KitchenAid's F9 E1 code means a long drain. The common causes, in order: a clogged filter (clean it under running water), a new garbage disposal with the knockout plug still in, a clogged disposal or air gap, a kinked drain hose, or too many suds from using regular dish soap. If all of those are clear, the drain pump or its check valve has likely failed.
Step 1: Clean the filter (most common fix)
Most KitchenAid dishwashers built in roughly the last decade use a manual filter instead of a self-cleaning grinder. It's quieter and more efficient — but it needs regular cleaning, and many owners don't know it's there. A clogged filter causes standing water, poor cleaning and bad odors.
- Remove the lower rack.
- Twist the upper filter assembly (usually a quarter turn counterclockwise) and lift it out, then remove the lower filter.
- Rinse both under running water. Use a soft brush for greasy buildup — don't use a wire brush or scouring pad.
- Reinstall, making sure the arrows line up and the filter locks. A loose filter lets debris reach the pump.
KitchenAid suggests cleaning the filter regularly; for most households every month or two is about right, more often if you don't pre-rinse.
Step 2: Check the rest of the drain path
| Check | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Garbage disposal | Run it to clear it. If it's new, confirm the knockout plug on the dishwasher inlet was removed during installation. |
| Air gap (the small cap on the sink deck, if you have one) | Remove the cover and clean out debris. Water spilling from it during drain is a sure sign of a clog. |
| Drain hose | Look under the sink for kinks or a hose that's been crushed by stored items. |
| Detergent | Regular dish soap causes a flood of suds that can stop draining. Use only dishwasher detergent. |
| Power reset | Switch off the breaker for 30 seconds to reset the control, then run a Drain or Cancel/Drain. |
When it's the drain pump
If the filter, disposal, air gap and hose are all clear and water still won't leave the tub, listen during the drain portion of the cycle:
- Humming but no water movement — something (glass shard, fruit pit, label) is jamming the pump impeller.
- No sound at all — the pump motor, its wiring or the control may have failed.
- Drains, then water flows back in — the check valve or the drain hose loop/air gap setup is at fault.
Drain pump replacement is one of the most common dishwasher repairs we make, and it's usually a single visit.
Dishes still dirty or cloudy?
Poor cleaning and poor draining often share a cause — the filter. Beyond that:
- Spray arms: remove them and clear clogged holes with a toothpick.
- Hard water: white film on glasses is mineral scale. Tri-Cities water is hard enough that rinse aid makes a visible difference, and a monthly dishwasher cleaner or citric-acid cycle helps keep spray arms and the heater clear.
- Hot water: run the kitchen tap until it's hot before starting a cycle, so the dishwasher starts with hot water.
- Loading: big pans on the bottom rack can block the spray arm or detergent dispenser.
Is it worth repairing a KitchenAid dishwasher?
Usually, yes. KitchenAid dishwashers are well-built, and drain pumps, door latches, inlet valves and float switches are reasonably priced repairs. A control board or wash motor failure on an older unit is a closer call — we'll give you an honest recommendation before any work starts.
Still standing water after cleaning the filter?
Then the pump, its check valve or the drain routing needs a closer look. We repair KitchenAid dishwashers in Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, West Richland and Benton City and carry the pumps that fail most often.
Our full dishwasher service is described on the Dishwasher Repair page.
KitchenAid dishwasher FAQ
What does F9 E1 mean on a KitchenAid dishwasher?
F9 E1 is a long-drain error: the dishwasher isn't draining in the expected time. Clean the filter, run the disposal, clear the air gap, check the drain hose for kinks, and reset power for 30 seconds. If it continues, the drain pump likely needs service.
Where is the filter on a KitchenAid dishwasher?
On most recent models it's in the bottom of the tub under the lower spray arm. Remove the lower rack, twist the upper filter a quarter turn counterclockwise, lift it out, and remove the lower filter beneath it.
Why is there standing water in the bottom of my KitchenAid dishwasher?
A clogged filter is the most common cause, followed by a clogged garbage disposal or air gap, a kinked drain hose, and a failed drain pump. A small amount of water around the sump after a cycle is normal on some models.
How much does dishwasher repair cost in the Tri-Cities?
We don't post prices because parts prices swing several-fold between brands, models and suppliers. Our office quotes the diagnostic fee on the phone when you schedule, and it's folded into the repair you go ahead with. Our technician tests the dishwasher and gives you a single price on paper before anything is taken apart; nothing starts until you say yes.
Do you repair KitchenAid dishwashers in Pasco and Kennewick?
Yes — KitchenAid dishwashers across Pasco, Kennewick, Richland, West Richland and Benton City, with a written repair warranty.