Tag Archives: dishwasher repair company

Tricks to Make Your Dishwasher Function Optimally

When you purchase a dishwasher, you want it to function at its best, right? And it’s possible with these tricks given by dishwasher repair professionals:

Properly prepare the dishes before putting them in the dishwasher

You can do several things to prepare your dishwasher for proper functioning. These things include:

Secure all plastics. If you don’t, water blasts may force them to roll over and fill with water, or worse, fall into an exposed heating element (if your model has one) and melt them.  You don’t want this, do you?

Never stack items. The water spray will be unable to reach (or clean) the dish sitting on top. Remember that if water cannot reach the dishes, it will not be cleaned.

Always keep stainless steel and silver (or silver-plated) cutlery separate. If the two types come into contact in the wash, a reaction can occur, causing the silver to pit.

If you have not used your dishwasher in a while, turn on the hot water tap. Run it at the nearest sink to guarantee that hot water reaches your dishwasher.

Be cautious what you put in the dishwasher. Items made of wood, such as cutting boards and spoons, cast Iron, valuable carving tools (such as chef’s knives), jars, or containers with glued-on labels, as bits of the labels may fall off and become caught in the filter, and they don’t belong in the dishwasher.

Don’t pre-rinse the dishes.

You should avoid washing your dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. This is because modern detergent is engineered to adhere to the remaining food and clean the dishes properly.

While this is the case, it doesn’t imply you should put your plate in the dishwasher with a half-eaten sandwich on it—unless you want a mushy mess.

Instead, you should scrape large objects off your plate—into the trash or garbage disposal—and place the dish in without rinsing it.

This will not only clean your dishes, but also preserve them in good shape. If no food is adhered to, the detergent may gradually damage your dishware, carving little scratches and pits into the surface.

You also waste water—up to 27 gallons each load, compared to the three to six gallons used by a normal Energy Star-rated dishwasher.

There are certain exceptions to this, of course. With difficult foods such as eggs and oats, dishwashers can’t always perform the job perfectly on the first try.

If you have a casserole dish with very burned-on food residue, it probably makes sense to soak it a little before putting it in your dishwasher.

Place the cookware on the right rack.

You must place the right items on the rack for the best outcome. To help you out, here is a guide to follow:

Plates: Plates belong at the bottom. Lay them so that the dirty side faces the area where the water spray is heaviest, which is normally in the center of the rack. To achieve the best cleaning results, angle pots, pans, and casseroles down.

Place flat pans and platters on the bottom, snuggled along the sides and rear of the rack. Never set them in front of the door; they may prevent the dispenser from opening and the detergent from reaching the dishes.

Store utensils in the basket or lined neatly on the flatware tray. If you’re using a basket, make sure spoons don’t nest together, so arrange some handles higher, and others lower to ensure all surfaces are cleaned.

Forks go up to clean the tines, while knives should be positioned with the blade down for safety. When unloading, grip utensils by their handles to keep them clean.

Glasses and cups: These belong on the top rack. Remember to place glasses between the tines, never on top. The tip of the prong can leave a watermark, and glasses jammed between two tines can fracture.

Angle the cups as much as the rack design allows to prevent water from gathering at the base of the upside-down cups.

Still, got puddles? Unload the lowest rack first to prevent drip-down. And place the wine glasses with care.

To minimize breakage, keep them from bumping into each other or the dishwasher’s top, and ensure they sit securely in the rack. Thankfully, most modern dishwashers include unique stemware holders to keep glassware stable.

Use the proper cycle for the job.

You should be cautious of the cycle you use on your dishwasher. The rapid cycle may be okay if you’re pre-rinsing your dishes, but it wastes more water and time than simply letting the dishwasher do the work.

The shorter cycle is intended for dishes with light soil or those that have recently been soiled. For example, if you have freshly purchased crockery and want it washed for the first time.

Or perhaps you and your companion sit down to dinner and want the dishes cleaned.

For regular loads, you should use the usual cycle.

That is, unless your new dishwasher includes an automatic cycle. The autocycle is intended for a daily mixed load. That’s where the machine’s intelligence comes into play: it analyzes the soil level, recognizes anything left in there, and modifies the cycle accordingly.

If your dishwasher has the intelligence to run an auto cycle efficiently, you can use it for most loads, except for exceptional cases like pots and pans or baby bottles that require the sanitary cycle.

Keep the food trap clean.

Many people don’t know that the dishwasher needs cleaning and maintenance. One area you should pay attention to is the food trap.

It’s in the dishwasher’s base and smells terrible, so people avoid taking it out and messing with it. Depending on how frequently you use your dishwasher, you should clean the trap once every three to six months.

