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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. 

Mastering Dishwasher Maintenance: A Guide to Repair and Care

Mastering dishwasher maintenance is essential for running your machine smoothly and ensuring that your dishes are always sparkling clean. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent costly breakdowns and extend the life of your dishwasher.

In this guide, we will cover some key tips and tricks for maintaining and repairing your dishwasher. Here are these tips as given by appliance repair professionals:

Clean the dishwasher

By keeping your dishwasher clean, you can prevent clogs and other common issues that can cause your machine to break down. You also prevent clogs, remove any lingering odors, and ensure that your dishes are always sparkling clean.

Start with removing large debris or food particles from the bottom of the dishwasher. You can do this using sponge or a soft brush to gently scrub the bottom of the dishwasher, making sure to remove any visible debris.

You should then remove the filters from the dishwasher and clean them thoroughly. Most dishwashers have two filters: a fine filter that traps small particles and a coarse filter that traps larger debris. Use a soft brush or a toothbrush to clean the filters, and remove any food particles or debris that may be stuck.

After cleaning the filters, run a cycle with vinegar to remove any lingering odors. You can use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for this step. Add a cup of vinegar to the bottom of the dishwasher and run a normal cycle without any dishes. The vinegar will help remove any odors and leave your dishwasher smelling fresh and clean.

Finally, clean the exterior of your dishwasher, including the door and the control panel. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe the exterior, removing any dirt or fingerprints gently. Be sure to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish of your dishwasher.

Repair the dishwasher

When it comes to repairs, there are some common issues that you can troubleshoot and fix yourself. For example, if your dishwasher is not filling with water, you may be able to resolve the issue by checking the water supply and ensuring that it is turned on and functioning correctly. If your dishwasher is not draining properly, you can try cleaning the filters and removing any debris blocking the drain.

You can fix some of the dishwasher problems by yourself, but when you encounter more severe issues, it may be best to call a professional for help.

Besides fixing your unit when a problem comes about, you should also regularly inspect the unit as a preventative measure. During the inspections, you should inspect all parts of the appliance and fix even the smallest problem that might be there.

Besides inspecting the unit and giving you peace of mind as you know that the unit is in top working shape, it also helps you pick the problems before they come about.

Again, you can do the inspections yourself, but for the best results, let an experienced professional help you.

When hiring a repair professional, you need to be strategic in going about it.

Begin with researching and comparing different repair services. Start by gathering a list of potential repair services in your area. You can ask friends or family members for recommendations, or search online for reviews and ratings. Be sure to compare prices, services offered, and customer satisfaction ratings to make an informed decision.

You should then verify the technician’s credentials and experience. It’s important to hire a skilled and experienced technician to repair your dishwasher. Ask about the technician’s credentials, training, and expertise to ensure they can handle your repair.

Communicate the issue. Before the technician arrives, gather as much information as possible about the problem with your dishwasher. This may include error codes, the make and model of your dishwasher, and any symptoms you have observed. You can help the technician diagnose and fix the problem more quickly and efficiently by providing precise and detailed information.

Ask about the repair process and cost. Before the technician begins the repair, ask about the steps involved in the process and the estimated repair cost. This will help you understand the scope of the repair and prepare for any potential expenses.

Parting shot

Mastering dishwasher maintenance is essential for running your machine smoothly and ensuring that your dishes are always sparkling clean. Regular cleaning and maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent costly breakdowns and extend the life of your dishwasher.

When hiring a dishwasher repair Fairfax professional, hire the most experienced.

How Long Do Dishwashers Last?

Are you wondering how long do dishwashers last? According to appliance repair professionals, they last an average of 9.5 years.

The appliance’s lifespan is hugely dependent on how frequently you use the unit.

An average household runs its dishwasher five times a week. This means that if you run yours more than this, it’s bound to have a much shorter lifespan and vice versa.

For example, if you run your unit more than five cycles a week, it will last for seven years, and if you run it fewer than five cycles a week, it will last for even 15 years.

How do you extend the life of your dishwasher?

Would you love your dishwasher to last for as long as possible? There are several things you can do. These things include:

Always load your dishwasher correctly

How you load your unit goes a long way towards determining how long it lasts. As a rule of thumb, you should never overload the unit, as you will inhibit its ability to clean the dishes properly. Overloading the dishwasher also creates unnecessary strain, which prevents the dishes from cleaning properly and makes the dishwasher overwork, which drives it to an early grave.

