Dishwasher Not Working? We Handle the Plumbing Side.
Leaks, drain problems, installation, and hookups — dishwasher plumbing throughout the Triad.
When Your Dishwasher Fails, Call a Plumber First
Not every dishwasher problem needs an appliance technician. If your dishwasher is leaking, not draining, or needs to be hooked up, that’s plumbing work — and that’s what we do.
All-Star Plumbing handles dishwasher plumbing throughout High Point, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and the Triad. We fix leaks, clear drain issues, install new dishwashers, and connect the water supply and drain lines properly.
If the problem is electrical (control panel, buttons, cycles) or mechanical (motor, pump internals, racks), you may need an appliance repair tech. But if water is involved — leaking, not draining, not filling. A plumber should be your first call.
Dishwasher Problems a Plumber Can Fix
Here’s what’s plumbing-related — and what we handle.
Dishwasher Is Leaking
- What it means:Could be supply line leak, drain hose leak, door seal failure, or connection issue at the garbage disposal or air gap.
- Plumber fix: We check supply lines, drain connections, and hoses. If the leak is from plumbing connections, we repair it. If it's the door gasket or internal pump, that's appliance repair.
- Why it matters: Even small leaks under a dishwasher cause floor damage and mold.
Dishwasher Won't Drain
- What it means: Clogged drain hose, blocked garbage disposal knockout plug, clogged air gap, or drain line obstruction.
- Plumber fix: We clear the drain path — hose, air gap, disposal connection, and drain line if needed.
- Note: If the pump isn't running at all, that's likely an appliance issue.
Water Backs Up Into Sink When Dishwasher Runs
- What it means: Drain line is shared with the sink and there's a blockage, or the air gap is clogged.
- Plumber fix: We clear the drain line and check the air gap. This is a common issue with a simple fix.
Dishwasher Won't Fill With Water
- What it means: Water supply valve is off, supply line is kinked, inlet valve is clogged or failed.
- Plumber fix: We check the supply valve and line. If it's open and the line is clear, the inlet valve may need replacing (sometimes plumber, sometimes appliance tech depending on setup).
Dishwasher Smells Bad
- What it means: Food buildup in drain area, clogged filter, or drain line issue allowing sewer gas back.
- Plumber fix: If the smell is sewer gas, it's likely a drain issue — missing high loop, failed air gap, or drain blockage. We fix the plumbing side.
- Note: If it's just food odor, cleaning the dishwasher filter and interior usually solves it.
New Dishwasher Needs Installation
- What it means: You bought a dishwasher and need it hooked up.
- Plumber fix: We connect the water supply, drain line, and ensure proper installation. Electrical connection may require an electrician if hardwired.
Do You Need a Plumber or an Appliance Tech?
Here’s a quick guide.
Call a Plumber (Us) For:
- ➟ Leaking from supply line, drain hose, or connections
- ➟ Won't drain (drain line or disposal connection issue)
- ➟ Water backing up into sink
- ➟ No water filling (supply valve or line issue)
- ➟ Sewer smell (drain/venting issue)
- ➟ New dishwasher installation and hookup
- ➟ Replacing supply line or drain hose
Call an Appliance Tech For:
- ➟ Control panel not working
- ➟ Buttons/cycles not responding
- ➟ Motor or pump not running (electrical/mechanical)
- ➟ Door latch broken
- ➟ Dishes not getting clean (spray arm, detergent dispenser)
- ➟ Error codes on display
- ➟ Internal leaks from pump or tub seals
Not Sure?
Call us. We’ll ask a few questions and tell you honestly whether it’s a plumbing issue or something for an appliance tech. If it’s not plumbing, we won’t waste your time or money.
Dishwasher Installation & Hookup
Bought a new dishwasher? Here’s what we do.
- New Installation (No Existing Dishwasher)
If you’re adding a dishwasher where there wasn’t one before, we:
- Run water supply line from hot water
- Install drain line connection (to disposal or drain tailpiece)
- Install air gap if required by code
- Position and level the dishwasher
- Test for leaks and proper drainage
- Replacement Installation
Replacing an old dishwasher with a new one:
- Remove and dispose of old unit
- Connect new unit to existing supply and drain
- Replace supply line (recommended with new install)
- Level and secure dishwasher
- Test for leaks and proper operation
Typical time: 1-2 hours
What Dishwasher Service Includes
- Dishwasher Repair (Plumbing Issues)
- Diagnose the plumbing problem
- Fix supply line leaks
- Clear or replace drain hose
- Clean or replace air gap
- Clear drain line obstructions
- Check and fix garbage disposal connection
- Test for proper drainage and no leaks
Typical time: 30-60 minutes
- Dishwasher Installation
- Position dishwasher in cabinet opening
- Connect water supply (new braided supply line recommended)
- Connect drain line to disposal or drain
- Install high loop or air gap per code
- Level and secure unit
- Run test cycle and check for leaks
- Haul away old dishwasher (if replacing)
Typical time: 1-2 hours
how can we help?
