The short answer is no, it is not safe to run a dishwasher with standing water in it. This can cause damage to your dishwasher, your dishes, and your health. In this article, we will explain why standing water in your dishwasher is a problem, how to fix it, and how to prevent it from happening again.
Why Standing Water in Your Dishwasher Is a Problem
Standing water in your dishwasher is a sign that something is wrong with your appliance. It means that the water is not draining properly after a wash cycle, or that the water is leaking into the dishwasher from somewhere else. Either way, this can lead to several issues, such as:
Mold and bacteria growth. Standing water creates a moist and warm environment that is ideal for mold and bacteria to thrive. These microorganisms can contaminate your dishes, your dishwasher, and the air in your kitchen. They can also cause unpleasant odors, stains, and health problems, such as allergies, asthma, and infections.
Damage to your dishwasher. Standing water can corrode the metal parts of your dishwasher, such as the pump, the heating element, and the spray arms. It can also damage the rubber seals, the hoses, and the wiring. This can reduce the efficiency and lifespan of your dishwasher, and increase the risk of leaks and electrical hazards.
Damage to your dishes. Standing water can leave behind mineral deposits, soap residue, and food particles on your dishes. This can make them look dirty, dull, and cloudy. It can also affect the taste and quality of your food and beverages. Moreover, standing water can cause your dishes to crack, chip, or warp, especially if they are made of glass, ceramic, or wood.
If you notice standing water in your dishwasher, you should not ignore it or run another cycle. Instead, you should try to fix the problem as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can follow:
Turn off the power and water supply. Before you do anything, you should turn off the power and water supply to your dishwasher. This will prevent any accidents or injuries while you are working on it. You can unplug the dishwasher from the wall outlet, or switch off the circuit breaker that controls it. You can also turn off the water valve that connects to the dishwasher, or the main water valve for your house.
Remove the standing water. Next, you should remove the standing water from your dishwasher. You can use a cup, a bowl, or a turkey baster to scoop out the water and pour it into a bucket or a sink. You can also use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out the water. Be careful not to spill the water on the floor or the electrical components of the dishwasher.
Check the drain hose. One of the most common causes of standing water in your dishwasher is a clogged or kinked drain hose. The drain hose is the tube that connects your dishwasher to the sink or the garbage disposal. You should check the drain hose for any blockages, bends, or leaks. You can detach the drain hose from the dishwasher and the sink, and run water through it to clear any obstructions. You can also use a wire coat hanger or a plumber’s snake to push out any debris. If the drain hose is damaged, you should replace it with a new one.
Check the filter. Another common cause of standing water in your dishwasher is a dirty or clogged filter. The filter is the part that traps food particles and other debris from entering the pump and the spray arms. You should check the filter for any buildup or blockages. You can remove the filter from the bottom of the dishwasher and rinse it under running water. You can also use a soft brush or a toothpick to remove any stubborn dirt. If the filter is damaged, you should replace it with a new one.
Check the pump. The pump is the part that pumps the water out of the dishwasher after a wash cycle. If the pump is faulty or broken, it can prevent the water from draining properly. You should check the pump for any signs of damage or wear. You can access the pump by removing the lower spray arm and the filter. You can also test the pump by using a multimeter to measure its resistance. If the pump is damaged, you should replace it with a new one.
Check the air gap. The air gap is the device that prevents the water from the sink or the garbage disposal from flowing back into the dishwasher. It is usually located on the top of the sink or the countertop, near the faucet. You should check the air gap for any clogs or leaks. You can remove the cap of the air gap and clean it with a pipe cleaner or a wire. You can also blow air through the air gap to clear any blockages. If the air gap is damaged, you should replace it with a new one.
To prevent standing water in your dishwasher from happening again, you should follow some simple maintenance tips, such as:
Run your dishwasher regularly. Running your dishwasher regularly can help keep the water flowing and prevent any buildup or blockages. You should run your dishwasher at least once a week, even if it is not full. You can also run a hot water cycle or a vinegar cycle every month to sanitize and deodorize your dishwasher.
Scrape your dishes. Scraping your dishes before loading them into the dishwasher can help reduce the amount of food particles and debris that can clog the filter, the drain hose, or the pump. You do not need to rinse your dishes, as this can waste water and energy. Just scrape off any large or hard pieces of food and place them in the trash or the compost bin.
Load your dishwasher properly. Loading your dishwasher properly can help improve the water circulation and drainage. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for loading your dishwasher. You should also avoid overloading or underloading your dishwasher, as this can affect its performance and efficiency.
Check your dishwasher regularly. Checking your dishwasher regularly can help you spot any problems or issues before they become worse. You should inspect your dishwasher for any leaks, cracks, or damage. You should also check the filter, the drain hose, the pump, and the air gap for any clogs or blockages. You should clean or replace any parts that are dirty or damaged.
Standing water in your dishwasher is not only unsightly, but also unsafe. It can cause mold and bacteria growth, damage to your dishwasher and dishes, and health problems. Therefore, you should not run your dishwasher with standing water in it. Instead, you should fix the problem as soon as possible, and prevent it from happening again. By following the steps and tips in this article, you can keep your dishwasher running smoothly and safely.