To be safe, learn how to load the dishwasher properly. This calls for you to place the different items in the right places.

Throw away the bones and food scraps before loading the dishwasher

While some powerful modern dishwashers in the market can handle food scraps, it’s still not safe to throw filthy food scraps and bones in the dishwasher as they prevent the dishes from cleaning as well as they should, so you should always remove dirty dishes.

There is also the risk of food getting stuck in the filters and causing significant damage over time.

Clean dishwasher safe items

Dishwasher companies will advertise that you can clean anything on the dishwasher, but this isn’t the case. There are some items that are hand wash only, and it’s for a good reason. This is because some of these items can damage your dishwasher.

To protect your unit from damage, take your time to analyze anything you put in the dishwasher. As a rule of thumb, don’t put anything there that doesn’t belong.

Keep the dishwasher clean.

The dishwasher is always clean as there is water flowing through it, right? Wrong. Like the other units in your home, you need to clean the dishwasher.

One of the parts you should ensure that is clean is the food trap. All dishwashers have a rubber trap at the bottom of the drain that prevents the drain from clogging. Every few months, remove the trap and clean it to keep it in top working condition.

You also should clean the dishwasher filters and door seals.

When doing the cleaning, always use vinegar as it not only removes the built-up gunk, but also gets rid of awful odors. To clean using vinegar, pour a cup of white distilled vinegar in the bottom of the dishwasher, then run an empty cycle. The vinegar will clean out any debris stuck in the crevices and throughout the machine’s interior.

Wash the dishes with hot water

When it comes to the water you use when washing the dishes, always use hot water. Hot water cleans the dishes and kills bacteria, so you have clean and safe-to-eat dishes. Hot water also prevents debris and residues from building up in the dishwasher, so you have an easy time cleaning it.

Use the right detergents.

Besides using hot water, you also should use the right dishwashing detergent. Dishwasher repair Alexandria professionals recommend you only use detergent meant for the dishwasher. And when using the detergent, don’t use a detergent that is more than the manufacturer recommended amount.

As much as a detergent might appear harmless, note that using the wrong one can lead to pipe, filter, and even drainage damage.

If you aren’t sure about the right detergent to use, get the input of a professional.

Does Hard Water Cause Dishwasher Problems?

If you live in an area with hard water, you must be wondering, does hard water cause dishwasher problems? Unfortunately, it does. Some of the common problems as given by dishwasher repair professionals include:

Residues on the dishes

Here the clear glassware and dishes have a strangely cloudy or chalky residue after removing them from the dishwasher. The cloudy appearance is usually from the mineral deposits in the water.

Although, the glasses and utensils coated with the residue are technically safe to eat with, they can send the wrong picture to the guests. The cloudy dishes also don’t look good sitting in your kitchen.

Residues coating the insides of your dishwasher.

Besides the minerals in the dishes, you are also bound to have the minerals coating the insides of your dishwasher so that you have a cloudy dishwasher.

While the residues on the dishes aren’t of much concern, you have a reason to worry when you have the minerals on your dishwasher, as it’s a matter of time before your dishwasher gets damaged when large deposits build up.

To prevent the minerals from building up too much, make it a habit to clean them with cleaning vinegar. Fill a dishwasher-safe bowl or grass with a cup of cleaning vinegar and place it in the dishwasher. Let the dishwasher run once on a short cycle, and the buildup will go away.

This works because vinegar contains acid that breaks down the minerals on your water and helps the dishwasher flush them out on its own.

Rusting of the dishwasher

When your dishwasher is exposed to hard water for too long, it’s bound to start developing rust patches. There is nothing good about a rusty dishwasher—it’s not sanitary to clean your dishes in the rusty water, and it’s a matter of time before the dishwasher becomes too rusty and breaks.

Hard water causes rust because some of the minerals in hard water are salts that begin corroding the dishwasher when exposed to water and oxygen.

The dishwasher fails to clean the dishes.

It’s one thing for the dishes to come out of the dishwasher with mineral residues on them and an entire ballgame for them to continually come out dirty with bits of food still stuck to them.

When you allow a lot of mineral deposits from the hard water to build up inside the water lines of your dishwasher, they restrict water flow, which significantly reduces the ability of the dishwasher to clean the dishes.

