Correct setting

Dishwasher maintenance should begin before use. Many people think that the manual is for beginners, but that's exactly where you should start. It will help you to connect and start up the dishwasher correctly and select the optimal operating modes.

An important step is determining the level of water hardness that will be supplied from the central supply system. To determine it, you can use water testers or simpler litmus paper test strips. The data obtained must be compared with the manufacturer’s recommendations, enter the service menu of the dishwasher and set the appropriate parameter. More details are described in the manual for each model. A special sodium salt is used to soften water. The container for it is usually located in the lower tray and closed with a lid.

Container for adding sodium salt.

A special sensor monitors the amount of softener and signals the need for replenishment. The recommended proportions of water and salt are specified by the manufacturer. Depending on the hardness of the water and the intensity of use of the dishwasher, a full load is sufficient for 1 to 2 months.

Pay attention! It is not recommended to use kitchen salt to soften water. It may contain potassium, calcium, magnesium, iodine and other elements that reduce efficiency and can lead to clogging of the ion exchanger.

Correct application of modes also plays an important role in maintaining the functionality of the equipment. Most dishwashers are equipped with optimization programmes — eco, half load, express wash and the things like that. They are well suited for cleaning small quantities of dishes, helping to extend their service life and save resources (water, electricity, cleaning agents).

Built-in Half Load Dishwashers

Filtration system maintenance

When setting up a dishwasher, it's advised to employ pre-filters for both inlet and outlet to remove contaminants. These filters serve various purposes: magnetic barriers using neodymium magnets to remove metal impurities, main mesh placed before the water meter at the inlet, and polyphosphate-based filters to soften water, beneficial for dishwashers and other water-connected appliances like water heaters and washing machines.

Polyphosphate filter.

The external filtration system requires periodic maintenance to operate effectively. Mechanical barriers need to be cleaned of contaminants 1 – 2 times a year, depending on the quality of the water. Polyphosphate ones are refillable. The filler dissolves as it is used, and the contents must be replaced when the hopper is 60 – 70% empty.

Maintaining your dishwasher's built-in filter is essential to its proper functioning. It ensures water purification during circulation through the system, as well as before discharge into the sewer. The barrier is located on the lower tray, where all the liquid drains.

Dishwasher drain filter.

Manufacturers recommend cleaning after each wash cycle, but in practice much depends on the degree of contamination of the dishes. If there is a large amount of leftover food on the plates, the filter will clog very quickly. If kitchen utensils only require rinsing off residual grease, the filtration system will remain clean.

The filter is quick-release, which makes it easy to clean. It can be washed under running water using chemicals or natural ingredients — citric acid, vinegar solution. And it is better to clean it with a brush with bristles of soft and medium hardness (for example, toothbrush). Do not use knives, metal sponges to avoid damaging the structure.

An example of cleaning a dishwasher drain filter.
Important! Manufacturers recommend pre-rinsing kitchen utensils before loading them into the dishwasher to prevent large food particles from entering the filtration system.

The consequences of a malfunction of the drain filter may be as follows:

  • very slow drainage of water from the dishwasher, which delays the process of washing dishes
  • waste water is not completely removed at the end of the process, accumulating in the tray
  • leakage through the dishwasher door
  • the effectiveness of cleaning agents is reduced, leaving streaks and stains on the dishes
  • harmful bacteria and microorganisms develop, unpleasant odors, creating a health hazard
  • the likelihood of breakdown of the circulation or drain pump due to “dry” operation

Remember to maintain the filtration elements to keep your dishwasher operating properly.

Built-in dishwashers with inverter motor

Impeller cleaning

Another element that requires maintenance is the impellers. It is equipped with small holes and is responsible for the formation of jets that wash the dishes during the washing process.

Dishwasher bottom impeller.

When the dishwasher is finished running, water remains in the lower impeller, which gradually dries out, leaving a small layer of impurities. There is also the possibility of debris particles entering the liquid recirculation system, which will not be able to pass through the small opening of the sprayers, creating a blockage. The result is obvious — no jets means no clean dishes.

Preventive maintenance using descaling agents helps eliminate and prevent issues in dishwashers. Running the dishwasher empty with suitable gels, tablets, or powders, ideally in combination with self-cleaning service programmes, which raise temperatures, is effective. Frequency should be adjusted based on water quality and usage intensity, typically once a month for daily use. This maintenance regimen promotes the health of the circulation system and preserves the heater's condition.

If foreign bodies get inside the impeller, you can use a needle, awl and similar tools to crush and remove them. But such manipulations must be performed with caution, in order not to deform the holes.

Dishwashers with self-cleaning programme

Hygienic surface treatment

The final stage of dishwasher maintenance is hygienic surface treatment. Regardless of the means and programmes used, there are “dead zones” inside the dishwasher where jet washing does not occur — the lower corners near the door. Various types of deposits can accumulate in them, bacteria, mold and unpleasant odors can spread. It is recommended to clean these areas after each cycle using a soft viscose or cellulose cloth using a minimal amount of agent. Gel is the best. Powder may scratch the coating.

The door seals of dishwashers are susceptible to grease buildup and debris accumulation, which can compromise their water-tightness. Regular hygienic cleaning once a month is advised to prevent deterioration of the seals' water-repellent properties and ensure proper adhesion. Careful cleaning with mild household chemicals and a toothbrush is recommended to avoid damaging or tearing the seals.

Pay attention! It is not recommended to use all kinds of folk remedies based on vinegar and citric acid to maintain seals, as they have a detrimental effect on the properties of rubber.

Timely and routine cleaning of the dishwasher is the key to its efficient and economical operation. Do not forget that moisture promotes the growth of harmful microorganisms, so after each wash cycle, leave the door open for about 1 hour for ventilation.