The beauty is that it’s easy to clean even by yourself without involving the services of appliance repair Alexandria professionals.

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.

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.

8 Mistakes You are Making with Your Dishwasher

A dishwasher is one of the most commonly used kitchen appliances, and it saves you time and effort when dishwashing. 

To keep your dishwasher running smoothly, you must avoid making dishwasher mistakes that households make daily.

The mistakes you should avoid, as given by appliance repair professionals, include: 

You don’t read the instruction manual.

Many people have the impression that every dishwasher is the same. Due to this, they don’t bother reading the manual for their specific model as they think it’s unimportant.

Each dishwasher has a slightly different set of needs and ways of working.

One example is the type of things that each device can handle. When you don’t read the owner’s manual before using the appliance, you won’t know the items you can clean using the unit and those you can’t.

To stay safe, read the instructions before putting the different items in the dishwasher. 

Don’t put anything in the dishwasher if the manufacturer doesn’t say that it can go in.

Failing to run hot water beforehand

You might miss out if you don’t run your hot water tap before using the dishwasher. This might sound strange, but it’s true.

Running hot water before you start to use the dishwasher can ensure that the water going into the dishwasher is already hot, which can help it clean better.

Cold water can leave behind leftover soap and food. To stay safe, turn on the hot water at the sink and let it run for a few minutes.

Failing to leave the door open after a cycle

Just like with a washing machine, you should leave the dishwasher door open after using it so it can dry properly.

This is a great way to avoid mold, especially on the caps.

While this is a great practice, in most cases, many homeowners don’t do it often because they don’t know it’s the right thing to do. Others don’t know that they should do it. 

To stay on the good side, make it a habit to leave the dishwasher door open after running a cycle.

Overusing the eco mode

Eco mode or energy saver mode on your dishwasher can only be good for you and your appliance, right? Well, this is not true. Even if the mode saves energy by running at lower temperatures, setting your dishwasher to only run on eco mode could be a mistake that could hurt you in the long run.

Some people only use the eco or energy saver mode on their dishwashers because they think it would save them money and be better for the environment. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case.

Running your unit only on eco mode could cause problems because the water might not get hot enough to dissolve all the soap. Soap can build up over time, leading to problems like leaks and damage to the dishwasher.

To prevent this, occasionally use the dishwasher’s highest temperature setting to keep it clean and ensure soap doesn’t build up.

Overloading the dishwasher compartments

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make when using their dishwashers is to put too many dishes, pans, glasses, and silverware in them.

Why does this matter so much? If you put too many things in your dishwasher, it won’t clean as well as if you left more room between them. Overloading your dishwasher can make your dishes have a foul smell and less clean.

To avoid this, load your dishwasher correctly, leaving enough space between the dishes so the water and soap can move around properly during the cleaning cycle.

Failing to clean the dishes

Some experts advise that you don’t need to clean your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, but this is controversial.

You should know that your dishwasher isn’t a trash can or a garbage disposal. This means that you shouldn’t allow all the trash to get there. 

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when using the dishwasher is failing to scrap off bigger bits of stuck-on food or sauce, as these leftovers could linger.

Even though dishwashers are made to clean dishes, you should still scrape and rinse dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. If you don’t do this, bits of food will get stuck in your dishwasher and won’t clean your dishes.

This means you’ll have to clean your machine more often in the long run.

You don’t need to pre-rinse your dishes, but you should scrape off any stuck-on food. This way, you have fewer food particles getting into your dishwasher. 

Failing to clean the filter

It’s easy to forget or not even know that the dishwasher has a filter, but it does, and it does a great job of keeping your dishes clean by filtering out dirt and waste.

A dirty filter could be why your dishes come out of the washing with a film on them, and your glasses look cloudy.

Because of this, you need to clean it regularly. How often you clean it will depend on how often you use your machine. Once a week is suitable for some homes, but once a month is good for others.

You should research and find out the best time to do it. It also doesn’t hurt to consult an experienced dishwasher repair Springfield professional.

Failing to clean the dishwasher deep

Even though you should clean the filter often, you should also deep clean the dishwasher every so often.

You can do this by running a dishwasher cleaner or a bowl of white vinegar on the bottom shelf while the dishwasher is empty.

Doing this eliminates the limescale, food, and grime that have built up in your dishwasher.

It will keep your dishwasher from getting smelly, make sure your dishes get clean, and make the machine work better.

For the best outcome, deep clean your appliance at least once a week. You can do the cleaning yourself, but if you don’t have the time or aren’t sure about your skills, let an expert do it.

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. 

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.

Should You Let Dishwasher Air Out?

When you are going on a holiday, or you will be out of the house for extended periods, you might have been tempted to leave the dishwasher open for moisture to evaporate and air to flow through the insides of the unit, but you aren’t sure whether this is a great decision.

