A dishwasher is an essential piece of household machinery that requires maintenance, just like your car and lawnmower. Having your dishwasher break down results in washing your dishes by hand, which can be a significant inconvenience. This inconvenience may force you to purchase disposable plates and cutlery.

The good news is that following some maintenance tips reduces the odds of your washer breaking down. Checking the owner’s manual to ensure you know where everything is helps, too. Making maintenance part of your routine is the best way to keep up.

Inspect Your Dishwasher Monthly

A good maintenance schedule for your dishwasher is monthly. You can avoid germ buildup and enjoy greater overall efficiency. If the manufacturer recommends a different maintenance schedule, it will most likely be referenced in the owner’s manual.

Maintenance performed on a regular schedule enables you to fix minor problems before they lead to a significant breakdown. Repairing or replacing one component is more cost-effective than replacing the dishwasher.

Run the Washer at Least Weekly

Using your dishwasher at least weekly keeps the motor seals working correctly. These seals are essential to keeping the washer door closed during a cycle. Even if you run small loads, it’s beneficial for your dishwasher. You can still save water and energy by running small loads.

Remove and Clean the Filter

Not all washers have a filter. In those that do, it will often be at the bottom on the inside. Please consult your owner’s manual to confirm whether a filter is present and its location.

Any grime needs to be removed. If food becomes trapped in the filter, it can interfere with cleaning. In fact, your dishes could end up still being dirty after a cycle.

Clean the Door and Seals

The door rim has seals to help prevent water from leaking during cycles. These seals also help keep the door firmly shut. A damp cloth will keep grime and dirt from accumulating. For extra freshness, you can add a drop of dishwashing liquid.

Clean the Spray Arms

Spray arms are easy to clean with a damp towel. This component also requires a more thorough cleaning every six months. The owner’s manual will have instructions on how to remove the spray arm. To clean the spray arms well, you can use a toothpick to remove any blockages.

Maintaining your dishwasher is vital to preventing serious problems that could interfere with using the appliance. When you need dishwasher services, feel free to contact Hotshot Appliance in Olathe, KS.