How do you deal with the hard water problem?

To avoid the problems that come with hard water, there are several things you can do. Some of these things include:

Soften the water

Softening the water takes care of the problem from the source. To soften the water, you need to install a water softener that will lower the levels of calcium and magnesium in the water and provide your entire house with softer water.

Use more detergent

If you don’t want to go through the trouble of installing a water softener, consider adding more detergent when running your dishwasher. To tell how much is more, refer to your user’s manual.

Run the dishwasher with vinegar

As mentioned above, vinegar does an excellent job at clearing out hard water stains in the dishwasher. As soon as you notice a calcium scale on the bottom of your dishwasher, fill a cup with vinegar and run a cycle with the cup on the top rack.

Add a rinse aid

The purpose of the rinse aid is to get rid of the spotty and streaky dishes. Upon adding the aid, the dishes come out clean—they aren’t cloudy. When using the detergent, consult your user’s manual to find out the amount of rinse aid you can add to your dishwasher without causing any damage.

There you go

As you can see, hard water is not only harmful to your dishes, but the dishwasher as well. While there are plenty of temporary solutions to the problems brought about by hard water, it’s better to fix the problem once and for all. Work with an appliance repair Springfield professional and find out the best way to go about it.

Is Your Dishwasher Making Noise? Dishwasher Repair Experts Explain Why

Although the dishwasher isn’t dead silent when running, it’s not supposed to be too noisy that you are bothered when cleaning your dishes. Is your dishwasher making noise? It means you have a problem that you should address as soon as possible. Here are some of the common dishwasher noises as given by dishwasher repair professionals and how to get rid of them:

Grinding noises

A light grinding noise is no problem, and you have nothing to worry about if your dishwasher is making it. However, if the noise starts immediately, you may have to hire a contractor and ask them to check inside the dishwasher as the drain impeller’s plastic blades might be having a problem.

The dishwasher uses the blades to break up large food particles, and sometimes things stick on the plastic blades leading to a grinding noise. If the contractor inspects the blades and there is nothing there, the noise could be coming from the water inlet valve.

Check the valve for clogs and if clogged, clean it. Also, check whether it’s damaged and if that’s the case, replace it.

Banging

Are there non-rhythmic banging sounds inside your dishwasher? In most cases, they are as a result of spray arms hitting the dishes. The arms will cause the bang sound, and since the arms rotate in a circle, the bang sound will have a certain rhythm to it.

To fix the rhythmic sounds, you have to adjust the dishes, but if the sounds aren’t rhythmic, you might be having a water hammer problem.

When a water hammer happens, the dishwasher valves close, forcing the water behind it to rattle the pipe. You need to hire a plumber to help you find the cause of the water pressure issue and install the adjuster to ensure you don’t burst a pipe.

Did you recently install the dishwasher? The banging sounds might be due to the drain line thumping against the cabinets or wall during operation. Ask the dishwasher technician to look into the issue and readjust it accordingly.

Rattling

In most cases, a rattling sound is due to improper placement of the dishes. A small cup might be jostled by water, you might be having a loose fork, or the plates are touching each other. If you do the inspection and the sound isn’t due to improperly placed dishes, take a look at the motor.

If the motor is faulty or on its way out, it’s normal for it to make rattling sounds. You can test whether the problem is due to a faulty motor by running an empty cycle where there is nothing left but the motor itself.

While at it, take a look at the filters and drains for solid objects that might be causing the rattling.

If everything checks out and you still have the rattling sounds, chances are you have a water hammer in your pipes. Ask an experienced professional to look into the issue and fix it.

Clicking

Clicking sounds are normal when you switch on the appliance, but if the sounds are too loud, you might be having a problem that you need to address.

Clicking sounds are often brought about by small items such as seeds bouncing around. The noises will also come about if you recently made repairs, such as replacing an O-ring. If the repair professional didn’t properly replace the O-ring, you are bound to have clicking noise as the ring moves.

Humming

Humming is the normal sound of a dishwasher in operation, but if you hear louder noises than normal or high-pitched, you will need to look further into them. Take a look at the motor or the fan.

If the humming is happening during a drying cycle, the noise is most likely coming about due to a faulty fan, but if the humming is happening during any other cycle, the motor is most likely the culprit since the fan is only used for drying cycles.

