How To Unclog A Fisher & Paykel Dishdrawer Drain

Things Needed

  • Instruction manual

  • Adjustable wrench

Fisher & Paykel is an innovative prestige brand within the home-appliance category, but their dishwashers are still prone to the occasional clog as a result of too much food going through the drain. If your Fisher & Paykel dishwasher is failing to drain properly, you can attempt to get things moving again by following a few simple steps.

Step 1

Obtain a copy of the instruction manual for your specific model of Fisher & Paykel dishwasher. Model-specific instructions for clogging can likely be found withing the manual, but even if they are not, you will be helped along by using the diagrams to identify specific parts. If you do not have a copy of the manual that came with your dishwasher, follow the Fisher & Paykel link in Resources and request a copy through their website.

Step 2

Use the diagrams in the manual to locate the food trap. Remove the top of the food trap and empty out any debris inside. If there is standing water in the bottom of the dishwasher, watch to see if the water level recedes after you do this. Replace the top of the food trap.

Step 3

Use the diagrams in the manual to locate your dishwasher's drain hose. You should see this under the sink. Check both connections to see if there is any water dripping, which is a sign of a possible drain-hose clog. Check the outside of the hose for any visible bulges. If the hose is broken or decayed, you will need to replace it.

Step 4

Disconnect the drain hose at both connection points. You may need a small adjustable wrench to do this. Stagnant water may be trapped in the hose, so remove it carefully and pour any trapped water down the sink. Straighten the hose and look through it. If you can see obstructions, the drain hose is likely the cause of your drainage problems. Flush out all of the debris with very hot water from the sink, then replace the drain hose, tightening it well at both connection points.

Step 5

Look up the pump assembly in the manual. Different pump assemblies need to be removed in different ways, so you should remove yours via the exact method described in the manual for your model. Once removed, follow your manual's instructions on taking apart the pump assembly. Don't be concerned about this step; dishwasher pump assemblies consist of only a few major parts, and their reassembly is fairly intuitive.

Step 6

Clean out any food or debris that is trapped within the pump assembly. Reassemble the pump unit and reinstall it in your dishwasher, following the instructions in your manual.

Step 7

Try to use your dishwasher and see if it drains properly. If it does not, contact a qualified repair specialist in your area.

Tip

Rinse dishes well before putting them in the dishwasher, to avoid future clogs.

Following the use and care instructions for your garbage disposal can also help you avoid dishwasher clogs.

Warning

Emptying food traps and clogged dishwasher parts can be a stomach-turning experience, so be prepared to deal with lots of slimy pieces of who-knows-what.

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