Is there any hope for my dishwasher?
I just moved into an apartment with a dishwasher. It looks like it is at least a decade old. Now, I get spots all over my dishes. The last time I had a dishwasher was an apartment that I lived in three years ago and I had the same problem. I used all kind of rinse aid crap, dishwasher cleaner, etc. and it still didn't clean properly. The landlord told me not to use gel or those gelcap things because those things are too new for older dishwashers. Any ideas or should I just continue to wash dishes myself. Note: Landlord will not fix unless it is completely busted. Also, I used my dishwasher only about once a week (it is just me). How often should I put rinse aid in? Any recommendations for soap brands? I just been buying Cascade powder I rent...I thought about buying one, but I don't think I have to and if I move in a year or two..I have to leave it behind.
Public Comments
- A new dishwasher costs $200. Repairing a dishwasher costs $200. Buy a new dishwasher!
- Is the water hot enough? Sometimes the water isn't and it doesn't dissolve the soap or lift the food stains. Cascade is a good brand.
- Make sure you are using the right amount of soap. Too much is just as bad as too little. Are you filling both soap receptacles without overfilling them? Make sure your strainer is clear too. Consumer Reports rates Americas Choice (a generic brand!) as the top choice for powders. http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/home-garden/cooking-cleaning/dishwasher-detergents-9-06/ratings/0609_dish-detergents_ratings.htm?resultPageIndex=1&resultIndex=1&searchTerm=dishwasher%20detergent
- Forget the dishwasher - since it's just you, wash the dishes by hand and let them air dry! You'll save electricity and you won't have to re-wash spotty dishes all the time. God bless!
- Run the hot water at the sink before you start the dishwasher. Sometimes I even pour in a kettle of boiling water. A cup of bleach in a rinse cycle can help, but don't use bleach on anything aluminum. If that doesn't work, break it You pay to rent a place with a dishwasher that washes dishes.
- Consumer Reports recommends Electrosol. Have it fixed. Sounds like a motor and pump. Isn't it worth it not to wash dishes? I'd buy a basic bare bones new unit and have it installed. Worth it if you use it a year.
