KUDE20FXSS3 Dishwasher Won't Drain – What Part Fixes This Problem?
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Understanding the Problem
If your KUDE20FXSS3 dishwasher finishes a cycle but leaves water in the tub, the problem is almost always in the drain system — not the wash system. Blocked filters, a clogged or kinked drain hose, a stuck check valve, or a failed drain pump prevent water from leaving the machine. Electronic control or float issues can also stop the drain sequence. Start with the simplest checks (filter and hose) and progress to electrical tests on the drain pump and float switch. Replacing the failed component — most commonly the drain pump assembly or a clogged filter/hose — will usually restore normal draining. Be sure to disconnect power before doing any testing or repairs.
Common Symptoms
Standing water after a cycle, dishwasher stops mid-cycle on drain, gurgling from sink/garbage disposal when the dishwasher drains, error codes related to drain (if displayed).
Common Causes
- Clogged filter, food trap, or impeller due to food debris
- Clogged, kinked, or improperly routed drain hose or garbage disposal knockout not removed
- Failed drain pump motor, stuck impeller, or faulty check valve
- Faulty float switch or electronic control not commanding drain
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at PartsDiscount.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Run a drain or rinse-only cycle and listen: a working drain pump makes a distinct hum. No sound + water left = likely pump failure or no power to pump. If you hear the pump but it won’t move water, check for debris or a clogged hose/check valve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check if the drain pump is bad?
First, remove water and debris from the filter and sump, then run a drain-only cycle and listen for the pump. If the pump is silent when drain should run, check for 120V (or model-specific voltage) at the pump with a multimeter while the cycle calls for drain. No voltage means control/door/float issue; voltage present with no motor operation indicates a bad pump and it should be replaced.
Can a clogged garbage disposal stop my dishwasher from draining?
Yes. If the dishwasher drain hose connects to the sink disposal, a plugged disposal or an unreleased knockout plug will prevent water from draining. Clear the disposal, verify the knockout was removed when the disposal was installed, and ensure the drain hose is connected above the trap to prevent backflow.
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Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to PartsDiscount.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.