Post-Installation Care for Your Dishwasher in SA: Tips for Longevity and Performance

You've just had a brand-new dishwasher installed, transforming your kitchen routine. But the journey to sparkling dishes doesn't end with installation. To ensure your appliance provides years of efficient service and keeps those dishes gleaming, ongoing care is essential. Just as a car needs regular servicing, your dishwasher thrives on a consistent maintenance routine.

Our expert plumbers, who’ve seen countless dishwashers in South African homes, often share valuable insights on how homeowners can get the most out of their new investment. They've observed common pitfalls and developed practical tips to combat issues specific to our local conditions, such as varying water hardness.

Let’s dive into the practical steps you can take to keep your dishwasher running smoothly, efficiently, and effectively.

Understanding Your Dishwasher's Needs

A dishwasher isn't a magical box that cleans itself. Over time, food particles, grease, detergent residue, and mineral deposits from water can build up. This accumulation can lead to decreased performance, unpleasant odours, and even costly breakdowns. Regular maintenance addresses these issues proactively, saving you hassle and money in the long run.

Tackling Hard Water Buildup (Descaling)

South Africa, like many parts of the world, has areas with hard water. Hard water contains higher concentrations of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can leave a cloudy film on your dishes and a white, chalky residue inside your dishwasher. This limescale buildup can affect the efficiency of your appliance, particularly the heating element and spray arms.

Our plumbing experts often see the impact of hard water firsthand. They’ve noted that ignoring limescale can lead to the machine working harder, using more energy, and eventually leading to impaired cleaning performance.

Here’s how to combat it:

• Commercial Dishwasher Cleaners: Many reputable brands offer specific dishwasher cleaners designed to break down limescale and grease. These are often used by running an empty cycle with the cleaner. Always follow the product instructions carefully. For optimal results, some experts recommend using a dedicated dishwasher cleaner every 1 to 3 months.
• Natural Descaling with Vinegar: For a more natural approach, white vinegar is an excellent descaler.
  • Place a dishwasher-safe cup filled with about 250ml of white vinegar on the top rack of an empty dishwasher.
  • Run a hot water cycle without any detergent. The vinegar helps dissolve mineral deposits and eliminates odours.
• Baking Soda Boost: After a vinegar cycle, or as an alternative for freshening, sprinkle about half a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short, hot cycle. Baking soda helps absorb odours and can further break down residue.
• Dishwasher Salt (for models with water softeners): Some modern dishwashers, particularly in areas with very hard water, have a built-in water softener system that requires specific dishwasher salt. Check your appliance manual to see if your model has this feature and ensure you keep the salt reservoir topped up according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This actively softens the water entering the machine, preventing limescale buildup from the source.

The Right Detergent for the Right Job

Using the correct type and amount of detergent is crucial for effective cleaning and preventing buildup.

• Dishwasher-Specific Detergent: This might seem obvious, but never use hand dishwashing liquid in your dishwasher. Hand dishwashing liquids create excessive suds that can overflow your machine, damage internal components, and leave a soapy film on your dishes. Always use detergents specifically formulated for automatic dishwashers.
• Powder, Gel, or Pods? Each type has its pros and cons. Pods and tablets are often more concentrated and contain pre-treat solutions and rinse aids, generally offering excellent cleaning. Powders and gels are also effective but require careful dosing to avoid using too much, which can lead to residue.
• Detergent Dosage: Using too much detergent, especially in softer water areas, can lead to a cloudy film on dishes and residue inside the machine. Conversely, too little might not clean effectively. Refer to your detergent's instructions and your dishwasher manual for recommended dosages based on your water hardness and load size.
• Rinse Aid: Even if your detergent includes rinse aid, it’s often beneficial to use a dedicated rinse aid in your dishwasher's dispenser. Rinse aid helps water sheet off dishes, preventing spots and streaks, especially in hard water areas, and aids in quicker drying.

Filter Cleaning: A Non-Negotiable Step

The dishwasher filter is your first line of defence against food particles recirculating and redepositing on your dishes. Most dishwashers have a filter, typically located at the bottom of the wash tub, that traps food debris.

