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skugler
Nov 16, 2013, 10:48 AM
I have a 1 year old Whirlpool dishwasher that when I start it, a rotten egg smell emits from the disposal. The smell is only present when the dishwasher is started, not during the cycle or any other time. I don't know if I should call the plumber who installed it during our kitchen remodel last year or call the dishwasher repairperson. I have not run bleach or vinegar through yet but I will. From what I have read, previous posts showed that the problem was not completely fixed by bleach. I want to figure out what the problem is, especially since I can narrow the smell to only when it starts and the smell comes from the disposal opening. Thank you in advance for any help.

hkstroud
Nov 16, 2013, 11:52 AM
Do you have an air gap for the dishwasher?

skugler
Nov 16, 2013, 02:03 PM
How do I find out if I have an "air gap?"

hkstroud
Nov 16, 2013, 03:31 PM
Air gap is a chrome vent usually on the rear corner of the sink. Dishwasher water is pumped to the air gap, then runs down to the disposal. This keeps sewage water out of the dishwasher.

If you do not have an air gap the dishwasher hose must be fasten to the under side of the counter top and then run down to the disposal. Otherwise sewage water from the disposal will run down into the dish washer. This is call a high loop.