What Part of the Dishwasher Is Responsible for Emptying the Water?

The Part

• The sump is the part responsible for draining soiled water from the basin and sending it down the drain pipes. Once water hits a certain level determined by the program you selected on the dishwasher’s control face, the sump is automatically activated and begins to pump water down the drain. That is, unless the sump is damaged, burned out or something is clogging the drain’s escape valve; these issues cause either the water to not drain or a backflow sends water back into the basin.

Troubleshooting

• The sump typically rests underneath a plastic cover in the rear of the washer basin, just behind (and usually to the left or right of) the spinner -- the part that looks like a helicopter’s rotator blade. A quick visual inspection of the vents on the cover will tell you if the sump is clogged by food debris. Clear away the debris or pop the cover off and look down into the sump area to check the condition of the pump.

Repairs

• The pump is a round contraption underneath the cover. Inspect it. If it doesn’t budge a little when you try to manually turn it with your finger, something’s blocking it from underneath. You’ll need to remove the pump mechanism and clean it before reinstalling it and turning the washer on. In some cases, depending on heavy use, the sump pump may simply have burned out and needs to be replaced. If you suspect that’s the problem, check your dishwasher’s manual or log on to the manufacturer’s website for repair and warranty information.

A Word of Caution

• If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, for safety’s sake unplug your dishwasher, even if you’re just popping the cover off the sump area. Also check your manual; if you attempt any repairs yourself the warranty may become void and you would be responsible for all costs.