The dishwasher: it’s an appliance we often take for granted, as they’re so easy to use: just place your dirty dishes in, and let the dishwasher work its magic. From saving time on handwashing dishes to saving water, the dishwasher is extremely handy. However, many folks aren’t aware in how to maximize their dishwasher’s potential, and that this appliance can clean much more than dishes. Read on to learn some neat facts and tips that will not only help guarantee proper functionality of your dishwasher, but will also save you time and money.
1. Don’t Pre-Rinse
That’s right, you read that correctly: don’t pre-rinse. The irony is that pre-rinsed dishes can emerge less clean out of the dishwasher, than if you hadn’t rinsed them. Food residue and grime on dishes gives the detergent something to hold onto, while in the dishwasher. Modern dishwashers are also equipped with sensors that determine how much water to use, based on how dirty the dishes are. The other reason not to pre-rinse: you can save up to 20 gallons of water. So let the dishwasher do the job it’s intended to do, and have those dishes skip the pre-rinse, which will save you time.
2. Clean Your Dishwasher
For many folks it doesn’t even occur to them to clean their dishwasher—after all, doesn’t it clean itself with all the hot water and detergent? Not quite. Accumulation of food debris and mineral buildup from hard water can affect the proper functionality of your dishwasher…and can lead to some funky odors. Ideally, one should clean their dishwasher once a month; at the very minimum, twice a year works as well. To keep everything running smoothly, remove any moving parts, trays, and the filter, and give them a thorough clean. For easier cleaning, you can purchase dissolvable tablets that’ll give your dishwasher the deep clean it needs.
3. Don’t Use Too Much Detergent
For especially grimy dishes it’s tempting to use more detergent. However, if you dishes come out cloudy or with spots, use less detergent next time. It’ll save you money and ensure that your dishes are properly cleaned their next visit in the dishwasher.
4. The Dishwasher Cleans Much More Than Dishes
The dishwasher isn’t just stuck to cleaning dishes only. Here’s some items that are dishwasher friendly:
- Toothbrushes
- Hairbrushes (remove hair from them first).
- Plastic toys, such as Legos (place individual pieces together in a mesh bag).
- Vacuum cleaner attachments
- Flip-flops
- Bath sponges and loofahs
- Shower caddies and soap dishes
5. There is a Right Way to Load Everything
What is the right way to load and unload a dishwasher? While you may find that you and your spouse debate this, the most basic rules are that 1. dishes should face inward and center, as the sprayer arm is located in the middle, and 2. make sure that nothing blocks the sprayer arm. As for unloading, start bottom drawer first, and work your way to the top. Lastly, you can always refer to your dishwasher’s user manual, as it’ll outline the best methods for loading and unloading your dishwasher model.
6. Start Your Dishwasher Late at Night or Early in the Morning
Many energy companies charge more during peak times when energy is consumed more often. To save money on bills, run your dishwater early in the morning or late at night. For example, after dinner you can load dirty dishes and in morning, then turn on the dishwasher.
Signs That It’s Time for a New Dishwasher
If you’ve tried all of the above tips and tricks, and still find that your dishes are never fully clean, it may be time for a new dishwasher. Pay attention also if you note the following signs, as these are usually an indication that it’s time for a new dishwasher:
- Door does not latch properly
- Water fails to drain
- Water leaks
- Dishes aren’t hot when cycle is finished
- Cracks in the interior tub
- Dishwasher makes unusual noises
- Rust in and around the dishwater
Having Dishwasher Problems? Contact Us
Is your dishwasher failing to clean your dishes? Does your dishwasher have a faulty seal? Call us at 970-773-1000, or visit us online here to schedule an appointment for repairs. We’ll get your dishwasher up and running; don’t buy new when you can save!
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