No draining

I resently moved into a house that has a dishwasher. I've never used one before and found it would not drain.

After over looking the obvious i found a blanking plug where the drain hose connects to the sink.

Moral: DONT take things for granted!

Following a cycle, a small pool of clean water inside the tub is typical. Excessive water means the pump isn't pumping water out properly, the drain hose isn't carrying it to the drain pipe, or the house's drain lines are backed up. If dirty water spews from the air gap, the drain line is kinked or clogged. Note: If you've recently installed a garbage disposal, be sure the knockout plug for the dishwasher was removed when the connection was made (see your disposal instructions).

1) Remove the cover from the air gap at the top of the sink (usually a short chrome domed cylinder that sits at the back of the sink) and, using a wire, clean it. Also check the entire length of the drain hose for kinks and blockages, especially at the drain connection to the disposer or drain line.

2) Once the dishwasher is cool, shut off the power to it, and--if your dishwasher is made to allow this-- remove the strainer, located under the bottom spray arm at the base of the cabinet (see illustration). Unscrew the hubcap, lift the spray arm off, and remove any clips that hold the strainer to get it out. Scrub it clean with a brush, then replace it.

3) Determine whether the sink trap or house drain line is clogged.

4) If it still doesn't drain properly, the drain hose may be clogged or the drain valve may need replacement. At this point, it's usually best to call a repairperson. You can check the drain hose for obstructions, but this sometimes involves pulling the dishwasher out from under your counter to access the hose, disconnecting the hose at both ends, and flushing it out with a faucet or garden hose.

I have had a faulty waste water pump on this d/washer

Possibly the drain solenoid?? When the cycle changes and its time for the water to drain out is it supposed to stay down throughout the process?? Mine clicks down and immediatly back up!

You have been a great help, but when we pulled the drain cover off it was covered in a gross black mold about 1/4 inch thick! how do we prevent this problem reoccurring and what is it? Thank you, the Carlson's.