A puddle of water and dirty dishes should never be waiting at the end of a dishwasher’s wash cycle. What can I do if my LG dishwasher isn’t draining properly? Check the filter for clogs that can block water from draining, removing and cleaning the filter if necessary. Learn how to fix an LG dishwasher not draining water with this list of common causes and solutions.
4 Common Reasons for an LG Dishwasher Not Draining Properly
LG dishwasher troubleshooting includes problems with a DIY fix as well as those that may require a professional repair. We’ve narrowed down the most likely reasons to these 4 common causes.
Clogged Samsung Dishwasher Filter
If your dishwasher leaves dishes wet, along with a puddle of dirty water, a clogged filter could be to blame. A dishwasher filter screens out larger food particles and debris to prevent drain clogs. However, if the filter’s screen becomes clogged with this debris it can block water from draining. Our dishwasher cleaning tips recommend regular filter cleanings to prevent clogs and ensure that water drains properly.
Here’s how to clean an LG dishwasher filter:
- Remove the dishwasher’s lower rack.
- Turn the filter counterclockwise.
- Lift up to remove both the cylindrical and mesh filters.
- Clean the filters separately under warm running water, scrubbing gently with a soft brush.
- Replace the filters, turning the cylinder clockwise to lock in place.
- Reposition the bottom rack.
Drain Hose Clogged or Kinked
The drain hose connects the dishwasher’s drain pump to the disposal or air gap and your sink drain. If the hose becomes kinked or clogged, it can prevent water from draining, leaving a puddle in the dishwasher. Inspect the drain hose under the sink, disconnecting and straightening any visible kinks. Make sure the hose is positioned away from objects that can push against or on top of it. If the hose is clogged, it must be disconnected from the drain pump to remove the clog.
Follow these steps to unclog an LG dishwasher drain hose:
- Unplug the dishwasher
- Remove the lower front panel
- Disconnect the hose from the drain pump
- If a clog is visible at either end of the hose, carefully remove it with a straightened wire hanger. You may need to disconnect the hose at the disposal or air gap if that’s where the clog is located.
- If the clog is not reachable, the drain hose requires professional replacement.
Faulty Samsung Dishwasher Drain Pump
A faulty drain pump can also result in a Samsung dishwasher not draining water. When functioning normally, the pump uses an impeller to expel water through the drain hose. If the pump is faulty, water won’t drain properly.
Multimeter testing can confirm if the drain pump is faulty through a lack of continuity. In this case, the drain pump can’t be repaired and requires professional replacement.
Air Gap and Garbage Disposal Issues
Lastly, standing water in LG dishwasher can be caused by outside issues, such as garbage disposal or air gap clogs. If you have a disposal or air gap, they likely share a common drain with the dishwasher. If either is clogged, water may be blocked when draining from the dishwasher, causing backups and even leaks.
Running the disposal before starting the dishwasher can clear it of any lingering food particles, ensuring the drain is clear of debris. If you have an air gap, regular cleanings can prevent blockages that cause dishwasher backups. Twist the air gap cover to remove it and clean any debris with a stiff brush or paper towel before replacing the cover.
Sometimes only a professional dishwasher repair service can fix an LG dishwasher not draining. When you need expert assistance, Sharper Service Solutions can help with any question or repair!
