The best way to improve the efficiency of your dishwasher is to clean it regularly, load it correctly, use the right detergent and cycle, and avoid hard water and pre-rinsing. These simple steps can help you save water, energy, and money, as well as extend the lifespan of your appliance and ensure optimal cleaning performance. In this article, we will explain why these tips are important and how to implement them in your daily routine.
One of the most common reasons why dishwashers lose their efficiency is because they are not cleaned properly. Over time, food residue, grease, soap scum, and mineral deposits can build up in the filter, spray arms, and pipes, reducing the water flow and pressure, and creating a breeding ground for bacteria and odors. To prevent this, you should:
Check and clean the filter after every cycle or at least once a week. Remove any food particles or debris that may be stuck in the mesh or the drain. Rinse the filter under running water and wipe it with a soft cloth. Replace it securely in its position.
Wipe the door seal and the interior of the dishwasher with a damp cloth or sponge once a week or every two weeks. You can use a mild detergent or white vinegar to remove any stains or dirt. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that may damage the surface.
Run a hot water cycle with white vinegar or a commercial dishwasher cleaner once a month or every two months. This will help to dissolve and flush out any limescale, grease, or soap residue that may be clogging the pipes or affecting the heating element. You can either pour two cups of vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher or use a dishwasher-safe bowl or cup. Do not use any detergent or dishes for this cycle.
Another factor that can affect the efficiency of your dishwasher is how you load it. If you overcrowd the dishwasher or place the dishes incorrectly, you may prevent the water and detergent from reaching all the surfaces, resulting in poor cleaning results and wasted resources. To load your dishwasher correctly, you should:
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for loading the dishwasher. Refer to the user manual or the labels on the racks to see where and how to place different types of dishes, such as plates, bowls, cups, glasses, cutlery, pots, and pans. Make sure to load the dishes facing the center of the dishwasher, where the spray arms are located.
Leave enough space between the dishes to allow the water and detergent to circulate freely. Do not stack or nest the dishes together, as this may create blind spots or trap food particles. Avoid blocking the spray arms or the detergent dispenser with large or tall items.
Scrape off any excess food from the dishes before loading them, but do not pre-rinse them. Pre-rinsing can waste a lot of water and energy, and may also reduce the effectiveness of the detergent, as it needs some grease and dirt to work properly. Modern dishwashers are designed to handle a reasonable amount of food residue, so you only need to remove large or hard pieces that may clog the filter or damage the dishwasher.
Use the Right Detergent and Cycle
The choice of detergent and cycle can also make a difference in the efficiency of your dishwasher. Using the wrong detergent or cycle can lead to poor cleaning results, residue, spots, or damage to your dishes or dishwasher. To use the right detergent and cycle, you should:
Use a high-quality dishwasher detergent that is suitable for your water hardness and dishwasher model. Check the label of the detergent to see if it is compatible with your dishwasher and follow the instructions on how much to use. Do not use regular dish soap, as it can create too much foam and overflow the dishwasher. You can also use a rinse aid to help prevent spots and improve drying performance.
Select the appropriate cycle for the type and amount of dishes that you are washing. Most dishwashers have different cycles for normal, heavy, light, or delicate loads, as well as options for extra rinse, sanitize, or dry. Choosing the right cycle can help you save water and energy, as well as protect your dishes from damage. You can also use the delay start feature to run the dishwasher at off-peak hours, when electricity rates are lower.
Hard water is water that contains high levels of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. While hard water is not harmful to your health, it can have a negative impact on the efficiency of your dishwasher. Hard water can leave white spots, streaks, or film on your dishes, as well as cause limescale buildup in your dishwasher, which can reduce its performance and lifespan. To avoid hard water, you should:
Test your water hardness level using a kit from a home improvement store or online. The hardness level is measured in grains per gallon (gpg) or parts per million (ppm). The higher the number, the harder the water. Generally, water is considered hard if it is above 7 gpg or 120 ppm.
Install a water softener to treat the hard water before it enters your dishwasher. A water softener is a device that removes the minerals from the water using salt or other chemicals. This can help you prevent spots, residue, and limescale, as well as improve the cleaning and rinsing performance of your dishwasher. You can also use less detergent and lower temperature settings with soft water, which can save you money and energy.
Use a dishwasher salt or a water softening agent to boost the softening effect of your dishwasher. Some dishwashers have a built-in water softener that requires regular refilling of salt or a softening agent. Check your user manual to see if your dishwasher has this feature and how to use it. If not, you can also add some salt or a softening agent to the detergent dispenser or the bottom of the dishwasher before running a cycle.
Improving the efficiency of your dishwasher is not only good for your dishes, but also for your wallet and the environment. By following these simple tips, you can make sure that your dishwasher runs smoothly and effectively, and that your dishes come out clean and sparkling every time. You can also save water and energy, reduce your utility bills, and extend the life of your appliance. So, what are you waiting for? Give your dishwasher some love and attention, and enjoy the benefits of a more efficient dishwasher.
