What is the function of a drain pump in a dishwasher?

The function of a drain pump in a dishwasher is to remove wastewater from the appliance during the wash cycle. After the dishwasher has completed its wash cycle, it needs to effectively drain the dirty water that has circulated through the washing process. The drain pump is specifically designed to facilitate this process by pumping the wastewater out of the unit and into the household plumbing.

When the dishwasher operates, it fills with clean water to wash the dishes, and once the cleaning process is complete, the drain pump activates. This action helps to ensure that the dishwasher can continue to operate efficiently in subsequent cycles without the risk of dirty water stagnating inside the appliance. Proper drainage is also essential for preventing blockages and maintaining overall hygiene within the dishwasher.

The other options pertain to different functions. Increasing water pressure is not the role of a drain pump, while filling the dishwasher with water and heating water are performed by other components, namely the water inlet valve and the heating element, respectively. Understanding the specific function of each component in a dishwasher helps in diagnosing issues and performing effective repairs.