Your dishwasher is one of the best comforts for a modern kitchen. Care for your dishwasher the same as other appliances. The holidays can add extra stress to any of your gadgets, but there are ways to prepare your home. An overworked dishwasher can cause many issues, including using more energy and water, a breakdown or causing water damage. There are several ways you can prepare your dishwasher for the holidays.
How to Clean Your Dishwasher
Every time you use your dishwasher, bits of food and grease cling to the corners and build deposits around the door. Use a small brush with hot soapy water around the door and in crevices to clean the rubber seal and hinges well. Grime may dry on the walls or corners of the dishwasher, but you can use an abrasive cleaner. A dish sponge can wipe away dirt after scrubbing the sides and removing the racks. Examine the drain, and remove any larger food chunks that could block or damage the pump. Put a dishwasher-safe cup filled with white vinegar on the top rack and run the dishwasher using the hottest water temperature.
Don’t Overfill or Underfill Loads
You may want to maximize space in your dishwasher, but you shouldn’t overcrowd the dishes. You can damage your items and prevent proper cleaning. Give bowls and plates the space they need so there’s no accidental bumping during cleaning. Partially filling your dishwasher is a waste of energy and water. Instead of putting in a small load, you can wash some dishes by hand or wait until you have a regular load of dishes. Partially filling your dishwasher leaves plates and bowls with too much room to bang together during cleaning.
Properly Unload Dishwasher-Safe Items
Dishwashers can’t clean everything, and you need to be aware of that. Materials that aren’t dishwasher-safe include cast iron, copper, wood, and fragile glass. A dishwasher can damage some metals and break fragile glass. Wood can crack or split from the dishwasher’s temperatures and humidity. When uploading the items, remove the bottom items first. The top rack is for cups and bowls, which may contain water from the cycle. Water could dump onto the clean dishes below.
Don’t Block the Sprayer or Pipe
The dishwasher uses the pipe under your sink. Using your garbage disposal before running the dishwasher clears the plumbing. Understand how your sprayer works in the dishwasher. The sprayer should reach the corners of the dishwasher and all the dishes. Move any large pots or pans away from the sprayer for better coverage.
The holidays always add stress to your appliances, and the kitchen is the busiest room during the holidays. Overworking your dishwasher may cause flooding or even a breakdown. Instead of washing dishes by hand in Phoenix, AZ, call us at The Bargain Busters Appliance Sales and Service for dishwasher repairs today.
