October 01, 2016

How to replace a dishwasher drain pump

This dishwasher repair guide gives step-by-step instructions on how to replace the dishwasher drain pump. If the moving parts of the pump are damaged, the dishwasher might not drain, even if the pump runs and the drain path is clear. Or the pump motor could be the problem if the pump doesn’t run at all during the drain cycle. In these situations, replace the drain pump with the manufacturer-approved dishwasher part.

These instructions are for Kenmore, Whirlpool, KitchenAid Maytag, JennAir and Amana dishwashers. The same basic procedure can be used to replace the drain pump in some GE, Frigidaire, Electrolux, Samsung and LG dishwashers.

Quick links

Video

Instructions

Tools required

Nut driver set

Slot screwdriver

Rinse aid (to lubricate seals)

Channel-lock pliers

Towel

Work gloves

Repair difficulty

Time required

30 minutes or less

How to replace a dishwasher drain pump video.

Replacing a dishwasher drain pump video.

Instructions

01.
Shut off electrical power
Unplug the dishwasher or shut off the house circuit breaker for the dishwasher.
To verify that power is disconnected, make sure the control panel doesn’t light up when you press a control button or the power button.
02.
Remove the outer door panel and control panel
Remove the Torx screws from the inner door panel, supporting the outer door panel with one hand as you remove the final 2 screws so the outer door panel doesn't fall.
Separate the outer door panel and control panel from the inner door panel, and let the outer panel rest on the floor while you disconnect the user interface control wire harness from the control panel.
Pull off the outer door panel and control panel.
PHOTO: Remove the outer door panel.
03.
Remove the bottom front access panel and toe panel
Using a nut driver, remove the screws that hold the bottom front access panel and toe panel in place.
Pull the access panel and the toe panel forward and remove them.
PHOTO: Remove the toe panel.
04.
Remove the drain pump
Lay a towel under the drain pump to catch water.
Reach under the dishwasher and squeeze the wire hose clamp that holds the drain hose on the drain pump—use channel-lock pliers if necessary.
Pull the drain hose off the drain pump.
Remove the wire harness from the drain pump.
Press down on the locking tab and then rotate the pump 1/4 turn counterclockwise to pull it out of the sump.
Remove the towel.
Tip: If you can't access the drain hose and pump with the access panel and toe panel removed, pull the dishwasher out from under the counter. Refer to the installation manual for your dishwasher as a guide.
PHOTO: Remove the drain pump.
05.
Install the new drain pump
Lubricate the O-ring water seal on the new drain pump with a light coat of rinse aid to prevent leaks.
Insert the new drain pump in the sump opening and then rotate it 1/4 turn clockwise so the locking tab snaps into place.
Plug the wire harness into the receptacle on the drain pump.
Reinstall the drain hose on the outlet of the drain pump. Use the wire clamp to secure the drain hose on the drain pump outlet.
PHOTO: Install the new drain pump.
06.
Reinstall the bottom front access panel and toe panel
Position the toe panel on the dishwasher and then position the access panel in front of the toe panel. Insert the mounting screws and tighten the screws firmly.
PHOTO: Reinstall the toe panel.
07.
Reinstall the outer door panel and control panel
Position the outer door panel and control panel close enough to the inner door so you can reconnect the user interface control wire harness.
Reconnect the user interface control wire harness and attach the outer door panel and control panel to the inner door panel.
Reinstall the mounting screws.
Tip: Use the longer screws to secure the control panel.
PHOTO: Reinstall the outer door panel.
08.
Restore electrical power
Reset the house circuit breaker or plug in the dishwasher to restore electrical power.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.