Tag Archives: dishwasher care

Common Appliance Problems and How to Deal with Them

Appliances break down every time, and the problems range from minor issues to complex ones. There are different ways of dealing with these problems. Some of the problems are minor, and you can have them fixed with the help of an appliance repair professional, while others require you to replace the entire unit.

To help you out, here are some of the common appliance problems and how to deal with them:

The freezer not maintaining the correct temperature

This could indicate a problem with the door seal. Check for tears, warping in the corners, and even areas where the seal has hardened. You can replace it yourself.

Sometimes it’s as simple as removing the old one, but you may need to unscrew several screws that hold it in place. New seals are available online at a small cost.

The problem could also be with your refrigerator’s thermostat, which is located behind the temperature dial. You can replace this with a few home DIY tools.

If your fridge-freezer has front-mounted digital controls, this is a significantly more complicated problem to repair and should be done by a professional.

Your freezer drawers might also break. Thankfully, you can buy new drawers and replace the unit. It is simply a matter of purchasing the appropriate part for the model you have.

When doing it, be aware that manufacturers sometimes charge a high price for them, so look around to see if you can obtain the one you want for less elsewhere.

Water leaking from the bottom of the fridge.

This could be caused by a clogged drain hole. Water condenses at the rear of the fridge, where it is colder, and runs down into the drain hole.

Dust, grime, and food waste frequently become stuck within, but you can quickly clean it using a small straw, a piece of wire, or a cotton bud.

If this does not work, consider purchasing a special drain hole cleaning tool. A skilled repairer may also use a steam cleaner to go further into the pipe.

If the defect causes your fridge to be written off, you have no other way out other than to get a new unit.

Faulty battery in your vacuum cleaner

All lithium-ion batteries lose capacity with time, although you can easily replace them. A cordless vacuum can only be considered a good buy if its battery is changeable. The bad news is that they can be pricey.

If the battery is not changeable, you don’t have another way out other than to replace the entire vacuum cleaner.

If the battery is replaceable, go ahead and install a new one. You should charge your battery only with the official charger and keep it away from heat to extend its life. Try not to drain the battery entirely. Frequent short charges are preferable for keeping it healthy.

To avoid being left holding a unit that will be cumbersome to own, take your time when making the purchase. As a rule of thumb, only buy a vacuum cleaner with a replaceable battery.

The dishwasher failing to drain as well as it should

The most common culprit is a blocked filter or pump, which you should be able to fix on your own. The pump is found under the filter.

You will need to remove the top and wash the inside. If this does not solve the problem, examine the drain tube at the back of the machine for blockages.

Besides your unit failing to drain as well as it should, it also might have a faulty seal. If your dishwasher leaks slightly, you have a broken door seal. Thankfully, a replacement seal comes cheap.

Another common problem with dishwashers is a faulty electrical system. Professional repairs for electrical issues don’t come cheap, therefore, it may not be worthwhile to fix older or less expensive models. Request a quote from an engineer before deciding on whether to fix your unit or not.

Burners not working in the hob.

If your gas burner does not ignite, it is likely that the spark is not working correctly. If it doesn’t stay lit, it’s because of the thermocouple. Replacing this is a job best left to professionals.

Faults on electric hobs, whether ceramic or induction, are far more difficult to diagnose. Your best bet is to contact an expert or get a replacement.

The touch controls might also fail to work. Problems with the controls will most likely be attributed to the circuit board (PCB), which is hidden beneath the glass surface.

You will need to get a professional quote to replace this. It’s complicated and expensive, so you might be better off replacing the entire unit.

The dishwasher is wobbly and noisy.

Almost all current washing machine drums are sealed shut, so you can’t disassemble them to replace the bearings (the most common source of issues).

This implies you’ll need to replace the entire drum, which is a costly and demanding repair best left to professionals.

You may be better off purchasing a new model because of the high cost. Obviously, you should request a quote before making a selection.

Your dishwasher might also fail to empty the water as well as it should. If your washing machine isn’t draining water properly, take a look at the filter behind the door lock.

Try to clear it out. If that doesn’t work, simply replace it. If it does not solve the problem, the drain pump is most likely the culprit. It is difficult to replace yourself and is not for the faint of heart, so you should hire an expert to help you out.

Parting shot

These are some of the common issues you can have with your appliances. You can fix the unit by yourself, but if the problems are too complex, let an experienced commercial appliance repair Northern VA professional help you out.

As mentioned, always weigh your options and find out whether fixing the problem is worth the cost or if you should simply get a new unit.

Tricks to A Perfectly Functioning Dishwasher

A dishwasher isn’t a necessity, but it really comes in handy. After all, who wants to deal with a massive mound of dishes after preparing and eating a meal? Unfortunately, you can’t enjoy your unit if it functions incorrectly.

Thankfully, you can do several things to ensure that the unit is always in top working condition. These things include:

Keep the filters clean at all times.

You should clean your dishwasher’s filter after each usage. That may seem like a lot of labor, but it’s worth it.

After removing the filter from the machine, just rinse it under running water to loosen any trapped particles, allow it to dry, and then replace it. If you can’t remember to do it after each usage, try once a week.

The beauty of cleaning the filters is that you don’t need to hire a dishwasher repair professional to help you. You can easily do it by yourself.

Always scrape food from the dishes.

To avoid clogging the filter, scrape your plates and remove as much food residue from pans and dishes as possible before adding them to the washing machine. Foods like Weetabix and porridge adhere to dishes if they sit in the dishwasher for an extended period before being run.

