Samsung dishwasher is not draining

Inspect the dishwasher's drain connection at the sink.

When your dishwasher isn't draining, it could actually be your sink's drain that's causing the issue. If you're using a garbage disposal, make sure it is clear of food waste and not clogged.

If your dishwasher is connected directly to the drain, look down the drain and check if there is any visible blockage.

If the dishwasher or garbage disposal was recently installed, the disposal cap may be the cause of the blockage as well, so make sure it's removed.

Check the drain hose.

The most common reason for a drain issue right after installation is that the dishwasher is sitting on top of its own drain hose, pinching it shut.

The next most common reason is that the drain hose is either not connected to an air gap, or does not have a "high loop" where part of the drain hose is above where it is connected to the sink (see image). Without either of these, water may backflow into the dishwasher and fail to drain correctly. Make sure to install the drain hose according to local regulations, which may vary.

An illustration of a dishwasher under a sink, showing the "high loop"

You'll also want to make sure it's not kinked or bent, especially if there's been any recent changes to the drain hose or its connection to the sink. If it's kinked or bent, straighten it out.

If the drain hose is damaged to the point it cannot be straightened out, visit our Support Center to request service.

Run water in the sink that the dishwasher is connected to.

Run water for about 30 seconds, and then verify if the sink drains. If it does not, the issue is with the home's plumbing and not with the dishwasher itself. Contact a plumber for assistance.

Clean the drain, filter, and sump in the tub.

Some models have removable parts in the filter and drain area to help you clean more thoroughly. If your model has these removable parts, instructions will be in your user manual. Even if the parts are not removable, clearing the area of food and debris is necessary to prevent drain and odor issues.

Confirm your drain line is not frozen.

If it's possible that your water or drain lines are frozen, leave the door under the sink open or let the area in question warm up somehow. If the lines continue to be frozen, contact a plumber.