Newly installed garbage disposal will not drain dishwasher water; dishwasher backs up into sink.

Safety First: Turn OFF power to the disposal and dishwasher. Do not run the dishwasher until the issue is corrected.

Step-by-step:

• 1. Confirm new installation: This issue commonly occurs right after installing a new KitchenAid disposal.
• 2. Check dishwasher inlet: Disconnect the dishwasher drain hose from the disposal's side inlet. Shine a flashlight into the inlet; if you see a solid plastic disk, the knockout plug is still in place.
• 3. Remove knockout plug: Insert a flat screwdriver into the inlet and tap gently with a hammer to knock out the plug. Retrieve the loose plug from inside the disposal chamber with tongs.
• 4. Reconnect hose: Reattach the dishwasher drain hose and secure it with a clamp. Ensure the hose has a high loop or air gap as required by local code.
• 5. Test: Run the dishwasher through a drain cycle and verify that water flows through the disposal and out the drain.

When to call a technician: If the knockout plug cannot be removed cleanly or the inlet is damaged, professional assistance may be needed.