To keep from getting frequent appliance repair for your dishwasher, you should take care when using it and conduct regular cleaning and maintenance. Here are some of the best practices for dishwashers.

Clear the drains before running the dishwasher

Start by visually inspecting the bottom of the dishwasher to make sure there is no debris. Sometimes, broken plates, price stickers or paper labels can block part of the dishwasher drain. You should also run the garbage disposal before you start a cycle if your dishwasher shares a drain with the sink and garbage disposal. If there is a blockage, the items from the sink and the garbage disposal will flow into the dishwasher drainage hose and cause all sorts of problems. The hose may get clogged, which will result in added stress on the pump, problems cleaning the dishes and dirty dishes, as the refuse may run back into the dishwasher.

Run the hot water before you start the dishwasher

The dishwasher and the dishwasher detergent need hot water to work at their best. You should run the water in your sink until it is completely hot. Collect the water and use it for running the garbage disposal, watering plants or in the coffee maker. You can also use this water to pre-wash the dishes. Pre-washing is extremely important as it will ensure your dishwasher drains do not get clogged and that your dishes only need one cycle. Making sure that the water used in the dishwasher is hot from the very beginning will ensure that your dishes come out clean and you do not have to run the cycle again. 

Clean the dishwasher with vinegar

You may be running your dishwasher with a rinse aid to keep it clean through the cycles, but you should also run it with vinegar to keep it clean and smelling good. Check your detergent to see if it already contains rinse aid. If it does, do not double up on it and fill the rinse aid reservoir with white vinegar instead. You should also run the dishwasher empty with a cup of white vinegar put in the bottom once a month. 

Clean the seals

In addition to cleaning the trap (the piece under the lower sprayer) you should also clean the seals regularly. The rubber seal around the door will accumulate muck as will the area around the soap door. Make sure both these areas are cleaned regularly to facilitate proper flow.

Dishwashers make life a lot easier. Taking good care of them will ensure they continue to do so for a long time. If your dishwasher does need repairs, make sure you contact a reliable appliance repair company, like Roia Appliance.