Statewide Appliance Spares Blog

Your dishwasher is a workhorse in your kitchen, saving you time and effort by taking care of the dirty dishes. Sometimes, minerals from your water can build up inside your dishwasher, which can lead to scale deposits. Dishwasher performance and lifespan can be impacted by this buildup. Regular descaling is essential to keep your dishwasher running efficiently and effectively. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to effectively descale your dishwasher and keep it in top condition. What is dishwasher scale? Scale forms when hard water evaporates, leaving behind mineral deposits such as calcium and magnesium. Deposits that accumulate in your dishwasher can lead to issues caused by limescale buildup such as: Reduced cleaning efficiency – Your dishes may come out with spots or residue. Clogged spray arms. Reduction in heating efficiency, making the dishwasher work harder. Damaged internal components like heating elements and pumps. Unpleasant smells caused by trapped food particles and scale. Dull and streaky glassware. How often should you descale your dishwasher? Descaling removes mineral deposits, allowing your dishwasher to perform at its best. Descaling and deep cleaning your unit is an easy maintenance task that should be done regularly. If you have hard water, descale your dishwasher every 1 to 3 months.  Some dishwasher models have in built softeners and use softener salt to help mitigate hard water build-up. With softer water, descaling every 6 months is enough. Check with your local water utility or use a home water testing kit to test your water hardness. Signs that your dishwasher needs descaling Not sure if your dishwasher needs descaling? Here are some common signs to look out for: Cloudy or spotted glassware: If your dishes and glassware are coming out with spots or a cloudy film, it could be a sign of mineral buildup. Reduced cleaning performance: Scale buildup can block water flow, leading to poor cleaning results. Longer cycle times: A dishwasher struggling with scale buildup may take longer to complete cycles. Unusual noises: As a result of scale buildup, your dishwasher may produce unusual noises, particularly during the wash and rinse cycles If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to descale your dishwasher. Step-by-step guide to descaling your dishwasher Step 1: Empty the dishwasher Start by removing all dishes, utensils, and racks from your dishwasher. This will help the descaling solution reach every corner. Step 2: Clean the filter and spray arms Give the dishwasher filter a good clean. The filter is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher and can be removed by twisting or lifting it out. Rinse the filter under warm water. This will remove any food particles and debris. If it’s particularly dirty, you can soak it in warm, soapy water for a few minutes, before scrubbing with a soft brush. Next, check the spray arms for clogs. Food particles and mineral deposits can block the spray holes, reducing water flow. Remove the spray arms and use a toothpick or a small brush to clear any debris from the holes. Check out our detailed guide to cleaning your dishwasher filter on our blog. Step 3: Choose your descaling solution We recommend a commercial descaler, suited for dishwashers. Aktivo Dishwasher/Washing Machine Descaler is a safe and easy option that will effectively remove lime scale and grime. It will also sanitise and deodorise your dishwasher. Step 4: Run a cleaning cycle Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the product packaging. Most commercial descalers are added to the bottom of the dishwasher or placed in the detergent compartment. Run a full cycle with hot water to allow the descaler to work its magic. Step 5: Wipe down the interior After the cleaning cycle is complete, open the dishwasher and wipe down the interior with a soft cloth or sponge. Pay special attention to the door seals and edges where deposits can accumulate. Step 6: Run a rinse cycle To ensure all traces of the descaling solution are removed, run an additional rinse cycle with just hot water. This will help flush out any remaining residue and leave your dishwasher ready for use. Tips for preventing scale buildup Try our tips to help prevent future scale buildup: Descale and deep clean your dishwasher regularly. Clean your dishwasher filter and spray arms monthly. This will help to prevent clogs and maintain optimal performance. To ensure spray arems can rotate properly and water reaches all surfaces, do not load dishes too close together. Use a rinse aid to help prevent mineral deposits from forming on your dishes and the interior of your dishwasher. Our top picks Aktivo Dishwasher/Washer Descaler –  Safely and effectively removes lime scale, mineral deposits and grime. Aktivo Dishwasher Softener Salt – Suits all major brands of dishwashers and specially designed for dishwashers that have a dedicated softener salt dispenser.  Softener salt softens water in hard water areas and ensures better cleaning results. Aktivo Ultra Concentrate Dishwasher Powder – Enzyme power for fast elimination of tough stains in a 100% soluble and phosphate free formula. Electrolux Rinse Aid – produces sparkling, streak free results. Need spare parts for your dishwasher? Find all your dishwasher spare parts at Statewide Appliance Spares. We have Australia’s biggest range of dishwasher parts and accessories for all the leading brands, with fast Australia wide delivery and the lowest prices guaranteed. All the latest tips on the Statewide blog Visit the Statewide blog to find our easy guide to replacing your dishwasher door seal and expert dishwasher tips for superior performance and savings. Check out our YouTube channel Need help with your home appliance repairs and maintenance? Check out our DIY videos on our YouTube Channel. All the expert hints and tips to make appliance repairs a breeze!

