It sounds like a simple enough question, but it might be more complex than you realize. Consider some concerns that come up when someone is figuring out how to use a dishwasher.
Dishwasher Loading
Ideally, you should refer to the care manual to get advice on loading. There are some universal loading suggestions, though:
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Place pots and deeper dishes on the bottom.
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Put glassware in the top rack.
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Always use the cutlery basket for forks and other utensils. Place them with the used edge facing upward and handles downs.
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Some newer dishwashers have a third tier at the top for odd stuff, such as beaters or whips
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Make sure there is sufficient space between the dishes to allow water to flow over through.
Bits of food on dishes activate the detergent, so if you are going to run the unit that day, rinsing is not important as long as you scrape. If the dishes are going to be sitting for a couple of days, rinse them before loading.
Dishwasher Settings
The best option is an adaptive or automatic setting. Machines with this setting have a sensor that monitors the water to:
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Ensures the machine continues to wash the dishes until they are clean.
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Use less water for lighter loads
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Manage the cycle length based on the need per cycle
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Manage water temperature to based on the need per cycle
If you use the normal setting, the dishwasher will use a set amount of water regardless of the size of the load. By using the automatic setting, it adapts the cycles to each load.
To Dry or Not to Dry
The question comes up about the value of using the heat dry setting on a dishwasher. It does take additional energy. While it’s okay not to use it and save energy, the heat does help kill bacteria on dishes.
Dishwasher Maintenance
It’s essential to clean your dishwasher regularly to keep odor at bay. There are a couple of ways you go about cleaning it. Affresh makes cleaning tablets for dishwashers. A good DIY method is to fill a small bowl or glass with white vinegar or TANG, place it on the top rank upward and run the unit through a regular cycle.
Also, check the manual for newer dishwashers to see how to clean the filter at the bottom. That filter keeps debris from going down the drain. As a result, food collects there and will start to smell if not cleared out. Older dishwashers will not have this filter.
Advice From Dishwasher Pros
Here are some pros tips to ensure you get the best results from your dishwasher use:
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Purge the cold water from your pipes, so the first fill is all hot. You can do this by running your hot faucet in the kitchen sink until the water is hot, then turn on the dishwasher.
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Keep the rinse agent dispenser full at all times. A rinse agent ensures your dishes rinse clean and dry faster.
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The best detergent options are the little per measured packs.
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On average, plan to replace your dishwasher after 15 years. Even if it is still running, it will not be as energy-efficient as newer models.
Turns out, operating the dishwasher is not all the complicated when you have the information that helps you do it right.