A clogged dishwasher can cause major inconvenience, including poor water drainage, uncleaned dishes and even unpleasant odors. Fortunately, there are several ways to unclog your appliance effectively without having to call in a professional. In this article, we explain how to identify the cause of the clog, and what solutions to apply to restore your dishwasher to full working order.
Common causes of a clogged dishwasher
Clogs in a dishwasher can occur for a number of reasons. The most common include:
- Food residue build-up: Food particles that are not properly removed during washing can become blocked in the drain pipes.
- Grease and detergents: The build-up of undissolved grease and soaps can lead to blockages in filters or pipes.
- Problems with filter or wash arms: A clogged filter or wash arms blocked by debris can also lead to poor water circulation.
Steps to unclog a dishwasher
1. Check dishwasher filter
The filter is an essential component that traps food debris and other solid particles during the wash cycle. A clogged filter can quickly lead to a blockage.
- Method: Open your dishwasher door and locate the filter (usually at the bottom of the tank). Remove it and clean it under hot water to remove any residue. If the filter is very dirty, you can also soak it in hot water with baking soda or white vinegar to dissolve deposits.
2. Check wash arms
The wash arms can become clogged with food residues, grease or limescale. This can prevent water from circulating properly and cleaning dishes properly.
- Method: Remove the wash arms and clean them under hot water. Use a soft brush or toothpick to unclog the holes where water escapes. Make sure no debris is blocking them before replacing them.
3. Inspect drain pipe
The drain pipe may also be clogged with food residues or limescale. If the water does not drain properly after a cycle, this may indicate a blockage in the hose.
- Method: Unplug the dishwasher and check the drain hose. Remove any visible obstructions, such as pieces of food or debris. If necessary, you can use a plumbing snake to push out the obstruction or flush the pipe with hot water to remove build-up.
4. Check drain pump
The drain pump is responsible for removing the dirty water at the end of each cycle. If this pump is clogged, water will remain in the tank, causing a malfunction.
- Method: If you have access to the drain pump (depending on your dishwasher model), check for debris or obstructions. Remove them carefully, then test the pump’s operation.
When to call in a professional?
If, after following these steps, your dishwasher remains clogged or has draining problems, it’s best to call in a professional plumber. He or she will be able to thoroughly inspect your dishwasher’s pipes, pump or internal systems to find a lasting solution to the problem.
Conclusion
A clogged dishwasher can quickly become a source of frustration, but by following these simple steps, you can often solve the problem yourself. If you prefer to leave the job to a professional, contact us for a quick and efficient solution.
For more information, visit our drain unblocking page or contact us for a quote or repairs.
