Dishwasher Performance Guide

How to Get the Best Wash Performance From Your Dishwasher

There are four core elements you should focus on to ensure the best wash performance in all areas of your dishwasher:

1. Loading the dishes
2. Water temperature
3. Detergent
4. Rinse Aids

Loading the Dishwasher

Top Rack

• The upper rack of a dishwasher is generally for glasses, cups and saucers.
• Cups and glasses fit best along the sides.
• The top rack or third rack for some models, is also a good place for dishwasher-safe plastic items as well as all kinds of odd-shaped utensils.
• All items should be placed facing down towards the dishwasher spray arm.
• Do not block wash system parts including spray arms and towers located in the lower and/or upper racks.

Bottom Rack

• Large items such as pans and cookie sheets should be placed along the sides of the dishwasher rack.
• Platters, pots and bowls should be loaded along the sides, in corners, or the back and at an angle so that water can come up, in and around them.
• On most dishwasher models, a wash tower lifts through the center of the lower rack during the cycle. The circular opening through which this tower rises should be blocked.
• Some dishwasher models have a mid-level spray arm; it is important not to block this arm. Spin the spray arm before each load to make sure it is free to rotate.

View a short video about proper loading: Play Video

Water Temperature in the Dishwasher

• The entering water must be at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit and not more than 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The water temperature can be checked with a candy or meat thermometer by turning on the faucet nearest the dishwasher. Place the thermometer in a glass and let the water run into the glass until the temperature stops rising.
• Let the water run in the sink until it gets hot before you start the dishwasher.

Fresh Dishwasher Detergent

• It is important to keep your detergent fresh and dry.
• Discard detergent if it gets old or lumpy because old detergent may not dissolve and can leave a gritty residue.
• Store the detergent in a closed container.
• Do not put detergent into the dispenser until you’re ready to wash dishes. It might not stay fresh or dry.

View a short video about detergent use and white film forming on dishes: Play Video

Rinse Aids for Dishwashers

Rinse Aids, such as Jet Dry, allow water to sheet off glass and dinnerware which prevents spotting and improves overall drying performance.

View a short video about using the rinse aid dispenser: Play Video