Standing water in a Frigidaire dishwasher refers to the issue where, after a dishwasher cycle has completed, there is still a pool or puddle of water at the bottom of the dishwasher tub instead of all the water being drained away. This problem can be frustrating and may prevent the dishwasher from working properly in subsequent cycles.
Standing water in a dishwasher can be caused by various factors, including:
- Blockages: Blockages or clogs in the dishwasher’s drainage system can prevent water from draining out properly. This might occur in the dishwasher filter, drain hose, or the garbage disposal connection.
- Malfunctioning Pump: If the dishwasher’s pump is not working correctly, it won’t be able to efficiently remove water from the tub, resulting in standing water.
- Obstructed Drain Hose: The drain hose that carries water from the dishwasher to the sink or garbage disposal can become clogged or kinked, impeding proper drainage.
- Sink Backflow: Sometimes, water from the sink can flow back into the dishwasher, especially if the hose connection isn’t positioned correctly. This can create standing water in the dishwasher.
- Dirty Filter: A dirty or clogged filter can also hinder water drainage, as it may not allow water to flow through it effectively.
Addressing standing water in a Frigidaire dishwasher typically involves inspecting and addressing these potential issues. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the filter and ensuring that the drainage path is clear, can help prevent this problem from occurring in the first place. If the issue persists despite troubleshooting, it may be necessary to call a service technician for professional assistance.
Step 1: Check the Dishwasher’s Pump

Before diving into complex solutions, start by ensuring your dishwasher’s pump is working correctly. Here’s how:
- Run a cycle and listen for the pump’s operation.
- If you hear it trying to pump out water, your pump is likely fine.
- If not, you might need professional help to fix or replace the pump.
Step 2: Inspect the Dishwasher’s Interior
To access the dishwasher’s interior:
- Open the dishwasher and locate the wash arm at the bottom.
- Twist and remove it.
- Check the filter, which may be clogged with debris.
Step 3: Clean the Filter

A grimy and gunk-filled filter can hinder drainage. Follow these steps to clean it:
- Turn the filter and pull it out.
- Rinse it thoroughly in the sink.
- Use a toothbrush to remove stubborn debris.
Step 4: Remove Excess Water
Before proceeding, remove any standing water inside the dishwasher:
- Use a cup or a shop vac to scoop or vacuum out the water.
- This step is crucial to prevent water from spilling when you work on the dishwasher.
Step 5: Inspect the Garbage Disposal
If your sink has a garbage disposal, it could be causing the drainage issue. Here’s what to do:
- Check if a new garbage disposal was recently installed.
- Sometimes, a plug connecting the disposal and dishwasher hose is forgotten.
Step 6: Examine the Drain Hose

The drain hose connects your dishwasher to the sink or garbage disposal. Follow these checks:
- Look for clogs in the drain hose.
- Remove the hose’s end and inspect it for obstructions.
- If you’re confident in your skills, you can even pull the dishwasher out and inspect the hose’s connection at the back.
Step 7: Prevent Sink Backflow
Sometimes, water from your sink can flow back into the dishwasher, causing standing water. Prevent this with a simple fix:
- Ensure a portion of the drain hose is higher than the connection on your garbage disposal.
- This prevents water from running back into the dishwasher.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue of standing water in your Frigidaire dishwasher. Remember to listen for the pump, clean the filter, and inspect the drain hose. With these tips, you might just save yourself a service technician’s visit and enjoy a properly draining dishwasher once again.
Frequently Asked Question
What should I do if my dishwasher’s pump is not working?
If you don’t hear the pump during a cycle, it’s best to call a professional technician to assess and potentially repair or replace the pump.
Can a clogged filter really cause standing water in my dishwasher?
Yes, a clogged filter can obstruct proper drainage, leading to standing water. Regularly cleaning the filter is essential for dishwasher maintenance.
How do I prevent sink backflow into my dishwasher?
Make sure a section of the drain hose is positioned higher than the connection on your garbage disposal. This will prevent water from flowing back into the dishwasher.
Key Takeaways
- Check the dishwasher’s pump operation during a cycle.
- Remove and clean the filter to ensure it’s not clogged.
- Don’t forget to remove standing water before troubleshooting.
- Inspect the garbage disposal for proper hose connection.
- Examine the drain hose for clogs and ensure it’s properly connected.
- Prevent sink backflow by positioning the drain hose correctly.