A dishwasher is one of the most time-saving appliances, but neglecting its maintenance can lead to costly repairs or replacements. To avoid unexpected expenses, it’s essential to care for your dishwasher year-round. An appliance repair expert shares simple tips on maintaining its efficiency, such as using dishwasher cleaner every three months, opting for detergent tablets, scraping plates before loading, regularly cleaning the filter, and avoiding fragile or inappropriate items. Keeping these practices in mind can significantly extend the life of your appliance.
The dishwasher is undoubtedly one of the most time-saving household appliances, alongside the washing machine. After a meal, all you need to do is load your dirty dishes, start a cycle, and your work is done. However, amidst all this convenience, we often neglect to care for the machine itself… until it fails us.
At that point, repair costs can escalate quickly, or worse, you might need to replace the appliance entirely. These are expenses we’d prefer to avoid, and they can be prevented by maintaining your dishwasher throughout the year. The good news is that an appliance repair expert offers tips for ensuring the proper functioning of a dishwasher, providing simple and practical advice.
1. Use a dishwasher cleaner every three months
It may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but dishwashers do need cleaning! Ben Wellington from Full House Appliance Repair in Wisconsin recommends using a cleaning product every three months. Another expert, Andreas from California, even suggests monthly cleaning for those who use their machine daily.
A cycle with a cleaning tablet not only disinfects your appliance but also breaks down food particles and soap residue that can accumulate in the pipes. So make a note in your calendar and turn this little cleaning session into a regular ritual!
2. Switch to detergent tablets
The debate over detergents continues, but for Andreas, the choice is clear: tablets are far more effective than gels or powders. Why? Because they dissolve slowly and work throughout the cycle. Other types of detergents often rinse away within the first few minutes, leading to less effective cleaning.
Ben Wellington also suggests adding a rinse aid for optimal results. A good detergent is also key to preventing soap residue buildup that can clog pipes and lead to leaks.
3. Scrape your plates and watch for broken pieces
Rinsing your dishes isn’t necessary, but it’s essential to scrape them well. Excess food residue can block the filter or damage the chopper, the small blade inside the machine designed to grind small food pieces.
Some types of residues can be more problematic than others. For instance, glass shards, small bones, or even seeds can evade the filter and accumulate in the pipes, potentially causing motor failure or total blockage. Andreas also advises checking the filter if you discover a broken piece of glass in the dishwasher, as these shards can easily reach critical areas of the appliance.
4. Clean the filter regularly
Another golden rule for maintaining your dishwasher is to clean the filter. A clogged filter prevents proper water circulation, causing the machine to work harder… and more work means premature wear and tear!
Ben Wellington recommends cleaning the filter once a week if you use your dishwasher daily. Meanwhile, Andreas believes that cleaning it every two weeks may suffice. In any case, make sure to incorporate this task into your cleaning routine. It’s a small step that can significantly extend your appliance’s lifespan.
5. Avoid fragile or inappropriate items
Finally, be mindful of what you place in the dishwasher. Some fragile items, like plastic utensils or fine china, are prone to breaking and can cause damage to the appliance. For example, broken fork tines can end up in the filter or pipes, leading to a difficult-to-resolve blockage.
The trick is to quickly check inside the dishwasher after each cycle, especially if you washed fragile items. A quick glance can save you a lot of hassle and prolong the life of your machine.