Bosch dishwashers are known for their reliability and efficiency, but even the best appliances can experience issues. If your Bosch dishwasher will not drain properly, it can leave you with standing water in the bottom of the tub and a frustrating mess to clean up. Understanding the common causes of a drainage problem can help you troubleshoot the issue and get your dishwasher back in working order.
Here’s Why Your Bosch Dishwasher Will Not Drain Water
When your Bosch dishwasher struggles to drain properly, a few common issues could be causing the problem. From clogged filters to faulty drain pumps, identifying the root cause is the first step to resolving the problem. Below, we’ll explore some of the most common reasons why your Bosch dishwasher is not draining and how to fix them.
Clogged Dishwasher Filter
What Causes It:
The dishwasher filter is designed to trap food debris and prevent it from clogging the drain. Over time, if the filter is not cleaned regularly, it can become clogged and block proper drainage.
How to Fix It:
- Locate the dishwasher filter at the bottom of the tub.
- Twist and remove the filter, then rinse it thoroughly under warm water.
- Use a soft brush or sponge to remove any stuck-on debris.
- Reinstall the filter securely and run a short cycle to check for proper drainage.
Prevention Tip:
Clean your dishwasher filter at least once a month to prevent buildup and ensure smooth drainage.
Clogged Drain Hose
What Causes It:
The drain hose carries wastewater from the dishwasher to the sink or garbage disposal. If it becomes clogged with grease, food particles, or mineral deposits, the dishwasher won’t be able to drain properly.
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the dishwasher and disconnect the power.
- Locate the drain hose under the sink or behind the dishwasher.
- Check for kinks or blockages by disconnecting the hose and running a steady stream of warm water through it for at least 30 seconds to ensure it’s fully cleared.
- If clogged, use a pipe cleaner or a plumber’s snake to clear the debris.
- Reattach the hose and test the dishwasher’s drainage.
Prevention Tip:
Periodically run hot water through your sink drain and use a vinegar rinse cycle to help break down grease and buildup. If your dishwasher also leaves dishes wet, there may be an issue with drying performance that needs attention.
Faulty Drain Pump
What Causes It:
The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the dishwasher. If the pump is failing, you may notice one or more of the following signs:
- A humming noise without water draining.
- Error codes displayed on the control panel.
- Your Bosch dishwasher will not drain despite running a full cycle.
In some cases, water may back up into the tub due to a malfunctioning pump. In some cases, water may back up into the tub due to a malfunctioning pump. If it becomes clogged with debris or fails electrically, the dishwasher will not drain.
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the power to the dishwasher.
- Remove the lower access panel to locate the drain pump.
- Check for any visible debris in the pump area, but avoid disassembling the pump itself. If the pump appears blocked or faulty, it should be replaced by a professional
- If the pump is clogged, it will likely need to be replaced to restore proper function.
- If the pump is making a humming sound but not draining, it may need to be replaced by a professional. Drain pump replacement is a common repair, but costs can vary depending on your dishwasher model and the severity of the issue. If you’re unsure, consulting a technician can help determine if a repair is worth it.
Prevention Tip:
Avoid letting large food particles go down the dishwasher drain by scraping plates before loading them. If you’re also dealing with a situation where your Bosch dishwasher isn’t cleaning dishes well, it may indicate additional maintenance is needed.
Garbage Disposal Connection Issue
What Causes It:
If your Bosch dishwasher is connected to a garbage disposal, a clog in the disposal or an improperly removed knockout plug can prevent draining.
How to Fix It:
- Run the garbage disposal to clear any blockages.
- Check if the knockout plug was removed during dishwasher installation.
- If the plug is still in place, use a screwdriver and hammer to knock it out.
- Test the dishwasher’s drainage after making the necessary adjustments.
Prevention Tip:
Regularly run water through the garbage disposal to prevent clogs and ensure smooth drainage.
Air Gap Blockage
What Causes It:
An air gap is a small device installed on the sink or countertop to prevent backflow. If it becomes clogged with debris, it can block the dishwasher’s drainage.
How to Fix It:
- Locate the air gap next to the faucet.
- Remove the cap and clean out any debris with a small brush.
- Flush it with warm water to clear any remaining buildup.
- Replace the cap and test the dishwasher.
Prevention Tip:
Inspect and clean the air gap every few months to prevent clogs from forming.
If you’ve checked all of these common issues and your Bosch dishwasher will not drain, it may be time to call in a professional. Handler Appliance specializes in dishwasher repair. We ensure your appliance works like new. If you need professional assistance, check out our expert dishwasher repair services today. Whether it’s a faulty pump, a stubborn clog, or an electrical problem, our expert technicians are here to help.
