Not only do slimline dishwashers help save space, but they also save money. They require less water and energy than standard models, and last longer. To get the most out of your slimline dishwasher, follow these five maintenance tips.
1. Clean the filter regularly
Clean the filter regularly. If the filter is clogged, the appliance will work less effectively. It will also take longer to dry dishes. You should clean the lint filter at least once a week.
Check the condition of your dishwasher. Make sure that it’s draining properly and that it doesn’t have burning liquid escapes. Use a sanitizer to sanitize the interior and exterior of the appliance.
Don’t forget the basket. Dishwashers have a single hose that connects to the basket inside the washing machine. You’ll need to clean and sanitize the basket regularly.
Some dishwashers are equipped with additional appliances or features. For example, some have extra holders to fit dry towels and napkins, or screens that allow you to see what’s happening inside the machine and make adjustments as needed. Never leave food out without any kind of food safety protection, even if it’s obvious that it’s been prepared safely.
2. Don’t overload your dishwasher or it won’t clean properly
A dishwasher will clean better if you don’t overfill it. If you overfill a dishwasher, it will not clean properly and the dishes will get dirty. The same is true of your life. If you’re overloaded with stuff and obligations, you won’t be able to focus and do your best work.
To keep your dishwasher running and clean, follow these tips.
If the water level above the drain is not setting to the minimum when you turn the machine on, empty the water from the reservoir before you use it. Do this by placing a small weight on it. Now that the water is no longer in the tank, it will be easier to empty.
To maintain top rack efficiency, reduce how often you empty the dishwasher. Use dishwasher cleaning fluid only when needed and don’t fill the reservoir as often. For example, when you only use the dishwasher on special occasions.
The energy will be conserved by either lowering the washing temperature, running the dishwasher with the cold water, or raise it by 10 to 15 degrees. Try measuring how much energy you’ll save by each option. You can even look at energy-efficient washers and dishwashers to see how much energy it saves. When in doubt, opt for the energy-efficient option.
To keep the water level above the drain while washing the dishes, take a look at how often you like to wash them. Instead of washing them as often as they’re told, plan for 2–3 extra loads per week. If your normal washing cycle takes 30 minutes and you wash 7 loads, you’ll only have to wash 6 times.
3. Use recommended detergent and rinse aids
Dispensers are bigger and more energy-intensive to use than dishwasher bowls and trays. To control how much energy is consumed in the water needed to run the dishwasher, see our how much water dishwashers use page.
The dishwasher shouldn’t be used as a dryer. Most of the electricity generated by the dishwasher is wasted. When I say “wasted,” I mean wasted power, not created heat. Ideally, we want our appliances to be energy-efficient, not using a lot of energy for little or nothing in return. To get the most out of your dishwasher, always turn the machine off when it’s full, place dishes where they belong, and unplug appliances when not in use.
4. Run a hot rinse cycle after washing to avoid spotty glasses and dishes
For some reason, we’ve all come to accept that a little bit of spots and streaks on our dishes and glasses is just a part of doing the dishes. But that’s not true. You can get rid of those spots and streaks by following this simple tip: run a hot cycle after you’ve washed your dishes. A typical dishwasher uses between 600 and 800 watts of power, and 1,000 watts is the limit that manufacturers set for appliances with automatic settings. Holding the dishwasher after it’s finished running is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to extend its life. Whether for counter-top or kitchen use, running the dishwasher with hot water in it can add as much as 20 minutes to your dishwasher’s life expectancy.
Of course, if you follow the above tips, your dishwasher won’t get any more wrinkles. All this means is that should you want to extend the life of your dishwasher even further, be sure to follow up with these other preventive maintenance steps.
5. Keep your slimline dishwasher in good working order with regular service checks
A dishwasher is one of those kitchen appliances that you don’t think too much about until it stops working. It’s also quite an expensive appliance to replace, which is why it’s worth keeping your slimline dishwasher in good working order with regular service checks.