Put these plates in the sink to catch the water when you run the faucet. This will assist in soaking up the worst of the breakfast leftovers. Then, just before the cycle begins, place them in the dishwasher.

Some people have the notion that they should pre-wash the dishes before placing them in the dishwasher, but you don’t have to. In fact, you usually end up causing more havoc when you pre-wash the dishes.

This is because when you pre-wash the dishes, you remove the adhering surfaces for the soap. As a result, the soap doesn’t clean the dishes as well as it should. The consequence is leaving you with dirty dishes even after running them in the dishwasher.

The right way to do it is to scrape the food from the dishes, and you are good to go. This will remove the food particles that can clog the unit and, at the same time, leave binding spaces for the soap so that it effectively cleans the dishes.

Keep the dishwasher salt topped up at all times.

Experts report that using salt is the key to a long-lasting dishwasher. Salt serves two functions in your machine: first, it softens the water and prevents the buildup of hard water deposits, and second, it helps keep the dishwasher clean by preventing bacteria buildup.

Some dishwashers allow you to tell how hard the water is where you live, but if yours doesn’t, you can find out the exact level by calling your local water board.

If your dishwasher has this feature, it will use the least amount of salt necessary to keep hard water deposits at bay.

A common misconception is that you don’t need to add salt if you live in a soft water area or have a water softener. This is not the case.

You must always add salt to the machine to keep it bacteria-free. If germs are allowed to multiply, your dishwasher’s water flow and wash performance will suffer.

Inhibiting the water flow over time may dramatically diminish the life of your dishwasher. And you don’t want this, do you?

Regularly check spray arms for blockages.

You should also clean the spray arms regularly with a mix of washing up liquid and water (how often depends on how frequently you use your dishwasher).

While you’re at it, look for debris in the jets, such as fruit pips and small food particles. A clever approach is to send water into the intake of each arm – if it flows freely, it is not clogged. If it is, clear it with a toothpick or something similar.

Besides unclogging the spray arms, check them to confirm they aren’t bent. If they are, straighten them. In some cases, you might find them too bent or damaged. In such a case, simply straighten them.

Deep clean the dishwasher

Dishwashers are one of the appliances that many people clean the least. This is because many people have the impression that they are always clean, but this isn’t the case.

According to survey, consumers clean their dishwashers three times per year on average. This is not enough. The best way out is to thoroughly clean your dishwasher every two months by running it empty on the hottest setting.

You should soak a cleaning cloth in hot, soapy water and wipe off the surface of dishwashers with plastic exteriors. Wipe it dry with a clean, dry cloth or a paper towel.

After this, fill a spray bottle with a homemade solution of one part vinegar to three parts water if your dishwasher is stainless steel. Spray it on the exterior of the dishwasher and wipe it clean with a cleaning cloth.

A screen in your dishwasher collects food and other particles. The screen becomes clogged with time, resulting in badly cleaned dishes and increased wear and tear on your dishwasher.

You should remove the filter from the bottom and spray it with hot water from the kitchen sink.

Soak the filter for 10 minutes in warm, soapy water before rinsing with hot water. Use a scrub brush to remove any leftover food particles or residue.

Rinse your filter, then before putting it back in the dishwasher, check the drain for buildup and clean it with a sponge.

Parting shot

These are some things you need to do to ensure that your dishwasher is always in top working condition. Besides these things, also use your dishwasher correctly. As a rule of thumb, never run it when it’s too full, as it will fail to function optimally and reduce lifespan.

For peace of mind that your unit is in good working shape, contact appliance repair Fairfax professionals at least once a year to look at it and fix any issues it might be having.

How to Use a Dishwasher Correctly to Save Energy and Money

Studies have shown that dishwashers are four times more water efficient than hand washing, with the most water-efficient full-sized dishwasher using nearly ten times less water to wash the same quantity of dishes as hand cleaning.

While this is the case, you could spend more energy, time, and money washing your dishes when you improperly use your dishwasher. To help you out, here are some of the ways recommended by dishwasher repair professionals to use your dishwasher to save energy and money:

Don’t prewash the dishes.

This is an age-old mistake that many people continue to do. You should note that there is no need to rinse dishes into the dishwasher, no matter how dirty they are.

Apart from wasting water, rinsing plates beforehand will stop the dishwasher sensors from working correctly as they measure how much dirt is in the water after the initial cycle.

So, when there isn’t much dirt on the dishes, they won’t work hard, so they won’t properly clean your dishes. 

Dishwasher detergent tablets work best when there are food particles to allow them to do their work. This means that when you pre-rinse the dishes, the detergents don’t work properly, so they don’t clean the dishes as well as you would want them to. 

Instead of pre-rinsing the dishes, scrape the extra food particles and let the dishwasher do the rest. 

Load and unload the dishwasher correctly.

Overfilling and placing dishes in the wrong area or at an improper angle may prevent the dishwasher from washing your dishes effectively.

The best way to load your dishwasher is by placing large things like plates on the bottom tray, followed by cups and utensils on the top. 

You should separate items so there is space between them to allow the jets to wash. This includes separating the cutlery so the water can reach all areas.

You should make sure that nothing is preventing the spray arms from turning freely. Place the cups and bowls vertically so that the water can drain off properly, and they can dry.

The same way you need to load the dishwasher properly is how to unload it properly. 

Unload the dishwasher’s bottom rack first. The reason for this is that during a cleaning cycle, top rack cups and bowls can sometimes pool water.

