Kenmore Dishwasher Not Draining
Expert diagnosis and repair for Kenmore dishwasher not draining issues.
Why Your Kenmore Dishwasher Is Not Draining
Kenmore dishwashers, manufactured by various partners including Whirlpool, GE, and Bosch depending on the model series, present unique drainage challenges due to their diverse manufacturing origins. The most problematic models are those built by Whirlpool (665.xxxxx series) which feature a notorious dual-filtration system that clogs more frequently than single-filter designs. These units also incorporate a reversible motor design where the wash motor doubles as the drain pump, making drainage failures more complex to diagnose.
The 630.xxxxx series (manufactured by GE) are particularly susceptible to drain pump motor failures due to their plastic impeller design that becomes brittle over time. Unlike other brands that use metal impellers, these Kenmore units experience catastrophic pump failure rather than gradual performance decline. The drain hose routing in many Kenmore models also creates a problematic low loop that doesn't meet current plumbing codes, leading to backflow issues and standing water problems that other manufacturers have addressed in their designs.
Common Causes in Kenmore Dishwashers
Whirlpool-built models (665 series) - dual filter system becomes clogged with food particles and grease buildup
Plastic drain pump impeller failure in GE-manufactured units (630 series)
Reversible motor assembly failure preventing proper drain cycle initiation
Defective drain solenoid in older 587 series models
Blocked or kinked drain hose due to improper installation routing specific to Kenmore mounting brackets
Failed control board not signaling drain pump activation (common in 665.13xxx series)
Garbage disposal knockout plug not removed during installation
Malfunctioned door switch preventing drain cycle completion
Commonly Affected Kenmore Models
- 665.13543K900 - 665.16729K900 - 665.13963K900 - 630.16234K900 - 630.17539K900 - 587.15234K900 - 665.12793K900 - 665.14554K900
How We Fix This
TruePro technicians approach Kenmore drainage issues by first identifying the manufacturing origin through the model number prefix, as this determines the internal components and repair approach. For Whirlpool-built units, we focus on the dual-filter cleaning and motor assembly inspection, often finding that the reversible motor has failed in the drain direction while still functioning for wash cycles. On GE-manufactured models, we typically replace the entire pump motor assembly rather than attempting impeller repairs due to the plastic component's tendency to completely fragment. Our technicians carry manufacturer-specific diagnostic tools to properly test the control board's drain signals, which vary significantly between Kenmore's different manufacturing partners.
Parts Commonly Needed
- Drain pump motor assembly (W10348269 for 665 series) - Wash pump motor (WPW10510667 for Whirlpool-built models) - Fine filter assembly (W11086275) - Coarse filter (W10872845) - Drain hose (5304505253) - Door latch assembly (W11307244 for newer models) - Control board (W11035754 for 665.13xxx series)
Troubleshooting Steps
Clean drain filter. 2. Run garbage disposal. 3. Check air gap. 4. Inspect drain hose for kinks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Kenmore dishwasher not draining?
- Whirlpool-built models (665 series) - dual filter system becomes clogged with food particles and grease buildup - Plastic drain pump impeller failure in GE-manufactured units (630 series) - Reversible motor assembly failure preventing proper drain cycle initiation - Defective drain solenoid in older 587 series models - Blocked or kinked drain hose due to improper installation routing specific to Kenmore mounting brackets - Failed control board not signaling drain pump activation (common in 665.13xxx series) - Garbage disposal knockout plug not removed during installation - Malfunctioned door switch preventing drain cycle completion
How much does it cost to fix a Kenmore dishwasher that is not draining?
Kenmore dishwasher repair typically costs $75–$400. Free diagnostic with approved repair.
Does TruePro repair Kenmore dishwashers?
Yes! TruePro technicians are experienced with Kenmore appliances. 90-day parts & labor warranty. Call (877) 378-3111 or book a video consultation.
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