Kids are out of school during the summer, and families spend more time eating at home, often hosting family gatherings. Your dishwasher is likely to see more action during this time. However, by following simple tips, you can ensure your dishwasher withstands summer demands and avoids bothersome problems.
Run Smaller Loads
A study conducted by Cascade had an exciting discovery: Running your dishwasher with as few as eight dishes uses less water than hand-washing the same load. This result is probably a welcome relief for anyone worried about never seeming to have a full load ready. You don’t need to worry about leaving dirty dishes out and attracting pests drawn out by warm weather; you can run a partial load without worrying about your water use.
Keep Your Filter Clean
The dishwasher filter, usually on the bottom of the appliance under the lowest rack, catches crumbs and other bits of debris. A filter keeps the food particles from recirculating and sticking to your dishes during the cycle. Cleaning the filter out prevents odors that can become a significant nuisance during hot weather and make the kitchen unpleasant.
Close the Door When Not in Use
Leaving the dishwasher closed while dishes are still drying at the end of a cycle is common sense, but what about the rest of the time? Mostly, it’s better to keep steam inside the dishwasher as the cycle finishes to prevent mold, which can be a health hazard to your family. The higher temperatures and the humidity associated with summer weather create more mold growth, which requires careful steps for more effective removal.
Clean the Door Frame and Gaskets
Your dishwasher’s door frame and gasket require regular cleaning to ensure everything works properly. A common belief is that the washing cycle is sufficient to clean these areas because of the amount of water and detergent circulating. However, cleaning using an appropriate solution is necessary to remove dirt and debris that can prevent a good seal from forming and make leaks more likely.
Run an Occasional Empty Cycle
Running your dishwasher on the hottest water cycle but empty except for a cup of white vinegar is an excellent way to clean the inside of your dishwasher thoroughly. You don’t need to go through the hassle of cleaning your appliance manually during the hot weather. Your dishwasher will be ready whenever you need to use it, regardless of whether it’s a few dishes after a late-night snack or a big meal.
Keeping your dishwasher in top shape may prevent expensive repairs. Contact The Appliance Man Kentuckiana in Louisville, KY, for all your dishwasher service needs.
