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Have you ever lived in a home without a dishwasher? Or had one break on you? Remember those labor-intensive days of washing dishes by hand? Arguments over who’s washing and who’s drying?
Now that you are fortunate enough to own a dishwasher keep yours in top running performance by doing some simple things. Learn how to inspect your dishwasher for issues and know when it’s time to contact a professional. Your dishwasher should last at least ten years, according to the experts. Here is a helpful guide to help your appliance reach, and possibly even exceed, its target life span.
Clean the Filter
Every dishwasher is different, so consult your manufacturer’s instructions if removing the lower rack does not expose the filter. Turn the filter counterclockwise, remove it, and run it under clean water. A toothbrush scrub should extract any food or miscellaneous particles. If you see holes in the filter, replace the filter immediately. This prevents damage to the pump impeller and motor seals which can be costly to repair. Then reinstall the filter. Make sure the door to the filter locks back in place.
Unclog and Clean the Drain
The bottom of your dishwasher is a common place where food debris and other matter can end up and eventually clog the drain. This buildup causes your dishwasher to become less efficient over time. Simple steps to clean the drain are:
• Unplug the dishwasher
• Take out the screws and remove the cover
• Protect the opening to keep debris out
• Clean out larger pieces by hand
• Clean out smaller deposits with a brush or cloth
• Reassemble in the reverse order
• Use a descaler for hard water deposits
Minerals in hard water can cause issues with the operation of your dishwasher. Check your local hardware store for dishwasher cleaning tablets that remove calcium and magnesium buildup. Mineral deposits look like a cloudy film on your dishes and the interior of your dishwasher.
Check the Spray Nozzle
Does it move freely? Does it collide with anything loaded in the dishwasher? Check the holes for debris.
Rustproof the Racks
Check to ensure the plastic coating on your racks is not wearing off. Corroded racks may allow tiny shards of rusty metal to enter the pump. Repair any racks as soon as possible with vinyl paint or replacement tips.
Clean the Door Seal and Other Problem Areas
Use a cloth and white vinegar to clean the seal between the dishwasher door and the tub. This area is usually where food particles collect, causing odors and mold growth. Other parts of your dishwasher that you should clean regularly include:
Under the door, on the inside
• The flatware basket
• The gasket
• The detergent dispenser
Get Rid of Mildew
Using bleach in your dishwasher can be helpful if you have mold or mildew. You can also run the dishwasher through a cycle with vinegar.
Load Your Dishwasher Correctly
Place your dishes in your dishwasher with the dirtiest surfaces facing the machine’s center. Place cups facing up so water can spray into them. Most dishwashers don’t require a pre-rinse of your dishes but remove food scraps that could clog the drain hose, tear the filter or damage the pump.
Don’t overload your dishwasher. Too much in one load will restrict the water spray patterns and prevent proper cleaning. And don’t run partial loads either. Experts at Consumer Reports say repeated, unnecessary use will wear out mechanical parts.
Dishes Only, Please
It’s generally a bad idea to wash anything except dishes in your dishwasher. Dishwashers cannot handle large amounts of grease or other debris, which can clog the filter and ruin the pump.
Look for Standing Water
A little, occasional puddle left in the bottom of your dishwasher is okay. But an inch or more might mean a clog. Remove any food and debris; if the issue continues, it may be time to call a professional for an inspection.
Some Fixes Are Better Left to the Pros
According to dishwasher testing experts at Consumer Reports, pump repair and electronic control repairs are best left to the professionals. If you think your dishwasher is not cleaning as well as it used to and you have checked for a clogged filter, food, or mineral buildup in the dishwasher, it’s best to call in an expert. Call the pros if the dishwasher isn’t turning on or the lights are blinking.
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