The filter is an integral part of a dishwasher.
If it is not kept in good shape, this can have a significant impact on how well the dishwasher functions both over the short and long run.
A common question people have is – can you run a dishwasher without the filter?
Yes, you can run a dishwasher without the filter. However, extended use with such a setup will cause significant stress on the recirculation pump. Once damaged, the pump can be expensive to replace.
This is why it is best to keep the filter in good condition and installed when running a dishwasher.
The longer you keep using the dishwasher without a filter, the riskier it gets.
This is a risk you should not be taking.
Here is a look at what happens when you use a dishwasher without the filter inside.
Table of Contents
Best Dishwasher Cleaner (EDITOR’S CHOICE)
No products found.
Reasons To Not Use Dishwasher Without Filter
1. Can Damage The Recirculation Pump
When a dishwasher filter is removed, the system is not going to run the same as it did before the part was taken out.
One of the most damaged parts, when this occurs, is the recirculation pump.
The recirculation pump will take a considerable amount of stress when the filter is not there. This might be okay for a few washes, but eventually, the machine is going to start giving up.
This creates a situation where the dishwasher filter being taken out is a mistake and causes added damage.
It is highly recommended to keep an eye on the recirculation pump if the dishwasher filter is not installed. Yes, the machine is going to operate when you turn it on, but you are also putting excessive pressure on the remaining components.
Depending on the appliance’s age, this might be a risk worth taking.
For a newer dishwasher, you should look to replace the filter as soon as possible. The recirculation pump is not cheap to replace, which means you are going to have a sizable bill on your hands.
Plus, you will still need to set up a filter again!

2. Can Become Noisy
A dishwasher with no filter can become noisy.
This happens because the water is not filtering as it needs to. This can reduce the amount of pressure that is applied, which can cause various components to overwork.
It will often depend on the internal components of a dishwasher but many users do report excessive noises when the filter is taken out.
This is a common sign to look out for when you are worried about the viability of an appliance.
3. Produces Inconsistent Washing
You will also have to think about washing.
The most important part of using a dishwasher is the washing. If it is not cleaning the dishes properly then what is the point of using it?
This is the first detail to contemplate over.
In general, inconsistent washing becomes a real concern in a situation such as this. The dishes in some parts of the appliance will simply not clean as well as they should.
This is why the filter just like any other component is important.
You will start to notice this the more you fill up a dishwasher. If you are going to run a dishwasher without a filter, it is best to have it half full. This will allow the dishes to rinse properly.

4. Demands Constant Maintenance
Let’s assume you use a dishwasher without the filter.
The main purpose is to keep the dishwasher running and that will only become a harder task without this component inside.
The filter not being there will put a tremendous amount of pressure on the recirculation pump. This is a part you are going to have to keep tabs on and maintain.
The amount of work you are going to have to put in will double.
This alone shows why it’s important to make sure the filter is in good shape.
Final Thoughts
Can you run the dishwasher without a filter?
You can run a dishwasher without the filter. However, this will put a tremendous amount of pressure on surrounding components including the recirculation pump. This pump is costly to repair and/or replace, which is why using a dishwasher with the filter is key.
You do not want to end up in a situation where the filter is still required but now it’s time to replace the pump too.
This is a cost you are not going to want to pay.
Keep things simple and maintain your filter. This will ensure the dishwasher continues to run the way it should and you don’t have to think about how effective the appliance is once it’s turned on.
Read More On Kitchens:
- What Makes A Dishwasher Get Stuck On The Floor?
- Does My Dishwasher Have A Filter?
- Why Is The Dishwasher Spray Arm Melting?
- Why Is The Dishwasher’s Top Spray Arm Refusing To Spin?
- Will Noritake China Stay Safe In A Dishwasher?
- Can The Dishwasher’s Drain Be Setup On The Floor?
- Can A Dishwasher Door Overextend When Opened?