Why Is My Dishwasher Backing Up?

Dishwashers are great to have when they’re functioning properly and can take care of your family’s dishes. When they start acting up, however, it becomes quite a nightmare to figure out what’s going wrong. Just like any plumbing fixture or appliance, dishwashers can back up due to several potential causes, from food buildup to other blockages, and more. 

Read on to find out more about the reasons that your dishwasher might be backing up and what you can do about it.

Food in the Filter

The dishwasher has a filter basket that’s designed to catch scraps and food items that are left on dishes. This prevents them from going into the drain and causing a clog. However, if left unchecked, the filter itself can get clogged and lead to water backing up into the sink or the dishwasher not being able to drain effectively. 

Check the filter every time you use the dishwasher. Make sure that you wait until the appliance has cooled so you don’t accidentally touch the heating element and get burned. 

Clog in the Disposal or Drain Line

Dishwashers connect to the sink drain (or garbage disposal) through a simple, flexible plastic pipe. This can easily become clogged over time with various kinds of buildup. If food slips through, it can impede water flow, as well. If your garbage disposal is clogged, it could cause the dishwasher to back up. Stop the dishwasher, shut off the power to it and the disposal, and inspect your system for clogs. 

Plastic Plug 

New garbage disposal? Did you (or the plumber) take the plastic plug out? This is a common oversight that is easily remedied. Simply find the plastic plug on the disposal that is preventing the dishwasher from draining, pull it out, and you should be good to go. 

Blocked Sewer Main

A backed-up dishwasher could just be a symptom of a much bigger problem in your main sewer line. Sewer lines can get clogged by household waste, tree roots, and other items. They can also break or collapse if they get too old or broken down and cause the entire sewer and drainage system in your home to fail until the main line is fixed. 

If your dishwasher is backing up and you didn’t find a quick fix on this list, it might be time to call Elk Grove Village Sewer & Plumbing. They can diagnose the problem and get your dishwasher back in working order in no time.