How to Clean Dishwasher Drain Hose With Easy Steps

A dishwasher drain hose is a device that connects to the air and plays a crucial role in ensuring that your dishwasher drains well. If this device is not in good shape (clogged) then your best dishwasher will not drain, thus, making it less efficient. A dishwasher drain hose usually gets clogged as a result of grease build-up, food debris, and more. When the dishwasher drain hose is clogged, most people usually try to unlock it using chemical products. However, this technique is usually not effective because the solution is short-term. The most effective way of cleaning a dishwasher drain hose is by removing the drain hose from your dishwasher, then clean to unclog it. This way, it will not block again anytime soon. In this article, we will give you step by step process on how to clean a dishwasher drain hose.

Step 1: Disconnect the Dishwasher from the Power Supply

Before you start the cleaning process, the first important thing to do is disconnect the countertop dishwasher from the power supply. This is important because it will protect you from electrocution. Also, turn off the water connection from the main water supply.

Step 2: Disconnect the Drain Hose from Your Dishwasher

Once you have disconnected the power and water supply from the dishwasher, the next process is disconnecting the drain hose from your dishwasher. This process is simple. Use a screwdriver to loosen the drain hose clamp then disconnect the drain hose. If the drain hose has water, drain it before you proceed with the cleaning process. Gently disconnect the drain hose by loosening the clamp then pull it out.

Step 3: Clean the Drain Hose

Once the drain hose is out, clean it thoroughly using a damp cloth. Use a stick or wire to remove hard to remove debris that is stuck inside. Use warm water to remove hard to remove stains and debris.

Step 4: Reconnect the Drain Hose

Once you have unclogged the drain hose, reconnect it to the dishwasher then reconnect both the water supply and electricity.

How to Clean Dishwasher Drain Hose Not Removing It

You can also clean the dishwasher drain hose no need to removing it from the dishwasher. Although this method is not effective as removing the drain hose from your dishwasher before cleaner, this process is much easier and faster thus recommended for people who have a tight schedule and don’t have time to remove the drain hose dishwasher before cleaning. Below is a simple step-by-step of how to clean the drain hose without removing it from the dishwasher.

Step 1: Remove Dishes Inside if Any

If you had placed dishes in the dishwasher, remove them first before you start the cleaning process. You will clean them once you are done cleaning the drain hose. Also, make sure that you have turned off the dishwater from the main power supply.

Step 2: Prepare a Vinegar and Baking Soda Solution

The next process is to prepare a solution of vinegar & baking soda. Prepare this solution in the ratio of 1:1. Pour this solution on the dishwasher basket & let it sit for about 10 minutes. Pour water into the mixture to loosen the clog, then run a rinse cycle.

What to Avoid

Most people usually use a Drano to unclog their dishwasher drain hose. If you usually do this too, stop because you are doing more harm than good. Drano is made of sodium hydroxide which could damage your dishwasher drain hose which is made of plastic. The reason why using Drano is not recommended is because the plastic used in the drain hose is not thick as the ones used in showers and sinks and can easily damage it.

Another reason why you should not use Drano when cleaning your dishwasher drain hose is that some of the chemicals will remain in the drain pump and find their way into your dishes, which is something you don’t want. To avoid this, don’t use Drano.

Tips on how to prevent your drain hose from clogging

• Run Your Garbage Disposal Before Using the Dishwasher

One of the way best ways to prevent your drain hose from clogging is to run your garbage disposal before you start using the dishwasher. This will help clear the drain thus preventing your drain hose from clogging.

• Remove Food Particles From Your Dishes Before Tossing Them in the Dishwasher

Another way to prevent your drain hose from clogging is by removing food particles from the dishes before you toss them in the dishwasher. In most cases, the drain hose usually gets clogged by large food remains that get stuck in the drain hose. You can easily prevent this by removing food particles from your dishes before loading them on the dishwasher.

• Only Use Your Dishwasher When it is Necessary

Using your dishwasher frequently also increases the chance of clogging the drain hose. To prevent this, it is recommended that you use your dishwasher only when it is necessary. For instance, wait until the dishwasher is full. Don’t run your dishwasher while on half load.

Cleaning your double drawer dishwasher drain hose regularly is crucial. It will help prevent clogging as well as boost your dishwasher efficiency. So ensure that you clean regularly to keep it clean.