pump
The drain pump forces water out of the dishwasher. If it’s jammed or burnt out, the dishwasher won’t drain at all.
Quick Fix:
- Listen during the drain cycle. If you hear a low hum but no water movement, the pump may be blocked by glass or food debris.
- Remove visible debris carefully (with power off!).
- If the pump doesn’t run or hum at all, it likely needs replacement by a technician
Yanfix technicians carry replacement parts for all major dishwasher brands and can fix most issues during the first visit.
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse — our trained technicians are ready to help today. We offer same-day appliance repair, transparent pricing, and a 90-day warranty on all work.
Air Gap or Garbage Disposal Blockage
If your dishwasher drains through a garbage disposal or air gap (a small cap near your faucet), these can easily become clogged.
Quick Fix:
- Remove the air gap cap and clean it thoroughly.
- Run your garbage disposal to clear any stuck food waste.
- Pour boiling water down the sink drain to dissolve grease buildup.
If the dishwasher drains after doing this — problem solved!
Malfunctioning Check Valve or Solenoid
A check valve prevents dirty water from flowing back into your dishwasher. If it’s stuck closed or damaged, drainage stops completely.
Quick Fix:
- Access the valve near the drain pump (check your manual).
- If it doesn’t move freely, replace it.
- This is a simple fix for a professional technician.
Control Board or Float Switch Failure
If the float switch (which senses water levels) gets stuck, your dishwasher may think it’s still full and skip the drain cycle. Similarly, a faulty control board can interrupt the draining process.
Quick Fix:
- Move the float up and down manually — it should click freely.
- Clean away food debris or mineral buildup around it.
- If that doesn’t help, the control board may need replacement.
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse — our trained technicians are ready to help today. We offer same-day appliance repair, transparent pricing, and a 90-day warranty on all work.
When to Call a Professional Technician
If you’ve cleaned the filters, hoses, and drains but your dishwasher still won’t empty, it’s time to call in a pro.
Yanfix provides:
- Same-day dishwasher repair in Ottawa
- Upfront pricing (no hidden fees)
- Trained technicians for all major brands
- 90-day warranty on all repairs
Whether it’s a pump replacement or a complex electrical issue, we’ll handle it quickly and professionally — right at your home.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Future Drainage Problems
Task | Frequency | Why It Matters |
Clean filter and drain basket | Monthly | Prevents clogs and odours |
Run a hot vinegar cycle | Monthly | Removes grease and limescale |
Check hose and air gap | Every 6 months | Keeps drainage smooth |
Scrape dishes before loading | Always | Reduces food buildup |
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid using too much detergent — excess suds can trap debris and cause blockages.
Why Choose Yanfix in Ottawa
Ottawa homeowners trust Yanfix for reliable, fast dishwasher repair because we provide:
- Same-day appointments — no waiting for days.
- Honest pricing — clear estimates before work begins.
- Experienced professionals — we repair all dishwasher makes and models.
- 90-day warranty — full coverage on parts and labour.
- Local expertise — serving Kanata, Nepean, Orleans, Barrhaven, and beyond.
Need help today? Visit contacts page to book your dishwasher repair in Ottawa.
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse — our trained technicians are ready to help today. We offer same-day appliance repair, transparent pricing, and a 90-day warranty on all work.
FAQ Section
Why is there standing water in my dishwasher?
It’s usually caused by a clogged filter, blocked hose, or a jammed drain pump. Cleaning these parts often solves the issue.
Can I use my dishwasher if it’s not draining?
No. Running it while water remains inside can damage the motor or flood your kitchen. Unplug the unit and schedule a repair.
How often should I clean my dishwasher filter?
At least once a month — more often if you use your dishwasher daily.
Do Yanfix technicians offer same-day service?
Yes! Yanfix provides same-day appliance repair across Ottawa and nearby areas.
What brands do you service?
We repair all major brands including Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, Bosch, GE, Maytag, and more.
Conclusion
A dishwasher that won’t drain doesn’t mean it’s done for. In most cases, the issue comes down to simple clogs or minor parts that can be fixed the same day.
With Yanfix, you’ll get professional, same-day dishwasher repair in Ottawa — backed by clear pricing, expert service, and a 90-day warranty.
Keep your kitchen running smoothly — book your repair today and say goodbye to standing water for good!
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse — our trained technicians are ready to help today. We offer same-day appliance repair, transparent pricing, and a 90-day warranty on all work.
