How Long Should a Dishwasher Last?

Brama Stainless Dishwasher

To extend the lifespan of your dishwasher, you will need to give it proper maintenance and care. Here are some tips to help you get the maximum use out of your dishwasher.

Most households run their dishwasher an average of five times per week. The less frequently you use your dishwasher, the fewer repairs, and the longer it will last. To prolong the life of your dishwasher, do not run it until it is full. By running the dishwasher when full, you will also conserve water.

Rinsing

Today's dishwashers do not require you to pre-rinse your dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. However, you should still make sure no large chunks of food or solid items (bones, pits, toothpicks, etc.) are still left on the plate. If there is still liquid left inside cups, empty it into the sink before adding the glass to your dishwasher. Additionally, be mindful of any acidic residue that may be left on your dishes, such as ketchup or other tomato-based sauces, citrus juice, vinegar, mayonnaise, and salad dressings, as they can discolor the stainless steel and plastic inside the dishwasher. If you do not plan on running the dishwasher right away, you should rinse your dish of these acidic foods.

Overfilling

Avoid overfilling your dishwasher. You should leave enough space between dishes to allow the machine to clean your utensils and dishes properly and avoid any strain on the dishwasher. You should also pay attention to how high you stack your dishes inside the dishwasher. Do not stack your items so high that they interfere with the machine's mechanical components during the wash cycle. Check each product before adding it to the dishwasher, making sure that it is labeled as dishwasher safe.

When running your dishwasher, use the hot water cycle. The hot water cycle both sanitizes your dishes and prevents any buildup inside the machine. Only use high-quality detergents that are labeled dishwasher safe. Rinse aid is often recommended because it improves the drying cycle and reduces any water spots or film. If you are not in a hurry, prevent any additional strain on your dishwasher by skipping the dry cycle on your dishwasher.

Just like other major appliances, dishwashers will require regular monthly maintenance to ensure they run efficiently. Your dishwasher will have several interior filters and a food trap that catches any food and residue. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to remove these filters from the dishwasher and give them a proper cleaning. Clean the door gasket regularly to remove any food particles and ensure a good seal when the machine is in use. The door gasket can be cleaned using a damp, clean cloth.

If you are on the market for a new dishwasher and are ready for a high-quality, stress-free appliance, consider the  Brama Stainless Dishwasher. This state-of-the-art dishwasher has three racks with ample space for everything from your finest crystal to your everyday dishes, six washing programs including a turbo wash option, a self-cleaning filtration system, delay start, and a soil sensing smart wash system.

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