Amana Dishwasher Not Draining: Troubleshooting Guide -... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The dishwasher's Main Control Unit (MCU) sends a 120V AC signal to the drain pump motor or drain solenoid when the drain cycle is initiated. If there's a blockage or component failure, the water will not drain. The MCU monitors current draw. Some models may display error codes.

Symptoms:

The dishwasher cycle completes, but water remains in the bottom of the tub. The dishwasher may make a humming noise during the drain cycle, or no noise at all.

Possible Causes:

Clogged drain filter or food debris in the pump housing.
Kinked or blocked drain hose.
Failed drain pump motor.
Faulty drain solenoid (if applicable).
Air gap blockage (if installed).
Control board malfunction.

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the dishwasher at the breaker panel.
2

Inspect and clean the drain filter located inside the dishwasher tub, typically near the bottom.
3

Check the drain hose for kinks, clogs, or obstructions. Disconnect the hose from the drain port under the sink and flush it out.
4

Access the drain pump, usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher. Check for any visible obstructions in the pump housing. You may need a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the access panel.
5

Test the drain pump motor for continuity using a multimeter. A reading of OL (open loop) indicates a failed motor. Replace the drain pump if necessary.
6

If the dishwasher uses a drain solenoid, test the solenoid coil for continuity. If there's no continuity, replace the solenoid.
7

If all other components test good, suspect a faulty control board. Replacing the control board should be performed by a qualified technician.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the dishwasher before performing any repairs. The dishwasher operates on 120V AC which can cause serious injury or death. Use Lock-Out Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures when working on electrical appliances.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the drain filter after each use. Run a dishwasher cleaner through the machine monthly. Ensure the drain hose is properly installed and free from kinks.

Expert Tip:

Many Amana dishwashers have a service mode that can be accessed by pressing specific button combinations. Consult the service manual for your specific model to access diagnostic information and run component tests. Often it is a sequence of pressing the 'High Temp Wash' and 'Air Dry' buttons rapidly.

Follow-up Questions:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the drain pump on my Amana dishwasher?

Typically, you need to remove the lower access panel at the front of the dishwasher. You may need a 1/4-inch nut driver or 5/16-inch socket. Once removed, you should see the drain pump assembly. Some models may require removing a small shield.

•What is the proper resistance reading for a drain pump motor?

The specific resistance reading varies by model. A typical range is between 10-50 ohms. However, a reading of OL (open loop) indicates a faulty motor. Always consult the service manual for your specific model.

•Where is the drain solenoid located on my Amana dishwasher and how do I test it?

The drain solenoid is typically located near the drain pump. To test it, disconnect power, disconnect the wires to the solenoid, and use a multimeter to check the continuity across the solenoid coil. A reading of OL (open loop) indicates a faulty solenoid.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the drain pump on my Amana dishwasher?

•What is the proper resistance reading for a drain pump motor?

•Where is the drain solenoid located on my Amana dishwasher and how do I test it?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: