When we open our dishwasher to find wet dishes it can be frustrating because the dishwasher is supposed to do that for you! Is there a problem with the machine? It might be the machine but it might be something you’re doing wrong. It could be the heating element, but chances are it’s the way you’re using the dishwasher. Dishwashers of today can fit more dishes, are a lot quieter and are way more efficient, with the efficiency being the biggest culprit in why your dishes aren’t drying like they should. These new models don’t offer a heated dry cycle. Instead of a heating element that uses a lot of electricity, most manufacturers have a condensation drying system. This system uses a heated rinse at the end of the cycle where the cool, stainless-steel interior will pull the hot water off the dishes and into the drain.
Using a Dishwasher Rinse Aid
If the dishwasher is brand new you need to add rinse agent because it’s an important step to get your dishes dry. Rinse aides advertise that it will make your dishes shiny but it also works to dry your dishes. When it’s released in your dishwasher, it makes the dishes water repellent and therefore improves water evaporation. Rinse aids also help water roll off surfaces and reduces water droplet formation. Rinse aid needs to be used for at least 30-45 cycles to season the inside of the tank for it to properly dry the dishes. You need to make sure it’s always full, so check it from time to time. If you’ve taken this step and are still having drying issues then you can try a few things to avoid a service call.
Why Aren’t the Dishes Drying?
1. Glassware and plastic items should be done in different loads because glass holds heat and will dry more effectively. Plastic doesn’t hold heat well and will leave little drops of water behind. You also need to be mindful of how your loading the dishwasher. Load cups and bowls facing downward so they don’t fill up with water during the cycle.
2. The sensors in newer models of dishwashers will work to adjust the cleaning times depending on how dirty the dishes are. If dishes are cleaner, the clean time will be shorter, at a lower temperature and therefore less effective drying. If your dishwasher has an “eco-friendly” setting, it will also speed up wash cycles. As hard as it might be, don’t rinse dishes off too much. Dirtier dishes will get cleaned better.
3. The water in the dishwasher could also be the problem. Water can be heated from 130-170 degrees and it needs to be at this temperature so it will evaporate correctly. It’s important to make sure the water that goes into the machine at the beginning of a cycle is as hot as possible. You can run the water in the sink before starting the dishwasher.
Dishwasher Appliance Repair Services & More in Cedar Park, Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown Frisco, Allen, Plano, Dallas & San Antonio, Texas
If you’ve tried everything and are still having problems with your dishwasher, contact Southwest Appliance Repair of San Antonio for help.
