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Did you know that a dishwasher can save an average family up to three weeks at the kitchen sink every year?

Even if you have an extended warranty or appliance protection on your dishwasher, it makes sense to look after your machine so that you can ensure cleaner and more hygienic dishes.

Performance enhancing techniques!

After every cycle, take the time to clean out the filters and any debris in the cutlery basket. Remove and rinse through. If they are blocked it will impair the machine's performance.

Check the water spray arm nozzles are free from blockages. If necessary remove the arms, using manufacturer's instructions, and rinse under running water.

Use a special dishwasher cleaner once a month to remove any grease and lime-scale deposits which can build up inside and reduce efficiency, especially if you have hard water.

To remove any black marks and mildew on the door seal, clean with a little bleach solution and a cloth.

Leave the machine door slightly ajar when not in use to allow the door seal to dry out and hinder the growth of bacteria.

Loading logistics

If the food is really burned on or dried on, soak or pre-wash first.

Scrape off as much surface food as possible.

Place larger and dirtier items on the bottom rack with cups, glasses and less soiled items on the top rack.

Load plates and glasses so they aren't touching and put cutlery in the special basket, handles facing downwards.

Make sure heavily soiled items are facing the source of the water spray.

Arrange sharp items so they are not likely to damage the door seal. Load sharp knives with the handles up.
   
Remember to check the manufacturer's instructions for advice on what items are not suitable for dishwashing.
   
Don't overload your dishwasher - items will get scratched or chipped if they are too close together.

Detergent Dilemma!

You can buy dishwasher products separately or combined. The five, four and three in one tablets combine detergents, salts and rinse aid but the efficiency of these may vary in hard water areas. If your machine isn't performing as well as it should, dosing detergent, salt and rinse aid separately may be the answer. Check with the machine's manufacturers or ask an approved service engineer.

Save water and electricity

Only put the dishwasher on when it's full.

Don't always use the same high temperature programme. Get familiar with the delicates cycle, 50ºC - 55ºC or economy cycle programs instead. (But if you are using 3-in-1 tablets, check whether the eco-cycle is compatible with this).

If you are on Economy 7 electricity, you can set the machine to come on in the middle of the night when electricity is cheaper. If your dishwasher doesn't have an integral timer setting, buy a timer plug.

Whiffy Niffs?

To keep food odours at bay between washes, hang a dishwasher freshener from the top rack and replace it every 4-6 weeks.