Draining your dishwasher using a button typically involves activating a specific cycle, often labeled "Cancel" or "Drain."
How to Drain Your Dishwasher with the Cancel Button
The most common way to initiate a drain cycle using a button is by interrupting the current operation or selecting a dedicated drain function.
According to the reference, a standard method to activate the draining mechanism is to press and hold the cancel button for at least three seconds—or the amount indicated—on your dishwasher's control panel. This action signals the dishwasher to stop its current cycle and pump out any standing water.
Step-by-Step Process
Follow these steps to drain your dishwasher using the cancel or drain button:
- Locate the Button: Find the "Cancel," "Drain," or "Start/Cancel" button on your dishwasher's control panel. The label might vary depending on your model.
- Press and Hold: Press and hold the cancel button for at least three seconds. Check your dishwasher's manual if a different duration is specified.
- Listen for Drainage: The dishwasher should start its drain pump, and you will hear the sound of water being pumped out.
- Wait for Completion: Allow the dishwasher to complete the drainage process.
- Check Inside: Once the drainage sound completes, and your dishwasher shuts off, check the inside of the unit for standing water.
What to Expect During Drainage
When you activate the drain function via a button, the dishwasher's drain pump engages. This pump forces water out through the drain hose, usually connected to your kitchen sink plumbing or a dedicated drain line. The process is relatively quick, typically lasting only a minute or two.
As noted in the reference, "Once the drainage sound completes, and your dishwasher shuts off, check the inside of the unit for standing water." If water remains, there might be a clog or issue with the drain pump or hose.
Why Use the Drain Button?
There are several reasons you might need to manually drain your dishwasher using a button:
- Stopping a Cycle: If you need to remove items mid-cycle or realize you loaded something incorrectly.
- Resetting the Machine: Draining can be part of a troubleshooting process to clear errors or reset the system.
- Removing Standing Water: To get rid of water left in the bottom of the tub after a cycle failure or power outage.
Here is a simple overview:
| Action | Typical Result |
|---|---|
| Press & Hold Cancel/Drain Button | Activates Drain Pump |
| Drain Pump Runs | Water Empties from Tub |
| Cycle Completes / Dishwasher Off | Drainage Finishes |
By pressing and holding the appropriate button, you can effectively command your dishwasher to drain its contents, providing a quick solution in various situations.