Are your dishes not drying completely after being washed in the dishwasher? Many dishwasher users experience issues with drying, which can be frustrating, especially when you expect clean, dry dishes after a cycle! We explore the most common reasons why your dishwasher may not be drying properly and explore easy solutions to get your dishwasher performing at its best. Common dishwasher drying problems Faulty heating element During the wash and dry cycles, the heating element is responsible for heating the water and air. If the heating element is faulty, the dishwasher won’t reach the right temperatures to dry dishes effectively. Solution Check the heating element for signs of damage or wear. Use a multimeter to check if the heating element is working properly. If it’s faulty, replace the heating element to restore the drying function. Rinse Aid dispenser is empty Rinse Aid helps dishes dry more effectively by reducing water spots and streaks, as it allows water to sheet off surfaces rather than forming droplets. Solution Regularly check and refill the rinse aid dispenser. We recommend Electrolux Rinse Aid Additive – suitable for all dishwashers. Your dishwasher is overloaded Overloading the dishwasher or blocking the vents can prevent proper airflow, which impacts the drying process. Solution: Leave enough space for air to flow, with ample space between your dishes. Ensure your dishwasher spray arms can spin easily, without any obstruction. Plastic items not drying Plastic items hold onto water droplets more than glass or metal. This can result in them not drying as thoroughly as other dishes. Solution: Place plastic items on the top rack where the heat is less intensive. Consider using a drying mat for plastic items after they come out of the dishwasher. Using the wrong cycle Some wash cycles do not include a drying phase or may not activate the heating element for drying. Solution: Choose a heavy duty or sanitising cycle with a higher temperature and a longer drying time. This wil give you better drying results. Dirty or clogged filter If your filter is dirty or clogged, it can restrict water flow and affect drying. Solution: Remove the filter from your dishwasher (these are usually located below the racks and attached with a twist cap). Rinse under hot water. Use a bristled brush and warm soapy water to remove trapped debris. Water temperature too low Low water temperature can affect both the cleaning and drying cycles. Solution: Check the water heater setting. Ideally, the water temperature should be between 49°C – 60°C for optimal dishwasher performance. Faulty thermostat The thermostat regulates the temperature of the water and the drying cycle. If your thermostat is faulty, it can prevent the dishwasher from reaching the correct temperature, which will impact drying results. Solution: Test the thermostat with a multimeter to check for continuity. If the thermostat is defective, it may need to be replaced to restore proper drying functionality. Hard Water deposits Hard water can leave mineral deposits on dishes, making them appear cloudy, which can impact the drying performance. Solution: Use or descaler regularly to remove hard water deposits from the interior of the dishwasher. Aktivo Dishwasher Softener Salt softens water in hard areas and keep your machine at peak efficiency. A dishwasher that doesn’t dry properly can be annoying. Troubleshooting and applying these fixes should help resolve the issue. Keep your dishwasher working at its best with our top tips Use quality dishwashing detergent or pods. We recommend Aktivo Ultra Concentrate Dishwasher Powder. Avoid overloading the dishwasher which can impact cleaning results Regularly use a rinse aid to help prevent water spots and improve drying performance. There is no need to rinse dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. Just scrap off any food particles first. Inspect and clean the dishwasher filter regularly to prevent clogs and ensure optimal performance. Use a damp cloth to wipe the edges and seals of the door weekly and inspect for any signs of wear or tear. Replace damaged seals if necessary. Remove and clean the spray arms monthly to ensure nozzles are unclogged. Check the dishwasher hose annually and inspect for any leaks or damage. All the latest tips on the Statewide blog Visit the Statewide blog where you can learn how to load your dishwasher the right way and tips to clean your dishwasher filter. Check out our YouTube channel Need help with your home appliance repairs and maintenance? Check out our DIY videos on our YouTube Channel. All the expert hints and tips to make appliance repairs a breeze! Need spare parts for your dishwasher? Find all your dishwasher spare parts at Statewide Appliance Spares. We have Australia’s biggest range of dishwasher parts and accessories for all the leading brands, with fast Australia wide delivery and the lowest prices guaranteed.

