Dishwashers are one the most used appliances in the house. However, most people don’t think to wash it regularly. Because it’s used to clean dishes, the common belief is that the dishwasher will wash itself each time a cycle is run. But that’s not true! Here are some tips on how to extend the life of your dishwasher.
1. Clean the dishwasher filter
Every time you run the dishwasher, you should clean the filter. What’s a dishwasher filter? It’s a small, rectangular plastic sheet that is located directly under the bottom rack of your dishwasher. The filter keeps food particles and other such debris from entering the pipes and valves of your machine. Cleaning it might seem irrelevant, but it’ll extend the life of your dishwasher by preventing clogs and overflows.
2. Load the dishwasher the correct way
The loading pattern of items in the dishwasher is one of the most important things to consider when washing dishes. If you don’t know how to, your machine won’t work as efficiently as it was designed to. Always face your dirty dishes towards the centre and put your cups face down.
3. Use the proper cleaners
There are different machine cleaners available in the market. Most work with chemicals and detergents, but some have natural ingredients that are safe and effective for washing dishes. Try to use these kinds of cleaners for your dishwasher as much as possible.
4. Run the self-cleaning cycle
If your dishwasher has a self-cleaning option, then it’s always a good idea to make use of it. Not only does it do a great job in shutting down the machine and turning off the switch for its drain, but also at cleaning the filter. This is even more important if you’re using natural cleaners.
5. Regularly clean the dishwasher’s seals
The seals in your dishwasher are like little sponges that act as water filters. Once they get dirty, there is a high chance that not only will your dishes not be clean, but also your machine will run longer. Always keep in mind that this part is easy to clean. Just spray with vinegar and you’re good to go!
6. Avoid overloading the dishwasher
Overloading your dishwasher is like overloading your trash can. The same goes with dishwashers. If you overload it, it’ll cause clogs in the pipes and valves of your machine. You might also need to replace a part of the machine. So don’t overload, or you’ll be in for a bad surprise!
By following the above steps and regularly maintaining your dishwasher, you’ll be able to make the machine work as efficiently and effectively as it was designed to do.