Related Services
Emergency Plumbing
24/7 emergency plumber service for leaks, backups, and sudden plumbing failures.
Drains & Sewer
Drain cleaning, sewer inspections, and water or sewer main repairs done efficiently.
Commercial
Business & industrial plumbing, backflow testing, excavation through High Point and the Triad.
Remodels
Plumbing upgrades and renovations for kitchens, bathrooms, and whole-home remodels.
Emergency Plumbing
24/7 emergency plumber service for leaks, backups, and sudden plumbing failures.
Water Heaters
Installation, repair, and maintenance for tank and tankless water heaters.
Repiping
Water lines, sewer lines, gas pipes, underground pipe repair
Leak Detection & Repair
Find and fix water leaks, slab leaks, pipe leaks
Drains & Sewer
Drain cleaning, sewer inspections, and water or sewer main repairs done efficiently.
Commercial
Business & industrial plumbing, backflow testing, excavation through High Point and the Triad.
Remodels
Plumbing upgrades and renovations for kitchens, bathrooms, and whole-home remodels.
Your Plumbing Problem, Solved in 3 Simple Steps!
Call and speak with a real person
No automated systems or call centers. When you call All-Star Plumbing, a real person answers 24/7, listens to the issue, and schedules help right away so you’re never waiting.
Get Clear Pricing Before Starting
Before any work begins, we explain the problem, walk you through your options, and give clear upfront pricing. You know the cost before we start, no surprises and no pressure.
We Fix the Problem
Our licensed plumbers arrive prepared to fix the issue correctly the first time. If we can’t fix it, you don’t pay. Simple, honest, and backed by our guarantee.
Call and speak with a real person
No automated systems or call centers. When you call All-Star Plumbing, a real person answers 24/7, listens to the issue, and schedules help right away so you’re never waiting.
Get Clear Pricing Before Starting
Before any work begins, we explain the problem, walk you through your options, and give clear upfront pricing. You know the cost before we start, no surprises and no pressure.
We Fix the Problem
Our licensed plumbers arrive prepared to fix the issue correctly the first time. If we can’t fix it, you don’t pay. Simple, honest, and backed by our guarantee.
Helpful Plumbing Tips From Local Experts
Our blog shares clear advice homeowners can use right away.
When Should You Replace Old Plumbing Fixtures?
What Causes Low Water Pressure in Your Home
Simple Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
When Should You Replace Old Plumbing Fixtures?
What Causes Low Water Pressure in Your Home
Simple Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
Locations and Areas Served
Plumber Service Company Serving the Entire Triad
Dishwasher Questions
How much does dishwasher installation cost?
Installation labor typically runs $150-$300 depending on complexity. Simple replacement is on the lower end. New installation with no existing connections costs more. We quote before starting.
Can you install a dishwasher I bought?
Yes. Buy the dishwasher you want, and we’ll install it. Just make sure it fits your cabinet opening — standard is 24 inches wide.
Why is my dishwasher leaking?
Common plumbing causes: loose or damaged supply line, cracked drain hose, failed connection at garbage disposal, or clogged air gap causing overflow. We find the source and fix it.
Why won't my dishwasher drain?
Usually a clogged drain hose, blocked air gap, or garbage disposal issue (knockout plug not removed on new disposals). We clear the blockage.
Do I need an air gap?
Code requirements vary. High loop (drain hose looped up under the counter) is often acceptable. Air gap (visible device on countertop) is required in some areas. We install per local code.
Can a plumber fix a dishwasher that won't start?
If it’s a water supply issue, yes. If it’s electrical or the control board, that’s appliance repair territory. Call us — we’ll help you figure out which it is.
How long does dishwasher installation take?
Replacement installation: 1-2 hours typical. New installation where none existed before may take longer if we need to run new supply and drain lines.