A dishwasher is great time-saving device if it is working correctly.
One can have the best dishwasher in the world, but if they don't maintain it or use it properly it isn't going to work the best. Like every appliance, dishwashers need to be kept in clean working order if they are going to work properly. How often your dishwasher needs your attention depends on how often you use it. If you notice that your dishwasher's performance is decreasing, you know it's time to give it a little TLC. Most dishwashers can be cleaned with a basic dishwasher detergent or with vinegar. Make sure you wear plastic gloves when using them to protect your hands.
Instructions
Basic Maintenance
1. Clean around door seals to remove any food particles that are caught there.
2. Scrub the filter screen or basket with a brush. You should clean the filter in your dishwasher after each wash, but a more thorough cleaning is needed on occasion.
3. Clean the spray arm, the large arm at the bottom of your dishwasher. The spray arm can be removed by twisting the hub cap (located in the center) clockwise. Make sure nothing is stuck inside the arms. Shake out the spray arms and use a brush to clean out the ports.
4. Wipe down the interior of your dishwasher and the detergent dispenser.
5. Pour one to two cups of vinegar into a bowl or empty tub and place it into the dishwasher. Run the dishwasher cycle. The vinegar will help remove mineral deposits.
6. Test the temperature of your water. Pour a glass of hot water from the sink; let it run until the water is the hottest. Use a candy or meat thermometer to test the temperature. It should be between 140 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. If it is not, you may need to turn up the temperature on your hot water heater.
7. Remove rust stains by starting your dishwasher on an empty rinse cycle. As it fills, add 1/2 cup rust remover and let the cycle complete.
Daily Use
8. Remove large scraps from plates and pans before placing them into the dishwasher.
9. Rinse dishes before placing them into the dishwasher. Although most dishwashers say this is unnecessary, rinsing dishes can improve dishwasher function.
10. Make sure everyone in your home knows load the dishwasher correctly.
Follow the loading directions listed in the instruction booklet for your dishwasher. Different brands and makes can have different recommendations.
11. Pans should face down so the soiled interior is facing the water spray.
Place dishes so the soiled surface is toward the center of the dishwasher.
12. Larger plates and pans should go to the edges of your dishwasher.
Place larger items toward the outside so they don't block smaller items.
13. Wash stainless steel and silver separately. Stainless steel can stain silver if they are washed together.
14. Don't put crystal into a dishwasher unless you are using a rinse aid. Crystal can become scratched or "etched," which will make it look cloudy.
15. Don't overload your dishwasher. If you try to fit too much in your dishwasher, the dishes will be too close together and not all the dishes will get clean, causing you to run the dishwasher a second time anyway.
16. Run the hot water tap in the kitchen until the water is hot before starting your dishwasher if your hot water heater is some distance away from your kitchen.
17.Avoid running the dishwasher when taking a shower or doing laundry. Lower water pressure can cause the dishwasher to work ineffectively.
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