This means moving them first will result in a spill and splash of water on the clean dishes below. And you don’t want this, do you?

Run the dishwasher when full.

Running a dishwasher with only a couple of dishes loses electricity and money in the same way that leaving your washing machine half full wastes energy and money.

Compared with hand-washing in the sink, dishwashers are highly water-efficient, but to get maximum efficiency, you should wait until the dishwasher is completely loaded.

This means you will be wasting energy and water by running it half-empty.

A full dishwasher will also have superior drying performance due to its higher thermal mass. 

Dishes are also more likely to smash and bump into one other when loads are partially full, increasing the danger of damage and breakage. So, always take your time and wait until you have enough dishes before you run a cleaning cycle. 

Use the right temperature.

Eco-mode exists for a reason—to save electricity. While you may be put off by the idea that it may take longer to wash your dishes in this setting, the fact that it pumps around more times means that less water needs to be heated, and your dishes will be washed for longer.

A standard dishwasher setting is usually between 55oC and 65oC, however, the lower eco temperature could consume 20% to 40% less energy. This helps you save money. 

If your appliance lacks the handy eco button, consider purchasing one that does.

Run a vinegar cycle.

At least once a month, fill a bowl with white vinegar and place it on the top rack of an empty dishwasher to run. The purpose of doing this is to give your dishwasher a refresh.

When you do this, it is like giving your dishwasher a spa treatment, as it will neutralize odors and break down grime.

When your dishwasher is clean, it not only properly cleans the dishes, but also runs efficiently, saving you energy. 

Leave the door open after use.

Your dishwasher, like your washing machine, has a moist atmosphere and fragile rubber door seals.

If you close the door tightly, your seals won’t get a chance to dry out, which promotes mold growth and foul odors.

After running a cycle, leave the dishwasher door open. This will expel any lingering moisture, which will help the machine last longer.

Don’t put everything in the dishwasher.

As much as you should run the dishwasher when full, it doesn’t mean that you should throw everything inside. 

As tempting as it is to throw everything in the dishwasher, some objects need to be dishwasher-compatible.

As a rule of thumb, don’t throw cast iron and nonstick pans in the dishwasher because it will remove the nonstick coating.

Also, don’t throw wooden spoons and chopping boards inside, as the hot water in the machine might break the wood and ruin the coating.

Placing plastic goods in a dishwasher, unless labeled “dishwasher safe,” isn’t wise, as the heat will melt them. 

If they are dishwasher safe, pop them on the top shelf only.

Also, don’t put sharp knives in the dishwasher as the dishwasher will gradually dull them.

Use the right detergents.

Some dishwasher detergents contain abrasives that quickly dull or wear away fragile glassware.

To stay on the safe side, commercial appliance repair Northern VA recommends that you use a detergent with a rinse aid to guarantee a thorough cleaning and drying.

Unlike hot air dryers, modern dishwashers dry with hot water. The rinse aid in the detergents allows the water to slide off the tub and dishes and down the drain. As a result, you don’t use too much water.

A tell-tale sign you use the wrong detergent is if you have spots on your glasses. If that’s the case, get a new detergent. 

Dishwasher Mistakes You Should Avoid Making

Your dishwasher has one job: to turn a messy kitchen full of plates, bowls, cups, and utensils into a rack full of gleaming clean dishes. ​

More than half of the households in the United States with dishwashers use the equipment at least once a week, and there’s a strong probability that most are making some frequent blunders. ​ ​

To have an easy time with your appliance and ensure that it lasts for a long time, you need to avoid these frequent dishwasher blunders.

Avoiding the mistakes will also keep a dishwasher repair professional away, clean your dishes, and extend your appliance’s life. ​​

Failing to read the labels

Many people using their dishwasher for the first time have the impression that they can put anything inside. This is wrong as the dishwasher might end up harming your dishes instead of cleaning them. 

The drying cycle’s heat may harm wood utensils like cutting boards, making them crack or warp. The dishwasher will dull sharp knives and blades for food processors and other kitchen units. ​

Before using the dishwasher, ensure the item you put inside is safe. 

You should be cautious against putting stemware or other delicate glass in the dishwasher. The reason for this is that not only are the glasses at risk of breaking, but the broken glass can cause havoc on the equipment. ​A shard of glass could get caught in the pump and cause damage.

If any of the units you are looking to clean aren’t dishwasher safe, handwash them. 

Pre-rinsing the dishes

Avoid running a scrub brush across your plates before loading them into the dishwasher. Although 75% of homeowners admit to pre-rinsing their dishes, the habit can backfire, especially when you overdo it. ​

The soap you use needs to bind to little food bits and sauces. Food particles almost act as an abrasive to assist the soap in knocking loose [foods] that are a little more baked on. ​

Prerinsing eliminates food pieces, which might cause detergent to bond to the porous surfaces of the dishes instead, leaving a film on your plates. ​ ​

Skipping the rinse saves more than just time. Rinsing the dishes before filling the dishwasher uses up to 20 gallons of water — before you even turn on the machine. 

Even if the food is caked on, using the dishwasher’s rinse feature consumes significantly less water than rinsing the dishes under the faucet to soften and remove extra food. ​ ​

Instead of pre-rinsing the dishes, scrape off the extra food particles. 

Improper loading

How you load your dishwasher affects how it works and interferes with cleaning.

For the best outcome, you need to load your appliance properly. 

