How to clean stainless steel

UNCLOG YOUR DISHWASHER TO KEEP IT DRAINING PROPERLY

Dishwasher not draining very well? Are you finding standing water in the bottom of the tub? A little bit of standing water will collect from time to time, but if you’re seeing an inch or more, then it’s highly possible that you have a clogged dishwasher.

But here’s the good news. There are some steps you can take to unclog a dishwasher that won’t require a visit from a service technician.

For specific information and maintenance instructions for your particular dishwasher model, consult your product manual.

A number of clogged dishwashers can be traced to the dishwasher filter. Certain tough food particles like popcorn kernels or wet chunks of paper from container labels can get caught in the filter and will keep water from draining out of your dishwasher.

The filter is in the bottom of the tub. Some dishwashers tuck it in the back corner, while other filters can be found around the base of the bottom spray arm.

The filter usually has a cage or grille covering it. On some models you can remove the dishwasher filter by hand, while others will need a screwdriver.

With the cage removed, you can pull out the filter. If yours is clogged, you will probably see food particles or other visible debris blocking the fine mesh.

Luckily, a clogged dishwasher filter is easy to clean. Run it under the kitchen faucet until the garbage is rinsed away. You can also scrub the filter with a soft brush, like an old toothbrush, perhaps — but don’t use a wire brush or scouring pad. You can damage the filter if you’re not careful.

Replace your sparkling clean filter and remember to put the cover back on.

If your dishwasher is still not draining right, even after a filter cleaning, there may be another reason your dishwasher drain is clogged.

Drain Valve

Most dishwasher drain valves are located by finding the valve bracket. You should be able to move the bracket manually. If it’s stuck, the electrical components are burned out. You’ll have to replace the valve.

Drain Hose

If your filter and valve look good, your problem could be the drain hose. This is one that’s better left to the professionals. Call a service technician to check it out for you.

If you’ve gone through everything above, or you feel like you’re getting in over your head, it might be time to schedule service.

Current Maytag^® models feature a four-blade stainless steel chopper, so there’s no filter to clean by hand. Ready to upgrade to a dependable Maytag^® dishwasher with a powerful chopper? Browse the full Maytag^® dishwasher lineup for more information.

Need help determining what type of dishwasher is right for you? Check out our dishwasher overview here.

Need a service call for your Maytag^® dishwasher? Call customer service at
1-800-344-1274. Hours of operation: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. (EST)

Schedule Service