How to Troubleshoot Drainage Issues In A Countertop Dishwasher?

17 minutes read

If you are experiencing drainage issues with your countertop dishwasher, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to try and resolve the issue.


First, check to make sure that the drain hose is not kinked or clogged. If it appears to be clear, you can try running a cycle with a drain cleaner to help clear any blockages.


Next, check the dishwasher filter and make sure it is clean and not blocked with food debris. A dirty filter can prevent proper drainage.


If the issue persists, check the dishwasher's air gap, which is a small device typically located on the countertop behind the sink. Make sure it is not clogged with debris.


If none of these steps resolve the issue, you may need to contact a professional dishwasher repair technician for further assistance.

Best Countertop Dishwashers in 2024

1
NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers, Compact Dishwashers with 5 L Built-in Water Tank & Inlet Hose, 5 Washing Programs, Baby Care, Air-Dry Function and LED Light for Small Apartments

Rating is 5 out of 5

NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers, Compact Dishwashers with 5 L Built-in Water Tank & Inlet Hose, 5 Washing Programs, Baby Care, Air-Dry Function and LED Light for Small Apartments

  • 【SMALL SIZE, LARGE CAPACITY】This portable dishwasher only measures 16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 inches, but holds 4 full place settings and fits up to 12" dishes loaded at an angle, easily meeting daily needs for a family of 3-4; the double-layer design offers enough space for 4 x serving bowls, 4 x cups, 4 x small plates, 4 x dinner plates, 7 x spoons, 7 x forks and 7 x knives; perfect for small-sized houses, apartments, dorms, boats, and campers/RVs
  • 【NO INSTALLATION NEEDED】This countertop dishwasher supports 2 water supply modes, including a faucet mode and water tank mode; a built-in 5 L water tank allows instant use when fully filled. The automatic water level indicator lets you know when the correct water level has been reached; to use the faucet mode, simply connect the water inlet hose to the machine and faucet
  • 【BABY CARE MODE】This compact dishwasher offers 5 wash cycles - Normal, Speed, Soft, Baby Care/Heavy, and Fruit; the Baby Care/Heavy mode with 167 °F washing temperature is suitable for baby products and oily tableware, which rinses them thoroughly and gives glassware a sparkling clean finish
  • 【QUALITY CONTROL NOTE】 NOVETE dishwasher undergoes manufacturer's quality tests to ensure proper operation, so a little residual water in the unit is NORMAL. Before first use, it is recommended to run for 5 minutes to clear the dust and odor that may be generated during long-distance transportation in the dishwasher
  • 【SPEED WASH】When you are in a hurry and want your dishes ready faster, select Speed mode, which cleans dishes in just 29 minutes; the automatic air circulation helps to dry dishes so that you can use immediately
  • 【FRUIT MODE】A fruit basket is included so fruit and vegetables can be cleaned easily, ready to serve directly from the dishwasher
2
Farberware Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 5-Liter Built-in Water Tank - 5-Program System for Home, RV, and Apartment - Wash Dishes, Glass, and Baby Products

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

Farberware Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 5-Liter Built-in Water Tank - 5-Program System for Home, RV, and Apartment - Wash Dishes, Glass, and Baby Products

  • VERSATILE CLEANING OPTIONS: The Farberware countertop dishwasher offers five different wash cycles, including baby care, glass, and fruit wash, ensuring that all your dishes, from delicate glassware to baby bottles, are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.
  • TIME-SAVING CONVENIENCE: With just 40 minutes, water, and electricity, you can have clean dishes and sparkling glassware anywhere and anytime. This small dishwasher is great for busy individuals who need a quick and efficient solution for their dishwashing needs.
  • EASY TO USE AND MAINTAIN: This dishwasher features a user-friendly LED display and simple controls, making it easy to select the perfect wash cycle for your needs. Plus, the built-in water tank is easy to refill and clean, ensuring your dishwasher stays in top condition.
3
COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher, Energy Star Portable Dishwasher, 6 Place Settings & 8 Washing Programs, Speed, Baby-Care, ECO& Glass, Dish Washer for Dorm, RV& Apartment, Black

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher, Energy Star Portable Dishwasher, 6 Place Settings & 8 Washing Programs, Speed, Baby-Care, ECO& Glass, Dish Washer for Dorm, RV& Apartment, Black

  • 【6 Place Setting】- A perfect size(H438×W550×D500mm) for 2-3 people, COMFEE’ compact dishwasher is suitable for dorms, RVs and apartments. This countertop dishwasher can fit up to 70 pieces of tableware, and a plate size of up to 10 inches diameter. Note: COMFEE dishwashers are tested at the factory before they are shipped. If your new dishwasher has some water inside, this is normal.
  • 【Simple Installation】- COMFEE' portable dishwasher can be connected to faucet directly (Suitable adaptor needed). Depending on your needs, it can be flexibly placed on the table or fitted in the cupboard.
  • 【8 Washing Cycles】- Most of the cleaning cycles, including Heavy, Normal, Baby-Care, ECO, Glass, and Speed, helped with extra-drying function, and deliver sparklingly cleaned and dried dishes. Three more cleaning options, including Speed, Mini-party, and Rinse, are designed for COMFEE' compact dishwasher, providing high flexibility for you to choose in different situations.
4
COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 5L Built-in Water Tank for Apartments& RVs, No Hookup Needed, 6 Programs, 360° Dual Spray, 192℉ High-Temp& Air-Dry Function

