How to Fix a Whirlpool Dishwasher That Will Not Drain

Standing water after a cycle almost always means a clogged filter, a blocked drain hose, or a plugged air gap. Clear each in order.

Low risk — no live power or gas involved once unplugged.

Tools

Step 01
Remove standing water
Turn the dishwasher off at the breaker. Bail the standing water out of the tub with a cup, then sponge the last of it into a bucket.
Step 02
Clean the filter
Twist the cylindrical filter counterclockwise, lift it out with the flat screen beneath it, and rinse both under hot water until no food film remains.
Step 03
Clear the air gap
If a chrome air gap sits on the sink deck, pull its cap and inner cover and flush out any sludge with warm water.
Step 04
Check the disposal knockout
On a new disposal install, confirm the plastic knockout plug in the dishwasher inlet was removed. If it is intact, the dishwasher can never drain.
Step 05
Flush the drain hose
Loosen the hose clamp under the sink, drop the hose into a bucket, and blow or flush it clear. Reattach, then run a rinse cycle to confirm the tub empties.

A small film of water in the sump is normal. Anything above the filter means a clog in the filter, air gap, disposal knockout, or drain hose.