How long do dishwasher drain pumps last?

Author: Nikki Bednar  |  Last update: Wednesday, June 17, 2026

While that may seem like a lot, keep in mind that a lot of these pumps come with a guaranteed lifespan of around two decades. That's more than your dishwasher will last you. However, there is something else you ought to consider before you replace the pump. Check the general health of the appliance first.

How do I know if my dishwasher drain pump is bad?

Finally, to be sure your drain pump is working properly, you can test it with a multimeter on the two terminals. Your multimeter should show a reading of about 200 ohms for a working drain pump.

How long should a dishwasher drain pump last?

The vast majority will last for 10 years or more, but a few will fail within the first year under warranty, and some will fail some short time after that. This particular design of dishwasher pump motor does not have an extremely high failure rate compared to other models in my experience,.

How do I know if my dishwasher needs a new pump?

If you find water pooling across the bottom of the tub area or leaking onto the floor when you open the dishwasher door, then the drain pump motor could be malfunctioning and you will need a dishwasher pump replacement.

Do dishwasher pumps wear out?

Dishwashers have sensors and water pumps they use to let the computer inside them know when to pump water in and pump it out. If this sensor is dirty, has become stuck, or has broken, it needs to be repaired. If the pump has failed, it also needs to be replaced.

How To Fix a Dishwasher That Won't Drain

What is the average life span of a dishwasher?

Average Lifespan of Dishwashers

According to reputed appliance repair technicians and manufacturers, the average home dishwasher lasts between 10 to 15 years with regular use and proper maintenance. Even an appliance from the best dishwasher brands will only last 15 to 20 years at most.

What does a bad dishwasher drain pump sound like?

Grinding or buzzing noise

You can hear your dishwasher grind or buzz when it forces water down the drain. If the sound is very loud, check your pump impeller. To do this, you will need to remove the lower basket, spray arm and filter unit.

How to test if a pump is bad?

Common symptoms and what may be causing them
  1. Abnormal flow. If the flow is abnormal, this is a definite sign of a problem. ...
  2. Noisy pumps. The most common noise is that of that of rocks in a can. ...
  3. Frequent clogging. ...
  4. Overheating. ...
  5. Air Leaks.

How much does it cost to replace a dishwasher pump?

Pump - The pump is responsible for circulating water throughout the dishwasher. If it fails, your dishes won't be cleaned properly. The average cost to fix a pump is around $150, with a range of $100 to $350. To troubleshoot, check for a clogged filter or faulty motor.

Why is my dishwasher not draining but no blockage?

Reasons why your dishwasher might not be draining

We recommend checking the filter first, because that's quite easy to solve yourself. If the filter isn't blocked, the other potential reasons are: A blockage in the dishwasher's drain hose. Debris in the dishwasher's drain pump.

What is the life expectancy of a drain pump?

While you can probably expect to get 8-12 years out of the average pump, there are any number of factors which will have an effect on the lifespan of your sump pump; from the sturdiness and build quality to how often it's turned on.

What is the best dishwasher brand in 2024?

6 Best Dishwashers of 2024, Tested by Cleaning Experts
  • Best Overall. Miele Top Control Dishwasher with AutoDos. Read more.
  • Best Value. GE Profile UltraFresh Dishwasher with Microban. Read more.
  • Best Under $500. LG Front Control Dishwasher with SenseClean. Read more.

What causes drain pump to go bad?

Some of the most common reasons for a bad drain pump include: Faulty pump motor: The motor should only move water, dissolved soap, and dirt. It can fail when hard objects, like coins or rocks in your pockets, enter the pump system. Damaged impeller: The impeller works like a fan with blades directing water outward.

Can a dishwasher pump burn out?

Dishwasher Drain Pump Issues

The motor of the drain pump can burn out or malfunction, leading to drainage issues. The impeller inside the pump can also be blocked or damaged, preventing water from being pumped out.

Why aren't my dishes getting clean in the dishwasher?

Improper loading, a clogged or blocked spray arm or a clogged filter may cause your dishwasher to perform poorly. If your dishwasher is not cleaning dishes on the bottom rack, check for these issues and consult your owner's manual. Consult a professional for repairs if you're still having issues.

Is it worth fixing a 7 year old dishwasher?

If your dishwasher is within the five-year limit, it's definitely worth fixing. But if your dishwasher is closer to ten years, finding replacement parts might be too expensive, so you'd be better off replacing your machine.

What is the most expensive part of a dishwasher?

The control board or electronic control unit is typically the most expensive part in a dishwasher. It manages all the dishwasher's functions, such as the wash cycles, water temperature, and the timing of the washing and drying processes.

How can I test my dishwasher drain pump?

To do this, set your multimeter to 200 ohms. Then place the two multimeter probes onto the drain pump's tabs from which you removed the electrical connections. If your drain pump is working properly, the multimeter should show a reading of between 160 and 260.

How do I know if my pump parts need to be replaced?

Breast pump tubing should be replaced every four to six months. However, if you notice any signs of molding, you will need to replace the tubing immediately. Breast milk bottles and containers should be replaced as needed. Keep an eye on your bottles for any sign of degradation or cracks.

How do I know if I need a new dishwasher pump?

If you find water at the bottom of your dishwasher after a wash cycle, it's a clear sign of a problem. This could be due to a blocked drain hose, a malfunctioning pump, or a faulty float switch. These issues can affect your dishwasher's performance and might necessitate a replacement.

How long do dishwashers last?

The average lifespan of a dishwasher is approximately 8-10 years. However, the longevity of your appliance can vary based on multiple factors such as usage, brand, and maintenance.

What is the average price for a dishwasher?

A new dishwasher costs $400 to $1,200 on average for a standard 24" wide built-in model. Small dishwasher prices are $250 to $500 for countertop models. The cost of a dishwasher depends on the type, size, and brand.

Previous article
Why can't you drink water during induction?
Next article
Will oak tree limbs grow back?