Even though dishwasher is an automatic machine and wash dishes by itself, but humans play a significant part as well in its smooth operation. Operation of dishwasher is usually very simple nevertheless there are some guidelines which should be followed to operate them effectively and efficiently.
- Regular dishwashing soap should not be used in the dishwasher. It produces so many suds that the unit will overflow and there will be froth all over the place.
- When loading dishes into the dishwasher make sure that you do not overload it. Some room is required for the water jets to be sprinkled over the dishes.
- The dishes should be placed so that the dirtiest part faces the spray jets which normally come from the center.
- Steel and silver ware must be washed separately in the dishwasher. When two different metals come in contact with each other in a humid environment they start corroding.
- The dishes of identical shapes like bowls, spoons etc should be placed separately. When they are placed together they usually nestle together, preventing water to reach every corner.
- Though dishwasher provides great convenience but there are some items which should be washed by hand. They are hand painted dishes, wood, cast iron, crystal and fine china.
- The use of dishwasher at the time of high water pressure, such as at night, will be clean the dishes better. Also try not use water for something else when they dishwasher is running, like for washing clothes, this will divert the water pressure.
- You will have to use slightly more quantity of detergent if there is hard water in your home.
- A rinse aid is great help in avoiding spot formation on the dishes; it helps them dry quickly as well.
- Avoid placing plastic dishes on the bottom rack, particularly when you are using hot drying cycle. This is because the plastics can melt being in close proximity to the heating element.
- Pre-cleaning dishes is not a good idea. pH level in the dishwasher is maintained with the help of small particles of food which remain clung to the dirty dishes. Large pieces of food should be removed to the garbage though.
Detergent
Detergents play an important part in the smooth operation of dishwasher. They are specially used to counteract the effect of mineral deposits and hardness of water. Only detergents made specifically for the dishwasher should be used. Others may damage dishes or will overflow the dishwasher by generating a great amount of suds. Detergents come in different forms like tablets, powder and gel; they all clean equally well so you may use whatever you like.
The dishwashers become a headache when they can’t even perform their core duty, that is to wash dishes properly. If you find bits of food clung to dishes or detergent residue then check out that water pressure is suitable in the unit. Water intake valve may need to be replaced. Another problem commonly faced is minerals depositing on water jets. If dishes are washed with hard water, minerals will deposit on the water jets. Regularly clear jets with something pointed like a pin or a wire.
Written by David Wells.
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