Homeowners have a lot of maintenance tasks to prioritize.
From outdoor jobs like cleaning out gutters and clearing old landscaping in the spring to servicing HVAC equipment and replacing worn items, there's never a lack of things to do.
Don't let dishwasher maintenance fall to the wayside. Ignoring your dishwasher can mean a shortened service life. Armed with a few, significant preventive tasks like the ones listed below, you'll ensure that the appliance works well and lasts as long as possible.
- Run the dishwasher. First, empty out the dishwasher by removing plates, cups, cutlery and so forth. Then, measure a cup of white vinegar and pour it into the bottom of the appliance. Close the door firmly, and run a normal cycle - without any dishes. The vinegar will help remove any lingering food particles or mineral buildup in the system's parts to ensure it runs well — and prevents the dishwasher from backing up.
- Clean the seals around the door. The area around the door's edges is susceptible to dirt buildup, which can hinder the seal. Take a damp cloth and run it around the door. If the grime doesn't come off, wash it again, this time using mild detergent or dishwashing soap. If the seal becomes damaged, you'll want to call a pro to assess the situation and replace the gaskets/seal if necessary.
- Wipe down the inside of the dishwasher. The sprayer components (there may be one on the bottom of the appliance, one in the middle and one at the top) can become clogged with debris. Dip a rag in a solution of warm water and white vinegar, and soak the arm to allow the debris to loosen from the tiny holes. It's also possible to completely remove the sprayers from the dishwasher, if there is a large amount of debris on the sprayer arms, so you can soak them in a sink of water/white vinegar.
- Check the filter or screen at the bottom of the appliance. Before water drains out of the dishwasher, it moves through a screen, which is designed to stop any food particles from entering - and possibly clogging - the drain. Wipe away any food debris from the filter.
In spite of faithfully following dishwasher maintenance steps, it's possible for the appliance to break down. When that happens, get in touch with an expert plumber who can diagnose the situation and recommend a prompt, efficient solutions, like replacing filters and sprayers, fixing damaged gaskets or leveling the dishwasher. For answers to your questions, contact the Pink Plumber today.
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