As one of the most important appliances in the kitchen, the dishwasher is relied on to clean dishes efficiently and effectively. However, without proper maintenance, dishwashers can become less effective over time, leading to unsanitary and inefficient cleaning, developing different problems and error codes. To keep your dishwasher running smoothly, Ideal Fix techs compiled a list of the seven best tips for dishwasher maintenance.
To keep your dishwasher running smoothly, it is essential to clean it regularly. This means removing debris or food particles accumulated inside the machine and the filter. If left uncleaned, the filter can become clogged, which can reduce the efficiency of the dishwasher and result in poor cleaning performance, and in many cases problems with the drain or wash pumps. To make sure your machine is in top condition make sure you also use dishwasher cleaning tablets like Affresh or Finish once a month as well.
Choosing the suitable dishwasher detergent is crucial for maintaining your dishwasher’s performance. Using the wrong detergent or too much of it can lead to a buildup of soap scum and other residues all over the machine, which can clog the dishwasher’s spray arms, damage internal components, and result in poor cleaning performance.
The spray arms are responsible for distributing water throughout the dishwasher to clean the dishes. Over time, the spray arms can become clogged with debris, which can reduce their effectiveness due to the low water pressure they can generate. Check the spray arms regularly and remove any debris or buildup that may be present and reduce dishwasher efficiency.
Running hot water in the sink beside where the dishwasher is installed for a few minutes before starting the dishwasher can help to ensure that the water entering the machine is hot enough to properly clean the dishes, and reduce your hydro bill by reducing the amount of time it will take dishwasher to heat cold water. This can also help to reduce the amount of time it takes for the dishwasher to complete a cycle.
Overloading the dishwasher can put a strain on the appliance and reduce its effectiveness, damaging its racks. Make sure to leave enough space between dishes to ensure that they are properly cleaned and dried.
The gasket is the rubber seal that runs around the edge of the dishwasher door and in some models, there will be an additional seal that runs across the base of the dishwasher door. Over time, the gasket can become worn or damaged, which can result in leaks and reduced cleaning performance. Check the gasket regularly and replace it if it shows signs of wear or damage, to avoid unnecessary water damage.
Regularly inspecting the dishwasher can help to identify any potential issues before they become major problems or cause damage to your house. Look for signs of leaks, unusual noises, or poor cleaning performance. Addressing these issues early can help to prevent costly repairs down the line.
By following these seven tips, you can help to ensure that your dishwasher remains in top working condition and continues to provide efficient and effective cleaning for years to come.
If unfortunately you already have problems with your dishwasher that maintenance cant resolve, give us a call or schedule an appointment online to book your service call with one of our best Dishwasher repair technicians at Ideal Fix.
Fill out the form below. Take a picture or a video of your appliance issue and we will call you back with a quick diagnostic.