How to Check KitchenAid Dishwasher Drain Pump: Unlock the Secrets of Your Home Appliance.

A malfunctioning dishwasher can be a major inconvenience, leaving you with a pile of dirty dishes and a sense of frustration. One common culprit behind dishwasher woes is a faulty drain pump. Knowing how to check KitchenAid dishwasher drain pump can save you time, money, and a lot of stress. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue yourself.

Understanding the Drain Pump’s Role

The drain pump is the unsung hero of your dishwasher, responsible for removing dirty water and food debris after the cleaning cycle. It’s a powerful little motor that pushes water through the drain hose and into your plumbing system. When the drain pump malfunctions, it can lead to a variety of problems, including:

• Water pooling in the bottom of the dishwasher: This is a telltale sign of a blocked drain or a failing pump.
• Dishes not getting clean: If the dirty water isn’t being removed effectively, your dishes won’t get a proper wash.
• Dishwasher making strange noises: A grinding or humming sound could indicate a faulty pump.
• Dishwasher not draining: This is the most obvious sign of a drain pump issue.

Identifying the Drain Pump

Before you start troubleshooting, it’s important to locate the drain pump. On most KitchenAid dishwashers, the drain pump is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher, near the back. You might need to remove a lower access panel or the bottom panel to see it. It will look like a small, cylindrical motor with a hose attached.

Visual Inspection: Looking for Obvious Issues

The first step in checking your KitchenAid dishwasher drain pump is to perform a visual inspection. Carefully remove any panels that obstruct your view of the pump. Look for any of the following:

• Debris or blockages: Check the drain hose for any clogs or obstructions. Food particles, small items, or even hair can get trapped and impede the flow of water.
• Damaged hoses: Inspect the drain hose for any cracks, tears, or leaks. A damaged hose can prevent the pump from working properly.
• Loose connections: Ensure that the drain hose is securely connected to both the pump and the drain line.

The “Spin Test” for Basic Functionality

If your visual inspection doesn‘t reveal any obvious problems, you can perform a simple test to check if the drain pump is working.
1. Disconnect the power to the dishwasher. This is a crucial safety measure to prevent any electrical shocks.
2. Locate the drain pump. As mentioned earlier, it’s usually at the bottom of the dishwasher.
3. Remove the drain hose from the pump. You may need a small wrench or pliers to loosen the hose connection.
4. Manually spin the pump impeller. The impeller is the part of the pump that moves the water. If it spins freely, the pump is likely working. If it’s stuck or doesn’t move, the pump might be faulty.

Testing the Drain Pump with a Multimeter

For a more thorough check, you can use a multimeter to test the pump’s electrical continuity. This will help you determine if the problem lies with the pump itself or with the electrical wiring.
1. Disconnect the power to the dishwasher.
2. Locate the drain pump‘s electrical connections. These are usually wires connected to the pump motor.
3. Use a multimeter to check the continuity between the pump’s terminals. If the multimeter reads a value close to zero, the pump is likely functioning. If the reading is infinite, the pump may be faulty.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the drain pump is not working, the problem could be related to a few common issues:

• Clogged drain hose: This is the most frequent cause of a non-functional drain pump. You can remove the drain hose and clean it with a wire brush or a plumbing snake.
• Faulty drain pump: If the drain pump is damaged or worn out, it will need to be replaced.
• Electrical problems: A blown fuse, a faulty wiring connection, or a malfunctioning control board can also prevent the drain pump from working.

Replacing the Drain Pump

If you’ve determined that the drain pump needs to be replaced, you can follow these steps:
1. Disconnect the power to the dishwasher.
2. Locate and remove the drain pump. You may need to remove some panels or screws to access the pump.
3. Disconnect the electrical connections and the drain hose.
4. Install the new drain pump. Make sure to connect the electrical wires and the drain hose securely.
5. Reconnect the power to the dishwasher.

Final Steps: Testing and Restarting

After replacing the drain pump, it’s essential to test it to ensure it’s working correctly. Run a short cycle on your dishwasher and observe if the water drains properly. If everything seems to be functioning, you can start using your dishwasher again.

Beyond the Basics: Seeking Professional Help

While this guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to check KitchenAid dishwasher drain pump, there are certain situations where it’s best to call a professional:

• Complex electrical issues: If you’re uncomfortable working with electrical components, it’s best to leave the troubleshooting to a qualified technician.
• Advanced troubleshooting: If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the problem persists, a professional can diagnose the issue and provide a solution.
• Safety concerns: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the repair process, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and call a professional.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I use a hairdryer to dry out the drain pump?
A: Absolutely not! Using a hairdryer near electrical components like the drain pump can be extremely dangerous and can lead to electrical fires.
Q: How often should I check my dishwasher drain pump?
A: While there’s no set schedule, it’s a good idea to check your drain pump at least once a year or if you notice any signs of a malfunction.
Q: Can I use vinegar to clean the drain pump?
A: Vinegar can be helpful for cleaning the interior of your dishwasher, but it’s not recommended for cleaning the drain pump itself. Using vinegar on the pump could damage its internal components.
Q: How long does a dishwasher drain pump typically last?
A: The lifespan of a drain pump can vary depending on usage and maintenance. However, on average, a drain pump can last for 5-10 years.
Q: How much does it cost to replace a dishwasher drain pump?
A: The cost of replacing a drain pump can range from $50 to $200, depending on the model of your dishwasher and the labor costs in your area.