Dishwasher Support

Dishwasher FAQs

• How do I clean a dishwasher?

  A dishwasher that’s used regularly may develop a build-up of leftover food, grease and soap scum. That’s why regular washing is important. You need to first clean the filter as this is where most of the gunk is. Remove the filter and soak it in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes, then replace.
  
  Next pour one cup of white vinegar into the bottom of your empty dishwasher and run a heavy clean cycle. The vinegar will help deodorise and clean your dishwasher. For an extra-clean dishwasher, you may sprinkle one cup of baking soda in the bottom of your dishwasher, leave overnight and run an empty cycle in the morning. Use a toothbrush to scrub hard-to-reach places.

• What features should I look for in a dishwasher?

  Size: Consider your usage and the space available when deciding between a full-sized or compact model. You also need to decide if you want a built-in or standalone dishwasher. Electrolux has a range of dishwasher sizes. If you have a large home or family, you may consider a full-size built-in dishwasher or a free-standing dishwasher. Large households can also benefit from Electrolux RealLife™ Basket and XXL tub, which provide 15% more space. We also have a range of space-saving dishwashers – with features similar to our full-size dishwashers – designed specially for small homes and families.

   

  Power consumption: Electrolux uses the latest dishwasher technology to create energy-efficient dishwashers for modern homes. For instance, the Electrolux ESL7845RA Built-in Dishwasher has a Water Sensor to help you save time, water, detergent, energy and costs.

   

  Noise level: Some dishwashers are quieter than others. If you plan to place your dishwasher in a closed room, noise is probably not an issue. However, if you intend to place in an open area like a kitchen, then you may want to consider the Electrolux ESL7845RA Built-in Dishwasher, which has the quietest performance with its 39 dB(A) noise level.

   

  Speed and cycles: Look out for models that have customisable speed and cycles. Some models even have pre-set cycles for you to choose from, depending on your load. There are also specific settings for bigger cookware like pots and pans and separate ones for delicate china and wine glasses. Most Electrolux dishwashers are equipped with the QuickPlus 30 Minutes program to clean your dishes quicker and more efficiently. With the Electrolux AutoFlex automatic dishwasher setting, all you need to do is load your dishes and the dishwasher will automatically choose the most suitable water and energy levels to help you save water, detergent and energy usage and costs.

• How do I know the right settings for the dishes in my dishwasher?

  Newer models usually come with pre-loaded dishwasher settings for different loads. You may choose a gentle wash for wine glasses and fine china, heavier wash for pots and pans, normal wash for bowls and cutlery, and express wash for lightly soiled plates. Some Electrolux models even come with 4 Wash Temperature settings to give you more control over how your dishes are cleaned.

• What is the proper way to load a dishwasher?

  Before you load any dishes into your dishwasher, make sure that they are dishwasher safe. Start loading from the bottom and work your way up. As a general rule, bigger items like pots and pans should be placed on the bottom rack. Taller items like baking pans should be placed at the sides so that they do not block the flow of the hot water. Plates, small saucers and bowls should be placed in the middle. The top rack is meant for glassware, such as mugs and glasses. Plastic food containers can be placed on the top rack as well, but they need to be kept them away from the heating element in your dishwasher.

   

  Another tip on how to load a dishwasher is to place your dirtiest dishes towards the centre. To ensure that your dishes are super clean, you may want to consider the Electrolux ESL7845RA Built-in Dishwasher, which has a FlexiSpray™ Arm that increases water spray efficiency during cleaning cycles.

• How do I unclog a dishwasher?

  A clogged dishwasher is usually the result of a built-up in the filter and drain hose. If left uncleared, it could reduce your dishwasher’s efficiency and lead to more clogs and nasty odours. To unclog a dishwasher, you’ll need to clean your filter and drain the hose and valve.

  First unplug your dishwasher, empty it and remove all the drawers. Remove the cylindrical filter and the coarse filter from the bottom of the dishwasher. Once those are removed, check the hole for any debris that might be causing the clog. Clean both filters with warm, soapy water and scrub away any residual grime. Once that’s done, reinstall the filters and run a short cycle to check if the clog has been removed.

   

  To drain the hose, simply disconnect the hose from the dishwasher and check for clogs. Clear any blockages by running a long flexible brush through it, or use water from a high-powered hose to drain out any debris. Run a short cycle to check if the clog has been cleared.

• Why do I see detergent left in the dishwasher dispenser after a cycle?

  If you see detergent remaining in the dispenser after a cycle is finished, try the following:

  • Be sure to use fresh detergent, as older detergent might not dissolve well.
  • Check to ensure that the spray arm is not blocked, so that water from it can reach the dispenser.
  • Check to see if the cycle has completed.
  • When loading the dishwasher, make sure the detergent dispenser can open freely.
  • Before you close the door, check that the upper rack is firmly attached to/with the nozzle on the back of the dishwasher.
• What should I do if my dishwasher isn’t running?

  If your dishwasher won’t run, check to determine if it might be due to one of the following reasons:

  • A circuit breaker is tripped in your home, or a fuse is blown.
  • The water supply to your home is not on.
  • The dishwasher’s cycle setting needs to be checked and adjusted.
  • The dishwasher’s DELAY START option was selected.
  • The door of the dishwasher is not completely closed and latched.