How to Properly Maintain and Use Your Dishwasher

How to Properly Maintain and Use Your Dishwasher

Our Fort Myers plumbers are often asked questions about dishwashers and dishwasher maintenance. To avoid problems with your dishwasher, here are some helpful tips for preventative maintenance and if the need arises, fix these potential issues so many of our homeowners run into. First, when purchasing any appliance, you should always look up the manufacturer’s instructions on how to properly use and maintain that particular appliance. You can locate this information either on the internet or in the manual you are given with the appliance when purchased.

Preserving Your Dishwasher:

• Hard water and dirty water can damage plumbing pipes and appliances. If you live in an area where this is prevalent, consider a water quality test.
• Periodically clean the filter in the bottom tub of your dishwasher.
• If you run a couple loads a week, clean annually; if you run multiple loads a week, clean every couple of months.

When Using Your Dishwasher:

• Never leave large pieces of food on your plates in the dishwasher. Your dishwasher is not made to handle large pieces and this can result in a blockage. We like to say, “dishwashers don’t have teeth, they cannot chew food.”
• Use the shortest cycle, this can save time & energy cost.
• If you plan on going out of town or leave dishes in the dishwasher for a period of time, make sure you properly rinse all dishes. If not rinsed this can leave your dishes stained, especially by foods with a high acidic rate. It’s really better to make sure your dishwasher is empty when leaving for a long period of time.
• Instead of running “heated dry” let your dishes air dry in the dishwasher at the end of the cycle.
• Run hot water prior to running your dishwasher, this can save in utility costs.
• Using too much detergent can cause your dishes to come out looking foggy. Make sure you are only filling up the detergent cup ¼ of the way up.
• Usually your dishwasher will come with a recommended detergent. Make sure you are taking this recommendation seriously as some detergents can harm your dishwasher.

Fixing Common Problems:

• If your dishwasher is leaking, make sure you are using the right amount of detergent. Too much detergent can cause leaks. If the leaking continues your dishwasher may not be leveled or the seals around the door may be damaged.
• If your dishwasher is leaking in other areas, it may be connection to the water supply. This may require attention from a professional, Fort Myers plumber, like Aztec Plumbing & Drains.
• Make sure the dishwasher is always plugged in.
• If there is water in the bottom of your dishwasher, it will not drain properly. Do not panic, however, if there is a little water in the bottom as this should not affect the drain.

Should You Replace Your Dishwasher?

Knowing when to repair or replace your appliance can be a hard decision. If your appliance is over 9 years old, it is time for a new dishwasher. If you have had your dishwasher for less than 5 years, then you should consider repairing your dishwasher. If it is in between, consult a professional like a technician from Aztec Plumbing & Drains to help solve your plumbing issues. Aztec Plumbing & Drains has got you covered from A to Z!

Learn More in Our Appliances Series:

• Is an Ice Maker Worth It?
• My Well Pump Keeps Running