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Regular dishwasher maintenance keeps the workhorse of your kitchen running smoothly and efficiently. You clean your oven, microwave and refrigerator, but how do you maintain a dishwasher to prevent breakdowns and repairs? Clear the Drain and Filter First of all, remove the lower dishwasher rack and locate the drain outlet in the bottom of the dishwasher. Clean out any loose food particles in the mouth of the drain. Find the dishwasher’s filter — it is usually situated toward the bottom under the sprayer arm. Follow the user manual’s instructions on how to detach and clean the filter. Wipe Down the Interior While the racks are removed, use a cleaning solution and a bristled scrub brush to disinfect the inside surfaces, scrubbing away any built-up grime or mold. Dishwashing detergent and water will take care of most stains, but rust stain removal might require a specialized cleaning product, combined with a light scrubbing with steel wool. Clean Sprayer Arms In some cases, when a dishwasher begins to clean less efficiently, clogged sprayer spouts may be the cause. Detach the sprayer arms and let them soak in vinegar or hot water for at least a few hours. Any lingering mineral deposits and food particles will loosen, allowing you to scrub and rinse away all the blockages. Disinfect Gasket Seal The gasket seal surrounding the dishwasher’s opening must also be cleaned on a regular basis. Stuck food particles and grime can interrupt proper sealing action and cause leaks. While wiping down the edges of the seal with cleaning solution, check to make sure each section is firmly attached and lined up with the appliance’s door. Replace seals when they begin to crumble. Repair Chipped Paint Another aspect of dishwasher maintenance that may be overlooked is examining the dishwasher racks themselves. If paint chips off the thin bars, the metal may begin to rust, possibly staining the dishwasher’s interior. Corrosion can cause metal flakes to enter the filter and drain, inflicting damage on the intricate mechanical parts. Follow the user manual’s suggestions when selecting repair sealant. Sand down the area and apply the finish over all exposed metal surfaces of the racks. If the rack’s tines are missing their rubber tips, purchase replacement parts from a professional appliance repair shop. Run a Cleaning Cycle Once all areas of the appliance are clean, pour one cup of white vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher. Run on a regular cycle, and once complete, the dishwasher will smell fresh. You can also purchase products to use in place of vinegar for tougher odors that are not eliminated the first time around. Never Overload the Appliance Just as overloading a washing machine can lead to breakdowns, regularly stocking too much dishware in this appliance is detrimental to all mechanical parts. The dishes will come out below sanitation standards and you will need to run it again. Evenly space plates, cups and bowls so the sprayer’s water can reach each surface. If you ever hear a grinding sound during dishwasher operation, contact a reputable appliance repair professional for a diagnosis. Mindful dishwasher maintenance can save money on both repairs and replacement.
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