Squealing

Squealing sounds are common with new appliances as the dishwasher is yet to get used to the job. If your dishwasher is new, appliance repair Northern VA experts advise you to relax as the noises dissipate with time. However, if you have had your appliance for a long time, check the motor, water inlet, or pump for damage.

Dishwasher Repair: 5 Valuable Dishwasher Cleaning Hacks

Since you use the dishwasher for cleaning, you don’t need to clean it, right? Wrong. Like other kitchen appliances, you need to clean your dishwasher to keep it in top working condition. How do you do it? Here are valuable dishwasher cleaning hacks as given by dishwasher repair experts:

Run a cycle with white vinegar

Do you live in an area with hard water, and you have noticed your dishwasher building up mineral deposits? You should run a cycle with white vinegar. Put two cups of white vinegar on the top rack then run a complete cycle without adding dishes or detergent.

The vinegar will remove the trapped particles, detergent residues, and built up minerals, so the dishwasher looks and functions as good as new.

To prevent the deposits from coming about, make it habit to run the cycle once every three or four weeks.

Remove built-up food and debris with a steam cleaner.

Got built-up food and debris in your appliance? You should try removing them using a steam cleaner. After preheating the appliance, use the steam cleaner to clean the insides of the dishwasher. Focus on cleaning the corners and hinges as well as the sprayer holes and tracks.

Use the brush attachment to remove built-up material, ensuring you don’t scratch the machine. If your appliance has hard to reach tight areas, use a steam cleaner along with an old toothbrush.

For a deeper clean, use a multipurpose spray along with the steam cleaner. Once you are done with the steam cleaner, run a short cycle to rinse out the dishwasher.

Clean the filters

Your dishwasher most likely has a trap at the bottom to catch large food particles, preventing them from washing down the drain. The dishwasher filter is the same in most appliances where it resembles a mesh screen that you can take out, shake it off and rinse.

It also resembles a grate above the drain hole. If you have a more modern appliance, you could be having a device that catches the food particles the same way. You should remove, clean, and replace it.

To clean the filter, you need to shake it out over the trashcan and rinse it under the sink. If you are still unsure where to find the dishwasher filter, check around where the water seems to drain.

Pay attention to the spray arms.

If your home taps bring in hard water, chances are there is a lot of mineral buildup around the spinning parts of the machine that spray water. To clean the spray arms, use a pipe cleaner around the holes. If the mineral buildup is substantial, soak the arms in vinegar.

Be cautious, moving the dishwasher arms as they aren’t designed to move easily. Sometimes you have to remove them entirely to give them a good clean.

Get rid of smell using baking soda.

Baking soda is not only effective at cleaning the dishwasher, but also at deodorizing it. Have you noticed a unique smell in your appliance? Consider getting rid of it with baking soda.

Before you apply the baking soda, ensure the dishwasher is already clean. You should then remove the racks and remove any gunk or food residue present. Can you remove the drain? Remove it and give it a thorough cleaning.

You should then measure one cup of baking soda then sprinkle it across the bottom of the dishwasher. Follow it up with a short cycle on the hottest setting possible. If you have done it right, your appliance will have a fresh smell and look brighter.

You don’t need to run another cycle after using baking soda. Continue using the dishwasher as you normally do.

If you don’t want to go through the trouble of cleaning using baking soda, place one lemon peel in the basket cutlery, and it will fight the bad smell.

Remove rust from the latch.

If you have had your appliance for a couple of years, chances are the latch has begun to get a little rusty. To fix it, rub it down with a stainless steel cleaner and steel wool. Appliance repair Northern VA professionals advise you to rinse the latch and buff it dry with a cotton cloth.

To complete the look, coat the latch with clear fingernail polish. This will waterproof the metal and prevent rust from coming about.

Dishwasher Repair: Tips On How To Properly Load The Dishwasher

For you to properly clean the dishes, you have to load them properly in the dishwasher. Here are tips on how to go about it as given by dishwasher repair professionals:

Loading the top rack

The top rack is designed for glasses, cups, saucers, and smaller items. Place the items at an angle with the dirtiest surface facing downward. To prevent the dishes from chipping or getting damaged, ensure similar items don’t touch.

Place lightweight and dishwasher-safe plastic items such as storage containers on the top rack. If including any household items you can clean in the dishwasher, keep them on the top rack. Place them away from high temperatures of the drying element in the bottom of the appliance.

