Diy dishwasher maintenance: how to add salt and keep your appliance running smoothly
What To Know
- Open the dishwasher door and look for a small, lidded compartment usually located at the bottom of the appliance, next to the detergent dispenser.
- In general, you should check the salt reservoir every month or two and add salt when it is low or empty.
- If you notice white or brown scale deposits on your dishes or inside the dishwasher, it’s a sign that you need to add salt.
Dishwasher salt, also known as regeneration salt, is crucial for maintaining the optimal performance of your dishwasher. It helps to soften hard water by removing calcium and magnesium ions, preventing scale buildup on the appliance’s components and ensuring that dishes are thoroughly cleaned.
How to Put Dishwasher Salt In
Adding dishwasher salt is a simple yet essential task that should be performed regularly to keep your dishwasher functioning efficiently. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Locate the Salt Reservoir
Open the dishwasher door and look for a small, lidded compartment usually located at the bottom of the appliance, next to the detergent dispenser. This is the salt reservoir.
2. Open the Reservoir Lid
Use a coin or a flat-head screwdriver to gently pry open the lid of the reservoir.
3. Fill the Reservoir
Pour dishwasher salt into the reservoir until it is full. Do not overfill it, as this can cause problems with the dishwasher’s operation.
4. Close the Lid
Once the reservoir is full, firmly close the lid to prevent salt from spilling out.
5. Run the Dishwasher
After adding salt, run an empty dishwasher cycle to dissolve the salt and activate the water softener.
When to Add Dishwasher Salt
The frequency of adding dishwasher salt depends on the hardness of your water. In general, you should check the salt reservoir every month or two and add salt when it is low or empty.
Types of Dishwasher Salt
There are two main types of dishwasher salt:
- Block Salt: These are large, cube-shaped blocks that dissolve slowly, providing a consistent supply of salt.
- Granulated Salt: This type of salt is finer and dissolves more quickly but may not last as long as block salt.
Benefits of Using Dishwasher Salt
Using dishwasher salt offers several benefits:
- Prevents Scale Buildup: Dishwasher salt effectively removes scale-forming minerals from the water, protecting the dishwasher’s components and ensuring efficient operation.
- Improves Dishwashing Performance: Soft water allows detergents to work more effectively, resulting in cleaner dishes with fewer spots and streaks.
- Extends Dishwasher Life: By preventing scale buildup, dishwasher salt prolongs the lifespan of your appliance and reduces the risk of costly repairs.
Signs You Need to Add Dishwasher Salt
There are several signs that indicate you need to add dishwasher salt:
- Low Salt Indicator Light: Most dishwashers have an indicator light that illuminates when the salt reservoir is low.
- Scale Buildup: If you notice white or brown scale deposits on your dishes or inside the dishwasher, it’s a sign that you need to add salt.
- Poor Dishwashing Performance: If your dishes are not being cleaned properly, even with the use of detergent, it may be due to a lack of dishwasher salt.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
If you encounter any problems with your dishwasher’s salt reservoir, here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Salt Bridge: If the salt bridge forms, preventing salt from dissolving, manually break it up using a spoon or a chopstick.
- Clogged Reservoir: If the reservoir is clogged, remove any salt residue and clean it thoroughly with warm water.
- Defective Indicator Light: If the salt indicator light remains on even after adding salt, it may be faulty and require replacement.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: How often should I add dishwasher salt?
A: The frequency depends on the hardness of your water, but it’s generally recommended to check the reservoir monthly or bimonthly.
Q: Can I use table salt instead of dishwasher salt?
A: No, table salt contains iodine and other additives that can damage your dishwasher. Only use dishwasher salt specifically designed for this purpose.
Q: What happens if I don’t use dishwasher salt?
A: Not using dishwasher salt can lead to scale buildup, poor dishwashing performance, and reduced dishwasher lifespan.
Q: How do I know if my dishwasher has a salt reservoir?
A: Most modern dishwashers have a salt reservoir. Check your dishwasher’s user manual or consult the manufacturer’s website for specific information.
Q: Can I add dishwasher salt to the detergent dispenser?
A: No, dishwasher salt should only be added to the designated salt reservoir. Adding it to the detergent dispenser can damage the dishwasher.