Follow this simple guide on how to use a dishwasher, from loading, using
dishwasher tablets, selecting the right cycle and starting it. There was a time when a
dishwasher was considered a luxury appliance in the kitchen, but more and more Canadians consider their dishwasher a must-have, convenient, time-saving appliance that they simply can’t live without; and as they heat water up to 70oC in some cycles, which is much hotter than most people can tolerate, and it cleans and sanitizes dishes and kitchenware more effectively, keeping you and your family safe.
It all seems pretty simple, just load up the dirty plates, pots, cutlery and
glasses, press the start button and the dishwasher will do all the hard work.
Well for those who need to know how to use a dishwasher for the first time,
or for those who just want to get better results with each wash, here’s some
ideas to help you get the most out of your dishwasher, including its space
and features.
How to Load Your Dishwasher
Whether you want to run a light wash or clean up all the build-up on your
cookware after a big baking session, a big influence on how well your
dishwasher load will wash is how well you load your dishwasher before
you even press the start button. To get the best results look for a
dishwasher that provides flexibility like foldable tines on the bottom rack to
accommodate pots and pans, moveable cutlery baskets to accommodate
all your plates in the configuration you want and rack options in the upper
basket for your smaller utensils and items like espresso cups.
How to Clean Your Dishwasher Filter
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
Warm water
Toothbrush or soft sponge
Sink or large bowl
STEP 1: PULL THE BOTTOM RACK OUT
To access your dishwasher filter, you’ll usually need to completely remove the bottom rack from the appliance. Once removed, set it to the side.
STEP 2: LOCATE AND REMOVE YOUR DISHWASHER FILTER
Typically, filters are located at the bottom of a dishwasher, beneath the bottom rack. Be sure to handle the dishwasher filter carefully, as a damaged filter can lead to poor performance. Depending on your dishwasher model, the filter may be composed of two parts: an upper filter assembly and a lower filter.
To remove the filter, gently turn the upper assembly a quarter turn counterclockwise and lift it out. Lightly grasp the lower filter, lifting it slightly and pull forward to complete the removal.
STEP 3: RINSE THE FILTER WITH WARM WATER
Most soils and residue can be removed by simply rinsing the filter with warm water. For more challenging food particles, soak the filter in warm water for a few minutes. You can use an old toothbrush or a sponge to gently scrub away calcium deposits or stuck-on pieces of food. It is never recommended to use a wire brush or a wire sponge, as they may damage the filter.
STEP 4: REINSTALL YOUR FILTER
Once you’ve finished cleaning your filter, return the lower filter to the dishwasher tub. Instructions for reinstallation may vary based on the make and model of your dishwasher, so always consult your product manual before you begin.
How to Start Your Dishwasher
So now we have all the basics covered, it’s time to get the dishwasher started on that dirty load of dishes, so here’s the simple 5 steps on how to run a dishwasher.
Open the door and load the dishwasher as per our advice in ‘How to
load the dishwasher’ above. Checking that both upper and lower spray
arms move freely once the dishwasher is fully loaded.
Fill enough detergent into the dispenser and close the compartment
door.
Check there is adequate rinse aid by checking the rinse aid level
indicator. Refill if there’s not enough rinse aid, this will help for your
glasses to come out shiny and streak-free.
Use the on / off / program selection controls to choose your washing
program that best suits the load – is your load heavily soiled or lightly
soiled?
Start the program with the Start/Cancel button.
Last thing to remember – try to avoid opening the dishwasher door while
the dishwasher is running. Opening the door interrupts the washing
process, and hot steam will escape.
Once the washing program is complete then it’s just a matter of
unloading the dishwasher. It’s that quick and simple.
How to Use Dishwasher Pods
Use dishwasher detergent designed for dishwashers to avoid damage from regular dishwashing liquid. You can choose between powder, liquid/gel, or tablet detergents. Dishwasher tablets are popular for their convenience and effectiveness in removing stains. Place the tablet in the detergent dispenser inside the dishwasher. Dishwasher tablets may not dissolve fully under certain conditions. They offer less flexibility than liquid or powder detergents for different wash sizes.
If you’re wondering where to put dishwasher tablets, it’s quite simple. All
dishwashers come with a detergent dispenser on the inside of the door of
the dishwasher. Place the tablets in the detergent dispenser of your
dishwasher.
How to Use Dishwasher Rinse Aids
Most dishwashers also have a special reservoir, a rinse aid dispenser,
where an additive called ‘rinse aid’ is poured. It is generally located on the
inside door of the dishwasher, close to the detergent dispenser. It is
released in the rinse cycle towards the end of your washing cycle to help
minimize water spots on your dishes, glassware and other items and will
help your wash load to come out sparkling.
Unlike the detergent that needs to be put in with each wash, the rinse aid
dispenser will hold an amount of rinse aid to allow for multiple washes.
Check the rinse aid indicator on the display panel to check there is enough
rinse aid in the dishwasher before starting a load. You need to refill the
rinse aid reservoir with rinse aid whenever rinse aid indicator appears on
the display of your machine.
