How to Force Drain a Kenmore Dishwasher

Producing clean and efficient dishwashing results, your Kenmore dishwasher needs periodic maintenance to keep it performing at its best. Sometimes, you might face issues where water remains trapped within the dishwasher, even after the empty cycle. In such cases, you can force drain the dishwasher manually. This process is easy and can save you time and costs if you deal with it yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide to force-draining your Kenmore dishwasher.

Pull the Drain Hose off the Trap Adapter

The first step in force-draining your Kenmore dishwasher is to remove the drain hose from the trap adapter. This can be easily done by simply pulling the hose off. Once you have the hose disconnected, lay it on the floor. Doing so will allow the standing water inside the dishwasher to drain naturally due to gravity. No antisiphon mechanism is present during the empty cycle, making it safer and easier for the water to pour out on its own.

Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum (Optional)

For a more thorough evacuation of water, you can use a wet/dry vacuum. Connect the vacuum to the drain hose and draw out the water or at least most of it. This step is optional but recommended if you want to ensure that the dishwasher is as dry as possible. It also reduces the workload on the repairman if you decide to call one for further servicing. Using a vacuum is a quick and effective way to remove any remaining water.

Self-Servicing Your Dishwasher

In some cases, the issue might be related to internal components. If your dishwasher isn’t draining properly, it could be due to a malfunctioning controller. In one instance, the controller stopped the dishwasher after the initial fill cycle. Upon opening the dishwasher and inspecting the components, everything looked as if it were factory new, requiring only some motor lubrication. This suggests that the control board or the water inlet valve might be the problem areas.

Professional Servicing

If the water doesn’t drain after following these steps, it might be time to call a professional for repair. Leaks or malfunctioning parts can cause water to remain in the dishwasher. Hiring a qualified repairman can save you time and money in the long run. Some issues may not be easily managed by the homeowner and require specialized knowledge and equipment.

Tips for Preventing Water Stacks

To avoid water stacking issues in the future, ensure that your dishwasher is installed properly, the drain hose is not crushed or kinked, and that there is adequate clearance for drainage. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the dishwasher can also prevent buildup and ensure that it operates efficiently.

Conclusion

Forcing your Kenmore dishwasher to drain can be a simple and effective solution to common issues. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your dishwasher operates efficiently and hygienically. If you find that the issue persists, it might be best to seek professional help to address any underlying mechanical or electronic issues.

Remember, while you can often address minor issues yourself, some problems require the expertise of a qualified repair technician. Knowing when to take action can save you time and money and keep your dishwasher running smoothly.