How to Check the Pump Filter in a Whirlpool Dishwasher

Kill the power to the Whirlpool dishwasher. If you can get to the plug without moving the dishwasher, that suffices. If you cannot get to the plug easily, it may be simpler to go to the breaker box and flip the breaker to turn off the power to the kitchen.

Take all items out of the Whirlpool dishwasher and slide the bottom rack forward until it stops. Remove the lower rack on the Whirlpool dishwasher by angling the front of the dishwasher up and pulling it out of the unit at a roughly 45-degree angle.

Remove the pump filter in the Whirlpool dishwasher, found in the front of the bottom of the unit, by grasping the top of the filter and turning it counterclockwise until it comes loose. Pull the filter directly upward to remove it from the unit.

Hold the top of the filter in one hand and the bottom in the other hand and pull gently to separate the sections of the filter. Look for dirt or mineral deposits, which generally appear white on the filter, to determine whether the filter needs to be cleaned.

Run both pieces of the filter under warm water in the sink until any particles and dirt dislodge from the filters if they appear dirty. For stuck-on deposits, brush lightly with your fingers or with a very soft brush, such as a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Return the filter to the Whirlpool dishwasher once the filter is clean. Line the opening of the bottom of the filter up with the opening in the bottom of the dishwasher and drop it into place and then place the upper half of the filter into the bottom piece, turning the upper piece clockwise to lock it into place.