How to Force Drain Kenmore Dishwasher: A Step-by-Step Guide

Is your Kenmore dishwasher leaving you with a pool of soapy water instead of sparkling clean dishes? A clogged drain is a common culprit, leaving you wondering how to force drain your Kenmore dishwasher. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to effectively force drain your Kenmore dishwasher, troubleshoot the issue, and get your appliance back in tip-top shape.

Understanding the Importance of Proper Drainage

Before diving into the force drain process, it’s crucial to understand why proper drainage is essential for your Kenmore dishwasher. A blocked drain can lead to several problems:

• Dishwashing Inefficiency: A clogged drain prevents the water from draining effectively, resulting in dirty dishes and a lingering soapy residue.
• Mold and Mildew Growth: Standing water within the dishwasher creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, potentially affecting your health and the appliance’s longevity.
• Mechanical Damage: A clogged drain can put extra stress on the dishwasher’s pump and other components, leading to premature wear and tear.

How to Force Drain Your Kenmore Dishwasher: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a detailed guide on how to force drain your Kenmore dishwasher:
1. Disconnect Power and Water Supply:

• Safety First: Always turn off the power to your dishwasher by flipping the breaker or unplugging it.
• Water Shutoff: Locate the water supply valve for your dishwasher and turn it off.

2. Access the Drain Hose:

• Locate the Drain Hose: The drain hose is typically connected to the bottom of the dishwasher and leads to the drain pipe.
• Disconnect the Hose: Carefully disconnect the drain hose from the dishwasher and the drain pipe.

3. Prepare a Bucket:

• Large Capacity: Grab a large bucket to collect the water draining from the dishwasher.

4. Force Drain the Dishwasher:

• Tip and Drain: Tilt the dishwasher slightly forward, allowing water to flow out of the drain hose and into the bucket.
• Remove Debris: As the water drains, inspect the drain hose for any visible debris that may be obstructing the flow.

5. Flush the Drain Hose:

• Clean Water: Use a garden hose or a pitcher of clean water to flush out the drain hose, removing any remaining debris.

6. Reconnect the Drain Hose:

• Secure Connections: Reattach the drain hose to the dishwasher and the drain pipe, ensuring all connections are secure.

7. Run a Test Cycle:

• Power On: Turn the power back on to your dishwasher.
• Test Cycle: Run a short cycle with no dishes inside to ensure proper drainage.

Common Causes of Clogged Dishwasher Drains

If your Kenmore dishwasher continues to drain poorly even after force draining, it’s time to investigate the root cause. Here are some common culprits:

• Food Debris: Food particles can accumulate in the drain hose, obstructing the flow of water.
• Grease and Oils: Grease and oils can solidify in the drain hose, creating a blockage.
• Foreign Objects: Small objects like silverware or broken glass can get lodged in the drain hose or the drain pipe.
• Clogged Drain Pipe: The drain pipe itself can become clogged with debris or sediment.

Troubleshooting Tips for a Clogged Drain

Once you’ve force drained your dishwasher, here are some troubleshooting tips to help pinpoint the cause of the blockage:

• Inspect the Drain Hose: Carefully check the drain hose for any visible debris or buildup.
• Check the Drain Pipe: Inspect the drain pipe for any blockages, especially where the drain hose connects.
• Run a Cleaning Cycle: Most Kenmore dishwashers come with a cleaning cycle designed to remove buildup and debris. Running this cycle can help clear minor blockages.
• Use a Dishwasher Drain Cleaner: A dishwasher drain cleaner can help dissolve grease and food particles that may be clogging the drain hose or pipe.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried the above steps and your Kenmore dishwasher still isn’t draining properly, it’s best to call a qualified appliance technician. They can diagnose the issue and provide a professional solution, potentially involving:

• Replacing the Drain Hose: A damaged or heavily clogged drain hose may need to be replaced.
• Cleaning the Drain Pipe: A professional can clear a clogged drain pipe using specialized tools and techniques.
• Repairing or Replacing the Drain Pump: A faulty drain pump can also cause drainage issues and may require repair or replacement.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Kenmore Dishwasher Running Smoothly

Successfully forcing drain your Kenmore dishwasher can be a temporary solution. To prevent future issues, consider adopting these proactive measures:

• Scrape Dishes Before Loading: Remove large food particles from dishes before loading them into the dishwasher.
• Use a Dishwasher Filter: Install a dishwasher filter to catch food debris before it reaches the drain hose.
• Regular Cleaning: Run a cleaning cycle or use a dishwasher cleaner regularly to prevent buildup and maintain optimal performance.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q1: What if the drain hose is not easily accessible?
A1: If the drain hose is difficult to reach, you may need to remove the dishwasher from its position to access it. Consult your dishwasher’s manual for specific instructions on how to remove and reposition your model.
Q2: How often should I force drain my dishwasher?
A2: You should force drain your dishwasher if you notice any signs of poor drainage, such as water pooling at the bottom of the appliance or a slow draining cycle. Regularly cleaning your dishwasher and using a filter can help prevent the need for frequent force draining.
Q3: What are some signs that my dishwasher drain pump is malfunctioning?
A3: If your dishwasher is making unusual noises, like grinding or humming, or if it’s not draining at all, it could indicate a problem with the drain pump.
Q4: Can I use a plunger to clear a clogged drain hose?
A4: While a plunger can be effective for clearing clogs in other plumbing fixtures, it’s not recommended for dishwasher drain hoses. The hose’s shape and material can make it difficult to use a plunger effectively.
Q5: What are some natural ways to clean dishwasher drains?
A5: You can use baking soda and vinegar to clean your dishwasher drain. Mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar, pour it down the drain, and let it sit for 30 minutes before flushing with hot water.