My Samsung Dishwasher Has a Sewer Gas Smell

Food Trap

• The food trap on a Samsung dishwasher is located on the floor of the unit. Food traps are designed to catch large pieces of food and utensils from being washed down the drain. A food trap is a small plastic or metal mesh screen. Trapped food particles can begin to decay in the trap and cause a sewer odor. Remove and clean the trap.

Film Accumulation in the Dishwasher

• Over time, a dishwasher can begin to accumulate debris on the walls and floor of the unit. This can be a breeding place for mold, mildew, and other microorganisms. Place 2 cups of vinegar on the floor of the dishwasher, and run the unit through one cycle. Alternatively, if you have a stainless steel Samsung dishwasher, you can purchase and use citric acid crystals for cleaning.

Discharge Hose Issues

• Your dishwasher has a discharge hose that drains water into your sink drain when the unit completes its cycle. If this hose becomes crushed or kinked behind the unit, water can become trapped in the hose and cause an odor. Examine the hose, and ensure it is not damaged; if need be, replace the hose with a part purchased from an authorized Samsung service center.

Drain Trap

• All household drains need to be tied in to a drain trap. A drain trap is a small elbow piece of pipe that remains filled with water and seals off the line, preventing sewer gas from escaping from the sewer and entering into the home. Ensure your dishwasher is connected to your sink drain with a drain trap between the dishwasher and the sewer line. If it is not, your dishwasher has been installed improperly; you will need to install it on the other side of the drain trap or have another trap added between your unit and the sewer.