The Ultimate Guide To Dishwasher Maintenance – And How To Put Salt In!
What To Know
- After adding salt, it is essential to run a rinse cycle without dishes to distribute the salt throughout the dishwasher and remove any excess salt from the reservoir.
- As a general rule, it is recommended to add salt every 1-3 months, or as indicated by the dishwasher’s salt indicator light.
- If the salt is not dissolving properly, it could be due to a clogged salt reservoir or a malfunctioning salt dispenser.
Maintaining a dishwasher is essential for keeping your dishes sparkling clean. One crucial aspect of this is adding dishwasher salt regularly. Dishwasher salt plays a vital role in preventing limescale buildup and ensuring the longevity of your appliance. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step tutorial on how to put dishwasher salt in, ensuring optimal performance and extending the life of your dishwasher.
What is Dishwasher Salt?
Dishwasher salt, also known as regenerating salt, is a coarse, crystal-like substance specifically designed for use in dishwashers. Its primary purpose is to soften hard water by removing calcium and magnesium ions. Hard water can cause limescale buildup on the dishwasher’s components, reducing its effectiveness and eventually leading to costly repairs.
How Much Dishwasher Salt Do I Need?
The amount of dishwasher salt required varies depending on the hardness of your water. Generally, it is recommended to add salt every 1-3 months, or as indicated by the dishwasher’s salt indicator light. If you have particularly hard water, you may need to add salt more frequently.
How to Put Dishwasher Salt In
Step 1: Locate the Salt Reservoir
Open the dishwasher door and locate the salt reservoir. It is typically a small compartment at the bottom of the dishwasher, usually covered by a screw cap.
Step 2: Unscrew the Salt Reservoir Cap
Use a coin or a flathead screwdriver to unscrew the cap of the salt reservoir.
Step 3: Fill the Reservoir with Salt
Pour the dishwasher salt into the reservoir until it is full. Do not overfill the reservoir, as this can cause salt to spill into the dishwasher.
Step 4: Replace the Cap
Once the reservoir is full, screw the cap back on tightly.
Step 5: Run a Rinse Cycle
After adding salt, it is essential to run a rinse cycle without dishes to distribute the salt throughout the dishwasher and remove any excess salt from the reservoir.
How Often Should I Add Dishwasher Salt?
The frequency of adding dishwasher salt depends on the hardness of your water. As a general rule, it is recommended to add salt every 1-3 months, or as indicated by the dishwasher’s salt indicator light.
Benefits of Using Dishwasher Salt
- Prevents limescale buildup, extending the life of the dishwasher
- Improves the effectiveness of the dishwasher, resulting in cleaner dishes
- Protects the dishwasher from corrosion
- Reduces the risk of unpleasant odors caused by limescale buildup
Troubleshooting Dishwasher Salt Issues
No Salt Indicator Light
If your dishwasher does not have a salt indicator light, you can estimate the need for salt by observing the dishes. If they are coming out with a white film or residue, it is likely time to add salt.
Salt Not Dissolving
If the salt is not dissolving properly, it could be due to a clogged salt reservoir or a malfunctioning salt dispenser. Clean the salt reservoir and check the salt dispenser for any blockages.
Dishwasher Not Draining Properly
If the dishwasher is not draining properly after adding salt, it could be due to a clogged drain pump or hose. Check the drain pump and hose for any obstructions and clean them accordingly.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
What happens if I don’t use dishwasher salt?
Not using dishwasher salt can lead to limescale buildup, which can reduce the effectiveness of the dishwasher, shorten its lifespan, and cause unpleasant odors.
Can I use table salt in my dishwasher?
No, table salt is not recommended for dishwashers. It is too fine and can clog the salt dispenser.
How do I know if my dishwasher needs salt?
Most dishwashers have a salt indicator light that will illuminate when the salt reservoir needs to be refilled.
What is the difference between dishwasher salt and water softener salt?
Dishwasher salt is specifically designed for use in dishwashers, while water softener salt is intended for softening water throughout the home.
Can I add too much dishwasher salt?
Yes, adding too much dishwasher salt can cause the salt reservoir to overflow and spill salt into the dishwasher.
