How to Fix Amana Dishwasher Error 8-1

Amana Dishwasher Error 8-1 overlay image

⚠️ Safety Warning: Appliance repair involves electricity, gas, and moving parts. Always disconnect power before working on any appliance.

Error Code: 8-1 Difficulty: Hard

Problem: Slow drain.

⚖️ Repair Decision
⚠️ CHECK WARRANTY / AGE

$100 – $250 Range

How to Fix 8-1 Error (Step-by-Step)

  1. Disconnect Power and Water: Shut off the power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker and turn off the water supply valve, usually located under the sink.
  2. Check for Simple Clogs: Remove and clean the dishwasher’s filter at the bottom of the tub. Check the drain hose for any visible kinks or blockages.
  3. Access the Drain Pump: Remove the lower access panel. The drain pump (Part No. W11087376) is located at the bottom of the dishwasher.
  4. Disconnect the Old Pump: Place a towel under the pump to catch any residual water. Disconnect the wire harness and the hoses from the pump.
  5. Remove Old Pump: Unclip or unscrew the old drain pump from its housing and remove it.
  6. Install New Pump: Mount the new drain pump in place and reconnect the hoses and the electrical connector.
  7. Reassemble and Test: Reattach the access panel, restore power and water, and run a drain cycle to check for leaks and proper function.
  8. Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

What to Check Next on This Amana Dishwasher

Focused repair path: dishwasher fill, drain, wash motor, heating, leak, sensor, and control checks. Do not treat a returning fault as a reset-only problem; use the point in the cycle where the fault appears to choose the next check.

  1. Disconnect power before opening panels, then confirm the door latch, float, inlet valve, drain path, and harness connections are seated.
  2. Match the timing of the failure to the likely path: fill, wash circulation, drain, heat, leak detection, or control communication.
  3. Clear debris from filters, sump areas, spray arms, and the drain loop before treating the fault as a failed board.
  4. If a part is suspected, verify voltage or continuity where appropriate and match the complete Amana dishwasher model number before ordering.

Check, inspect, clean, test, measure, remove, reconnect, clear, and replace parts only when the symptom supports that path. If these checks point toward a part, verify the complete Amana model number from the appliance tag before ordering. Similar error wording can use different valves, sensors, pumps, motors, heaters, locks, switches, fans, or control boards depending on the exact model.

Recommended Replacement Part

OEM Part #: W11087376

Estimated Market Price: $157-$191

Check Price & Availability →

When It’s Better to Replace Than Repair

Dishwasher repairs can add up quickly when the pump, control, heater, or leak-related parts fail.
Confirm cabinet width, water line, drain routing, electrical connection, and panel style before ordering.
For repair parts, verify exact fit with the full dishwasher model number before buying; these links are general replacement-appliance shopping options.

  • [OK]Drain pump or circulation pump failure
  • [OK]Leaking tub, door, or float-switch issues
  • [OK]Heater or control failures on an older unit
  • [OK]Repeated poor washing or drying performance

Recommended Dishwasher Replacement Options

Built-In Dishwashers

Standard 24-Inch Models

  • Common under-counter replacement size
  • Check height, width, and toe-kick clearance
  • Match hardwire or cord connection requirements

Shop Built-In Dishwashers

Compact Options

18-Inch and Small-Space Models

  • Useful for narrow cabinets
  • Confirm ADA or compact dimensions
  • Verify panel and handle clearance

Compare Compact Dishwashers

Portable and Countertop

No Built-In Cabinet Cutout

  • Good for rentals or limited cabinets
  • Confirm faucet adapter compatibility
  • Measure counter or storage space

View Portable Dishwashers

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Still Not Working?
If the replacement part didn’t fix the issue, you may have a wiring problem or main board failure.

💬 Chat with a Certified Technician Now

Most DIY parts are $50–$250. If you have a quote, use the total.
More options (for a better recommendation)

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Expert: Mike Sullivan

EPA Section 608 Certified Technician with 18+ years experience.

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Browse all Amana error codes: Amana Error Codes

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