15 Mistakes That Can Shorten the Life of Your Dishwasher

“I really don’t know what I would do without my reliable dishwasher, which I’ve had for a long time. I’ve taken it with me to many house parties, including dinners, reunions, and even the rare craft beer tasting.” Its dependability has significantly simplified my life; it’s as easy as loading it up, pressing a button, and voila! Effortlessly clean dishes. However, like any cherished appliance, neglecting proper maintenance can inadvertently shorten its lifespan. And let’s be honest, a brand new dishwasher doesn’t come cheap.

Reflecting on my own experience, I realize I’ve made a few missteps over the years that likely impacted my dishwasher’s longevity. As they say, “ignorance is bliss” when it comes to appliance maintenance, and I certainly learned some of these lessons the hard way.

So, based on my own “amateur cook” journey, here are fifteen common mistakes you might be making that are unknowingly reducing your dishwasher’s lifespan:

1. Overloading the Dishwasher: Initially, I believed I was a packing genius, cramming every nook and cranny. Wrong! Overloading not only hinders effective cleaning but can also strain the motor, potentially leading to damage. I learned this the hard way, often having to re-wash dishes that weren’t properly cleaned in the first place.

2. Pre-rinsing Dishes: I used to religiously rinse dishes until they were almost spotless before loading them. This, I later discovered, is counterproductive. Modern dishwashers are designed to detect food particles and adjust their cycles accordingly. Pre-rinsing can actually hinder the machine’s ability to function optimally.

3. Neglecting the Filter: “The game-changer for me was cleaning the filter.” I was completely unaware of its existence until my dishwasher started streaking my glasses with grime. Regular filter cleaning is crucial for maintaining peak performance and preventing issues down the line.

4. Ignoring Spray Arm Obstructions: The spray arms are the workhorses of your dishwasher, delivering the cleaning power. If they become clogged with food debris and grime, cleaning effectiveness suffers significantly. I now make it a point to inspect and clean the spray arms monthly.

5. Using the Wrong Detergent: I used to buy whatever dishwashing soap was on sale, assuming they were all the same. Big mistake! Some detergents are overly harsh and can damage the dishwasher’s interior. Now, I stick to manufacturer-recommended products.

6. Improper Loading Techniques: As a novice, I made a series of loading errors: knives pointed up (ouch!), bowls facing the wrong direction, and pans blocking the spray arms. Proper loading ensures thorough cleaning while preventing scratches and breakage.

7. Dealing with Hard Water: Limescale deposits from hard water can significantly impact your dishwasher’s performance and lifespan. Installing a water softener has been a game-changer for my appliances.

8. Ignoring Door Seals: The rubber seals around the door play a vital role in keeping water inside during cycles. Regularly cleaning them to remove food particles and residue helps prevent leaks and door malfunctions.

9. Infrequent Use: “Dishwasher ignorance” can have real consequences. Regular use, even if it’s just a short cycle with a half-load, keeps the motor and hoses in good working order.

10. Using Harsh Chemicals: In a desperate attempt to clean my dishwasher, I once poured in a bottle of household cleaner. Bad idea! Certain chemicals can corrode and damage the interior. Stick to dishwasher-safe cleaning products only.

11. Running Half-Loads: Running the dishwasher with just a few items is inefficient, wasting water and energy. It also increases the frequency of use, which can shorten the appliance’s lifespan. I now wait for a full load before running it, ensuring optimal efficiency.

12. Ignoring Unusual Sounds: When my dishwasher started making strange noises, I initially ignored them. This was a mistake. Unusual sounds can indicate a broken or worn-out component and can lead to bigger problems down the line. Addressing issues early on can prevent costly repairs.

13. Skipping Professional Maintenance Checks: Regular professional inspections can help identify and address potential problems before they escalate into major issues. I now schedule annual maintenance checks for my dishwasher, similar to a doctor’s appointment.

14. Misalignment Issues: I didn’t realize how crucial proper leveling was until my dishwasher started draining improperly. Adjusting the legs slightly can resolve many drainage and operational issues.

15. Aggressive Scraping: I used to scrape plates too vigorously, sometimes even scratching the surface. Gentle scraping is sufficient to remove large food particles before loading.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your valuable dishwasher and enjoy years of reliable service.