How To Clean Your Dishwasher Drain in Cumbria

Keeping your dishwasher clean is essential to ensure it lasts longer and does not cause any plumbing problems in your kitchen. While most people are aware of the need to clean their dishwasher regularly, many forget about the importance of cleaning the dishwasher drain.

A clogged dishwasher drain can lead to dirty water buildup, foul odors, and even flooding. This issue can also affect the performance of your dishwasher and increase the risk of damage to the unit. In this article, Drainage Cumbria, a trusted drain cleaning company in Cumbria, North West England, will provide a step-by-step guide on how to clean your dishwasher drain effectively.

Why You Need To Clean Your Dishwasher Drain

The dishwasher drain is a vital part of its functioning. It connects the dishwasher to the main drainage system and eliminates the dirty water that accumulates in the dishwasher during its cycle. Over time, food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate in the drain, leading to blockages and slowing down the drain's water flow.

A clogged dishwasher drain can cause wastewater to back up into your dishwasher, resulting in unpleasant smells, mold growth, and even flooding. With Cumbria's wet weather, you want to avoid any excess moisture buildup in your home from a faulty dishwasher drain.

Tools You Need To Clean Your Dishwasher Drain

Before you start cleaning your dishwasher drain, you need to gather the tools you will need. Some of these include:

• A screwdriver
• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• A cleaning brush

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Dishwasher Drain

Cleaning your dishwasher drain can take as little as 15 minutes when you follow these steps:

Step 1: Disconnect Your Dishwasher

The first step when cleaning your dishwasher is to turn off the power supply to the unit. If you have a portable dishwasher, unplug it from the wall socket or switch off the circuit breaker. For a built-in dishwasher, turn off the power at the circuit breaker.

After cutting off the power supply, check underneath your sink to locate the hose going from your dishwasher to your garbage disposal or sink drain. Disconnect the hose from the disposal or sink drain carefully.

Step 2: Check The Hose Going to The Disposal Drain

Inspect the hose going to the disposal drain, as it might have clogged up with food remains or any other debris. If you see any blockage, use a cleaning brush to remove the clog. Check the hose for kinks, holes, and frayed edges, and replace the hose if you see any damage.

Step 3: Check The Next Drain

If your dishwasher is not connected to your garbage disposal, it will be connected to another drain. It would help if you located the hose going to the next drain and disconnect it after turning off the power to the dishwasher.

Step 4: Check The Other Drain

If you inspected the hose going to the disposal and found that it was not clogged, turn on the disposal and run a few cycles to flush out any debris that may be in the line. Then, check the next drain to ensure it isn't clogged up.

Step 5 Clean The Dishwasher Filter

The dishwasher filter is another vital component of your dishwasher that needs regular cleaning. The filter traps food particles and other debris before the water goes into the drain. It would be best if you cleaned the filter frequently to ensure your dishwasher runs effectively.

To clean the filter, locate and remove it from the dishwasher. Rinse it thoroughly under running water to remove any food particles or debris that might have accumulated. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub off any stubborn debris, and then replace the filter back into the dishwasher.

Step 6: Clean The Drain With Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that you can use to clean your dishwasher drain without using any harsh chemicals. First, sprinkle baking soda over the drain and then pour a cup of vinegar into the dishwasher. The vinegar and baking soda will produce a fizzing reaction that will help to loosen any clogs in the drain.

After the fizzing has stopped, allow the solution to sit in the drain for 10-15 minutes. Lastly, run hot water down the drain to flush out any particles you loosened. Some of the baking soda may remain visible, so if you'd like to give your dishwasher an extra clean look, wipe it down with a clean, dry cloth.

Step 7: Reconnect The Drain

Reconnect the hose to the drain carefully or properly attach it to the disposal inlet. Reconnect the power supply, and switch on the dishwasher.

Final Thoughts

Cumbria's Drainage is a leading drain cleaning company that can help to solve more serious plumbing issues. We are a professional team of skilled and qualified plumbers who specialize in diagnosing and repairing clogged drains, water leaks, and other plumbing problems.

However, when you follow this guide, you don't have to wait for our experts to arrive to unclog your dishwasher drain. Simple tips, tricks, and home remedies like making a DIY baking soda and vinegar solution are good chances of properly cleaning up your dishwasher.

Feel free to contact us at Drainage Cumbria if you need any help with your dishwasher drain or other plumbing issues. Our reliable team of professionals will be there to help you any time of the day or night.