Superior Appliance Service
Dishwasher Care
Load properly following manual suggestions. Use only dishwasher detergent in recommended amounts. Do not put any other cleaning compound inside dishwasher, as it may suds and interfere with dish washing action. Store detergent in a dry, cool place, and do not keep extra packages on hand for a long time as it takes up moisture from the air and then loses cleaning ability.
A dishwasher should always be plugged into a grounded outlet; do not use an extension cord. If hot water has not been used in house for 2 weeks or longer, open all hot water faucets and let them run several minutes before using the dishwasher or any other electrical appliance connected to hot water. Do not smoke or light any flame while the faucets are running; hydrogen gas which is flammable and explosive may build up in water heater and hot water pipes if hot water is not used for a long time. If seasonal home is to be closed without heat for winter, winterize dishwasher.
Dishwasher interiors are self-cleaning. If a stain
does occur, clean with dishwasher detergent and water, wearing rubber gloves to
protect hands from very alkaline detergent. A heavy film buildup from hard
water minerals may be removed by adding vinegar or citric acid crystals (buy at
drugstore) to dishwasher without any dishes in it, after it fills with water at
start of first cycle. Do this only if appliance manual suggests this is OK, and
if the buildup bothers the owner (as it does no harm). However, very hard water
can deposit mineral film on dishes, glasses, and flatware, and on dishwasher
pump and moving parts; it is wise if water if very hard to install a water
softener before installing a dishwasher. If iron in water causes rust stains
inside dishwasher, buy a commercial soluble rust remover (grocery or hardware),
checking label to be sure it can be used to dishwasher. Start empty dishwasher
on rinse cycle. As it fills, open and add 1/2 cup rust remover. Let dishwasher
complete cycle. If iron problem continues so that another treatment is
required, it is better to install an iron filter in your home water system to
remove iron as this will affect dishes, laundry, and all fixtures.