Dishwasher Draining Continuously? Causes and Fixes

If your dishwasher keeps draining nonstop and never starts washing, it’s usually reacting to a safety signal, a sensor issue, or a drain-related fault. Use the checklist below to diagnose and fix the problem efficiently.

Quick Diagnostic Checklist (Start Here)

Before deep troubleshooting, check these basics:

• ⬜ Dishwasher door fully closed and latched

• ⬜ No water leaking underneath the unit

• ⬜ Drain hose not installed too low

• ⬜ Filter not clogged

• ⬜ No recent power outage or surge

If everything above looks fine, continue below.

Most Common Reasons a Dishwasher Drains Continuously

✅ 1. Float Switch Stuck (Most Common Cause)

The float switch tells the dishwasher when enough water has filled. If it’s stuck, the unit assumes it’s overfilled and keeps draining.

Symptoms

• Drain pump runs nonstop

• Dishwasher never fills with water

• No error codes on display

Fix

• Remove bottom rack

• Locate the float (small dome or cylinder)

• Lift and lower it gently

• Clean debris underneath

✅ 2. Dishwasher Detects a Leak (Safety Mode)

Modern dishwashers enter drain mode if they sense water in the base.

Symptoms

• Dishwasher drains immediately after turning on

• Runs drain pump even when off

• Water found under the dishwasher

Fix

• Turn off power

• Pull dishwasher out slightly

• Dry any water in the base pan

• Check hoses for leaks

✅ 3. Control Board Glitch

Electrical glitches can trap the dishwasher in drain mode.

Symptoms

• Dishwasher stuck on drain after power outage

• Buttons unresponsive

• No clear mechanical issue

Fix

• Turn off breaker

• Wait 10–15 minutes

• Restore power and restart

✅ 4. Clogged or Dirty Filter

Restricted water flow can confuse sensors and trigger continuous draining.

Symptoms

• Poor cleaning results

• Bad smell

• Standing water before draining

Fix

• Remove and clean the dishwasher filter

• Rinse under warm water

• Scrub gently with a soft brush

✅ 5. Drain Hose Installed Incorrectly

If the drain hose sits too low, water siphons out continuously.

Symptoms

• Dishwasher fills briefly then drains

• Happens after installation or moving

Fix

• Ensure a high loop under the sink

• Secure hose at least 20 inches above floor

✅ 6. Faulty Pressure Sensor

The dishwasher can’t detect correct water levels.

Symptoms

• Random draining behavior

• No visible blockages

• Repeats every cycle

Fix

• Reset dishwasher

• Sensor replacement usually required

✅ 7. Drain Pump Relay Stuck

The relay controlling the drain pump may be stuck closed.

Symptoms

• Drain pump runs even when dishwasher is off

• Power reset only temporarily helps

Fix

• Turn off power immediately

• Control board replacement likely needed

FAQ: Dishwasher Drains Continuously

Q: Is it safe to let the dishwasher keep draining?
No. Continuous draining can damage the pump and waste energy.

Q: Will unplugging fix it permanently?
Only if the issue is a control glitch. Hardware problems will return.

Q: Does this mean my dishwasher is broken?
Not always. Many cases are caused by a stuck float switch or simple leak detection.

A dishwasher draining continuously is almost always caused by a stuck float switch, leak detection activation, or control board issue. Start with simple checks before assuming expensive repairs.

Read More:

Why is my dishwasher not draining?

How to reset dishwasher after power outage

How to clean dishwasher filter

Dishwasher not drying? Easy fixes

Dishwasher shutting off mid cycle