A Whirlpool dishwasher that leaves dirty water in the bottom usually has a clog somewhere along the drain path: filter, sump, check valve, hose, garbage disposal connection, or pump.
These steps apply to Whirlpool built-in dishwashers and related Whirlpool-built Kenmore and Maytag models that share similar drain systems.
Does this affect you?
Dishwasher drain water travels through a filter and pump area, then out a hose to a garbage disposal or drain line. A blockage at any point can leave water sitting in the tub after a cycle.
Scoop out standing water before working in the tub. Turn off power before reaching near the filter, pump, or hose. If checking the garbage disposal, keep hands away from the disposal and switch it off before touching anything near the drain opening.
Quick checks before opening anything
- Run the garbage disposal for 10 to 15 seconds with water running.
- If a disposal was recently installed, check that the dishwasher knockout plug was removed.
- Press and hold Cancel/Drain for about three seconds and listen for the pump.
- If the pump runs but water does not move, look for a clog downstream.
Clean the filter
The Whirlpool filter is often a twist-lock cylinder in the floor of the tub.
- Remove the lower rack.
- Twist the filter counterclockwise and lift it out.
- Rinse it under hot water and scrub mesh with an old toothbrush.
- Clear visible debris from the sump well and drain opening.
- Reinstall the filter and twist until it locks.
- Run a drain cycle.
Check the check valve and drain hose
- With power off, remove the toe-kick if needed to access hose and pump areas.
- Inspect the check valve near the pump connection if accessible.
- Check the corrugated drain hose for kinks or crushed sections.
- Do not remove the required high loop; just make sure it is not pinched.
- Disconnect the hose at the disposal or drain connection with a bucket ready and clear grease or food clogs.
If the filter, check valve, hose, and disposal connection are clear but the tub still holds water, the drain pump motor or impeller may be failing or jammed with a small object. Reaching it usually means removing sump parts and may affect warranty coverage.
Call a technician if the pump must be opened, the dishwasher is under warranty, or you are not sure whether the control board is sending the pump a drain signal.
Sources
- Whirlpool – Dishwasher Not Draining Properly (2025)
- Whirlpool – Cleaning the Dishwasher Filter (2024)
- Kenmore – Dishwasher Won’t Drain Troubleshooting (2025)