Dishwasher Tips
1. Filter
First thing, clean the filter. If you can remove it clean it in the kitchen sink using a mild detergent and a soft brush. Most filters cannot be removed and need to be cleaned whilst still in the machine. Any major detritus such as toothpicks, plastic carton pieces, tin foil or straws should be removed by hand. Do not allow them to escape – they could easily end up in the pump where worse damage could occur.
2. Spray Arms
Check the spray arms. The spray arms are the big propeller shaped things with holes in that are below each of the racks. Remove any detritus from these holes in the spray arms. Anything blocking these holes could cause the arms to slow down (or even stop) and give a poor wash. If the arms appear cracked or worn get them replaced. Spin the spray arms by hand. If they’re noisy, vibrating, or wobbly again they need replacing.
3. Spray Nozzle
On some machines, the bottom spray arm may have a nozzle protruding from its centre. A spray nozzle will have holes at its tip. Treat the same as the spray arms in step 2. and remove anything blocking the holes. Look to see if any of the nozzle parts are cracked or worn and if so replace.
4. Heating Element
The element is usually used for both heating the washing water and drying the dishes at end of cycle. Take a look at the condition of the element – is it covered in a white chalky coating. Carefully run your hand over its length and if the element feels gritty or looks white the element is probably covered with a calcium build-up. If it is not too heavily coated, sometimes cleaning it with a mild detergent and a wet rag can remove it. If this does not work try a weak vinegar and water solution (about 25% vinegar/75% water) on a cloth. If it is still stubborn, there are some proprietary cleaners on the market designed especially to combat calcium build-up. When cleaning the element, always do it carefully to avoid the element becoming bent or displaced from its supports.
5. Detergent dispenser
Clean the detergent dispenser. Open the dispenser door and clean out using a mild detergent and wet rag. Remove any detergent build-up that is in or around the dispenser body with warm water.
6. Door Gasket
Clean the door gasket. Gently clean the gasket surface using a wet rag. The gasket should appear pliable and soft with no worn bits. Close dishwasher door a few times and check that the door latch is closing smoothly and firmly. It should be snug yet easy to close. If the latch is difficult to close either the latch may need to be adjusted (if possible) or the door gasket may need replacing.
7. Rack Wheels
Check the rack wheels. These should roll smoothly. If loose, wobbling, or sticking the wheels are probably coated with detergent or calcium. Remove the whole rack and clean the wheels using a soft brush. Gently move the wheels back and forth making sure that they turn freely.
8. Water Temperature
Check the water temperature. Many problems with dishwashers are down to low water temperature. Switch on and allow the dishwasher to fill with water and begin to wash. After a few of minutes of washing carefully and slowly open the door. The water should produce a slight steaming effect. If it isn’t then the water temperature is probably too low. Most dishwashers require 125 to 140 Degrees Fahrenheit to clean their load effectively
9. Detergent
Although it may sound obvious, check the detergent that you are using. Many dishwasher problems are because of stale detergent. Detergents designed for use in dishwashers are one of the few detergents that have a shelf life. If the box appears swollen, hard, or the detergent clumps, replace with a fresh box. Stale detergent can lead to many problems including leaking or flooding. At the same time look at the Rinse Aid if you use one. Although old rinse aid will not damage your machine you will probably not get the best from it and those glasses may not have the sparkle they once had.
10. Finally
Remember, spending just a little time checking things over may not only save you money, but could save you a lot of time as well - if you are expecting 10 people for dinner, and the dishwasher breaks down , they won’t be able to help, but at least you will have lots of people to help wash the dishes .