Put silverware in flatware baskets or racks; spoons and forks with the handles facing down. You should load the knives with the handles facing up to avoid blade injuries.

Plates and bowls belong on the bottom rack, while glasses and mugs go on top. Load your glasses between the tines of the rack, not on top of them. ​​

Putting the glasses over the tines can cause spotting or stress on the glass, and you could end up with broken glasses. ​ ​Spatulas, serving spoons, and other large utensils are best when hand-washed rather than placed on the top rack. ​

Water pressure will move the food items, and they can block the spray arm if they fall. And if something gets in the way, you’ll only be washing a handful of dishes for the duration of the cycle.

Putting detergent in the wrong place

Dishwasher detergent, powder or liquid, is placed in the dispenser, but there is considerable controversy about where to place detergent pods. ​

Many people think they should put the detergent pods into the bottom of the dishwasher rather than in the dispenser. This is wrong. 

The reason for this is that dishwashers have separate rinse and wash cycles. When you put the detergent pod in the bottom of the dishwasher, the soap is flushed down the drain before the wash cycle begins.

The best way to go about it is to check when the manufacturer recommends it. 

Overloading the dishwasher

Don’t approach your dishwasher like a Tetris game, stacking and balancing as many dishes as you can on the racks. This is because you often need more time to overload the machine. ​

Whenever you overload a dishwasher, you’ll first notice that your dishes will have a lot of soap scum or haze. 

This is because having too many dishes prevents them from receiving enough water flow to rinse them thoroughly.

To avoid overloading your appliance, consult the user handbook for your dishwasher. Dishwashers vary in capacity and layout, so it’s critical to understand what your unique model can handle.

When loading the dishwasher, use the dishwasher’s racks and compartments to distribute the dishes evenly. 

Place plates, pots, and pans on the bottom rack, while glasses, cups, and other smaller objects are on the top rack. Ensure that the sprayer arms on the dishwasher can freely revolve.

Ignoring the manual

There’s no disputing that information on dishwasher parts and features, as well as the filtration system, isn’t fascinating to read, but scanning the handbook — or at the very least keeping it available — is important. ​​

It’s an amazing resource for troubleshooting information, detergent and rinse agent recommendations, and phone numbers for service or advice. 

Have you already discarded the manual? You can get the manual online by entering the manufacturer’s name and model number. ​​

Find the manual and always use it whenever you doubt how to use the machine or fix an issue properly. 

Ignoring the filter

Most homeowners are unaware that their dishwasher has a filter, but it’s there. It’s under the dishwasher’s bottom rack and needs some cleaning. ​

Check the appliance manual for cleaning guidelines for your dishwasher filter. Then, take it out, rinse it with water, and clean it with a wire brush to remove any calcification before returning it. ​

It only takes a few seconds and will make your dishes cleaner. ​ 

Ignoring problems

Even the best-maintained appliances break down. Many homeowners ignore minor issues, which is wrong. This is because the minor issues worsen to the extent that the appliance stops working. 

To avoid this, you should keep your eyes out for the issues, even the smallest ones. If you don’t have the repair skills, get in touch with experienced appliance repair Alexandria professionals. 

Parting shot​

Reading the handbook, reconsidering how you load the dishwasher, where you put the detergent, and how you manage maintenance can improve the appearance of your dishes while also extending the life of your device. ​

Avoid the above mistakes, and you will be on your way to an optimal functioning appliance. 

Dishwasher Safety Tips

Dishwashers are a kitchen necessity, and they come in handy to help you save time and energy during dishwashing. They can, however, be dangerous if not used properly, just like any other device in your home.

Thousands of dishwasher-related incidents occur each year. These mishaps include everything from cuts and burns to flames and electrocutions.

Even though these are minor mishaps, they can be unpleasant and costly.

That is why taking basic safety precautions when using a dishwasher is critical. To help you out, here are dishwashing safety precautions given by dishwasher repair professionals that every homeowner should be aware of:

Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Most current dishwashers come with plenty of features and options that make them more effective and efficient than ever before. While this is the case, it is critical to read the manufacturer’s instructions before using a dishwasher. This will assist you in understanding how to use the dishwasher properly and avoid potential problems.

You also should ensure that you only use the appliance for its intended purpose, as indicated in the owner’s manual. Following the easy instructions given by the manufacturer will help ensure your dishwasher runs smoothly for many years.

Use the right detergent.

As much as detergents save time, they require maintenance to keep them in good working order. Use dishwasher-safe detergents or wetting agents to ensure that your appliance is in top working condition.

You should note that detergents can be hazardous if consumed, so keep them out of reach of children and pets.

Keep flammable products away from the dishwasher.

You can prevent fires in your kitchen by keeping flammable items away from the dishwasher. This calls for you to keep propane tanks, gasoline cans, and easily ignited wood materials away from your appliance.

You also should keep all electrical cords at a suitable distance to limit the risk of heat exposure.

When washing the dishes, always ensure that you are washing dishwasher-safe dishes. Dishwasher-safe dishes include hard plastic, stainless steel, glass, and ceramic; however, there may be exceptions, such as hollow-handled knives or wooden cutting boards, which may melt under the extreme temperatures and moisture present in a dishwasher, necessitating hand washing instead.

As much as they appear tough, Acrylic plates may break when subjected to high temperatures in a dishwasher, leaving hairline cracks evident even after being washed on an automatic cycle; this causes the dish to appear worn even after being properly cleansed.

To keep it in top condition, avoid placing it in the dishwasher.

Don’t overfill the dishwasher.

When you overfill the dishwasher, water tends to pour onto the floor. Not only is this a tripping hazard, but it also prevents your dishes from becoming as clean as they should.

This is due to the fact that dishwashers require a particular volume of water to function properly. The water has nowhere else to go but out when they are overfilled.

The dishwasher’s pump may also be unable to circulate the water, resulting in inadequate cleaning effectiveness.

So, the next time you’re tempted to throw another dish into the washing machine, remember that less is sometimes more.

Load your dishwasher with just enough dishes and always keep it manageable. Your dishes will appreciate it.

Be cautious when operating the dishwasher.

You should be aware of the potential hazards of the heating element when using a dishwasher. The element can be extremely hot and cause severe burns if you touch it.

As a result, it is advisable to avoid touching the element at all. If you must contact it, be cautious and protect your hands with thick gloves or a towel.

When loading the dishwasher, ensure that the surface you are standing on is dry and you won’t slip and fall.

When using the dishwasher, you should note that the water inside can become quite hot. To avoid steam burns, use caution when opening the door.

To avoid steam burns, cautiously open the dishwasher door and stand back while it runs. Use a dish towel to protect your hand from the steam if possible.

If you suffer steam burns, run cold water over the afflicted area for several minutes and apply a soothing lotion.

Keep pets and children away from the dishwasher.

Children and pets are highly curious. They enjoy exploring their environment and learning how things function. Unfortunately, this curiosity can also result in mishaps.

The dishwasher is one device that can cause problems. Children and pets close to the device while it is in use, are at risk of getting burned by the hot water and detergent.

You should keep kids away from the dishwasher to avoid mishaps. If possible, put a barrier between them and the appliance, such as a gate or locked door.

Before allowing children near the dishwasher, ensure it is turned off and the detergent dispenser is empty.

Treat the dishwasher with care.

It is critical to realize that dishwashers are not indestructible. You should handle them with care to perform properly.

Sitting or standing on the dishwasher door is one of the most common ways people damage their dishwashers. This can break or bend the hinges, making it difficult to open and close the door.

The dishwasher also won’t run properly.

Sitting or standing on the appliance exerts strain on the rack, which might cause it to break or bend. Doing so might also make the water and detergent easier to reach all the dishes, resulting in a less-than-satisfactory cleaning job.

As a result, it is critical to treat your dishwasher with caution to avoid damage and ensure that it continues to perform effectively.

Don’t try to fix the unit by yourself.

Many people feel that repairing or maintaining their dishwashers will save them money. This, however, is not the case.

Dishwashers are complicated machines, and attempting to repair them can sometimes cause more harm than good.

Most manufacturers cancel the warranty if a competent technician does not repair the dishwasher. As a result, if you are experiencing problems with your dishwasher, it is always better to contact a certified appliance repair Springfield specialist.

This not only ensures that your dishwasher is repaired properly, but it also protects your investment.

Guide to Servicing Your Dishwasher

It’s recommended that you hire an appliance repair professional to service your appliance, as it gives you peace of mind that they are doing the right job and will leave your appliance in tip-top shape. 

While this is the case, sometimes you don’t have the money to hire the service provider. In other cases, you don’t have time to wait for the service provider to arrive and need to service the unit. 

In such an instance, you don’t have any other way out than to service the appliance yourself. To help you out, here is how to go about it. 

Remove the filters, spray arms and racks.

Because the filters and spray arms are likely clogged, you should soak them with the racks in a mixture of warm water and distilled vinegar for at least one hour. Of course, you can soak them for longer if you want to and have time for it.  

After soaking them, wash them with a brush to ensure nothing is left behind. You can use a toothpick to clean the tiny pores in the spray arm and filter. This takes time, but it makes all the difference. Once you are done, use hot water to rinse them inside and out. 

Filters and spray arms typically clip off, but if you don’t know how to remove yours, examine the handbook. Look for dirt, food particles, or mineral deposits in the filters. Scrub away the accumulated debris with a soft-bristled brush, such as an old toothbrush. To remove any leftover residue, rinse the filters with warm water.

Put your toothbrush to work.

Using a toothbrush takes time, but it is well worth it. You should use an old toothbrush and dip it in equal parts baking soda and vinegar before going over all the nooks inside to ensure no food particles remain. 

Cleaning with vinegar and baking soda produces a strong solution that dissolves dirt fast.

Using the toothbrush, you should clean the gasket and door edges. Regularly clean the rubber gasket surrounding the dishwasher door and edges to avoid mold and debris buildup. 

You should scrub the gasket gently with the toothbrush to remove any debris or residue, then once you are done, rinse it. 

Remove debris or obstructions from the dishwasher drain using a small brush or toothbrush. To avoid water backup or drainage concerns, clear the drain.

Run a cleaning cycle.

Some dishwashers have a cleaning cycle. According to the manufacturer’s directions, you should run a cleaning cycle using a dishwasher cleaner or a vinegar and baking soda mixture. This cycle helps remove built-up residue and keeps the dishwasher clean.

When the cleaning cycle is complete, and the dishwasher has cooled, open the door and inspect the interior. Wipe any residual residue or buildup inside the dishwasher using a gentle cloth or sponge. Pay close attention to the corners, fissures, and door edges and ensure they are pristine. 

Rinse the appliance with vinegar.

To ensure the dishwasher is completely disinfected and all particles have been thoroughly removed, rinse it with vinegar.

