Got a dishwasher that sputters, smells, or leaves dishes spotty? Most of those annoyances are fixable with a little routine care. You don’t need a pro every month – just a few easy habits can stop small issues from turning into costly repairs.
First, think of your dishwasher like a kitchen partner. It works best when you treat it right. Below are the everyday tasks that take under five minutes and make a huge difference.
Wipe the gasket. After each wash, pull the door open and run a dry cloth around the rubber seal. Food bits and water can hide there, causing mold or leaks.
Clear the filter. Most UK models have a removable filter at the bottom. Pull it out, rinse under warm water, and shake off debris. Do this once a month or whenever you see grainy residue on dishes.
Run a hot empty cycle. Every few weeks, place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run the hottest setting. The vinegar dissolves mineral build‑up and freshens the interior.
Check spray arms. Remove the arms (they usually click out) and spray them with a toothbrush. Make sure the holes aren’t blocked by food particles – a clean arm means better water reach.
Dishwasher won’t start. First, make sure the door is fully latched. Then, check the power socket – a quick reset of the circuit breaker can solve it. If the lights still stay off, the door latch switch may need a look.
Spots on glasses. Hard water is the usual suspect. Add a rinse‑aid product, or run a cleaning agent like citric acid once a month. Also, make sure you’re not over‑loading the rack – water needs space to circulate.
Strange noises. A clunk or rattling often means a utensil fell onto the spray arm. Turn off the machine, pull out the bottom rack, and look for anything loose.
Leaking water. Inspect the door seal for cracks and the spray arm for cracks. Also, verify the dishwasher is level; an uneven unit can cause water to pool and spill.
These quick checks usually solve the most common hiccups without calling a technician.
Finally, keep an eye on your dishwasher’s age. While a well‑maintained machine can last 10‑12 years, wear and tear will show up eventually. If you notice frequent breakdowns despite regular care, it may be time to compare replacement models – look for energy‑efficient options to save on your electricity bill.
By adding these habits to your weekly routine, you’ll enjoy cleaner dishes, fewer smells, and a longer‑lasting appliance. Remember, a little upkeep now stops a big repair later. Happy cleaning!
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