Smart, Simple Advice for Dishwasher Maintenance

Your household appliances will work more efficiently and have an increased service life if you perform simple routine maintenance. In the case of your dishwasher, for example, usually all that’s needed to keep it in good working order is to keep its door gasket and spray arms clean and fish out the kitchen jetsam from under the heating element.

Although the door gasket may appear clean where it is plainly visible, there’s a good chance its bottom section is covered with a slimy dirt that can cause the door to leak. Hold a mirror to the bottom of the door to reveal any accumulation of dirt.

Use a strong, nonabrasive household cleaner to remove the dirt from the gasket and door panel. You might also lift the water level float from the base of the cabinet to check for dirt. If the float gets too dirty, it can stick in place, throwing the water level out of whack.

While you’re at it, check the openings in the spray arms for small shreds of plastic. Remove these shreds with tweezers.

Also check the drain area regularly for bread sack fasteners, small measuring spoons or other kitchen items. Not only can these items be baked onto the heating element, they may break up and chip the food grinding impellers in the drain.