How to Replace a Dishwasher Drain Pump

Editorially reviewedUpdated 2026-02-23

Overview: A failed drain pump is one of the most common dishwasher repairs and is well within DIY range for most people. Parts typically cost $20–$60 and the job takes 45–90 minutes. Here's how to do it safely.

Safety first

Disconnect power — turn off the circuit breaker or unplug the dishwasher before starting. Not optional.
Turn off the water supply valve under the sink.
Have a few towels ready — residual water will spill when you disconnect hoses.
Wear rubber gloves when reaching into the sump area — broken glass collects here.

Tools and parts you'll need

Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers
Torx T20 screwdriver (required on some Bosch models)
Needle-nose pliers
Shallow baking dish or tray (to catch water)
Replacement drain pump — order by model number (label is on the inner door edge)
Optional: multimeter to test pump motor before ordering

Step 1 — Access the pump

On most dishwashers, the drain pump is accessed from inside the tub (no need to pull the machine out):

Remove the lower dish rack.
Unscrew the lower spray arm — usually turns anti-clockwise, or lifts straight up.
Unscrew or unclip the filter assembly and remove it.
You should now see the pump cover/sump housing at the bottom of the tub.

On a small number of models (older Frigidaire, some GE), the pump is accessed from underneath. You'll need to lay the dishwasher on its back after disconnecting water and power.

Step 2 — Remove the pump cover

Locate the pump cover locking tabs (usually 2–3 tabs around the perimeter).
Press tabs in and rotate the cover anti-clockwise about 1/4 turn to unlock it — it should lift out.
With the cover removed, you can access the pump impeller. With no electrical power, the impeller should spin freely by hand. If it's jammed, clear the obstruction and test before buying a new pump.

Step 3 — Disconnect and remove the pump

Reach down to the underside of the pump assembly. You'll find 2–3 wire connectors — disconnect each by pressing the release tab and pulling firmly.
Twist the pump body anti-clockwise (usually 1/4 turn) to unlock it from the sump housing.
Pull the pump straight up or towards you to remove.
Note its orientation before fully removing — photograph it if needed.

Step 4 — Install the new pump

Verify the new pump matches the connector positions and mounting lugs of the old one.
Insert the new pump into the sump housing in the same orientation as the original.
Rotate clockwise until the locking tabs click into place.
Reconnect all wire connectors — each has a unique shape so they can only connect to the correct terminal.
Reinstall the pump cover, filter assembly, and spray arm.

Step 5 — Test the repair

Restore power and water supply.
Pour 1 litre of water into the bottom of the tub.
Run a short drain-only cycle or a Quick Wash to test draining.
Check under the dishwasher for any leaks while the pump runs.
If the machine drains cleanly and no error codes appear, the repair is complete.

How to confirm it's the pump and not the filter

Before ordering a new pump, rule out a clogged filter or obstructed impeller — these are free fixes:

Remove the filter and inspect it — if heavily clogged, clean it and retry before replacing the pump.
With power disconnected, reach into the sump and manually spin the pump impeller. If it's jammed by debris, clear it and test. If it spins freely but the drain cycle is still dead, the pump motor has likely failed.
A multimeter check of the pump motor (resistance should be 5–30 ohms) can confirm failure before ordering parts.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if it's the drain pump or the wash pump that's failed?

The drain pump runs briefly at the start and end of the cycle to remove water. The wash pump (circulation pump) runs throughout the wash to circulate water through the spray arms. If dishes come out dirty but draining is fine, suspect the wash pump. If water stays at the bottom, it's the drain pump.

How much does a dishwasher drain pump cost?

OEM parts: $40–$100. Aftermarket compatible pumps: $15–$50. Always order by model number to get the correct part.

Can I use my dishwasher with a partially working drain pump?

No — running a dishwasher that doesn't drain risks burning out the pump motor completely and can damage the control board. Stop using it until repaired.

My dishwasher hums but doesn't drain — is that the pump?

A humming sound with no water movement suggests the pump motor is running but the impeller is jammed — most likely by debris. Check for obstructions before replacing anything.