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A clogged air gap can cause a dishwasher not to drain. There are, however, other potential issues that can lead to improper drainage. For example, if you have attached the air gap to a garbage disposal and forgotten to remove the knockout plug, wastewater may backflow into the dishwasher. Check that the air gap is installed properly, and then look for clogs in the air gap and dishwasher filters. 

When deciding whether to repair or replace your dishwasher, consider its age, the repair cost, and its warranty status. It is often worth repairing a dishwasher if it is only a few years old, the problem is minor, or the appliance is still under warranty. A common guideline is the 50% rule: if the repair cost is less than 50% of the price of a new unit, a repair is generally recommended. However, if the dishwasher is more than 10 years old or requires frequent repairs, replacement is likely the more cost-effective choice to avoid future issues. For context, a new dishwasher costs between $1,000 and $1,500 on average, while typical repairs cost several hundred dollars. Simple fixes like a damaged gasket or clogged filter can be inexpensive, but major repairs like a new pump or motor can be costly.

Several signs can tip you off to a clogged dishwasher drain. At first, you may notice that it’s taking longer than usual for the dishwasher to drain, or you may hear gurgling sounds during the draining part of the cycle. You might also notice water backing up into your sink or excess food at the bottom of the dishwasher after a load. The most obvious sign, though, is seeing standing water at the bottom of your dishwasher after the cycle has finished.

Leaks, poor drainage, failure to start, water not heating, and excessive noise frequently require service.