Solutions to Common Dishwashing Problems
Before calling for service, review this list. It may save you both time and expense. This list includes common experiences that are not the result of defective workmanship or material in your dishwasher.
Dishes not | Coffee and tea stains can occur when water contains |
on correct wash cycle, proper loading, water temperature, water pressure, hard water, amount of detergent, old and ineffective detergent, and dish placement. To maximize wash performance clean the filter of all large food particles after each wash. To ensure that you clean the filter correctly refer to page 10.
Dishes not drying can be greatly improved by using a
rinse aid and hot water. Hot water raises temperature of dishes to speed up drying. When loading, invert cups and bowls so that water can run off. Avoid nesting of articles. If dishes are not completely dry at end of cycle (which may occur when COOL DRY setting is used), open door, roll out racks, and allow dishes to air dry.
evaporate leaving a deposit. Low phosphate detergents increase the problem in hard water. To prevent, use hot water and a detergent with a higher level of phosphates (preferably 8.7% or higher), or use more of a low phosphate detergent. Be sure to use a rinse aid. If water is very hard, it may be necessary to install a water softener. Load glasses and plates so they have minimum contact with racks and pins. Avoid overloading. Spotting will occur where dishes and glasses touch.
Cloudy films and streaking are usually caused by a
combination of hard water and an insufficient amount of detergent. Low phosphate detergents are also a factor. To correct, increase amount of detergent, check water temperature and always use a rinse aid. If water is very hard, it may be necessary to install a water softener.
Etched film on glassware is caused by using too much
detergent in soft or softened water. This film cannot be removed. It is more likely to occur on soft leaded glass or expensive crystal. An early warning of this condition is a cloudy iridescent appearance on glasses. To prevent, be sure dishwasher is getting a full fill of water. Water should reach base of heating element. If water level is low, have water pressure checked by a plumber. Use less detergent and make sure water temperature is not higher than 150°F (66°C). Underload to assure thorough rinsing. Use the COOL DRY Option.
Chipped dishes and glasses can result from rough
handling and improper loading. Do not put glasses in direct contact with other items. Place glasses securely against pins.
Crazing of older china and pottery happens when
items are subjected to very hot water. Once crazing (fine cracks in the glaze) appears, it cannot be removed. Do not machine wash again or condition may worsen.
Gray-black stains on dishes are caused by
manganese in water supply. To correct, install a manganese filtering system into house water supply.
traces of iron. To avoid stains, rinse cups out immediately after use. Increase amount of detergent and use a rinse aid. Water temperature should be approximately 140°F (60°C). If problem persists, install a water softener with an iron removal unit. To remove stains, hand wash cups in solution of 1/2 cup (120 ml) bleach and a quart (1 L) of warm water. Rinse thoroughly.
increase detergent, use water heated to approximately 140°F (60°C) and a rinse aid. It may be necessary to install a water softener with an iron removal unit. To improve appearance, use a commercial rust and lime scale remover.
Plastic items can lose their shape due to high
temperatures of automatic dishwashing. Read labels before washing. Place washable items in top rack away from heating element.
Discoloration of plasticware by some foods, such as
tomato sauce, can stain plasticware. If stained, soak item in solution of 1 tablespoon dishwasher detergent and a quart of hot water or in a solution of 1/2 cup (120 ml) bleach and a quart (1 L) of hot water.
Fading of patterns and metallic trim is due to many
washings, detergent and hot water. Most of today’s china is dishwasher safe. Antique, handpainted china, and handpainted pottery should be washed by hand.
Do not place silver next to or touching stainless steel
utensils in dishwasher silverware basket. This can cause pitting of stainless steel blades. (Most silver knives have stainless steel blades. Do not let blades touch other stainless steel utensils during wash cycle.)
Tarnish on silver plate occurs when worn down to the
base metal and turns a bronze color when exposed to hot water and detergent. Remove bronzing by soaking item in vinegar for 10 minutes or use a silver polish. For permanent protection, have silver replated.
Silver tarnish can be caused by prolonged contact with
air or with foods containing sulphur like eggs, mayonnaise, or seafood. Contact with undissolved detergent can also cause tarnish. To prevent this, rinse silver soon after use. Use care not to pour detergent directly onto silver. Remove tarnish with a silver polish.
Discoloration of stainless steel—Food soil can create
a film or discoloration. To avoid, rinse stainless items promptly. Food soil films can be removed with a stainless steel cleanser or mild cleanser. Rinse thoroughly.
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