The dishwasher is not draining normally
Water remaining above the normal sump area after a cycle can reflect a blocked filter, drain hose, pump, disposal connection, or shared sink-drain problem.
Why this result fits
- Water remains after the cycle has ended.
- The unit may gurgle or the nearby sink may also drain slowly.
- The issue extends beyond ordinary surface cleaning.
What to do now
Stop running more cycles
Additional water can create a leak or overflow.
Check the nearby sink without adding water
Note whether it is already slow, backed up, or gurgling.
Document the water level
Photograph the standing water and record the cycle, error code, and any recent disposal or sink problem.
Request maintenance
Ask for inspection of the dishwasher drain path and any connected sink or disposal.
Stop and escalate if
- Water rises into the sink or dishwasher.
- Wastewater appears dirty or sewage-like.
- Water leaks onto the floor or near electricity.
What not to do
- Do not add drain opener or other chemicals.
- Do not remove hoses, pumps, panels, or disposal connections.
- Do not run another cycle to test the blockage.
Message you can send to maintenance
The dishwasher has standing water after the cycle and I stopped using it. The nearby sink is [normal/slow/gurgling]. I have not added chemicals or opened any hoses or panels.
Help prevent a repeat
- Report slow sink drainage that affects a connected dishwasher.
- Use the machine and disposal connection only as their manuals direct.
If this does not match
Sources and review date
- Home Maintenance — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency WaterSense
Content last reviewed: under the Apartmentwise methodology.