Dishwashers and Detergents Have Changed
If your new dishwasher is not cleaning well the problem might be you. Modern dishwashers work differently than older ones. Some of the habits you learned over the years could actually be hurting the effectiveness of your new one.
Older dishwasher used to just blast dishes with hot water at high pressure and using strong detergents. They used a lot of water and energy. Today’s models are much more energy efficient and use enzyme based detergents instead of phosphate based ones. This means today’s machines work better than ever before while also using less energy and water but you have to load them properly and use the right detergent.
6 Tips for Better Dishwasher Performance
1. Stop Pre-Rinsing
Scrape off anything solid, but leave some goop and crusty stuff. If the dishes go in too clean, the soil sensor might cut the cycle short. The more gunk you’ve got floating around in the wash water, the more likely the dishwasher will run a full cycle.
2. Use the Right Detergent
Be sure to use a detergent with enzymes. Enzymes break down food bits better.
3. Use a Rinse Aid
Rinse aids work together with enzyme based detergents to help dirt slide off dishes and prevent it from re-depositing. They also help soften the water.
4. Load it Properly
Start by reading your dishwasher manual for loading instructions. Aim the dirty surfaces down and in toward the wash arms, avoid nesting bowls and silverware to closely and try not block water jets.
5. Soften Your Water
Hard water can affect the cleaning power of your dishwasher. One solution is to get a whole home water softening system (which can be expensive). You can also get rinse aid specifically designer for hard water. Failing all those options, most manufacturers suggest using extra detergent, and provide guidelines in the manual.
Dishwasher Maintenance
- Clean the filter a few times per year. Once a month is better. It only takes a few minutes.
- Run the dishwasher with an empty load every six months with a dishwasher cleaning powder like Affresh.
That’s it! modern dishwashers are a wonderful thing and can save you a lot of time and a lot of water if used properly.
