Better Appliance Services
📍 Based in Boise, Ada County
Areas served (as the shop describes them): Boise and Treasure Valley
(310 reviews) (source: Google rating as shown on appliancerepairhunt.com/boise-id, checked Oct 28, 2026)
Home › Dishwasher › Dishwasher Not Draining
Dishwasher Not Draining? Easy Fixes and Repair Help
Quick answer
Most dishwashers that leave water in the bottom have a clogged filter, a kinked drain hose, or a blocked disposal or air gap. If those are clear, the drain pump may have failed.
Likely causes
- Clogged filter at the bottom of the tub
- Kinked or clogged drain hose under the sink
- Garbage disposal knockout plug never removed after a new install, or a clogged disposal
- Clogged air gap on the sink (if you have one)
- Failed or jammed drain pump
- Clogged kitchen sink drain
Safe DIY checks
Safety first: unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker before touching anything inside, and shut off the water or gas supply where it applies. If you smell gas, leave the house and call your gas utility from outside.
- Turn off power to the dishwasher. Scoop or sponge out the standing water.
- Remove and clean the filter. Many models twist out from the bottom of the tub.
- Run the garbage disposal to clear it, since many dishwashers drain through it.
- If the disposal is new, check that the knockout plug was removed.
- Check the drain hose under the sink for kinks.
- If you have a small air gap cap on the sink, pop it off and clear debris.
When to call a pro
- The filter, disposal and hose are clear and water still stands
- You hear humming with no water moving
- Water is backing up into the sink or leaking
- An error code keeps showing
What does it cost?
Call for a quote. Repair costs depend on the brand, the model, the part and the shop, so this site does not publish price ranges. Ask each shop for its diagnostic or trip fee and a written quote after diagnosis.
Repair or replace?
Filters, hoses and drain pumps are common fixes. On an older, low-cost dishwasher with other problems, replacing can make more sense. Read the repair or replace guide.
Treasure Valley shops that may help
✓ Public info checked October 28, 2026 Shops are listed from public information only. No shop listed here has agreed to anything with this site; they are not partners and not paid placements. Call to confirm the shop works on your dishwasher and brand.
Gem State Appliance Repair
📍 Based in Boise, Ada County
Areas served (as the shop describes them): Boise and surrounding Treasure Valley
(153 reviews) (source: Google rating as shown on appliancerepairhunt.com/boise-id, checked Oct 28, 2026)
Phone: not yet verified, see the shop website
Cody's Appliance Repair
📍 Based in Eagle, Ada County
Areas served (as the shop describes them): Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Caldwell, Nampa, Kuna, Star, Middleton, Garden City
(1,350 reviews) (source: Google rating as shown on appliancerepairhunt.com/boise-id, checked Oct 28, 2026)
Home Appliance Service Inc
📍 Based in Meridian, Ada County
Areas served (as the shop describes them): Treasure Valley
(119 reviews) (source: Google rating as shown on appliancerepairhunt.com/boise-id, checked Oct 28, 2026)
Western Appliance Repair
📍 Based in Boise, Ada County
Areas served (as the shop describes them): Boise area
(94 reviews) (source: Google rating as shown on appliancerepairhunt.com/boise-id, checked Oct 28, 2026)
Murf's Appliance Repair
📍 Based in Meridian, Ada County
Areas served (as the shop describes them): Boise, Meridian, Kuna, Eagle, Nampa, Garden City
(68 reviews) (source: Google rating as shown on appliancerepairhunt.com/boise-id, checked Oct 28, 2026)
A second Google listing (Boise) shows 4.5 from 85 reviews.
Shops and disposal rules by region: East Idaho · Southeast Idaho · Magic Valley · Wood River Valley. All cities: city list.
FAQ
Why is there water in the bottom of my dishwasher?
A clogged filter, kinked drain hose, blocked disposal or air gap, or a failed drain pump.
How often should I clean the dishwasher filter?
Check your manual. Many manufacturers suggest about once a month, more often if you do not rinse dishes.
Can hard water affect my dishwasher?
Hard water leaves mineral buildup that can clog spray arms and leave film, so use a rinse aid and occasional cleaner.
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