Your dishwasher is a true hero in your kitchen. It diligently tackles the aftermath of family dinners, dinner parties and a sink full of chaos with ease. In our ultimate guide to cleaning your dishwasher filter, we show you how a little maintenance can help your dishwasher churn out spotless dishes time and time again! What does a dishwasher filter do? The filter keeps the dishwasher working efficiently by catching and trapping leftover food and debris from dishes after washing. Filters particles The filter stops food particles and debris from going back into the dishwasher's water system. This in turn helps prevent clogs and damage to the dishwasher's pump and other parts. Prevents clogging of drain The filter stops food particles from getting into the dishwasher drain, lowering the chance of drain clogs. A clogged drain can cause water to back up in the dishwasher, leading to potential water damage. Improves cleaning performance A clean filter allows water to circulate and clean dishes effectively. A blocked filter may lead to dirty dishes, re-depositing food particles on plates, glasses, and utensils. Protects dishwasher spray arm and pump The filter protects the dishwasher's pump and spray arm by capturing large particles. If these parts get clogged with debris, it can cause low water flow, ineffective cleaning, and possible damage to the appliance. Controls odours The filter also helps avoid the buildup of food residues that can create unpleasant odours in the dishwasher. Keeping the filter clean through regular maintenance ensures a fresh-smelling appliance. Extends dishwasher life span Taking care of the filter through proper maintenance contributes to the overall health and longevity of the dishwasher. The filter prevents damage to components and ensures your dishwasher works well. Dishwasher do's and don'ts Before we get our hands dirty, let's establish some ground rules – the do's and don'ts of dishwasher filter maintenance! Do's Regular check-ups: Make it a habit to inspect the filter at least once a month. This helps you catch any issues before they escalate. Follow manufacturer guidelines: Every dishwasher is different. Consult your appliance's manual for specific instructions on filter maintenance. Pre-rinse solid debris: Scrape off excess food scraps before loading dishes to prevent unnecessary strain on the filter. Use appropriate cleaners: Stick to dishwasher-safe cleaners when tackling the filter to avoid damage to essential components. We recommend the range of Aktivo cleaning products for best results. Dont's Avoid harsh chemicals: Skip the heavy-duty chemicals that could harm the filter or the dishwasher's interior. Don't skip regular maintenance: Regularly clean your filter so that your dishwasher works efficiently. Don't overload the dishwasher: Overloading can lead to poor cleaning and put extra stress on the filter. How to clean your dishwasher filter Step 1: Safety first Before you start any maintenance, make sure your dishwasher is turned off and unplugged. Step 2: Locate the filter The filter is typically found at the bottom of your dishwasher. The exact location can vary depending on the model, so refer to your dishwasher's manual for guidance. It's often at the base of the dishwasher, underneath the bottom spray arm. Step 3: Remove the bottom rack Gently pull out the bottom rack to access the filter. This will give you a clear view and better reach to the filter components. Step 4: Detach the filter assembly Depending on your dishwasher model, there might be a combination of parts that make up the filter assembly. Common elements include a cylindrical filter, a fine mesh screen, and a coarse mesh screen. Detach these components carefully. Step 5: Rinse off loose debris Take the components to the sink and rinse them under warm, running water. Use a soft brush, or an old toothbrush, to gently scrub away any stubborn debris. This initial rinse will make the deep cleaning more effective. Step 6: Soak in warm, soapy water Fill your sink or a basin with warm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap. Let the filter components soak for 15-20 minutes. This will help break down grease and grime, making it easier to clean. Step 7: Scrub away residue After the soak, use the soft brush to scrub away any remaining residue on the filter components. Be thorough but gentle, ensuring not to damage any delicate parts. Step 8: Inspect for damage While cleaning, keep an eye out for any signs of damage to the filter components. Cracks, tears, or warping can compromise the effectiveness of the filter, and damaged