Dishwashers can be time savers, eliminating the washing up/wiping down debate and ensuring at least one chore is done on time. Stack, set and go. Big ticket appliances need a little more TLC than microwaves and kettles, as like our cars, we want them to last longer than the warranty period. They aren’t cheap to replace. These easy fixes will ensure the longevity of your dishwasher, wind your electricity bills down and minimise any dishwasher repair issues that may spring up.
1. Air Dry Your Dishes
Some people are fond of their gadgets, relying on cycles to get the smallest jobs out of the way, including the infamous drying cycle. Not only does it burn the electricity lines and your back pocket, the drying cycle puts undue stress on the appliance, especially when used daily. Hit the off switch post-rinse and let the dishes air dry on a sink rack.
2. Clean the Filter
When was the last time you checked your dishwasher filter? Do you know where it’s located? Check the bottom of the appliance, you’ll notice a drain like mechanism; the appearance will differ according to brand and model. Filters catch all the old bits of food you didn’t wash off before stacking the racks – and like all filters, your dishwasher filter can become blocked. Give it a clean every five to seven days and rinse your dishes before loading the dishwasher.
3. Buy Powders or Powder Bullets
Bullets, dots, gel capsules and reliable, old fashioned powders – new features are rolled out and advertised all the time, but keeping it simple is generally better for your machine and your health. Gels are often composed of chlorine bleaches, a harsh chemical compound that can damage the internal function of the dishwasher and leave a micro-film over your dishes. And it doesn’t taste very good at all.
4. Check Sprayer Clearance
Do you ever hear something clanging around mid-cycle? Before hitting the go button, make sure the sprayer arm can rotate a full 360 degree without interference, taking note of any obstructions (plates, pans and cutlery are the usual suspects) and removing them. Sometimes, you will have to grit your teeth and clean these larger objects in the sink, using some old fashioned elbow grease. Alternatively, feel free to bribe a housemate, partner or child into doing the work for you. After you’ve figured out the perfect height in your dishwasher, check the holes in the sprayer and make sure they aren’t blocked, clearing any obstructions with a toothpick.
Finally, and most importantly, never forget to let the dishwasher cycle while empty every thirty days or so. No soap, no bullets, no dishes – just let it go and say goodbye to calcium build up.