You need to replace the filters, spray arm, and racks, then place a dishwasher-safe bowl of white vinegar at the bottom and run it on the hottest and longest cycle. 

You should always use white vinegar for this. The reason is that white vinegar has low acidity, so that it won’t ruin your appliance. Avoid other vinegars, such as apple cider vinegar, as they might cause some harm. 

The vinegar will dissolve any remaining food particles you may have missed when cleaning your appliance. This practice works like magic when it comes to descaling the dishwasher.

While vinegar is an efficient descaling agent, you should avoid using it on all dishwasher components. Use vinegar sparingly on any rubber or sensitive parts, such as the gasket or seals, as it may cause harm. You can see specific directions and recommendations in the dishwasher’s owner’s manual.

If you have highly tenacious limescale or mineral deposits or reside in a hard water location, you may need to repeat the vinegar descaling process or consider using a commercial dishwasher descaler as directed by the manufacturer.

Deodorize the appliance with baking soda.

Although the preceding step may have cleaned the appliance sufficiently, you can go further and sprinkle a cup of baking soda at the bottom of the dishwasher before running it on the longest and hottest cycle. This eliminates any remaining stains and deodorizes the machine.

How you go about it is that you close the dishwasher door after pouring the baking soda and leave it there for hours or overnight. Baking soda will absorb the scents as a result of this.

After the baking soda has had time to sit, wipe off the interior, including the door, walls, and racks, using a damp cloth or sponge. This aids in the removal of any residual baking soda and absorbed odors.

Finally, run a rinse cycle in the dishwasher without any dishes or detergent to guarantee that all baking soda residue is gone. This will assist in draining out any leftover baking soda, leaving your dishwasher clean and odor-free.

Using baking soda regularly can help prevent odors from accumulating in your dishwasher. If you continue to smell strong or persistent scents, it could be a symptom of a larger problem, such as a clogged drain or a problem with the dishwasher’s plumbing. 

In such instances, reviewing the manufacturer’s manual or seeking assistance from a professional dishwasher repair Springfield technician is essential.

When seeking the services of a technician, ensure that they are experienced and know what they are doing. You don’t want someone that ends up causing more problems than were originally there. 

Finish the job

Once you are done, you should return everything where it was before, and if the outside of the appliance is dirty, get rid of the dirt using a clean piece of cloth. 

Signs It’s Time to Clean Your Dishwasher

Sometimes some homeowners go for a long time without cleaning their dishwashers, which is wrong because it not only makes the appliance work too hard than it should but also brings many other problems. 

How do you tell that you have ignored your appliance for too long and it’s time to show it some love? Here are things you should look out for as given by dishwasher repair professionals. 

Your dishes come out dirty and cloudy.

It’s annoying to wait for a washing cycle to finish and then find that your dishes are still dirty or have a white, cloudy film. 

Dirty and cloudy dishes can be a sign that you need to clean your dishwasher more or use dishwasher soap made for hard water.

Residue on dishes or other items can also be a sign that your dishwasher needs some attention. In some cases, it can also be a sign of other problems. To be safe, check on your dishwasher and clean it at least once a month.

In addition to checking the filter and racks once a week for buildup, you should take the racks and filter or screen out and clean them with warm water and dish soap.

You also should look for a film or rough coating on the inside of the dishwasher. Here check to see if the holes in the spray arms are clogged, and give the arms a push by hand when the machine is off to see if they spin easily.

The dishes come out with a weird smell.

If you don’t keep an eye on your dishwasher filter and clean it regularly, it’s easy for it to get full of food bits. These food pieces give off an awful smell that makes your house uncomfortable to live in. The food pieces can also cause bigger, more expensive problems. 

To prevent these problems, check and clean the filter after every use and sanitize your dishwasher at least once a week.

You also should consider filling a bowl with white vinegar, putting it on the top or bottom rack, and running a normal clean cycle with hot water. 

When done, use a simple mixture of water, dish soap, and white vinegar to clean the door locks and the inside of the dishwasher. 

The dishwasher doesn’t drain as well as it should

If you’ve ever seen a pool of water at the bottom of your dishwasher or water spilling into your sink, this may not only be a sign of a clog that needs clearing but also that your dishwasher might need to be replaced altogether.

Bring in the experts if you’ve cleaned out the filter basket, and there is still standing water, or your dishwasher continues to be slow-draining.

A step-by-step guide to cleaning your dishwasher

To prevent the issues that come with poor care, you should regularly clean your dishwasher. To help you out, here are the steps you should follow:

Remove all the dishes and pans.

Empty out your dishwasher of lingering plates, pans, cups, or utensils. You want to avoid getting in the way of deep cleaning, especially if you haven’t cleaned your dishwasher in a while.

Remove and soak the removable parts.

If you’re overwhelmed by cleaning your dishwasher, remove the removable parts first. Cleaning the utensil holders and dishwasher racks is a great place to start. 

Give them a good rinse with a paper towel or damp cloth first. If these parts look extra dirty, you can soak them in your sink with warm water and 2 cups of white vinegar while you take care of the rest.

Get rid of food debris.

You should put on those cleaning gloves if you haven’t already. Get a paper towel and start picking up any food still stuck. You should remove all the debris before you take the next action. 

Run a hot cycle

Again, distilled white vinegar comes to the rescue. Pour 1 cup of pure white vinegar into a bowl that can go in the dishwasher. Put it on the top rack of your empty dishwasher with the right side up. Run your dishwasher on the hottest setting and leave the door open when it’s done.

