Dishwashers are an essential part of modern kitchens, helping to save time and effort when it comes to cleaning up. However, like all appliances, they require maintenance and, sometimes, part replacements. One crucial component in a dishwasher is the pump. If your dishwasher isn’t draining or circulating water properly, the pump might be the culprit.

This guide will explain the function of a dishwasher pump, common problems, troubleshooting tips, and how to replace it if necessary.

What is the Function of a Dishwasher Pump?

A dishwasher pump plays a vital role in ensuring that water flows correctly within the appliance. There are two main types of pumps in most dishwashers:

1. Drain Pump – This removes dirty water from the dishwasher after a wash cycle.
2. Circulation Pump – This recirculates water inside the dishwasher to clean the dishes efficiently.

If either pump fails, your dishwasher may stop cleaning effectively or fail to drain completely.

Signs That Your Dishwasher Needs a New Pump

If your dishwasher is experiencing any of the following issues, the pump may be faulty:

• Water not draining properly – A malfunctioning drain pump can lead to standing water in the dishwasher.
• Dishes remain dirty after a wash cycle – A broken circulation pump may not be distributing water effectively.
• Strange noises – Grinding, buzzing, or humming noises could indicate a clogged or damaged pump.
• Error codes on the display – Some modern dishwashers show an error code when the pump fails.
• Leaks – Water pooling underneath the dishwasher could be due to a pump issue.

What Does a Bad Dishwasher Drain Pump Sound Like?

A failing drain pump may produce unusual sounds, including:

• Humming – A pump motor might be jammed or struggling to start.
• Grinding – Indicates a foreign object stuck inside.
• Clicking – Might suggest a broken impeller or motor failure.
• Silence – If the pump doesn’t activate at all, it could mean an electrical issue.

How to Unblock a Dishwasher Pump

A clogged pump is a common issue that can be fixed with these steps:

1. Turn off the power – Always unplug the dishwasher or switch off the circuit breaker before working on it.
2. Remove the lower rack and filter – Most blockages occur in the filter area.
3. Check for debris – Look for food particles, glass shards, or other obstructions.
4. Manually rotate the impeller – If it doesn’t move freely, something may be stuck inside.
5. Run a cleaning cycle – Use a dishwasher cleaner to remove grease and residue.

Why Won’t Water Circulate in My Dishwasher?

If water isn’t circulating, the circulation pump could be failing. Other possible causes include:

• A clogged spray arm – Check for food debris blocking the spray nozzles.
• Low water pressure – Ensure the water supply valve is fully open.
• Faulty motor – A failing pump motor may not be strong enough to move water.

How to Clean a Dishwasher Pump

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your dishwasher pump:

1. Remove the filter and clean it weekly.
2. Check the pump inlet for debris.
3. Run vinegar or baking soda cycles to dissolve grease.
4. Inspect hoses for clogs.

What Happens When a Dishwasher Pump Fails?

If the pump completely fails:

• The dishwasher won’t drain or clean properly.
• You might see standing water inside the machine.
• It could trigger an error code or safety lockout.
• A burning smell may indicate motor failure.

How Can I Test a Dishwasher Pump?

To determine if your pump is faulty:

1. Listen for noise – If the pump runs but doesn’t drain or circulate water, it may be jammed.
2. Check for obstructions – Look inside the pump housing for blockages.
3. Use a multimeter – If you’re comfortable with electronics, test the pump motor’s continuity.
4. Run a diagnostic mode – Some dishwashers have a self-test feature in the manual.

Can I Replace a Dishwasher Pump Myself?

Yes, replacing a dishwasher pump is possible with basic DIY skills. Here’s how:

1. Turn off power and water supply.
2. Remove the dishwasher’s bottom panel.
3. Locate the pump (usually near the bottom).
4. Disconnect hoses and electrical connections.
5. Remove the old pump and install the new one.
6. Reconnect everything and test the dishwasher.

When to Call a Professional

If you’re unsure about replacing the pump or working with electrical components, it’s best to call a professional technician. They can diagnose and replace the part safely.

Conclusion

A dishwasher pump is an essential component that ensures water flows efficiently through the appliance. Understanding the signs of a failing pump, troubleshooting problems, and knowing when to replace it can help keep your dishwasher running smoothly. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the pump and filter, can extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs.

If you’re looking for high-quality replacement dishwasher pumps, check out our selection at Your Spares.