Avoid holiday dishwasher disasters with these maintenance tips

The holidays mean lots of cooking, eating, and, of course, cleaning up. Your dishwasher will likely be working overtime to handle the extra dishes and cookware. But if it’s not in top shape, you could end up with a backup of dirty dishes or even an appliance breakdown at the worst possible time.

To help you avoid any dishwasher disasters, we’ve put together this guide full of simple maintenance tips. With a little preparation and regular care, you can keep your dishwasher running smoothly, giving you one less thing to worry about.

Heads up: The tips here might not perfectly fit your particular dishwasher model. While we’re trying to help with DIY repairs for all sorts of appliances, different models can have their quirks, like varying troubleshooting steps, error codes, or parts that need replacing. For the most accurate info, it’s best to check your appliance’s manual or reach out to us if you’ve got any questions.

Prepare your dishwasher for holiday use

A little preparation can go a long way in keeping your dishwasher running smoothly during the holidays. Here are some quick and easy ways to get it ready for the extra workload:

Clean the filter

• Remove the bottom rack to access the filter, usually located at the base of the dishwasher.
• Twist and lift the filter out, then rinse it under warm water to remove grease and food particles.
• A clean filter improves water flow and ensures your dishes come out spotless.

Check and clean the spray arms

• Remove the spray arms and inspect the nozzles for clogs.
• Use a toothpick or small brush to clear any blockages that might be reducing water pressure.
• Reattach the spray arms securely so they rotate properly during cycles.

Inspect the door gasket

• Look for cracks, tears, or gaps in the rubber seal around the door.
• If the gasket is damaged, replace it to prevent leaks during a cycle.

Run a cleaning cycle

• Use a dishwasher cleaner or a simple mix of vinegar and baking soda to clean the interior. This helps remove grease, grime, and odors.

Tips for loading and use

Loading your dishwasher the right way and using it smartly can make a huge difference during the holidays. Here’s how to get the best results every time:

• Scrape off food scraps, but don’t bother rinsing your dishes. A little residue helps the detergent work better, and skipping the rinse saves water.
• Put plates, pots, and heavier items on the bottom rack where the water pressure is strongest.
• Glasses, cups, and smaller items go on the top rack, angled so water can drain off.
• Keep larger items like baking sheets to the sides or back so they don’t block the spray arms.
• Overloading your dishwasher won’t save time, it just makes it harder for water and detergent to reach everything. Give your dishes enough space to get properly cleaned.
• A good-quality detergent can make all the difference. Just make sure you’re using the right amount, not too much or too little, and keep it stored somewhere dry.
• If your dishwasher has an energy-saving or eco-mode, use it! These cycles use less water and power but still get the job done.
• Skip the heated drying option and let your dishes air dry to save energy. If your dishwasher doesn’t have an air-dry setting, just crack the door open after the wash cycle finishes.

Simple fixes for common issues

When your dishwasher is under heavy use during the holidays, it’s more likely to run into issues. Here are some of the most common problems you might face and what to look out for:

Clogged drain or filter:

• If you notice water pooling in the bottom of your dishwasher, check the filter and drain for food debris or grease buildup.
• Remove the filter, rinse it under warm water, and clean out any visible gunk from the drain. This should restore proper drainage.

Dishes aren’t coming out clean:

• Check the spray arms for clogs, food particles can block the nozzles and reduce water pressure.
• Remove the spray arms and use a toothpick or small brush to clear out any debris. Reattach them securely so they spin properly during cycles.
• Make sure you’re not overloading the dishwasher, which can block water and detergent from reaching every dish.

Leaking dishwasher:

• Inspect the door gasket for cracks or wear. If it’s damaged, replace it with a new one to ensure a tight seal.
• Check that racks are loaded properly and nothing is sticking out, preventing the door from closing completely.

Bad odors:

• Run an empty cycle with a cup of vinegar on the top rack or sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of the dishwasher before starting a cycle. This helps eliminate trapped food particles and bacteria that cause smells.
• Clean the filter and spray arms regularly to prevent odors from coming back.

Be ready with AppliancePartsPros.com

No matter how well you maintain things, parts can still wear out. Being prepared can really save you a headache.

• Consider keeping some spare parts around for quick fixes.
• Use our guide to find your appliance’s model number.
• Check out our huge inventory at AppliancePartsPros.com.

If you need more tailored help, swing by our repair help section.

By keeping up with these maintenance tips, you’ll help your dishwasher run efficiently, making holiday cleanups a breeze. Regular care doesn’t just prevent surprise breakdowns—it can also extend your appliance’s life.

For all your appliance parts and expert advice, check out AppliancePartsPros.com. We’re here to help you keep your appliances running great.

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If you’ve got questions or need a hand with anything else, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re always happy to help with your appliance repair needs.