Should you let the dishwasher air out? If you are wondering about this, you should know that it’s okay to do it. According to appliance repair professionals, airing out your dishwasher comes with plenty of benefits that include:

You allow heat and moisture to escape

Heat and moisture are usually a nightmare combination for most homeowners as they create unhealthy living conditions. When you let your unit air out, you get rid of this moisture, which leaves your unit in top working condition.

Besides leaving the door open when you are leaving the house for extended periods, it’s also recommended that you leave it open regularly to ensure that the dishes are fully dry before you remove them.

A good rule of thumb is to leave the door ajar for at least 30 minutes after each cycle.

You get rid of limescale.

Limescale is the yacky white coating you see on units exposed to water for some time.

The coating results from excess calcium in the water, and while it’s not a hazard to your health, it can lead to many problems for your appliance, such as blocking the unit and restricting water flow.

As you can tell, when your appliance has excessive limescale depositions, it doesn’t run as well as it should.

When you air out the unit, you slow down or prevent the depositions from coming about as you eliminate most of the moisture.

Besides airing out your unit, it’s also highly recommended that you regularly clean the insides of your dishwasher.

You get rid of harmful bacteria.

Bacteria thrive in wet environments, and when your appliance has plenty of moisture in it, it’s bound to promote the growth of these bacteria.

When you air out your appliance, you keep the insides dry, which is handy in keeping the bacteria to a minimum.

Like when keeping the limescale at bay, you also need to regularly clean your appliance to prevent the bacteria from multiplying. When cleaning, pay close attention to the rubber seals, as this is where most bacteria love hanging out the most.

You get rid of standing water.

Even when your dishwasher is running at optimum levels, some water remains behind, which serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects.

When you leave the door ajar, you allow this water to evaporate, which leaves your unit dry and free from insect infestation.

You prevent mold growth.

The last thing you want is mold growing, where you clean the plates and forks you eat with.

Unfortunately, the moist and hot nature of the dishwasher makes it an excellent environment for mold to grow in. When mold grows in your unit, you have heightened incidences of asthma, allergies, and other complicated health issues.

When you air out your appliance, you make the insides of the dishwasher dry, which as you can guess, isn’t a great growing ground for mold.

Leaving the dishwasher door open also means that the dishwasher isn’t too hot on the inside, which impedes mold growth.

Remember to regularly clean the insides of the unit to keep the mold off.

Other dishwasher best practices

Besides airing out the dishwasher after a cycle or when you aren’t using it, also make it a habit to clean it regularly.

In most cases, cleaning the dishwasher involves running an empty cycle with hot water that eliminates most bacteria that can wreck havoc.

Dishwasher repair Springfield professionals also recommend that you move with haste and fix even the most minor issues as soon as it comes about. This prevents the problems from getting too big and complicated to fix.

4 Things to Avoid For An Optimally Functioning Dishwasher

According to dishwasher repair professionals, the primary reason you are having a problem with your dishwasher, or you fail to get ideal results from your unit, is because you are doing the wrong things. This means that to properly clean your dishes and keep your appliance in top shape, you must avoid doing the wrong things. Which are these things you should avoid doing? Here they are:

Don’t wash fine glasses in the dishwasher.

You shouldn’t do this because the delicate glasses can easily break from the rattling, and the dishwasher detergents can etch the glass, causing it to turn cloudy.

Instead of washing the glasses using the dishwasher, use your hands. Even when doing it, be ultra cautious that you don’t break them.

Don’t prewash the dishes.

Many people have the notion that they have to prewash their dishes before putting them in the dishwasher to thoroughly clean. While this might help if your dishes have been sitting out for a long time and your dishwasher isn’t powerful enough to remove the food pieces, you don’t need to prewash the dishes.

If you put the dishes in the dishwasher immediately after eating, prewashing is a waste of time, water, and energy, so don’t do it. The reason for this is because most modern dishwashers and detergents can easily handle crusty dishes and break down most solids, so you don’t need to help them do their work.

Some dishwashers have been found not to clean the dishes as well as they are supposed to when you prewash the dishes.

Some dishwashers have even damaged the dishes when you prewash them. When you put too clean dishes in the dishwasher, there is no food film on the surfaces for the detergents to adhere to. This forces the detergents to adhere to the surfaces of the dishes, which leads to them damaging their finish.

To make the work easy for the dishwasher, you can scrape off the dishes, but you shouldn’t wash them.

Don’t use too much dishwasher detergent than necessary

Detergents are packed with chemicals meant to attack dirt and grease. While these chemicals are great, they can sometimes wear down your metallic appliqués, ceramic glazes and etch your glassware, especially when you use too much of them.

