Discover the overlooked trick to boost your dishwasher's performance
The dishwasher has long been an invaluable helper, both in saving water and reducing the physical burden on users. While the washing process may seem simple, it's not always straightforward.
Many dishwasher models have special programs for internal cleaning, which should be run regularly. These are intended to improve the device's efficiency, but they don't always deliver the expected results. If you encounter a problem with dishes not being cleaned properly, before blaming the dishwasher or the cleaning agents or deciding to call a technician, first check the condition of the spray arms inside the unit.
The dishwasher doesn't clean dishes – why does this happen?
Dirty dishes, such as cups, plates, or cutlery, can result from several different causes. It doesn't always mean repairing or replacing the dishwasher is necessary. If you have ruled out problems with the detergents or technical issues, it's possible the small but very critical spray arms are the issue. We often ignore them until we notice that the dishes are blocking their movement. Such negligence is a significant error in using the dishwasher, but fortunately, it can be easily fixed.
Dishwasher users may not realize that the spray arms can be easily removed and cleaned. Usually, we receive an instruction manual with the device, which we may seldom consult. However, that's where you'll find that regular cleaning of the spray arms is crucial. Dishwasher manufacturers often recommend performing this task at least once a week, which can greatly improve their efficiency and dishwashing quality.
How to properly clean the spray arms in a dishwasher?
The spray arms are an important component of the dishwasher since they channel the water that washes the dishes. If they become clogged with food residues, it can result in poor washing performance, even during a long cycle. To check the condition of the spray arms, you need to remove them, inspect the inside, and use a long pair of tweezers or a toothpick to remove small debris.
This procedure ensures that the spray arms can function at full efficiency. If you're unsure whether they are clean enough, you can rinse them under a strong stream of water, such as from a showerhead. Check if water flows out of all the holes in the spray arms. After conducting the test and ensuring everything is in order, reassemble the spray arms in the dishwasher. Now you can load the dishes into the baskets and restart the appliance without worry.