parts may need replacement. Step 9: Check the drain area Inspect the drain area beneath the filter for any lodged debris. Remove any foreign objects carefully to prevent potential clogs. Step 10: Reassemble the filter Once you're satisfied that the filter components are clean and in good condition, reassemble them as per the manufacturer's instructions. Double-check that everything fits snugly and securely. Step 11: Run a test cycle Before putting the filter back in place, run a short test cycle without any dishes. This ensures that everything is in working order and that there are no leaks or issues. Step 12: Wipe down the exterior While you have the bottom rack pulled out, take a moment to wipe down the interior of the dishwasher. Use a damp cloth to remove any lingering residue. Step 13: Replace the bottom rack Slide the bottom rack back into place. Step 14: Run a cleaning cycle Consider running a dishwasher cleaning cycle with dishwasher descaler to ensure the entire system is free from mineral deposits and lingering odours. Step 15: Regular check-ups Set a reminder for monthly filter check-ups. Consistency is key to maintaining a smoothly running dishwasher. By following these steps, you'll ensure your dishwasher continues to be the reliable kitchen assistant you've come to depend on. Happy dishwashing! All the latest tips on the Statewide blog Visit the Statewide blog where you can learn how to easily replace your dishwasher door seal and a guide to loading your dishwasher the right way. Check out our YouTube channel Need help with your home appliance repairs and maintenance? Check out our DIY videos on our YouTube Channel. All the expert hints and tips to make appliance repairs a breeze! Need spare parts for your dishwasher? Find replacement spare parts for your dishwasher at Statewide Appliance Spares. We have Australia’s biggest range of dishwasher parts and accessories for all the leading brands including Dishlex, Bosch, Fisher & Paykel, Electrolux and more. All with fast Australia wide delivery and the lowest prices guaranteed.

When was the last time you gave your dishwasher a thorough clean? Over time, food remnants, mineral deposits, grease and soap scum can build up in your dishwasher. This can cause bad smells and decrease your dishwasher’s efficiency. Here, we share our tried-and-tested tips to clean your dishwasher and eliminate bad smells. You will need: White vinegar Baking soda Soft bristled brush Toothpaste Wooden skewer or wire Dishwashing detergent How often should you give your dishwasher a deep clean? We recommend a monthly deep clean to ensure sparkling dishes and a fresh smelling dishwasher. A regular, thorough clean will increase your dishwashers’ lifespan and performance. How to deep clean your dishwasher Step 1:  Remove all racks, trays, spray arms and cutlery basket. Step 2: Next, soak removable parts in warm, soapy water. Scrub any built on grime with a soft bristled brush. Clogged spray arms may need a wooden skewer or small wire to help dislodge debris from the spray arm holes. Step 3: Give your filter a clean. Simply remove from your dishwasher (these are usually located below the racks and attached with a twist cap). Rinse thoroughly under hot water. Use a soft brush (or toothbrush) and warm soapy water to remove trapped debris. Check your filter housing for any obstructions or blockages. Wipe out any excess water and replace your filter. Handy tip: If you find a pool of water left in the bottom of your dishwasher after each cycle, a blocked drain could be the issue. Check out our troubleshooting guide to fixing a dishwasher that won’t drain. Step 4: Clean your dishwasher door and seal using a sponge and warm, soapy water. Get into small grooves and crevices with an old toothbrush. Wipe clean with a damp sponge. This is a good time to check the quality of your door seal by inspecting for signs of wear or tear. Replace your door seal if required. Step 5: Check your dishwashing detergent dispenser is working properly. A jammed spring may cause the dispenser to remain closed. This means detergent can’t reach and clean your dishes. Use a small brush dipped in diluted vinegar with water to clean around your springs and dispenser. Dispenser doors and replacement springs are available at Statewide Appliance Spares. Step 6: Deep clean the interior of your dishwasher by filling a dishwasher-safe bowl with 1 cup vinegar. Place on top rack of your empty dishwasher. Then, run complete cycle on the hottest setting. Step 7: After the completion of the wash cycle, sprinkle a generous handful of baking soda into