The plumbing throughout your home is all interconnected. This can cause drainage issues and backflow problems, including water draining from your sink into your dishwasher. When this occurs, it’s important to fix it right away.
If you notice dirty water in your dishwasher without having run the system, your sink is draining into the unit. With the right troubleshooting, you may be able to fix the problem on your own.
Troubleshooting Tips
It can be easier than you might think to troubleshoot your sink draining into the dishwasher. Here are a few common causes of this problem:
Drain Hose Loop Is Too High
Every dishwasher needs a way to drain water out to the sink plumbing. This requires a drain hose loop that runs from the dishwasher to the sink drain. If this loop is too high, you could experience a backflow issue.
Look under your sink to find the drain hose loop. If it’s too high up, move it downward and see if this resolves the backflow issue.
Clogged Dishwasher Drain Line
A common problem for many homeowners is a clogged dishwasher drain line. Over time, food debris can collect within the line and cause issues. When this is the case, cleaning out the drain line with a brush can push the debris through the line, unclogging the pipe.
Garbage Disposal Clog
Another common cause is a clog is within the garbage disposal. These units collect a lot of food debris and can become clogged over time. Tools and cleaners can be used to break down food residue so the clog can be cleared fully.
To avoid garbage disposal clogs, be sure to avoid putting large pieces of food and solid food down the garbage disposal. These can’t be fully broken down by the unit.
Clogged Kitchen Drain
A common clog within your kitchen drain is another possible cause of sink water filling the dishwasher. If you can, remove the P-trap from your drain and clear it out. This is the most likely area where the clog could be blocking the line and causing issues.
DIY Tips To Clear Clogs
When a clog is causing issues with your kitchen sink, it’s crucial to carefully try to clear out the line. A few actions you can take include:
- Pouring baking soda and vinegar down the line: The reaction between baking soda and vinegar could help break down any debris stuck inside the drain.
- Using a shop vac to remove the clog: A powerful suction could pull the clog out and remove it from the line.
- Using a drain snake: A drain snake could push a clog down the line and clear the path quickly.
- Using a plunger: Plunging the drain could pull the debris closer to the top of the drain, where it can be removed.
Always be careful when trying to resolve clogs within your plumbing. If these tips don’t work, it’s time to call for plumbing repair.
Call Masters For Kitchen Plumbing Repair
No matter what’s wrong with your kitchen plumbing, Masters Heating & Cooling can help. We have the best tools and the required experience to get to the bottom of the problem. From upfront prices, financing options, and special discounts, turn to the pros at Masters.
Leave all your plumbing problems to local experts. Contact Masters now to schedule drain services in Southern MI and Northern IN.