Ensure the plastic items you place in the dishwasher rack aren’t too small to fit through gaps. This is because items that can fall through the gaps can block one of the washer arms or land on the dishwasher’s heating element and get burnt.

Does your appliance have a fold-down shelf with stemware holders? Secure the stems of wine glasses and champagne flutes in the holders for extra protection during washing.

Some dishwasher models have flexible spray nozzles on the upper rack where you can place tall glasses and water bottles.

Got long utensils such as ladles and spatulas? Lay them flat on the upper dishwasher rack. Ensure the utensils can slip through the rack and block the spray arms.

Loading the bottom rack

The bottom rack is the ideal spot for plates, pans, bakeware, instant pot inner pots, and casserole dishes. Place dinner and lunch plates between the tines on the bottom rack and angle the dirty sides towards the washer jets.

Watch you don’t stack the dishes on top of each other as this will cause nesting and prevent the dishes from getting clean evenly. You can avoid nesting by alternating larger and smaller plates.

Position large bowls between tines or along the side, back, or front of the bottom rack. Face the inside of each bowl towards the center of the dishwasher and angle them downwards.

If you have larger cookware items such as pans, pots, and baking dishes, place them along the sides or back of the lower rack. Angle them down to ensure better cleaning and drainage.

Place flat pans and platters on the side or back of the lower rack away from the dishwasher door. Avoid placing them in the front door as you can block detergents from reaching the dishes.

Loading the silverware

The key to ensuring the silverware get clean is to ensure the water reaches the entire surface area. Don’t place forks or spoons in one section unless you alternate the direction. Load the silverware into the silverware basket while taking care to avoid nesting when loading, as this can cause some of the utensils to clean inefficiently.

To protect your fingers and hands when loading, place knives with the handles facing up. For the spoons and forks, place them with the handles facing down.

If your silverware baskets have lids, take care as they might flip up if the handles don’t fit into the slots in the lids.

Once everything is in place, fill the detergent dispense to the necessary level based on how hard the water is in your area.

Tips for getting excellent results from your dishwasher

For clean dishes all the time, clean the dishwasher regularly.

Use the correct amount of dishwasher detergent. As mentioned above, this will depend on how hard the water is. If the water contains a lot of minerals, use more detergent for every load.

Ensure that the detergent is fresh and not clumping. Give the liquids a good shake before you use them. This will break any lumps in powdered formulas leaving you with easy to use detergent.

Watch what you place in the dishwasher. Some items, such as cast iron and ceramic-coated cookware, should never see the insides of the dishwasher. This is because they will get damaged, and you can’t restore them.

At least once a year, hire an appliance repair Springfield professional to inspect your appliance and ensure all the parts are functioning optimally. If they have a problem, the professional should fix it immediately before it gets worse.

Dishwasher Repair: How Do I Get My Dishwasher To Clean Better?

dishwasher repair

A dishwasher is like an extra set of hands that makes your work easier, and your day a whole lot better.

If you have had your appliance for a long time, you must have noticed its efficiency dwindling, and you must be asking, how do I get my dishwasher to clean better?

Well, you are on the lucky side as dishwasher repair professionals report there are plenty of ways you can do it. Here are some of these ways:

Scrape off the leftovers

As much as you don’t want to touch the dishes when they get dirty, you should note that the efficiency of the appliance is significantly compromised when you deposit too much food residues into the system.

For your appliance to clean the dishes better, scrape off all the extra food from the plates before you put them in the dishwasher.

Some people go to the extent of pre-rinsing the dishes, but you shouldn’t. When you pre-rinse the dishes you not only give yourself extra work, you also reduce the efficiency of the appliance as the detergents don’t have enough space to adhere to in order to clean the dishes effectively.

Use hot water

Just like when cleaning the dishes by hand, hot water cleans the best, so ensure the water getting into the dishwasher is hot enough. Before you start running the appliance, check the temperature of the water at the kitchen faucet using a meat or candy thermometer.

For effective cleaning, the temperature should be 120 degrees. Adjust the setting accordingly.

Keep the dishwasher clean.

You should keep the dishwasher clean all the time. Regular cleaning eliminates stuck-on-food particles, mineral buildup, and residual detergents. To clean the dishwasher, run it on a normal cycle using two cups of white vinegar.

