Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Draining and Beeping:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The dishwasher's Main Control Unit (MCU) monitors various sensors, including the pressure switch and drain pump current. If it detects a no-drain condition (water detected by the pressure switch after a specified time during the drain cycle or no drain pump current), it stops the cycle and sounds an alert (the beep). The MCU sends 120V AC to the drain pump through a relay.

Symptoms:

My Whirlpool dishwasher isn't draining. It just sits with water at the bottom. It also beeps every 60 seconds, which is driving me crazy!

Possible Causes:

Clogged drain hose
Failed drain pump
Blocked drain impeller
Defective pressure switch
Faulty control board

Solution:

1

Unplug the dishwasher from the outlet or turn off the breaker at the breaker panel.
2

Inspect the drain hose for kinks or clogs. Disconnect the hose from the garbage disposal (if applicable) and the dishwasher. Flush the hose with hot water using a garden hose.
3

Remove the lower rack and filter assembly. Check the sump area for food debris blocking the drain impeller. Remove any visible obstructions.
4

Access the drain pump. This usually requires removing the lower front panel. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver or a 5/16-inch socket to remove the screws. Disconnect the wires to the pump. Use a multimeter to test the drain pump for continuity. A reading of 120 ohms +/- 10% is typical for a working pump. If there is no continuity, replace the pump.
5

Check the voltage to the drain pump during a drain cycle. Reconnect the wires to the pump (carefully). Select a drain cycle and start the dishwasher. Use a multimeter to check for 120V AC at the drain pump terminals. Be very careful when working with live voltage.
6

If the drain pump has 120V AC and is not running, the drain pump is faulty and needs replacing.
7

If the drain pump is functional, test the pressure switch. The pressure switch is often located near the sump. It should have continuity when the tub is empty. If it doesn't, replace it. As a last resort, if all other components are verified and the issue persists, the control board is likely faulty and needs to be replaced.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the appliance before performing any repairs. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures should be followed to prevent accidental energization. High voltage is present in the appliance; exercise caution when testing electrical components.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the dishwasher filter and run a dishwasher cleaner cycle once a month. Avoid overloading the dishwasher and scraping food residue from dishes before loading.

Expert Tip:

To enter Whirlpool dishwasher diagnostic mode, press the following sequence within 6 seconds: High Temp Scrub, Heated Dry, High Temp Scrub, Heated Dry. Then observe the error codes displayed via the indicator lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the drain pump in my specific Whirlpool dishwasher model?

The location and access method for the drain pump can vary slightly between models. Generally, you'll need to remove the lower front panel. Refer to the appliance's service manual or online resources for model-specific instructions, potentially requiring a 1/4-inch nut driver or a 5/16-inch socket to remove the lower panel screws.

•What if the drain hose is clear, but water still isn't draining?

If the drain hose is clear, the issue may be further upstream in the drain path such as a partially blocked air gap (if installed). Also, confirm that your garbage disposal (if the dishwasher drains into it) is clear and functioning correctly.

•Where is the pressure switch located and how do I test it?

The pressure switch is usually located near the bottom of the dishwasher tub, often accessible from the front or side after removing a panel. To test it, disconnect the power and remove the wires from the switch. Use a multimeter set to continuity. With the tub empty, the switch should show continuity. If not, it is likely defective and needs replacement.

Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Draining and Beeping: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the drain pump in my specific Whirlpool dishwasher model?

•What if the drain hose is clear, but water still isn't draining?

•Where is the pressure switch located and how do I test it?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: