How to Troubleshoot A Portable Dishwasher Not Draining?

21 minutes read

If your portable dishwasher is not draining properly, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to try and resolve the issue. Start by checking the drain hose for any clogs or blockages. Make sure the hose is not kinked or twisted, and that it is properly connected to both the dishwasher and the sink.


Next, inspect the drain pump for any debris or obstructions. You may need to remove the pump and clean it out to ensure it is working properly. Also, check the dishwasher's filter and remove any food particles or other debris that may be blocking the drainage system.


If these steps do not solve the problem, you may need to check the dishwasher's drain valve, which controls the flow of water out of the machine. This valve may be clogged or malfunctioning and need to be replaced.


If you are still having trouble getting your portable dishwasher to drain, it may be time to call a professional for further assistance.

Best Portable Dishwashers of October 2024

1
BLACK+DECKER Portable Dishwasher, 18 inches Wide, 8 Place Setting, Black

Rating is 5 out of 5

BLACK+DECKER Portable Dishwasher, 18 inches Wide, 8 Place Setting, Black

  • IMPRESSIVE CAPACITY: This 18” portable dishwasher thoroughly cleans up to 8 place settings in each wash cycle. Your dinner plates, cups, saucers, bowls and utensils will stay dirt-free and sparkling thanks to this durable stainless steel (16.3” x 20.5” x 26.15”) tub. Silverware basket included so your forks, knives and spoons remain immaculate. This portable dishwasher on wheels does the scrubbing for you with an adjustable top rack to accommodate taller dishes.
  • EASY SETUP: No need for direct plumbing or permanent installation with this portable dishwashing machine. The Quick Connect assembly links right to your faucet with a 59” hose. Interior spray arms located in the upper and lower part of small dishwasher with a hot water temperature of 140° Fahrenheit. Child lock guarantees optimal safety when dishwasher machine is on.
  • MULTIPLE WASH CYCLES: This BLACK+DECKER portable dish washer comes with 6 superior wash cycles: Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, 90-min & Rapid. An easy-to-read LED display with trouble-free push button allows you to begin cleaning in no time. Fully equipped with detergent dispenser and low rise aid indicator. Delay Start function allows you to wash plates, utensils, bowls and cups with the touch of your fingertips and on your own schedule.
  • WORKTOP VERSATILITY: When your dish washer isn’t scrubbing your favorite dishes, it can double as a trendy kitchen island and worktop counter. When not in use, make the most of this stainless steel dishwasher by utilizing it to store kitchen appliances or even as a culinary work station.
  • IDEAL FOR SMALL KITCHENS: Just because you live in an apartment, RV, or dorm doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy clean cutlery and plateware. The storage and ease of this 18” RV dishwasher allows you the luxury of thoroughly washed dishes regardless of your kitchen size. Made for compact spaces, this portable dishwasher is ideal for apartment residencies and occupants of modest dwellings.
2
RCA RDW1809 Portable Dishwasher, 18in Wide, 8 Place Settings Capacity, White

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

RCA RDW1809 Portable Dishwasher, 18in Wide, 8 Place Settings Capacity, White

  • Portable Dishwasher on Wheels - Holds up to 8 Standard Place Settings
  • Low Water Consumption
  • Easy to Connect to any Kitchen Tap
  • Resistant Stainless Steel Interior
  • Fits under most kitchen cabinets
3
SPT SD-9263W 18″ Wide Portable Dishwasher with ENERGY STAR, 6 Wash Programs, 8 Place Settings and Stainless Steel Tub – White

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

SPT SD-9263W 18″ Wide Portable Dishwasher with ENERGY STAR, 6 Wash Programs, 8 Place Settings and Stainless Steel Tub – White

  • SD-9263W: 18″ Energy Star Portable Dishwasher - WHITE
  • Capacity: 8 place setting
  • 6 Wash programs: Heavy, Normal, Eco, Glass, 90 Min, Rapid
  • Stainless Steel Interior
  • Rinse Aid Warning Indicator: refill reminder on rinse aid
4
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 4.7 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

  • 【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
  • 【FULLY EQUIPPED】The storage rack and cutlery basket make it easy to clean ''top rack only'' dishwasher safe items such as knives, forks, and spoons, leaving more space for dishes and small pots; lower and upper spray arms give dishes a streak-free deep cleaning, and the included fruit basket stores fruits and vegetables neatly and cleans them
  • 【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
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

Rating is 4.6 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.
  • 【Speed Program】- Only takes you 45 minutes to get all dishes cleaned, perfect for hurry-up situations, like holding a multi-round party. Accompanied with Energy Star compliant, water consumption can be as low as 2.77 gallons of water, which greatly saves your costs.
6
SPT SD-2224DS ENERGY STAR Compact Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start - Portable Dishwasher with Stainless Steel Interior and 6 Place Settings Rack Silverware Basket, Silver

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

SPT SD-2224DS ENERGY STAR Compact Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start - Portable Dishwasher with Stainless Steel Interior and 6 Place Settings Rack Silverware Basket, Silver

  • 7 wash cycles: Heavy, normal, light, mini party, rinse, speed and soak
  • Delay start for added convenience : Two, four, six or eight hours
  • Universal faucet adapter and Quick Connect: For quick and easy connection to most kitchen faucets
  • Electronic controls with LED display : LED displays remaining time or current running state
  • Water supply warning indicator and rinse aid warning indicator
  • energy guide capacity: 203
  • installation type: Counter Top
  • material type: Iron
  • form factor: Stand Alone
  • controls type: Full Panel
7
SPT SD-6513SS 24″ Wide Portable Stainless Steel Dishwasher with ENERGY STAR, 6 Wash Programs, 10 Place Settings and Stainless Steel Tub

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

SPT SD-6513SS 24″ Wide Portable Stainless Steel Dishwasher with ENERGY STAR, 6 Wash Programs, 10 Place Settings and Stainless Steel Tub

  • Time Delay Feature
  • Error Alarm
  • Rinse Aid Warning Indicator
  • Stainless Steel Interior
  • Quiet Operations: at 52dBA
  • Capacity: Up to 10 standard plate settings
  • 6 wash Programs: Heavy, Normal, Rapid, Eco, Glass, and 90 Min
  • 2 Racks
  • Automatic Dispensers
  • Energy Star
8
SPT SD-9263SS 18″ Wide Portable Stainless Steel Dishwasher with ENERGY STAR, 6 Wash Programs, 8 Place Settings and Stainless Steel Tub

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

SPT SD-9263SS 18″ Wide Portable Stainless Steel Dishwasher with ENERGY STAR, 6 Wash Programs, 8 Place Settings and Stainless Steel Tub

9
Midea MDF18A1AST Built-in Dishwasher with 8 Place Settings, 6 Washing Programs, Stainless Steel Tub, Heated Dry, Energy Star

Rating is 4.2 out of 5

Midea MDF18A1AST Built-in Dishwasher with 8 Place Settings, 6 Washing Programs, Stainless Steel Tub, Heated Dry, Energy Star

  • 【Slimline Design with Large Capacity】The Midea built-in dishwasher boasts a slim body that takes up minimal space and is easy to fit. It features a digital control panel with an LED display and has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate larger plates, pots, and pans up to 11 inches in height.
  • 【8 Place Settings Dishwasher】With dimensions of 24.41"D x 17.72"W x 33.27"H with adjustable legs, this under sink dishwasher provides a spacious and flexible interior for maximum dishware loading.
  • 【6 programs+3 functions】The 18-inch dishwasher offers six programs, including Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, and Rinse washing programs. It also features Heated Dry, Hi-Temp, and Sanitize functions that meet all your daily needs. Note: ONLY use detergent specially for dishwasher because regular liquid dish soap will cause dishwasher problems.
  • 【Heated Dry】Smart dishwasher ensures the best drying performance. The extra drying function offers a thorough drying performance (except for the Rapid and Self-clean cycle) with no additional towel drying required.
  • 【HI TEMP】The HYGIENE wash cycle maintains the water temperature at 136°F (58°C) max , which can tackle even the heaviest soiled dishes. It is also suitable for cleaning baby bottles and children's dinner sets.
10
BLACK+DECKER Portable Dishwasher, 18 inches Wide, 8 Place Setting, White

Rating is 4.1 out of 5

BLACK+DECKER Portable Dishwasher, 18 inches Wide, 8 Place Setting, White

  • IMPRESSIVE CAPACITY: This 18” portable dishwasher thoroughly cleans up to 8 place settings in each wash cycle. Your dinner plates, cups, saucers, bowls and utensils will stay dirt-free and sparkling thanks to this durable stainless steel (16.3” x 20.5” x 26.15”) tub. Silverware basket included so your forks, knives and spoons remain immaculate. This portable dishwasher on wheels does the scrubbing for you with an adjustable top rack to accommodate taller dishes.
  • EASY SETUP: No need for direct plumbing or permanent installation with this portable dishwashing machine. The Quick Connect assembly links right to your faucet with a 59” hose. Interior spray arms located in the upper and lower part of small dishwasher with a hot water temperature of 140° Fahrenheit. Child lock guarantees optimal safety when dishwasher machine is on.
  • MULTIPLE WASH CYCLES: This BLACK+DECKER portable dish washer comes with 6 superior wash cycles: Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, 90-min & Rapid. An easy-to-read LED display with trouble-free push button allows you to begin cleaning in no time. Fully equipped with detergent dispenser and low rise aid indicator. Delay Start function allows you to wash plates, utensils, bowls and cups with the touch of your fingertips and on your own schedule.
  • WORKTOP VERSATILITY: When your dish washer isn’t scrubbing your favorite dishes, it can double as a trendy kitchen island and worktop counter. When not in use, make the most of this stainless steel dishwasher by utilizing it to store kitchen appliances or even as a culinary work station.
  • WORKTOP VERSATILITY: When your dish washer isn’t scrubbing your favorite dishes, it can double as a trendy kitchen island and worktop counter. When not in use, make the most of this stainless steel dishwasher by utilizing it to store kitchen appliances or even as a culinary work station.