You should then wipe down the interior wall and racks with a solution of baking soda and vinegar. Once you are done, rinse thoroughly.

Soften the water

Do you live in areas with hard water? You should note that hard water tends to leave ugly residues on the glasses and plates. No amount of cleaning will leave the dishes sparkling unless you soften the water.

To soften the water, buy and install a water softener, and you will prevent stains and minerals from building up.

Load the dishes appropriately.

Sometimes the dishes will fail to clean properly if they aren’t correctly loaded in the dishwasher. For optimum results, follow the manufacturer recommendations for loading the appliance. As a rule of thumb, never overload the appliance as you will block the spray arm and prevent the water from reaching all the surfaces.

Use the right amount of soap.

Soap is necessary for clean dishes, but when you use too much of it, you end up with dirty dishes. For the cleanest clean, always pour the detergent into the built-in measuring cup inside the dishwasher. This way, you ensure that you are always using the appropriate amount.

Always ensure that you use the right soap for the work. As a rule of thumb never use dish soap designed for hand washing in the dishwasher.

Use the right cycle

Dishwashers come with different cycles aimed at different dishes. The regular cycle is for normal cleaning, the heavy-duty cycle for deep cleaning, and the light cycle for fragile items.

For effective cleaning, be aware of the items you are cleaning and ensure you are using the right cycle.

Inspect the dishwasher for clogs

It’s normal for clogs to develop in the spray arm and the drain, and as you might have guessed, they prevent the dishwasher from functioning optimally. Now and again, check the holes in the spray arm and ensure they aren’t clogged with food residues or hard water minerals.

To dislodge the particles, use a toothpick or needle. While you are at it, check the trap and drain to ensure that food scraps or other objects aren’t blocking the area.

You can do the work if you have the skills but for ideal results, let an appliance repair Northern VA handle it for you. When hiring the contractor, ensure they are experienced and certified to work in your local area. In addition to unclogging the appliance, they also should inspect other areas and fix them if problematic.

How Long Does A Dishwasher Last? Dishwasher Repair Experts Give Their Input

dishwasher repair

One of the mistakes homeowners make is hiring dishwasher repair professionals to repair an appliance that has passed its lifespan.

It’s pointless to keep on repairing an aged appliance as you will be wasting your money, and it will never work efficiently. If you are wondering how long does a dishwasher last, you should expect it to last for 9-11 years.

Things that affect the lifespan of the dishwasher

The lifespan of the appliance will be heavily influenced by these factors:

Frequency of use: How often do you use the unit? In an average home, the dishwasher is cycled five times a week. If you use your appliance more than this, it will most likely have a shorter lifespan and vice versa.

Quality: Reputable brands make high-quality appliances that last for years, so if you have a high-quality appliance from a reputable company, it’s bound to have a long lifespan. A machine from a reputable company also tends to develop fewer problems during its lifespan.

Maintenance: Periodic maintenance, such as cleaning, can significantly affect the lifespan of your unit. If you properly maintain your unit, it will have a longer lifespan and vice versa.

Price: Although, the price of the unit isn’t a very reliable factor, it can guide you on how long it will last. A poor quality appliance goes for a much lower price, so you can expect it to have a shorter lifespan than an expensive one.

Tricks on how to extend the life of your dishwasher

To avoid having to replace your dishwasher after a few years, you need to take good care of it so that it lasts for a long time. Some of the things you can do include:

Keep it clean: Everything begins here. Just as your car won’t last for long if you keep it dirty, your dishwasher also won’t last for long if you don’t clean it often. Routinely wipe down the door seals using warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth.

If you notice any foul smells in your appliance, work at getting rid of them as much as possible.

You also should regularly clean the filters that capture food particles. When cleaning, also inspect the filters and ensure they aren’t damaged such that they are allowing food to pass into the internal parts.

It’s normal for the sprayer arms to clog up when you don’t clean them as often as you should. To improve the washing experience, get rid of all the debris from them.

Be on the lookout for hard water residues: If you live in an area with hard water, thin films of hard minerals settle on the inside of the machine causing discoloration. This not only gives the dishwasher a cheap look, but it also significantly reduces its efficiency.

You should clean the dishwasher using a citric-based cleaning solution to get rid of the film. Also, consider adding regeneration salt to the water softening system to prevent the hard water from clouding, spotting, or minerals building up.

