Samsung Dishwashers Dishwasher Not Draining: How to Fix It Yourself
Standing water in the bottom of your Samsung dishwasher is usually caused by food debris clogging the filter or drain area. This is one of the most common dishwasher problems and one of the easiest to fix — it is basically just cleaning out gunk.
⚠️ Safety First
- Turn off power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker.
- Mop up any standing water before working inside.
- Be careful of sharp edges inside the dishwasher sump area.
Parts You May Need
Step-by-Step Repair
- 1
Turn off power
Turn off the dishwasher at the circuit breaker. Do not just press the power button — cut the power at the breaker for safety.
- 2
Remove the standing water
Use a cup, sponge, or towels to soak up the standing water in the bottom of the dishwasher. You need to see what is going on down there.
- 3
Clean the filter
In the bottom of the dishwasher, you will see a cylindrical filter. Twist it counter-clockwise and lift it out. Rinse it under running water and use an old toothbrush to scrub off any stuck-on food or grease. This is the most common cause of drainage problems.
- 4
Check the drain hose connection
Look under the sink where the dishwasher drain hose connects. It usually connects to the garbage disposal or the sink drain. Make sure the hose is not kinked. If it connects to a new garbage disposal, make sure the knockout plug was removed during installation (a very common installation mistake).
- 5
Check the air gap (if you have one)
Some setups have an air gap — a small chrome cylinder on the countertop near the faucet. Remove the cap and clean inside it. Food debris can clog this and prevent drainage.
- 6
Turn power back on and test
Turn the breaker back on and run a short wash cycle. At the end, check for standing water. If water still pools in the bottom, the drain pump may be failing and need replacing.
If That Didn't Work
- Clogged garbage disposal
- Knockout plug not removed from new garbage disposal
- Kinked drain hose
- Faulty drain pump
- Clogged air gap
When to Call a Professional
If cleaning the filter and checking the hose does not work, the drain pump may need replacing. This involves removing the dishwasher from under the counter. If you are not comfortable with that, a tech will charge $130–$200 for the repair.
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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional repair advice. All repairs are performed at your own risk. RepairItFree.com is not liable for any personal injury, property damage, device damage, voided warranties, or other losses resulting from the use of this information.
If you are unsure about any step — especially anything involving electricity, gas, water, or refrigerant — stop and consult a qualified professional. Your safety is more important than saving money.
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