Clean the drains

Most of the time, the drain will be on the bottom of your dishwasher. It can also cause clogs, water back-ups, and food bits to stick around. 

To clean it, mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 2 tablespoons of warm pure white vinegar and pour the mixture down the drain. After about 15 minutes, slowly pour hot water over the mixture to clear it.

Clean the filter

Every dishwasher is different. Some modern appliances have screens that clean themselves. Check your manual to see if yours has a filter that cleans itself. If not, your dishwasher’s manual will tell you how to remove the filter for cleaning.

Once the filer is off, clean it out with a wet paper towel or microfiber. You should then clean it with warm water, soap, and a toothbrush. The purpose of doing this is to ensure that you scrub and get even into the small areas.

Pay attention to the inside door.

Clean that toothbrush, swirl it around in hot water, and then use it to wipe and scrub around the inside of the door.

Allow your dishwasher to air dry.

If your dishwasher still feels wet after the run, let it dry completely before closing it. Put back the parts that you had taken off. 

For a fresh-smelling dishwasher, repeat this process at least once a month or as needed.

Parting shot

These problems come from failing to clean your dishwasher as often as possible. To prevent the issues, make it a habit to clean your unit at least once a month. 

In most cases, you must clean the appliance by yourself, but if you encounter a problem, let a professional appliance repair Springfield look at it. 

When hiring a repair professional, ensure they are experienced and know what they are doing. 

Signs that Your Dishwasher is Ready For Cleaning

For your dishwasher to continue cleaning your dishes as well as it should, you need to keep it clean. While some homeowners know the right time to clean their appliances, others don’t.

While this is the case, there are several things you can look out for to tell that it’s time to clean your unit. These things, as given by dishwasher repair professionals, include:

1: Your dishes are cloudy and dirty.

It’s annoying to wait for a dishwasher cycle to finish and then find that your dishes are still dirty or have a white, cloudy film. Dishes that are dirty and cloudy can be a sign that you need to clean your dishwasher more or that you need a dishwasher detergent made for hard water.

The residue left on dishes or other items can be a sign that your dishwasher needs cleaning. For peace of mind, check on your dishwasher and clean it at least once a month.

In addition to checking the filter and racks of your dishwasher once a week for buildup, take the racks and filter or screen out and clean them with warm water and dish soap.

While at it, look for a film or rough coating on the inside of the dishwasher, check to see if the holes in the spray arms are clogged. You also should give the arms a push by hand when the machine is off to see if they spin freely.

Sign 2: Your dishwasher smells weird.

If you don’t keep an eye on your dishwasher filter and clean it regularly, it’s easy to get full of food particles and smells that not only smell bad but can also cause bigger, more expensive problems.

To avoid these problems, you should check and clean the filter after each time you use the dishwasher. You also should commit to sanitizing it at least once a week.

You should fill a bowl with white vinegar, put it on the top or bottom rack, and run a standard clean cycle with hot water. When it’s done, use a simple mixture of water, dish soap, and white vinegar to clean the door seals and the inside of the dishwasher.

When you do this, you not only leave your dishwasher smelling fresh, but you also leave it sparkling clean.

Sign 3: Water backs up in your dishwasher or doesn’t drain properly.

If you’ve ever seen a pool of water at the bottom of your dishwasher or water overflowing into your sink, this could be a sign that you need to clear a clog or get a new dishwasher.

If you’ve cleaned out the filter basket and there’s still standing water or your dishwasher drains slowly, it might be time to call in the pros.

Best practices when cleaning the dishwasher

When cleaning the dishwasher, you must observe best practices to clean your unit properly. These practices include:

Don’t use bleach

Even though bleach can clean and disinfect some surfaces well, it is usually not a good idea to use it to clean the dishwasher. This is because bleach can be too harsh for the inside and parts of the dishwasher, and over time, it can cause damage.

Using bleach in the dishwasher can also leave dishes with a strong bleach smell and taste, which is unpleasant and could be dangerous if eaten. If you must use bleach to clean your dishwasher, do so in a well-ventilated area and small amounts.

Don’t use abrasive cleaners.

You might have the impression that using abrasive cleaners will make your unit cleaner, but this isn’t the case. In fact, it has been shown that cleaners and scorching pads often lead to more damage.

A good rule of thumb is to use a soft sponge or cloth, and you are good to go.

Parting shot

There are many safer ways to clean the dishwasher and make it work better. For example, you can get rid of buildup and smells by using a commercial dishwasher cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda.

Regular cleaning and maintenance, like wiping down the inside, cleaning the spray arm and filter, and running the dishwasher on a hot cycle with no dishes, can also help prevent buildup and keep the dishwasher working well.

You can clean the dishwasher yourself, but if you have problems, let an experienced appliance repair Alexandria professional help you.

Dishwasher Best Practises

Would you love to run your dishwasher at top performance? Here are tips that will guide you as given by dishwasher repair professionals:

Load your dishwasher upside down

This might sound obvious, but it’s not. Even when you have been using your dishwasher for a long time, you must have found yourself tossing cups and bowls right side up on more than one occasion, right?

You should always load everything upside down for your dishes to be clean. This way, the water gets into the insides of your glasses and bowls, removing any pieces of gunk sticking around, and as a consequence, you have sparkling clean dishes.

You should always remember to load all of your dishes upside down. The only things that are an exception are spoons and forks.

Place the bowls on the bottom rack, facing the center

Besides being cautious of the direction you place the bowls facing, you should also be cautious of the position you place them in.