the bottom of your dishwasher. Run a short, hot wash cycle to dissolve and remove built up grease and detergent deposits from your dishwasher and the pipes leading from it. Step 8: Wipe the exterior clean with a damp sponge. For stainless steel doors, you may want to spray with Aktivo Stainless Steel Polish. Its formulation helps remove fingerprints and spears and leaves a transparent film to protect against marks re-appearing. Step 9:   Reinstall your spray arms and place your racks, trays and cutlery basket back in your dishwasher. Handy tip: Dishwashers are subject to the build-up of limescale deposits. If you live in an area with hard water, it is important to descale your dishwasher regularly. Descaling will remove limescale and grime and improve your unit’s efficiency. We recommend Aktivo Dishwashing + Washing Machine Descaler Regular care and maintenance Simple care and maintenance of your dishwasher can greatly extend its lifespan. Clean your filter regularly Wipe down rubber seals and door with a damp cloth to prevent build up Give your dishwasher a deep clean monthly Remove and clean the spray arms every few months to ensure there are no blockages Remove limescale build-up with a water softener such as Aktivo Dishwasher/Washer Descaler All the latest tips on the Statewide blog Visit our blog where you can find fixes for the most common dishwasher problems and a guide to loading your dishwasher the right way. Check out our YouTube channel Need help with your home appliance repairs and maintenance? Check out our DIY videos on our YouTube Channel. All the expert hints and tips to make appliance repairs a breeze! Need spare parts for your dishwasher? Find replacement spare parts for your dishwasher at Statewide Appliance Spares. We have Australia’s biggest range of dishwasher parts and accessories for all the leading brands including Dishlex, Bosch, Fisher & Paykel, Electrolux and more. All with fast Australia wide delivery and the lowest prices guaranteed. Tags: #dishwasher #diy #repairdontreplace #appliancespares #spareparts #spares

We all rely on our trusty dishwasher to give a sparkling, clean finish. What happens when you open your dishwasher door and find food remnants, grime and residue still stuck on your plates and glasses? Don’t worry, you don’t need to rush out and replace your dishwasher. If your dishwasher is not cleaning properly, try these simple DIY fixes. 1. Load your dishwasher carefully If you notice that your dishes and glassware are dirty or covered in residue, firstly check that you are not overloading your dishwasher. Poorly stacked dishes and utensils that restrict the rotating motion of the spray arms can result in dirty dishes.  Scrape off large pieces of food. You don’t need to pre-rinse the dishes Curved dishes and bowls should be positioned with the dirtiest section facing downwards Place dishwasher safe plastic items on top rack only Knives should be loaded with the blade facing down. All other cutlery should be loaded with eating end up. This ensures most exposure to spraying water 2. Clean clogged spray arms Ensure your spray arms can spin easily, without obstruction. Sometimes they become clogged with food debris. Simply remove them and give them a good clean with hot, soapy water and a light scrub with an old toothbrush. You may need a wire or toothpick to dislodge any debris from the spray arm holes. You can easily replace damaged and worn spray arms. 3. Clean the filter and interior of your dishwasher For best results, removable filters need to be cleaned regularly. Simply remove from your dishwasher (these are usually located below the racks and attached with a twist cap). Rinse thoroughly under hot water. Use a bristled brush and warm soapy water to remove trapped debris. 4. Give your dishwasher a vinegar cycle Give your dishwasher a thorough clean with a vinegar cycle. Wipe the interior of your unit and the door seal with warm soapy water and a sponge. Add 2 cups white vinegar to your dishwasher, then run a full hot water cycle. 5. Check your detergent dispenser Check your dishwashing detergent dispenser is working properly. A jammed spring may cause the dispenser to remain closed. This means detergent can’t reach and clean your dishes. Use a small brush dipped in diluted vinegar with water to clean around your springs and dispenser. You can replace dispenser doors and springs if they are broken. 