DISHWASHER MAINTENANCE TIPS.
Dishwasher Maintenance and Energy Saving Tips
Cleaning your dishwasher.
We recommend the use of a professional cleaner like Dishwasher Magic which we carry in our parts department. As an alternative, you can use white vinegar. Put a quart of white vinegar in the bottom of the dishwasher and run it through a complete washing cycle without any dishes.
Clean the filter located on the floor of the dishwasher under the bottom rack. Some filters trap food residue on the outside surface so a simple wiping with a paper towel does the job. Other filters require unscrewing the cover to access trapped food residue. Be very careful if you reach down into the small amount of standing water in the bottom of the dishwasher sump. A piece of clear broken glass in not visible in the water and could cut you. Consult your dishwasher owner's manual.
After every load, take a glance at the filter and in the bottom of the dishwasher, especially if you have children loading and running it. Picking up any food residue, labels, plastic wrap, stray silverware, lids, caps, straws, toys (you never know) will help the dishwasher clean more effectively.
Make sure you use the heated wash option on the dishwasher. Most newer dishwashers require the use of a wetting agent for good drying action. Using the energy saving dry option, if available, will save money and time on the cycle. In the short and long run, you save time and money by getting a full load of clean dishes the first time.
Check the loading
When you are ready to start the dishwasher, check the loading of the dishwasher racks and silver basket. Are the dishes, bowls, and plates located where water from the spray arms will strike them for cleaning? Are spoons nestled against one another so the water cannot get to all of them? Is anything so tall or sticking down below the baskets that it will stop the wash arm from rotating? Is anything touching the door in such a way that the detergent dispenser cannot open? A quick look and a little action will lead to cleaner dishes after each washing.