You might have the impression that it doesn’t matter where you place your dishes as the water will reach them, but you should be cautious where you place them as placing them anyhow can easily lead to them missing the water spray, which isn’t the right way to go about it.

The best way to do it is to place the bowls in the bottom rack, facing the center. This way, you are sure that there is no way the water spray will miss them.

While at it, ensure that there is as little overlap between the bowls as possible. This is to ensure that your dishes receive the full force of the water stream, without leaving any smudgy spots.

Load the dishwasher from the back to the front

How you load your dishwasher is vital to how well it functions. As a rule of thumb, load your unit from the back to the front.

By doing this, you maximize the space in your appliance and, at the same time, reduce the risk of breaking anything during the loading process. The back-to-front procedure also makes it easy to unload the dishwasher once all the dishes are clean.

Keep similar silverware together.

You should put similar silverware such as spatula, whisk, and other awkwardly shaped items together. This way, you free up extra space down the unit, making the unloading and putting away the items easy.

While you should put silverware together, take care that some silverware, such as spoons, don’t nest together.

Don’t rinse food from your dishes.

To make the work easy from the dishwasher, some homeowners rinse the food from the dishes. This is wrong. As much as you will have almost clean dishes by the time you are putting them in the dishwasher, you often don’t get the results you deserve.

This is because the soap particles don’t have an adequate surface to adhere to, so the dishes don’t get as clean as they should. Instead of pre-rinsing the dishes, scrap off any leftover food and then place the dishes in the dishwasher.

When you leave some food on the dishes, you give the soap something to cling to, which is handy in giving you the spotless dishes you deserve.

Be cautious about the soap you use

You can use any soap to clean the dishes, right? As long as the soap can clean the dishes, you are good to go, right? Well, this isn’t the case. You need to be cautious of the one you go for.

As much as using plenty of soap with plenty of bubbles might seem like a great idea, it isn’t, as the excess soap often causes a buildup of moisture that takes a long time to air out.

Appliance repair Springfield professionals recommend you use the soap recommendations at the back of your appliance. If you aren’t sure about the right soap to go for, get the input of an expert.

6 Handy Tips To Keep Your Dishwasher in Top Shape

If you are like other homeowners, you want to get the most from your dishwasher. And the beauty is there are plenty of tips you can use to your advantage. Which are these tips? Here they are as given by appliance repair professionals:

Always start with a clean dishwasher

Before you place the dishes in the dishwasher, ensure that the dishwasher is clean. You should note that if you put the dishes in a dirty dishwasher, dirt and debris will get into the dishes, and you end up with even dirtier dishes than you started with.

Every few days, inspect your dishwasher and ensure no debris is hanging out in the bottom of the appliance. A great way to do this is to remove the screen and filter and rinse them. Thankfully they are easy to pop back in, and you can do it even if you have never done it before.

Besides this, make it a habit to place a cup of white vinegar in the top rack and run it in an empty dishwasher on a regular wash cycle. This will clean most of the gunk and deposits, leaving your appliance fresh and clean.

Soften your water

Hard water can sometimes be too hard on the dishwasher. Besides leaving hard-to-clean deposits, it can sometimes make it impossible to get sparkling dishes even after cleaning them for a long time.

Hard water leaves a white residue on glasses and silverware, which is off-putting.

To avoid this, soften the water before it gets into the dishwasher. If you can’t do this, regularly clean the dishwasher with vinegar to prevent deposits from forming. It also doesn’t hurt to use a special water softening rinse aid after cleaning.

Load it up right

How you load your dishwasher goes a long way toward determining the results you get. Of course, you come out with clean dishes if you load the unit properly. For you to properly load the dishwasher, you need to follow a set of rules that include:

Place the cups in the top rack and place them between tines. Never place the cups on top of the tines.

Plates and bowls go on the bottom rack, with the dirty side facing the water spray. As a rule of thumb, ensure that the dishes don’t all point in the same direction.

Place the pots, pans, and baking dishes angled down so the water spray can reach the insides.

If you will be cleaning larger items such as pans and baking sheets, ensure that you place them on the sides of the dishwasher. This way, you are sure they won’t block the spray arm or the detergent from the door.

Always stagger the utensils so that some are up and others down. Doing this ensures that the dishes don’t get nested together, and every inch of the utensils gets clean.

Use the right amount of detergent.

You might have the impression that using huge amounts of detergents will make your dishes much cleaner, but this isn’t the case. Using too much detergent costs you a lot of money, scratches your dishes, and makes the glasses cloudy.

Whether using powder, liquid, or pods, always use less detergent than is recommended in the package.

Run the sink first

Before pressing the start button on your dishwasher, run hot water in your kitchen sink first. Doing this ensures that the water is already hot when the cycle starts, and your dishes get cleaner.

Don’t shy away from cleaning other items.

The dishwasher is only meant to clean dishes, right? Well, this isn’t the case. Besides your standard cookware and serve ware, you can clean plenty of other household items susceptible to germs.

These include baseball caps, plastic toys, golf balls, plastic combs, cabinet handles, etc.

While you can clean other items with the dishwasher, dishwasher repair Springfield professionals recommend you don’t mix them with the dishes. As a rule of thumb, run a separate, gentle load.

There are plenty of items you can clean with your dishwasher, but there are equally many others that shouldn’t see the insides of your unit, as they will get damaged or even damage the appliance. Before you put anything inside the dishwasher, first confirm that its dishwasher safe.