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To create a siphon break and remove any chance of dirty sink water or water that backs up into the sink from getting into your dishwasher, your dishwasher drain hose needs to have a high loop or an air gap device as part of its installation. All building codes require at least a high loop. In many places, it’s necessary to install an air gap device to meet the code.

The frequency for cleaning your dishwasher filter depends on your usage habits. If you run the dishwasher daily and don't scrape or rinse dishes before loading, you should clean the filter about once a month. For those who use it only once or twice a week and rinse items beforehand, cleaning it every three to six months may be sufficient. A clear sign that your filter needs cleaning is a musty smell, even after a wash cycle. Regularly cleaning the filter is important to prevent food buildup and clogging over time. It can be helpful to add this maintenance task to your calendar to stay on schedule.

To get rid of standing water in your dishwasher, first try activating the drain mechanism by pressing and holding the cancel button for at least three seconds. If that doesn’t work, you’ll need to do some troubleshooting to drain the standing water from the dishwasher. This will involve shutting off the power, then scooping out the water, cleaning the drain filter, and clearing the air gap. You’ll also want to run the garbage disposal and check the drain hose for clogs.

Some signs that your dishwasher is going out include:

• The door no longer latches 

• Dishes are still dirty after a cycle 

• Dishes are cold after a cycle 

• Rust inside or outside the unit 

• Cracks inside the dishwasher tub

• Water collecting at the bottom or outside the unit

If your dishwasher is not energy-efficient or is older than 10 years, you should also consider replacing it. Repairing an older model may be more expensive than replacing it with something newer and more energy- or water-efficient.