In today's modern world, the dishwasher has transitioned from a luxury appliance to an essential item in almost every kitchen. But do we really know how to properly care for this crucial device? We’ve prepared a comprehensive guide for the proper maintenance of your dishwasher, ensuring years of efficient, worry-free use.
"The key to longevity is regular maintenance," explains Aryeh Ashkenazi, Service Manager at Beko Israel, a leading home appliance brand. "Routine cleaning and maintenance are not just recommendations but necessary steps to ensure the proper functioning of your dishwasher. These simple tasks will save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. While dishwashers come with self-cleaning mechanisms, they aren’t enough. Correctly setting the cleaning programs, including using high temperatures occasionally, helps remove residue. Additionally, regular maintenance using specially designed cleaning and care products ensures the dishwasher stays in optimal condition."
The Hidden Enemy: Water Hardness
"Water hardness is one of the most significant factors affecting the lifespan of your dishwasher," Beko experts explain. It's essential to regularly refill the salt compartment when the dishwasher alerts you. This special dishwasher salt is vital for proper functioning—using regular household salt won't do the job.
Dishwasher Cleaning and Maintenance Routine
Follow these steps for a comprehensive cleaning routine:
1. Monthly or Bi-Monthly Cleaning: Use a designated dishwasher cleaner to remove food residue, grease, and limescale.
2. Deep Cleaning: Every 4-6 months, perform a thorough cleaning with a descaling agent.
3. Annual Descaling: In areas with hard water, it's essential to descale the dishwasher once a year.
4. High-Temperature Cleaning: Every 5-10 cleaning cycles, run a high-temperature program with a dedicated dishwasher cleaner.
Warning Signs and Home Solutions Before Calling a Technician
The tablet didn’t dissolve: Tablet dissolution depends on your home’s water pressure and the correct program and temperature selection. Ensure that the detergent compartment isn’t blocked by dishes, and check that the spray arms are clean and unclogged. If they’re blocked, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning.
Dishes not drying? Make sure there’s enough rinse aid according to the manufacturer's guidelines. If there’s insufficient rinse aid, the dishwasher will alert you. It's crucial to regularly refill the rinse aid to maintain the dishwasher's performance. Note that plastic dishes often don’t dry in standard dishwasher cycles due to their material composition, which doesn’t indicate a malfunction.
Dishes aren’t clean: First, identify the type of dirt remaining on the dishes after the cycle. If you notice cloudiness or white residue, it may indicate a lack of salt. Consult the manual for further details. If there’s greasy residue, ensure that the tablet dissolved correctly, the dishes are properly arranged in the baskets, and the spray arms are clean. Check that the appropriate program was selected and that the dishes were organized according to the basket layout, allowing the spray arms to move freely. Additionally, verify that the filters and strainers are clean and there's sufficient detergent, salt, and rinse aid according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure the salt compartment is securely closed.
Water isn’t draining: Clean the filter frequently according to the usage. Ensure the filter is clear and that nothing is obstructing the water drainage, such as a kinked hose or a clogged siphon.
Proper maintenance directly impacts your dishwasher’s energy and water consumption. "A well-maintained dishwasher is more efficient," explain Beko experts. "It uses less energy and water, which translates into significant savings on your utility bills." Additionally, correct maintenance reduces the risk of malfunctions and extends the appliance's lifespan. "A properly cared-for dishwasher can serve you for many years without the need for expensive repairs or premature replacement," the experts emphasize.