6. Use a quality dishwashing detergent (and the right amount) Stubborn water spots on your clean glasses and dishes are a common problem and often the result of too much detergent. Use less dishwashing detergent as too much can cleave a soapy residue. We recommend Aktivo Ultra Concentrate Dishwasher Powder. Always ensure you have Rinse aid in your dispenser. It helps to remove excess water and prevent mineral build up. Try Aktivo rinse aid for good results. To soften water in hard water areas, add water softener salt to your dishwasher.  This softens the water for better cleaning and prevents marks and streaks. Note: Softener salt is suitable for dedicated salt reservoir. Check your owner’s manual first. 7. Scale and residue build-up Tap water contains calcium and lime which can contribute to residue build up. Descaling your dishwasher will deodorise and clean it, helping it return to its peak efficiency. To effectively remove limescale and grime, use Aktivo Dishwashing + Washing Machine Descaler. Some regular maintenance and easy fixes will ensure your dishwasher is working at its best again. Need dishwasher spare parts? We’ve got you covered! You can find hoses, cutlery baskets, rollers, door seals and more from all the big brands. Fast Australia wide delivery and the lowest prices guaranteed. Tags: cleaning hacks, dishwasher, dishwasher tips

If you notice leaks around your dishwasher door and a pool of water on your kitchen floor, don’t call a repair technician just yet! One of the most common causes of dishwasher leaks is a faulty door seal. Simply open your dishwasher door and check the door seal. If you see tears, cracks or damage, it’s a good sign that your door seal (also called a gasket) needs replacing. Replacing a door seal is easy and takes just a few simple steps. No costly call out fees for repairs required! Types of dishwasher door seals Dishwasher door seals provide a watertight seal and prevent water leaking from your dishwasher. Most dishwashers have two different types of door seals. Upper door seal Lower door seal Inspect your door seals thoroughly to determine which one needs replacing. In this article, we will show you how to easily replace your upper door seal. Find the right dishwasher door seal To find the right replacement part for your dishwasher, first locate your dishwasher model number. Most manufacturers will place the model number either on the inner side of the dishwasher door or along the inner base of the dishwasher. Additionally, you may find it along the side sill. You can buy replacement dishwasher door seals and gaskets for all leading brands here. What you will need: Sponge Paper towels Knife or scissors Replace your dishwasher door seal in 3 steps Safety first! Before you get started, ensure your dishwasher is disconnected from the power and water supply system. 1. Remove the old seal from your dishwasher door by gently pulling out the existing gasket. Clean any debris from the gasket channel with warm soapy water and a sponge. Wipe dry with a paper towel. 2. Secondly, hold the new seal in the centre, so that an equal amount hangs down on each side. Make sure you have the correct side facing outward. Starting at the top centre of the dishwasher, press the centre of the dishwasher seal into the recessed channel. Continue to press the it firmly into the channel around one side, then press the other side into the channel. 3. Leave approximately 2cm on either side of the seal beyond the bottom of the channel. Use a knife or scissors to gently cut away any excess rubber from the seal. Finally, close the door and check that it is secured firmly. This ensures it is installed correctly. https://youtu.be/bYkb1pc73dU Maintenance tips for your dishwasher Regularly check your dishwasher door seal and inspect for wear and tear. Save time and money by replacing your dishwasher it at the first sign of damage. Statewide Appliance Spares have the biggest range of dishwasher door seals for all leading brands. Great results start with great products To increase the longevity of your dishwasher, we recommend regular maintenance and the use of quality products. You can find a list of common dishwasher problems and easy DIY fixes on our blog. Descaling your dishwasher will not only deodorise and clean your unit, it will help it perform at its best. We recommend Aktivo Dishwashing + Washing Machine Descaler to effectively remove limescale and grime. For sparkling clean glasses and dishes, use a safe, effective formula. Aktivo’s ultra-concentrate dishwasher powder is 100% soluble and phosphate free, with enzymes for fast elimination of tough stains. You can find Australia’s biggest range of dishwasher spare parts at Statewide Appliance Spares. Shop online with 24/7 convenience and fast Australia wide delivery.