To be safe, only use the recommended amount of detergent. If you aren’t sure about the right amount to use, check the manual. You can also contact the manufacturer representatives and ask about this.

When cleaning lighter loads and dishes that aren’t heavily soiled, don’t fill the dishwasher’s detergent cup to the brim.

Your choice of dishwasher detergent is vital. Remember that powdered detergents tend to leave the dishes cleaner than their liquid or tablet counterparts do, so you are better off going with them.

It’s not uncommon for the glassware to come out of the dishwasher spotty. When this happens, try using a rinse agent with your dishwasher detergent.

No two detergents are the same so if you aren’t satisfied with the results you get from one detergent, experiment with different detergents until you find the one that works the best for you.

To protect the environment, go for environmentally friendly detergents that contain less phosphate than the standard detergents.

Don’t overload your dishwasher.

As much as you want to save energy and water by loading your dishwasher with more dishes than normal, you shouldn’t, as it not only leads to some of the dishes failing to clean as well as they should, it can also lead to the dishwasher getting damaged.

To avoid this, you should load your appliance with just the right number of dishes.

For the best outcome, don’t just load the dishwasher—you need to load it properly. This calls for you to place glassware, cups, and bowls on the top rack.

For the dinner plates, load them towards the back of the bottom rack with each dish’s “food side” facing towards the center. Place the plates so that you have only one item between each pair of tines.

Appliance repair Springfield recommend you load big and tall items such as cookie sheets at the extreme edges of the bottom rack.

Does It Matter Which Way Dishes Face In A Dishwasher?

Dishwashers have a spray arm that spins around and cleans all the dishes on its path. With this knowledge, you must be wondering whether it matters the direction you place the dishes facing, right?

Well, for proper cleaning, it matters the direction your dishes or bowls face. Bowls always go to the top rack. Those in the rear should face forward, while those in the front should face towards the back. This way, water will effectively reach them and give them the clean look you want.

For the plates to get clean, place them facing the center of the bottom rack.

Other valuable tips to get the most from your dishwasher

Besides strategically placing your dishes and bowls, you should consider plenty of other tips to get the most from your dishwasher. These tips as given by appliance repair professionals include:

Load the dishwasher properly

Everything begins here as there is no way you will get the most from your dishwasher if you don’t load it properly.

Before you do the loading, scrape off all large food pieces. Please note that you don’t have to pre-rinse the dishes—scraping them off is enough as they tend to come out much cleaner this way as they have some soil for the detergent to cling to and lift away.

When placing the bowls, angle them in such a way that the dirties surface faces downward, while leaving enough space for water to flow up and around each surface. There should be no nesting.

When it comes to the silverware, mix them up in the holder or alternate the spoons with one handle up and another down, to prevent the spoons from nesting against each other, covering the surfaces from detergents.

Before closing the dishwasher door, confirm that the spin arms are moving freely without hitting any surface. You also should check that you haven’t blocked the detergent dispenser with any large item.

Use hot water

The water you use to clean the dishes significantly determines the quality of your results. Dishwashers perform the best when the hot water is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. At these temperatures, the dishwasher will clean the dishes and remove any stains that might be present.

The best way to ensure that hot water always reaches your dishwasher is to use a water heater. Before cleaning the dishes, turn on the hot water tap in your kitchen sink and let the water get hot.

Use the right dishwasher detergent.

Like water, the detergent you use on your dishes goes a long way in determining your results. As a rule of thumb, use the right amount of detergent and choose one that provides the necessary ingredients for a deep clean.

If you have hard water in your system, use more detergent for every load or a booster.

Ensure that the detergent you use is fresh and not clumping for the best outcome. If using liquids, give them a good shake before using. Also, break up any lumps in the powdered formulas.

Don’t overload

While the dishwasher saves you time and effort, don’t try to overdo it by cramming all the dirty dishes in the appliance, as it won’t do proper cleaning, and you will have to redo the cleaning, which beats the whole purpose of owning the dishwasher in the first place.

If your dishwasher is overcrowded, the detergent and water can’t effectively circulate to clean the dishes thoroughly. In some cases, the situation is even dire as the dishes don’t clean at all.

If you have large loads that need cleaning, don’t try to clean all of them at once—separate them into smaller loads. You can also roll up your sleeves and hand wash some items.

Use the right cycle settings.

Thanks to advances in water and energy usage, dishwashers have different settings ideal for different dishes. To tell which setting you should use for your dishes, refer to your manual.

Dishwasher repair Northern VA professionals highly discourage against using the standard setting for all your washing as it’s a recipe for disaster. For example, if you use the standard-setting on fragile wine glasses, there are chances of the glasses cracking and don’t want this, do you?