Dishwasher Maintenance Tips and Spare Parts Guide
Home appliances perform better with regular maintenance, and your dishwasher is no exception. With proper care, it runs more efficiently and lasts longer. Read this guide for practical maintenance tips and to find quality dishwasher spare parts delivered Australia-wide.
Essential Dishwasher Spare Parts and Their Functions
Before learning more about maintaining your dishwasher, it’s important to understand the key spare parts that may need replacing over time. Here are the main parts of a typical dishwasher:
- The spray arms, which distribute water evenly over the load.
- The door seals, which prevent water from leaking out while the washer is in use.
- The filters that trap food particles to avoid clogging.
- The heating elements that ensure proper drying.
If you need to replace any of these parts, we recommend choosing high-quality genuine spare parts from our shop. These spares help maintain efficiency, reduce the risk of breakdowns, and extend the life of your dishwasher.
Dishwasher Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance guarantees your dishwasher performs at its best and can also reduce your energy bills and repair costs.
1. Clean the filter regularly
Your dishwasher’s filter collects food particles and prevents them from entering the drain hose and clogging it. Dirty filters cause unpleasant odours, poor drainage, and inefficient cleaning. Clean the filter weekly by rinsing it under warm water and remove residue build up with a soft brush.
2. Check the door seals
Check the rubber door seals regularly. Food and soap residue can build up along the gasket and prevent a tight seal. Unclean seals are also prone to mould growth and potential water leaks. With a damp cloth and a mild detergent, wipe the seals clean every few weeks.
3. Inspect the spray arms
The spray arms do a lot of work every time you use the dishwasher. Over time, mineral deposits and food particles can clog the small holes that distribute water. This reduces the machine’s ability to thoroughly wash your dishes. Remove the spray arms every few months and rinse them under running water. If necessary, use a toothpick to unblock the water jets.
4. Deep clean your machine
About once a month, it’s a wise idea to give your dishwasher a deep clean. Grease, limescale, and detergent residue accumulate over time. Therefore, run it on an empty cycle with some vinegar or a specialised dishwasher cleaner to remove build up of debris. Regular deep cleaning also eradicates odours and keeps the internal components functioning correctly.
5. Use a quality detergent and rinse aid
Never use low-quality detergent or rinse aid in your dishwasher, and only use products specifically designed for dishwashers. A quality dishwasher detergent and rinse aid guarantees cleaning efficiency and prevents mineral deposits. Don’t overload detergent compartments, as excessive soap can leave behind residue and reduce performance.
6. Check and replace worn parts
Regularly check the door seals, spray arms, filter, and heating element for wear and tear. You’ll prevent breakdowns and ensure your dishwasher operates at peak efficiency when you replace worn parts promptly. Never attempt to replace the heating element yourself. Have an appliance technician repair it for you.
Dishwasher Troubleshooting Tips
A. Dishes not clean
Check for clogs in the spray arms, a dirty filter, or overloading. Unclog the spray arm jets, clean the filter, and ensure dishes are correctly spaced for optimum water circulation.
B. Dishwasher leaking
Check the door seals for damage or a buildup of debris. Replace worn seals to prevent leaks.
C. Dishwasher not draining
Inspect the hose and drain filter. If water remains after a cycle, clear any debris and check that the hose isn’t kinked or clogged.
D. Dishwasher not drying
Dishes should be completely dry by the end of the wash cycle. If not, check the rinse aid level and the heating element. Are there signs of damage to the heating element? Refill the rinse aid as required.
E. Odd noises during operation
Loud and unusual sounds emanating from your dishwasher may indicate loose utensils, a failing water pump, or a misaligned spray arm. Ensure no items are obstructing moving parts and replace worn parts ASAP.
To keep your dishwasher and other appliances in top working order, browse our website for quality dishwasher spare parts.
At WW Spares, we have parts for all the top appliance brands and models. If you need help finding a part, contact us and we’ll be happy to help.