Dishwashers are a modern day must have in our kitchens.  They offer convenience and can effectively clean our dishes and glassware. Dishwashers are energy efficient, they use less detergent and as added bonus, can effectively get rid of germs! General care and maintenance can increase the lifespan of your dishwasher. Here we share the most common dishwasher problems and how you can easily fix them (no repair person required!). Overview 8 common dishwasher problems Easy do-it-yourself fixes and solutions 1. Your dishes are still dirty If you notice that your dishes and glassware are dirty or covered in residue, the first thing is to check that you are not overloading your dishwasher. Poorly stacked dishes and utensils that restrict the rotating motion of the spray arms can result in dirty dishes.  Give your dishwasher a vinegar cycle Check the spray arms and door seal to make sure there is no dirt, grease or debris.  Wipe thoroughly. Try running a full hot water cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar added to your dishwasher. Clean clogged spray arms Ensure your dishwasher spray arms can spin easily, without obstruction. Sometimes they become clogged with food debris. Simply remove them and give them a good clean with hot, soapy water and a light scrub with an old toothbrush. You may need a wire or pipe cleaner to release any debris from the spray arm holes. If the spray arms are worn, you can easily replace them. Check your filter Remove and clean your filter regularly. Simply remove from your dishwasher (usually located below the racks and generally attached with a twist cap). Then, rinse thoroughly under hot water. Use a bristled brush to remove trapped debris. 2. Your dishes are not drying Your dishes should be sparkling clean and dry when the dishwashing cycle is finished. Therefore, if you notice that they are still damp or not dry enough to put away immediately, you can try the following: Ensure you have rinse aid in your dishwasher Dishwashing detergent or tablets are designed to clean your dishes. However, rinse aid prevents spotting and enhances drying. Rinse aid (or rinse agent) is a surfactant – it helps water run smoothly off your dishes for a streak and spot free wash. Open your dishwasher door partially when the cycle has finished This helps to release residual steam. If steam from your wash remains trapped in the unit, the moisture can quickly settle onto your dishes and glasses. Stack your dishes with plenty of space between them Overcrowding and incorrect stacking can cause water and steam to remain trapped in your dishes. A bit of space greatly improves water and air circulation. As a result, your dishes will dry faster. 3. Your glasses and dishes have water spots Stubborn water spots on your clean glasses and dishes are a common problem.  These are usually the result of hard water. Excessive mineral content in your water supply can leave visible (and unsightly) residue as water evaporates during the drying cycle.  There are some simple fixes you can try to minimise this issue: Use less dishwashing detergent. Too much can cleave a soapy residue. We recommend concentrated formulas where only a small amount of detergent is required for big results. Use rinse aid – it helps to remove excess water and prevent mineral build up. We recommend Aktivo rinse aid Add water softener salt to your dishwasher.  This softens the water for better cleaning and prevents marks and streaks. Note: Softener salt is suitable for dedicated salt reservoir. Check your owner’s manual first. 4. Your dishwasher is leaking If you notice water pooling around your unit, you may have a leak that needs attention. Check your door seal Open your dishwasher door and check the seal is not cracked, damaged or worn. If your seal is damaged, you can easily remove and replace it. You can find replacement door seals for all leading brands of dishwashers here. https://youtu.be/bYkb1pc73dU Check your drain hoses Over the course of its lifecycle, dishwasher connections and hoses may become loose. Check the drain hose to make sure its securely connected and it is free of cracks or deterioration. Ensure your hose clamps are secure (tighten if required). Cracked hoses can easily be replaced from Statewide. Replace the water inlet valve The water inlet valve is designed to flow water into the dishwasher