How to Keep Your Dishwasher Running Like New: DIY & Professional Maintenance Tips
A dishwasher is one of the most convenient appliances in any home, saving time and ensuring your dishes come out sparkling clean. However, without proper maintenance, dishwashers can develop issues such as poor cleaning performance, leaks, or unpleasant odors. In this guide, we’ll cover essential maintenance tasks that homeowners can perform, professional servicing needs, and signs that your dishwasher may need repairs.
Maintenance Homeowners Can Do
Routine maintenance helps keep your dishwasher in optimal working condition. Here are the most important tasks you can do yourself:
Daily & Weekly Maintenance:
- Scrape Off Food Debris Before Loading – Large food particles can clog the filter and spray arms, reducing cleaning efficiency.
- Load Dishes Properly – Avoid overcrowding and ensure that dishes don’t block the spray arms to allow proper water circulation.
- Use the Right Detergent – Use dishwasher-specific detergent and avoid excessive soap, which can cause buildup and reduce performance.
- Run Hot Water Before Starting a Cycle – Running the kitchen faucet until the water is hot ensures your dishwasher starts with hot water, improving cleaning performance.
- Leave the Door Slightly Open After a Cycle – This helps prevent moisture buildup and reduces the chance of mold or mildew growth.
Monthly Deep Cleaning:
- Clean the Filter – Most dishwashers have a removable filter that traps food particles. Remove it, rinse it under warm water, and scrub with a soft brush.
- Check & Clean Spray Arms – Food and mineral deposits can clog the spray arm holes. Use a toothpick or small brush to clear any blockages.
- Run a Vinegar Rinse Cycle – Pour a cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack and run a hot cycle to remove grease and mineral buildup.
- Deodorize with Baking Soda – Sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot cycle to eliminate odors.
- Inspect & Wipe Down the Door Gasket – Wipe the rubber seal around the door to remove food residue and prevent leaks.
Maintenance a Professional Should Handle
While homeowners can do a lot to maintain their dishwashers, some tasks require a professional appliance technician:
- Deep Cleaning Internal Components – A technician can remove hidden buildup in areas that homeowners can’t reach, such as inside the pump and motor.
- Inspecting & Replacing the Drain Pump – If your dishwasher isn’t draining properly, a technician may need to check or replace the drain pump.
- Checking Water Inlet Valves & Hoses – If your dishwasher isn’t filling with water properly, a professional can inspect and repair water supply components.
- Testing & Replacing Heating Elements – If dishes aren’t drying well, a technician can test and replace faulty heating elements.
- Calibrating & Repairing Sensors – If your dishwasher isn’t running cycles correctly, a professional can check and recalibrate water level sensors, thermostats, and other electronics.
Signs That Your Dishwasher Needs Repair
Even with proper maintenance, dishwashers can develop issues over time. Here are some signs that you may need professional repairs:
- Dishes Aren’t Getting Clean – If dishes come out dirty or cloudy despite proper loading and detergent use, there may be a clogged spray arm, a failing pump, or low water pressure.
- Water Leaking onto the Floor – A leaking dishwasher could be due to a damaged door seal, loose connections, or a cracked tub.
- Dishwasher Won’t Drain – If water remains at the bottom after a cycle, the drain pump, filter, or hose could be clogged or faulty.
- Unusual Noises – Grinding, buzzing, or rattling sounds could indicate a failing motor, loose spray arms, or debris caught in the pump.
- Dishwasher Won’t Start – If your dishwasher doesn’t turn on, it could be due to electrical issues, a faulty door latch, or a malfunctioning control board.
- Foul Odors That Won’t Go Away – Persistent bad smells may indicate trapped food debris, mold buildup, or drainage issues.
Final Thoughts
Regular maintenance helps keep your dishwasher running efficiently and extends its lifespan. While homeowners can handle most routine tasks, professional servicing is sometimes necessary to keep everything in top shape. If you notice any warning signs, don’t wait—contact an appliance repair professional before a small issue turns into a major repair.
For expert dishwasher repairs and maintenance, reach out to Xigent Appliance Repair today. We’ll help keep your kitchen running smoothly!