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 5L Built-in Water Tank for Apartments& RVs, No Hookup Needed, 6 Programs, 360° Dual Spray, 192℉ High-Temp& Air-Dry Function

  • Please make sure the distance between your countertop and wall cupboard is more than 19.6" 【No installation needed】: Adding water manually in the 5L built-in water tank, you can put the dishwasher in any suitable place without connecting to tap water. Or it can be hooked to the kitchen faucet directly with the included water hose (Adapter included).Water pressure : 0.04 - 1.0MPa.
  • [ Ultra-compact Design]: The ultra-compact design allows the dishwasher to wash 30+ items(Max to 9.5-inch plates) at a time while occupying a small area, which is ideal for small houses, apartments, dorms, boats, and campers/RVs.
  • [ 6 Program Options ]: NORMAL, RAPID, STEAM, FRUIT, GLASS washing programs, and AIR REFRESH extra drying mode meet all your daily needs. Note: Use the standard dishwasher powders or detergents because regular liquid dish soap will cause dishwasher problems. (No detergent is needed for the FRUIT program, and RAPID just needs half of the standard quantity. )
5
Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher, 5 Washing Programs Portable Dishwasher With 5-Liter Built-in Water Tank, No Hookup Needed

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher, 5 Washing Programs Portable Dishwasher With 5-Liter Built-in Water Tank, No Hookup Needed

  • When we enjoy cooking, we always have to face the problem of washing dishes. hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher is not only a convenient way to clean up after a meal but also saves a considerable amount of water compared to washing dishes by hand.
  • 【4 PLACE-SETTING CAPACITY】The Portable Dishwasher measures 16.85×16.73×18.03 inches (W×D×H), which has a 4 Place-Setting Capacity. And fits up to 10.25" dishes loaded at an angle.
  • 【FIVE WASHING PROGRAMS】Countertop Dishwasher with water tank perfectly provides 5 washing programs: Standard Cleaning, Fast Cleaning, ECO Cleaning, Strong Cleaning and Fruit Cleaning. Dual high water pressure spraying arms give dishes that streak-free deep cleaning.
  • 【HIGH TEMPERATURE】Dishwashers can clean tableware, fruits and vegetables, and also use the drying function after cleaning to keep tableware dry and tasteless. 167℉ High Temperature and PTC Hot Wind are suitable for baby products and oily tableware to give glassware a sparkling clean finish.
  • 【QUIET AND EFFICIENT】Top touch button for easy operation and recognition. The small footprint makes it perfect for small-sized houses, apartments, dorms, boats and RVs.
6
COMFEE' Portable Dishwasher Countertop with 5L Built-in Water Tank, No Hookup Needed, 6 Programs, 360° Dual Spray, 192℉ High-Temp& Air-Dry Function, Mini Dishwasher for RVs, White

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

COMFEE' Portable Dishwasher Countertop with 5L Built-in Water Tank, No Hookup Needed, 6 Programs, 360° Dual Spray, 192℉ High-Temp& Air-Dry Function, Mini Dishwasher for RVs, White

  • Please make sure the distance between your countertop and wall cupboard is more than 19.6" 【No installation needed】: Adding water manually in the 5L built-in water tank, you can put the dishwasher in any suitable place without connecting to tap water. Or it can be hooked to the kitchen faucet directly with the included water hose (Adapter included)
  • [ Ultra-compact Design]: The ultra-compact design allows the dishwasher to wash 30+ items(Max to 9.5-inch plates) at a time while occupying a small area, which is ideal for small houses, apartments, dorms, boats, and campers/RVs.
  • [ 192 ℉ HIGH-TEMP HYGIENE ]: The HYGIENE wash cycle boosts water temperature to 162 ℉ Rinsing and Max to 192 ℉ which can tackle even the heaviest soiled dishes and is also suitable for cleaning baby bottles and children’s dinner sets.
7
Countertop Dishwasher, HAVA Portable Dishwashers with 5 L Built-in Water Tank & Inlet Hose, 6 Programs, Baby Care, Air-Drying Function for Small Apartments, Dorms and RVs (Black)

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

Countertop Dishwasher, HAVA Portable Dishwashers with 5 L Built-in Water Tank & Inlet Hose, 6 Programs, Baby Care, Air-Drying Function for Small Apartments, Dorms and RVs (Black)