throughout a cycle. If the water inlet valve is not opening or closing correctly, the dishwasher will continue to fill with water, causing it to leak and overflow. A faulty water inlet valve can be replaced. Make sure your dishwasher is level If your dishwasher is not level, water can gather and pool underneath your unit. To check if this is the issue, place a level in the bottom of your dishwasher. Adjust the levels to fix. 5. Your dishwasher smells bad There is nothing worse than a smelly dishwasher! Thankfully, there are a few simple remedies, to ensure your dishwasher smells fresh and clean. Give your dishwasher a thorough clean Start with your drain filter. Your drain filter is usually located underneath the bottom racks of your dishwasher.  Remove and wash in hot soapy water. Use a bristled brush to remove any built-up debris. After that, ensure your drain is clean and free of debris and food before you insert your drain filter. Remove your spray arms and clean in hot, soapy water. Lightly scrub clogged holes with an old toothbrush or pipe cleaner. Finally, scrub the inside of your dishwasher with hot soapy water and scrub brush. You can also wipe down racks and door gaskets. Deep clean with a vinegar cycle Firstly, run a full hot water cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar added to the bottom. The acidic properties of vinegar will help will cut through grease and remove detergent build up and deposits. You can also add a few drops of citrus essential oil to the vinegar. For example, lemon or orange can be used for their fresh scent and anti-microbial properties. Once clean, leave the door open, then, let your dishwasher air dry completely. It is a good idea to do this periodically. Descale your dishwasher Descaling your dishwasher will help return your unit to its peak efficiency – it’s also a great way to deodorise and clean your appliance! We recommend Aktivo Dishwashing + Washing Machine Descaler to effectively remove limescale and grime. In turn, it increase longevity of your dishwasher. This will rid your unit of smelly odours - leaving it fresh and sanitary clean. 6. Your dishwasher won’t drain If you open your dishwasher and find a pool of water on the bottom, you can try these troubleshooting tips. Firstly, try running your dishwasher a second time. A dishwasher that was abruptly turned off by a power outage or something unexpected, could mean that the cycle was incomplete. Check the sump (located near the back of the unit, or at the bottom part of the tub). Remove excess water using a small container and check for any trapped food particles or debris. Make sure your kitchen sink drain is not clogged. If you have a garbage disposal system, run it to clear the drain system. Typically, the dishwasher drains into the same system as the garbage disposal. If there is a problem or blockage with your disposal system, it can affect dishwasher drainage. Lastly, blocked filters can commonly cause dishwashers to not drain effectively. Remove and wash with hot, soapy water to remove any build up and residue. It is a good idea to give your filters a weekly clean. https://youtu.be/Za04wjv1FeA 7. Your dishwasher won’t dispense detergent This can happen with powder or dishwashing pods that are placed in the detergent compartment. There may not be enough water getting into the compartment to dissolve and dispense the pods. You can try using less powder or switching to a liquid. We recommend Aktivo Ultra Concentrate Dishwasher Powder – its super concentrated formula containing enzymes means only a small amount is required. 8. Your dishwasher makes a lot of noise If your once quiet dishwasher starts making loud noises, take a look at your internal parts to make sure they are all functioning correctly. Spray arms should freely spin, seals and bearing rings should be in place. If the noise continues, it may be time to seek the help of a professional to look at your pump and motor. Even the best dishwashers won’t deliver results if they are not loaded the right way. Follow our tips to load your dishwasher the right way. Need spare parts for your dishwasher? You can find kitchen appliance spare parts at Statewide Appliance Spares. We stock dishwasher parts for all leading brands of dishwashers. Statewide have Australia’s biggest range of appliance parts with fast, Australia wide delivery.