What is the connection between a faulty timer and drainage issues in a portable dishwasher?

A faulty timer in a portable dishwasher can cause drainage issues because it may not properly regulate the length of each cycle. If the timer is not functioning correctly, it may not allow enough time for the dishwasher to fully drain water from the tub before moving on to the next step in the cycle. This can result in water remaining in the dishwasher and not draining properly, leading to issues with cleanliness and potential damage to the dishwasher. Therefore, a faulty timer can be directly linked to drainage problems in a portable dishwasher.


What is the purpose of the dishwasher cycle selector in relation to drainage?

The purpose of the dishwasher cycle selector in relation to drainage is to allow the user to choose the appropriate wash cycle for the dishes being cleaned. Each wash cycle has a specific duration and intensity of water flow, which determines how thoroughly the dishes are cleaned. The cycle selector also controls the drainage system by determining when and how the dirty water is drained from the dishwasher after the wash cycle is complete. By selecting the correct cycle, the user can ensure that the dishes are cleaned effectively and efficiently, and that the drainage system functions properly to remove the dirty water.


How to troubleshoot a faulty drain solenoid in a portable dishwasher?

  1. Check if the drain solenoid is receiving power by testing it with a multimeter. If it is not receiving power, check the wiring and connections to ensure they are secure and not damaged.
  2. Inspect the drain solenoid for any visible signs of damage or corrosion. If the solenoid is visibly damaged, it will likely need to be replaced.
  3. Check the drain solenoid for any blockages or obstructions that may be preventing it from opening or closing properly. Clear any debris or clogs that you find.
  4. Test the drain solenoid by manually applying power to it to see if it opens and closes properly. If it does not, it may need to be replaced.
  5. If the drain solenoid is still not working properly after these troubleshooting steps, consider seeking professional help or contacting the manufacturer for further assistance.


How to manually remove excess water from a portable dishwasher with drainage issues?

  1. Turn off the portable dishwasher and unplug it from the power source to ensure your safety.
  2. Open the dishwasher door and carefully remove any dishes or items inside.
  3. Use a towel or sponge to absorb as much excess water as possible from the bottom of the dishwasher.
  4. Look for the drainage hose and disconnect it from the sink or drainage system. Allow any remaining water to drain out into a bucket or sink.
  5. Use a wet/dry vacuum to suction out any remaining water from the dishwasher. Make sure to carefully reach all areas of the dishwasher to remove as much water as possible.
  6. Once all excess water has been removed, reattach the drainage hose and securely connect it to the sink or drainage system.
  7. Plug the dishwasher back in and turn it on to see if the drainage issue has been resolved. If not, you may need to troubleshoot further or seek professional assistance.


What is the best way to address unusual sounds coming from the drain pump in a portable dishwasher?

The best way to address unusual sounds coming from the drain pump in a portable dishwasher is to first try to identify the cause of the problem. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue:

  1. Check for any obstructions: Remove the dishwasher's filter and check for any debris or obstructions that may be causing the drain pump to make unusual noises.
  2. Clean the drain pump: If you don't find any obstructions, clean the drain pump by removing any buildup of dirt or residue that may be causing it to make noise.
  3. Check the drain hose: Inspect the drain hose for any kinks, clogs, or damage that may be impacting the drain pump's performance. Make sure the hose is securely connected and not leaking.
  4. Tighten the mounting screws: If the drain pump is loose, it can cause vibrations and noise while running. Check to see if the mounting screws are loose and tighten them if necessary.
  5. Test the dishwasher: Run a cycle with no dishes to see if the noise persists. If the noise continues, it may be a sign that the drain pump is malfunctioning and needs to be replaced.


If you are unable to resolve the issue on your own, it may be best to contact a professional appliance repair technician for further assistance.


What is the best way to clean the filter in a portable dishwasher?

The best way to clean the filter in a portable dishwasher is to remove it from the dishwasher and rinse it under hot running water to remove any food particles or debris that may be stuck in it. You can also use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub the filter gently if needed. Be sure to clean the filter regularly, ideally once a month, to ensure that your dishwasher continues to run efficiently.

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