Dishwasher Maintenance Tips

• Before starting your dishwasher, run the hot water on the adjacent sink until the water heats up (usually around 15 seconds).
• Set the temperature on your home’s hot water heater to the temp recommended by your dishwasher’s manufacturer (usually around 120 – 125 degrees Fahrenheit).  If you’re water is too cold, your dishes may not come entirely clean, and if it’s too hot your dished may not dry correctly.
• Don’t double up on rinse aids. Check to see if your dishwasher detergent includes a rinse aid. If so, there is no need to add an additional rinse aid.
• The water jets on the spray arms of  your dishwasher can become clogged overtime.  Occasionally clean the spray arm jets with soap and a washcloth to ensure smooth spraying.
• Don’t overcrowd your dishwasher. While it’s tempting to fill your dishwasher with as many dishes as possible, an overcrowded dishwasher will not get your dishes clean. It’s easier and more effective to hand wash a few dishes than to re-run the entire cycle.
• Once a month, run an empty dishwasher cycle with vinegar. This will help keep your dishwasher clean, and remove built-up food and mineral debris.
• Always use the correct cycle for the particular load of dishes in your machine.
• Test your water. Running your appliance with hard water can prevent dishes from becoming fully clean and can be hard on your dishwasher.
• Clean the trap.  Under the lower sprayer of your machine you will likely find the dishwasher’s trap is filled with bits of food that did not drain, or even pet hair. Check the filters and trap of your machine and regularly clean them to keep thing running smoothly.