The appliances in your home are an important part of your family’s life. From washing clothes to storing food, it is easy to see why maintenance is essential to ensure these appliances remain in good working condition. Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever, so you will need to repair or replace your appliances at some point in time. However, if you know the signs that an appliance is in distress, you can make repairs in an efficient manner.
Considering it is one of the most used appliances, your dishwasher will most likely need to be maintained, repaired or replaced while you’re still living in your home. If your dishwasher is sending out these distress signals, it is time to call the professionals to inspect and repair issues.
Dirty Dishes
One of the most common issues you will notice if there is a problem with your dishwasher is the presence of food, grease and spots on your dishes, glasses, pots and utensils.
In some instances, this food residue may stem from improper loading. Placing the dishes, glasses, pots and utensils correctly in the dishwasher racks will ensure water and detergent spray evenly, rinsing away any stubborn food particles.
If your dishes are loaded properly, there may be an issue with your dishwasher’s inlet valve. Over time, the inlet valve may begin to close up. This will prevent water from flowing into your dishwasher. Without enough water, food and detergent will not be rinsed from your dishes.
Issues with the sprayer arms may also affect the dishwasher’s ability to clean. Broken, warped or loose arms will spray water haphazardly through your dishwasher. In addition, food and grease can clog up the holes on the sprayer arms, preventing water from rinsing items inside your dishwasher.
Make sure to clean the bottom tub and drain of your dishwasher. The dirty, cloudy water and food residue that stems from a clogged drain will dry on your dishes unless you clear drain regularly.
High Energy or Water Bills
Paying an energy and water bill each month can be costly. If you notice your monthly bills are increasing, even though you do not feel you are using more energy or water, you may need to invest in a more efficient dishwasher.
Energy Star dishwashers use sensors to determine how much heat and water will be necessary for washing your specific load. These dishwashers also have innovative rack designs, ensuring each item that needs to be washed has its own specific place for effective cleaning.
Replacing an old dishwasher with a new Energy Star-rated model can save you money on your monthly energy and water bills. These newer dishwashers are 15 percent more water efficient and 5 percent more energy efficient, which makes a huge difference for your budget.
Loud Noises
All appliances make noise from time to time. Unfortunately, excessively loud noises coming from your dishwasher is a sure sign of a problem.
Banging and clanking noises during a normal cycle could be an easy fix, though. These noises may occur if plates, glasses, pots or utensils bang together or against other racks.
Appliance technicians should also inspect the motor of your dishwasher. Loose or broken components will cause a banging or rattling sound. To solve the problem, the technician will need to replace the motor.
If the noises occur while the dishwasher drains, you most likely have a clogged drain. Food debris that remains in your drain will cause a backup, which can lead to water leaks and damage to your cabinets and floors.
If you believe there is an issue with your dishwasher or other appliance, contact Capital City Appliance Service, Inc., today.