  • LARGE CAPACITY: This tabletop dishwashers only measures 16.86"L x 16.75"W x 18.05"H, but can hold up to 4 full place settings and fit up to 10.6" dishes loaded at an angle; the storage rack and cutlery basket make it easy to clean ''top rack only'' items such as knives, forks, and spoons, leaving more space for dishes and small pots; To ensure optimum dishwasher performance, please only use dishwasher detergent.
  • 5 WASH CYCLE OPTIONS & DRY MODE: Supports Normal, Speed, Soft, Heavy/Baby Care and Fruit modes for your various dishwashing needs; after each wash cycle finishes, an extra Dry mode provides an extra 60 minutes of drying, and offers 72-hour ventilated storage to prevent odors and keep your dishes clean 【NOTE】Do not move the dishwasher while it is operating or paused. Only move it when the water tank is completely drained
  • 360° CLEANING WITHOUT BLIND SPOTS: 14 water ports on the spray arms are designed to provide both top and bottom spraying for 360° cleaning coverage, rinsing your dishes thoroughly and giving them a sparkling clean finish
8
Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 5 Programs, 3-Cup Water Tank, Fruit/Veg Basket, High Temp, Air Dry

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 5 Programs, 3-Cup Water Tank, Fruit/Veg Basket, High Temp, Air Dry

  • Build- in Lights Function, Portable Size: 16x16x17.5(H) inch, 26.4 LB Net Weight, Convenient Dishwasher can fit a Variety of Dishes (up to 12-inches in diameter at an angle) and is ideal for small-sized Houses, Apartments, Dorms, Boats and Campers/RVs
  • Multi Washing Programs: Six Wash Programs - Standard, Quick, Strong, ECO, Fruit and DRY. Lower and Upper Spray Arms give Dishes that Streak-Free Deep Cleaning
  • Easy-To-Use Control Panel: The LED Digital Controls show a Clear Picture-View of Wash Controls and the Automatic Water Level Indicator Lets you Know When the Correct Water Level has been Reached


What is the ideal location for a countertop dishwasher to ensure proper drainage?

The ideal location for a countertop dishwasher to ensure proper drainage is near a sink with adequate space for the dishwasher to be connected to the drain. Placing the dishwasher next to the sink will allow for easy access to the water supply and drain. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the dishwasher is on a level surface to prevent water from pooling and not draining properly.


How to properly clean the interior of a dishwasher to prevent drainage problems?

To properly clean the interior of a dishwasher to prevent drainage problems, follow these steps:

  1. Remove any large food particles or debris from the bottom of the dishwasher and from the filter.
  2. Place a dishwasher-safe bowl or cup filled with white vinegar on the top rack of the dishwasher and run a hot water cycle to help remove any built-up residue, grease, or odors.
  3. After the vinegar cycle is complete, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot water cycle to help further clean and deodorize the interior.
  4. Inspect and clean the spray arms to ensure they are free of any blockages that could prevent proper water flow.
  5. Check the drain hose for any clogs or kinks that could be causing drainage issues. If necessary, remove the hose and clean it out.
  6. Clean the door gasket and around the edges of the door to remove any mold or mildew buildup.
  7. Regularly check and clean the filter to prevent blockages and ensure proper drainage.
  8. Use dishwasher cleaner or descaler regularly to help prevent mineral buildup in hard water areas.
  9. Consider using a dishwasher maintenance product like Finish® Dual Action Dishwasher Cleaner to help keep your dishwasher running smoothly and efficiently.


By following these steps regularly, you can help prevent drainage problems and keep your dishwasher clean and odor-free.


How to ensure proper drainage during the dishwasher's cycle?

  1. Check the sink drain: Make sure the sink drain is clear of any blockages or debris that could prevent proper drainage during the dishwasher's cycle. Run water through the sink drain to ensure it is flowing freely.
  2. Clean the dishwasher filter: Remove and clean the dishwasher filter regularly to prevent food particles and debris from clogging the drain. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the correct cleaning process for your specific dishwasher model.
  3. Use the right detergent: Using the correct detergent and the right amount is important for proper drainage. Using too much detergent can create excess suds that may lead to drainage issues.
  4. Avoid overloading the dishwasher: Overloading the dishwasher can prevent water from circulating properly, leading to poor drainage. Make sure dishes are loaded according to the manufacturer's recommendations for optimal performance.
  5. Run hot water before starting the cycle: Run hot water in the sink before starting the dishwasher's cycle to ensure the water entering the dishwasher is hot. Hot water helps to dissolve detergent and effectively clean dishes, leading to better drainage during the cycle.
  6. Check the air gap: If your dishwasher is equipped with an air gap, make sure it is clear of any blockages that could prevent proper drainage. Clean the air gap regularly to ensure it is functioning properly.
  7. Monitor the water level: During the dishwasher's cycle, monitor the water level in the bottom of the dishwasher. If the water level is too high, it may indicate a drainage issue. Stop the cycle, check for blockages, and restart the dishwasher.
  8. Contact a professional: If you continue to experience drainage issues despite following these steps, it may be time to contact a professional dishwasher repair service. A technician can diagnose the problem and make any necessary repairs to ensure proper drainage during the dishwasher's cycle.
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