Signs Your Dishwasher Pump Is Failing and What to Do
The dishwasher pump is one of the most important components in your machine. It circulates water during the wash cycle and drains water at the end. When it starts to fail, you'll usually notice warning signs before a complete breakdown. Here's what to look for.
What Does the Dishwasher Pump Do?
Most dishwashers have two pumps:
- Wash pump (circulation pump): Circulates water through the spray arms to clean dishes during the wash cycle
- Drain pump: Pumps water out of the machine at the end of the cycle
Both are critical. A failing wash pump means dishes won't be cleaned properly. A failing drain pump means water won't drain and your dishwasher will fill up with standing water.
Signs the Wash Pump Is Failing
1. Dishes aren't being cleaned
If your dishwasher is running full cycles but dishes come out still dirty, the wash pump may not be generating enough pressure to spray water effectively. Check the spray arms first (they may just be clogged), but if cleaning the arms doesn't fix it, the pump may be wearing out.
2. Weak water pressure from spray arms
During a cycle, you should hear and feel strong water spray. If the dishwasher seems unusually quiet during the wash phase and dishes aren't getting wet all over, the pump pressure is low.
3. Unusual humming or grinding noise
A healthy dishwasher pump runs smoothly and quietly. A failing pump often produces a low humming, grinding or buzzing noise during the wash cycle. This is caused by worn bearings, a damaged impeller or debris caught in the pump housing.
Signs the Drain Pump Is Failing
1. Standing water in the bottom of the dishwasher
Water pooling at the bottom of the dishwasher after a cycle is a classic sign of a drain pump failure. First check that the drain hose isn't kinked and the filter isn't blocked — these are simpler fixes. If both are clear and water still isn't draining, the drain pump is likely failing.
2. Humming at the end of the cycle
A failing drain pump may hum or buzz at the end of a cycle as it struggles to push water out.
3. Error codes on the display
Many modern dishwashers display fault codes when a pump fails. Consult your user manual for the meaning of your specific error code. Codes related to drainage or pump failure typically include E1, E3, F1 or similar — but this varies by brand.
What to Check Before Assuming Pump Failure
Before concluding the pump has failed, check these simpler issues:
- Filter: A completely blocked filter restricts water flow and drainage. Remove, rinse and clean the filter under running water
- Spray arms: Check spray arm holes are clear of food debris
- Drain hose: Check the drain hose for kinks or blockages
- House drain: Ensure the household drain the dishwasher connects to isn't blocked
Repair or Replace?
Pump repairs and replacements are possible but require a qualified appliance technician. The cost of parts and labour for a pump replacement typically ranges from $150–$350.
If your dishwasher is more than 8–10 years old and the pump has failed, the total repair cost may approach or exceed the cost of a new dishwasher. In that case, replacement is usually the smarter financial decision.
Browse Replacement Dishwashers
We stock dishwashers from Bosch, Electrolux, AEG, Miele and more at our Wetherill Park showroom. Browse our dishwasher range or visit us in person. Free Sydney delivery, 3–6 month warranty on every appliance.