Use hot water: When cleaning the dishes, avoid using cold water—use hot water instead. The water not only makes the detergent more efficient, but it also kills germs, odors, and bacteria.

Don’t overload: On the verge of saving time, some homeowners stock the dishwasher more than it should. Don’t do this as it results in poor cleaning of the dishes. It can also cause undue strain on the dishwasher; hence it doesn’t function efficiently.

When placing the dishes, don’t stuff them in. Carefully load them in their correct areas. If any dishes are out of place, don’t force them. Simply leave them for another cycle.

Conclusion

A properly maintained dishwasher should last at least ten years. You can make your unit last longer than this by putting the above tips into action. When the unit develops problems, don’t hire just any contractor to repair it.

Take your time and find a reputable and certified appliance repair Springfield professional to do it. You can verify they are reputable by taking a look at their experience and track record. Also, confirm with the regulatory bodies and confirm they are allowed to offer their services in your local area.

Appliance Repair: Expert Tips On How To Deodorize Your Dishwasher

appliance repair

The dishwasher is one of the most hardworking appliances in your home. Unfortunately, grease gunk and leftover food particles accumulate over time, leaving your appliance with a musty smell.

Has your appliance been having an awful smell you aren’t proud of? Many homeowners rush to the stores to buy expensive commercial deodorizers, but you shouldn’t do this as there are plenty of ways you can get rid of the smell without spending much.

Here are some of these ways as given by dishwasher repair professionals:

Clean the drain filter

Most dishwashers have a drain filter that prevents food particles from clogging the drain. If you go for a long time without cleaning your appliance, the drain filter is bound to produce awful smells.

To clean the filter, start with removing the filter from the floor of the dishwasher, then wash the filter in the kitchen sink with hot water and soap. To have an easy time reaching the interior surfaces, use a bottle brush if necessary.

After cleaning the filter, reinsert it back. It’s common to find the filter damaged. In such a case, replace it with a new one. Before you reinsert the drain filter, ensure that the drain is clear of food debris. If there are any remaining food particles, wipe them with a sponge.

Clean the insides of the dishwasher

When you go for a long time without cleaning the dishwasher, it’s common for grime to accumulate on the interior walls of the appliance.

Did you know a quick wipe down on the appliance can do wonders to the foul smell? Start with removing the upper and lower racks then run them under hot water in the kitchen sink.

Scrub the inside of the dishwasher with a rag or sponge dampened with hot water. While at it, pay attention to the door gasket, which might have collected mold and mildew.

If it’s months since you last cleaned the appliance, it’s normal to find a lot of accumulated grime that is hard to remove. In such a case, use kitchen-safe household cleaners that will make it easy to scrub out the filth.

Wipe the door gasket

The door gasket is the black rubber seal that lines the opening of the dishwasher. The gasket often has a magnetic strip on the inside that helps it to cling to the frame of the dishwasher to prevent water from leaking out during cycles.

In some cases, the food particles that get washed off the dishes during the cleaning cycle stick to the sides of the gasket. When you go for a long time without cleaning, the particles start producing an awful smell.

To get rid of the smell, wipe down the gasket with warm water. You also should inspect the gasket. If damaged or worn out, replace it so that the dishwasher can continue functioning optimally.

Clean the spray arm

When the spray arm gets clogged with food, the dishwasher doesn’t clean the plates, cups, or silverware as efficiently as you would want it to.

The clogged food also makes the dishwasher smelly. Just like with the other parts, you need to clean the spray arm to get rid of the smell. Start with removing the upper and lower spray arms. Holding the spray arm over the kitchen sink, remove any stray food particles using a cotton swab.

You should then run water through the spray arm to ensure that all the holes are clear. Once you are done with one arm, repeat the process on the second.

Clean out the garbage disposal

You might think that the garbage disposal has nothing to do with the dishwasher, but the same central hose connects the two.

So, sometimes you might think that the smell is coming from the dishwasher while it’s coming from the garbage disposal. To tell where the smell is coming from, disconnect the hose from the disposal.

Temporarily remove the hose, then clean it out using a stiff wire and a thin, damp cloth.

You should note that cleaning the garbage disposal is messy, so you should be prepared for it. If you aren’t ready for it, ask an appliance repair Northern VA professional to help you out.