Our plumbing professionals frequently encounter issues stemming from neglected filters. A clogged filter can lead to poor cleaning performance, odours, and even drainage problems.

Here’s how to clean it:

1. Locate the Filter: Consult your dishwasher manual to find the filter. It's usually a cylindrical or flat mesh component at the bottom of the dishwasher.
2. Remove the Filter: Most filters twist and lift out. Some may have two parts – a larger cylindrical mesh and a flat filter underneath.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the filter under running water to remove any visible food particles.
4. Gentle Scrub (if needed): For stubborn grime or greasy residue, use a soft brush (like an old toothbrush) and a little dish soap. Be gentle to avoid damaging the mesh.
5. Reinstall: Ensure the filter is completely clean and then reassemble and lock it back into place according to your manual.

Frequency: Aim to clean your dishwasher filter at least once a month, or more frequently if you wash heavily soiled dishes or notice food particles remaining on your items after a cycle.

Preventing Drain Clogs

A common issue that plumbers get called out for is a clogged dishwasher drain. These clogs are usually preventable with a few simple habits:

• Scrape, Don't Rinse: Before loading dishes, scrape off large food remnants (bones, big chunks of food, labels, etc.) into the bin. There's no need to pre-rinse dishes unless specified by your dishwasher manufacturer, as modern detergents work best when they have food particles to attach to. Pre-rinsing can also be a waste of water.
• Avoid Overloading: While it’s tempting to cram in as many dishes as possible, overloading can restrict water circulation and prevent proper cleaning, leading to more food residue ending up in the drain. It can also strain the spray arms.
• Regular Cleaning Cycles: Running an empty cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner, vinegar, or baking soda regularly helps flush out minor buildup in the drain lines and pipes, preventing larger clogs.
• Check Spray Arms: Periodically inspect the spray arms (the rotating components with water jets). Food particles can get stuck in the tiny holes, affecting water distribution. Use a toothpick or fine wire to clear any blockages gently.

Door Seal Care

The rubber gasket around your dishwasher door creates a watertight seal, but it's also a prime spot for food residue, mould, and grime to accumulate.

• Wipe Down: Regularly wipe the door seal with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Pay close attention to any folds or crevices where debris can hide.
• Inspect for Damage: While cleaning, check the seal for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. A damaged seal can lead to leaks.

General Tips for Longevity

• Read Your Manual: Your dishwasher's owner's manual is an invaluable resource. It contains specific cleaning instructions, recommended detergents, and troubleshooting tips tailored to your model.
• Load Properly: Refer to your manual for optimal loading techniques. Proper loading ensures water and detergent reach all surfaces, leading to cleaner dishes and reducing the chances of items obstructing spray arms.
• Run Full Loads: While modern dishwashers are efficient, running full loads maximises water and energy use, making each cycle more economical.
• Address Issues Promptly: If you notice unusual noises, incomplete cleaning, or drainage problems, don't delay. Addressing small issues quickly can prevent them from escalating into more significant and costly repairs.

By adopting these simple post-installation care tips, you can ensure your dishwasher remains a reliable and efficient workhorse in your South African home for many years to come, keeping your dishes sparkling clean and your kitchen running smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my dishwasher?

It's generally recommended to perform a light cleaning (like wiping down seals and checking the filter) weekly or bi-weekly, and a deeper clean (running a cycle with a cleaner or vinegar) monthly or every few months, depending on your usage and water hardness.

Can I use regular dish soap in my dishwasher?

No, never use regular hand dishwashing soap in your dishwasher. It produces too many suds, which can overflow the machine, damage components, and leave a film on your dishes. Always use detergents specifically formulated for automatic dishwashers.

Why are my dishes still dirty after a wash cycle?

Several factors can cause dirty dishes, including a clogged filter, blocked spray arms, incorrect loading, using too little detergent, or hard water buildup. Start by checking and cleaning your filter and spray arms, and ensure you're using the right detergent and loading your machine correctly.

What causes a white film on my dishes and inside the dishwasher?

A white film is most commonly caused by hard water mineral deposits (limescale) or using too much detergent. Using a rinse aid, descaling your dishwasher regularly, and ensuring correct detergent dosage can help resolve this issue.