WDT970SAHV0 Won't Drain — What Part Fixes This Dishwasher Problem?
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
If your Whirlpool-style WDT970SAHV0 dishwasher fills and runs a wash cycle but doesn't drain at the end (water remains in the tub), the most common causes are a blocked filter/sump, a clogged or kinked drain hose, a failed drain pump, or an electrical/control problem preventing the pump from running. Drain issues often present after a partial wash or when the dishwasher is older or frequently used without regular filter cleaning. Start with visual checks: remove the lower rack, inspect and clean the filter and sump area, and verify the drain hose route under the sink. If the filter and hoses are clear but water still won't pump out, the drain pump or the pump motor assembly (or its impeller) is often the failing part. In some cases a stuck check valve, a faulty door latch/lock (which prevents the cycle from advancing to drain), or a failed control board or relay can also prevent draining.
Common Symptoms
Water remains in the tub after a wash, wash cycles end early, error codes related to draining (if displayed), gurgling from sink when dishwasher tries to drain.
Common Causes
- Clogged filter, food trap, or sump preventing water from reaching the pump
- Kinked, clogged, or improperly routed drain hose or blocked garbage disposal connection
- Failed drain pump/motor, check valve, or electronic control preventing pump activation
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
Confirm whether the pump is receiving power during the drain cycle using a multimeter or by listening — you should hear the pump run (a humming or whirring sound) for several seconds; if it's silent and there is power, the pump is faulty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check if the drain pump is bad?
First unplug the dishwasher and remove standing water so you can access the pump area. Clear debris from the filter and sump and try a manual spin of the pump impeller (if accessible). Reconnect power and run a drain cycle while listening — if you hear humming but no water movement, the impeller may be jammed or broken. If the pump is silent during a drain step, test for voltage at the pump during drain using a multimeter; no voltage points to a control or door switch issue, while voltage with no pump operation indicates a bad pump.
Can a clogged garbage disposal stop the dishwasher from draining?
Yes. Most dishwashers connect to the sink drain or garbage disposal. If the disposal or the knockout plug is clogged, the dishwasher's drain path is blocked and water will remain in the tub. Inspect the disposal and the hose connection under the sink; run the disposal and check for flow, and clear any blockages in the disposal or trap.
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at PartsDiscount.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
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.