How to Diagnose and Fix a Dishwasher Drain Pump

If your dishwasher is not draining properly or is making strange noises, it could be due to a faulty drain pump. Here’s how to diagnose and fix the issue:
Checking if the Drain Pump is Broken
To determine if your dishwasher’s drain pump is broken, follow these steps:

1. Turn the dishwasher on and listen for the drain pump during the drain cycle. If you don’t hear it running, the pump may be faulty.

2. If the pump is running but not draining water, check for any blockages in the drain line or filter. Clear any debris and try running the dishwasher again.

3. If the pump is still not working, you can test it with a multimeter. Disconnect the power and remove the pump. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting and check the resistance across the pump’s terminals. A reading of around 200 ohms indicates a normally functioning pump.

Replacing the Drain Pump

If the drain pump is indeed broken, you’ll need to replace it. Here’s how:

1. Unplug the dishwasher and turn off the water supply. Tip the dishwasher back and remove the base panel.

2. Disconnect the electrical connections and remove the screws holding the pump in place. Twist the pump to remove it.

3. Make sure the replacement pump comes with a new seal. If not, transfer the seal from the old pump.

4. Screw the new pump into place and reconnect the electrical connections. Reattach the base panel and restore power and water supply.

5. Run the dishwasher through a full cycle to ensure the new pump is working properly.

By following these steps, you can diagnose and fix a faulty dishwasher drain pump, saving you the cost of a professional repair. Remember to always unplug the dishwasher and turn off the water supply before attempting any repairs.