Our dishwashers do a fantastic job of cleaning our dishes, so we don’t have to. They save us a great deal of time and stress! However, for all the time they save us, we also have to be willing to dedicate a little time to keep them in excellent working order.
If you’re unsure how to maintain your dishwasher after it has been installed so it lasts the distance, take note of the helpful information in this guide.
Use It Often
It’s easy to assume that the more you use your dishwasher, the more it wears out. However, regular use helps keep your appliance in excellent working condition by preventing food debris from building up in the filters or at the bottom.
Clean the Spray Arms
The spray arms in your dishwasher have an important job to do. They are responsible for spraying water onto your dishes to clean away debris. Sometimes, food debris and limescale can accumulate in them, preventing them from cleaning your dishes effectively.
During your usual maintenance, take a moment to inspect the nozzles and use a pin to clear any that are clogged. You can also remove the spray arms from the dishwasher to thoroughly clean them a few times a year or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Clean the Filter
Every dishwasher has a filter that stops large pieces of food from entering your drainage system. Over time, filters can become clogged with debris. Clean your dishwasher filter regularly, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Clean the Edges and Door Seal
Over time, the door seals and edges of your dishwasher can accumulate food and debris. Unlike the inside of your dishwasher, they aren’t washed with every cycle. At least once a month, wipe down the door seals and edges to prevent mould, mildew, and bacteria.
Run a Cleaning Cycle
After spending most days cleaning your dishes, your dishwasher will eventually need to be cleaned as well. Some newer appliances feature self-cleaning cycles that use high-temperature water to kill bacteria. Run this cycle every two months or as recommended by the manufacturer.
If your dishwasher doesn’t have a self-cleaning feature, use a dishwasher cleaner product available at most grocery stores. Insert it into the rack and run the dishwasher without any dishes inside, allowing the product to wash away food debris, bacteria, and limescale effectively.
What Can Go Wrong with a Dishwasher?
Now that you know how to maintain your dishwasher, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with what can go wrong if you don’t. You’ll then understand the importance of prioritizing regular maintenance and care.
Drainage Problems
Homeowners encounter issues with their dishwasher not draining properly. A clogged drain hose, pump, or filter is often the cause of this issue. However, a malfunctioning pump can also be to blame. If it’s damaged or not functioning correctly, it can prevent water from flowing through the system and out of the drain.
In some cases, dishwashers can have broken hoses. These can cause water to back up in your machine.
Is your dishwasher not draining properly? Troubleshoot the problem here.
Not Drying Dishes
You don’t expect your dishes to come out of your dishwasher bone dry, but at least mostly dry is convenient. If your dishwasher isn’t drying your dishes, it can be due to a faulty heating element, improper loading techniques, or not using a rinse aid properly.
Not Completing a Cycle
You expect to turn your dishwasher on and have it complete a cycle so you can empty a load of fresh, clean dishes. However, that doesn’t always happen! Problems with the thermostat, timer, or drain can all contribute to a dishwasher not finishing its washing cycle.
Leaking
A dishwasher springing a leak can be stressful, especially when your kitchen is full of water and you have no idea what caused it! The good news is that you don’t always need to call a repair technician right away. Leaks can have many common causes, such as faulty door latches, leaky gaskets, and incorrect detergent use, with many straightforward DIY fixes.
Do you have a leaking dishwasher? Here are some possible causes and solutions.
Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing® for Help With Your Dishwasher
If you're experiencing issues with your dishwasher or need a new unit professionally installed, our expert dishwasher repair and installation services can help. Contact the licensed plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing® today.
