Solutions to Common Dishwashing Problems

SOLUTIONS TO COMMON DISHWASHING PROBLEMS

As with any new appliance, it sometimes takes using it a few times to learn to operate it properly. If you are having minor performance problems with your dishwasher, read this section before calling for service. It may save you time and unnecessary expense.

NOTE: ASKO has no control over what is put in our appliances once installed in a customer’s home. You are solely responsible for what you wash in your ASKO dishwasher.

Poor washing performance

♦The dishes may not be loaded properly. Make sure that soiled surfaces are facing downward or toward the center of the dishwasher. Also, make sure that the bowls, pots, etc., are not stacked so closely that water can’t reach the soiled surfaces.

♦Make sure you are using the appropriate program settings for the dirtiness of your dishes.

♦An item may be obstructing the spray arm rotation. With the baskets loaded and in place, manually turn the spray arms to make sure they move freely.

♦Your dishwasher detergent should be fresh and stored tightly closed in a cool, dry place. Old or caked detergent will not dissolve properly. Wait until you are ready to start the dishwasher to add the detergent. If you are using the Delay program, make sure the dispenser is dry before adding the detergent.

♦Your dishwasher detergent may be inferior. Try a different brand.

♦Make sure the rinse aid dispenser is filled. (See page 6.)

♦If you have hard water in your area, try adding more detergent and increasing the amount of rinse aid dispensed. (See page 5.)

♦Check that the spray arm jets are not clogged.

♦Do not overload the dishes and be careful to avoid nesting.

Poor drying performance

♦Select the Heat Dry option.

♦If you don’t want to use Heat Dry, you can decrease the drying time by opening the door slightly to let out the warm, humid air.

♦Make sure the rinse aid dispenser is filled. (See page 6.)

♦Make sure you use the proper amount of rinse aid. (See page 6.)

♦Load items with concave bottoms tilted so as much water as possible will run off.

♦Unload the bottom basket first to avoid spilling water onto the dishes when unloading the top basket.

♦Certain plastics may need to be towel dried.

Plastic items

♦Always check the manufacturer’s suggested care instructions before washing plastic in your dishwasher.

♦Some high-acid foods can discolor plastic. You should rinse these items if you do not plan to run the dishwasher right away.

♦Plastic items dry poorly and may need to be towel dried.

Chipped or Broken Dishes

♦When you load the dishes, be sure they’re securely in place and will not fall over or strike against each other during the wash.

♦Load glasses between the tines, not straddling them.

♦Move the baskets in and out slowly to avoid slamming the dishes together.

♦Make sure not to load dishes so high that the spray arms could strike them.

♦Make sure tall glasses and stemware will clear the top of the tub when you push the basket in.

♦Always load delicate items in the top basket.

♦Do not overload the dishwasher.

♦Do not jam the glasses together when loading.

Stains and discolorations

Stains or discoloration on dishes could be caused by a number of things. Listed below are some of the most common causes. See also “Washing Special Items” on page 14.

♦Too much iron or manganese in the water can cause yellow or brown marks on your dishes. As a temporary solution, in place of the prewash detergent, use one teaspoon to one tablespoon of citric acid crystals. You should consider installing a water filtering system.

♦Coffee and tea stains usually have to be removed by handwashing in a solution of 1/2 cup bleach and one quart of water. (Do not use on sterling silver or silver plate.) Be sure to rinse these items thoroughly before putting them in the dishwasher so there is no bleach residue on the dishware.

Etching

If you have a cloudy film on your dishes that can’t be removed, it could be etching. To prevent etching, try the following:

♦Use less detergent. You may be using too much for the water hardness in your area. (See page 5.)

♦Use a good quality dishwasher detergent.

♦Do not overload the machine. Water should circulate freely to ensure adequate rinsing and draining.

♦Fill the rinse aid dispenser (unless you have soft water in your area; in which case you may not need a rinse aid.) (See page 6.)

♦Use a lower water temperature setting.

♦Do not use the Heat Dry option.

♦Do not pre-rinse the dishes; just scrape off large food particles and bones.

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