We use cookies, including cookies from third parties, to enhance your user experience and the effectiveness of our marketing activities. These cookies are performance, analytics and advertising cookies, please see our Privacy and Cookie policy for further information. If you agree to all of our cookies select “Accept all” or select “Cookie Settings” to see which cookies we use and choose which ones you would like to accept.
Helpful Hints
LG Dishwasher Maintenance Guide
Learn essential tips for maintaining your LG dishwasher. Discover how to clean your dishwasher, troubleshoot common issues, and keep it running efficiently.
To keep your LG dishwasher running smoothly and efficiently, it's important to maintain it properly, ensuring you get sparkling clean dishes after each wash. In this guide, we’ll take you through essential maintenance steps, provide troubleshooting advice, and share general tips to help your dishwasher perform at its best.
Importance of Regular Dishwasher Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your dishwasher operates efficiently and extends its lifespan. Over time, food particles, grease, and soap scum can build up, reducing performance and potentially causing problems. By following a regular maintenance schedule, you can maintain your dishwasher’s cleaning ability and avoid the need for costly repairs.
This guide will cover:
- How to clean your dishwasher
- Clearing the LG dishwasher drain
- Troubleshooting common issues
- General maintenance tips
Following these guidelines will help keep your dishwasher running efficiently.
How to clean your dishwasher
Keeping your LG dishwasher clean is essential for achieving clean dishes every time. Here’s how you can ensure your dishwasher stays in top condition:
Empty the Dishwasher:
Take out all the dishes and racks from your dishwasher so you can reach every corner when cleaning. If the racks need a freshen up, soak them in hot, soapy water for 15-20 minutes, then scrub off any residue with a brush or cloth.
Clean the Filter:
In LG dishwashers, the filter is usually located at the bottom, and you may need to remove the bottom rack to access the filter. Remove the filter and rinse it under warm water to clear away any gunk. For stubborn bits, use a soft brush to remove them. Some models come with multiple filters, such as a main filter and a secondary filter near the spray arm or towards the back. Be sure to check your dishwasher's manual for specific instructions.
Find your LG dishwasher manual.
Wipe Down the Interior:
Take a damp cloth and some mild antibacterial spray or kitchen cleaner. Wipe down the walls, door, and gasket, ensuring you reach all the nooks and crannies. For greasy spots, apply a bit of dishwashing liquid and then rinse thoroughly with a wet cloth to prevent extra bubbles in your next load. Keep it simple, clean, and fresh!
Clean the Spray Arms:
Use a toothpick or a small brush to clear any clogged holes. This step is crucial for maintaining optimal water flow and ensuring your dishes come out gleaming and spotless. For the upper spray arm, you can detach these and rinse under warm water. Find the securing nut or clip where it connects to the rack. Twist it counterclockwise or press the release tabs to remove it. To reattach the arms, align them back in their original position and twist the central nut or clip clockwise until they are secure. Ensure they are firmly attached and can rotate freely. Always check your LG dishwasher’s manual for specific instructions, as designs can vary between models.
Run a Cleaning Cycle:
Place a dishwasher-safe cup filled with white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot water cycle. Close the dishwasher door and start the cycle. Select the appropriate cleaning cycle. Many LG dishwashers come with a specific “Machine Clean” cycle. If your model doesn’t have this option, choose the hottest and longest cycle available, such as the “Sanitise” or “Heavy” cycle. This will help break down grease and eliminate odours that’s been built up overtime.
Deodorise with Baking Soda:
After completing the vinegar cycle, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot water cycle. This will help to freshen and brighten the interior. By following these steps regularly, you can ensure your LG dishwasher keeps your dishes sparkling clean and continues to run efficiently.
Tips for removing hard water deposits and soap scum
Hard water deposits and soap scum can impact your dishwasher’s performance and leave your dishes looking less than perfect. Here are some tips to help you address these common issues and keep your dishwasher running smoothly:
- Use White Vinegar: Pour a cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl and place it on the top rack of an empty dishwasher. Run a hot water cycle, like “Machine Clean”, “Sanitise” or “Heavy” cycle. The vinegar will help dissolve hard water deposits and remove soap scum.
- Baking Soda Rinse: After completing the vinegar cycle, sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short, hot water cycle. The baking soda will help neutralise odours and remove any remaining residue, leaving your dishwasher fresh and clean.
- Citric Acid Solution: Use a commercial dishwasher cleaner containing citric acid or dissolve a few tablespoons of citric acid powder in a dishwasher-safe container filled with water. Place it on the top rack and run a hot water cycle. Citric acid is effective at breaking down mineral deposits and soap scum.
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly clean the dishwasher’s filter, spray arms, and interior surfaces to prevent build-up. Wipe down the door gasket and edges with a damp cloth to remove any debris.
- Use Rinse Aid: Use a rinse aid in your dishwasher to help reduce mineral deposits on your dishes and the interior of the dishwasher. It assists in better drying and prevents spots and streaks.
Cleaning the LG Dishwasher Drain
Keeping the drain of your LG dishwasher clean is crucial for optimal performance. Follow these steps to ensure it's done safely and effectively
Step 1: Make sure your dishwasher is completely turned off and unplugged from the power source for safety.
Step 2: Pull out the bottom rack to access the dishwasher drain.
Step 3: The drain filter is typically located at the bottom of the dishwasher. It may be covered by a mesh filter or screen. Gently twist and pull out the filter. In some models, you might need to remove additional screws or clips to access the drain filter.
Step 4: Rinse the filter under warm running water to remove debris and food particles. Use a soft brush to scrub away any stubborn bits.
Common causes of the dishwasher not cleaning properly
Even the best dishwashers can sometimes have hiccups. Here are some common causes of poor cleaning performance and simple ways to fix them:
Clogged Spray Arms
Cause: Food particles and debris can clog the spray arms, stopping water from reaching all the dishes.
Solution: Remove and clean the spray arms regularly. Use a toothpick or a small brush to clear any clogged holes and ensure optimal water flow.
Detergent Issues
Cause: Using the wrong type or amount of detergent can affect cleaning performance. Hard water can also reduce the effectiveness of some detergents.
Solution: Use a high-quality detergent recommended for your dishwasher. Adjust the amount based on the load size and water hardness. Consider using a rinse aid to enhance cleaning results.
Filter Blockages
Cause: A dirty or clogged filter can restrict water flow and reduce cleaning efficiency.
Solution: Clean the filter regularly. Remove it from the dishwasher, rinse it under warm water, and scrub away any debris with a soft brush.
Hard Water Deposits
Cause: Mineral deposits from hard water can build up and affect the dishwasher’s performance.
Solution: Use a dishwasher cleaner or place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot water cycle to remove deposits. If you have consistently hard water, consider installing a water softener.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried the above solutions and your dishwasher still isn’t performing well, it might be time to seek professional help. Contact a qualified technician if you notice:
- Persistent clogs or drainage issues
- Unusual noises during operation
- Leaks or water pooling inside or outside the dishwasher
- Error codes or malfunctioning controls
General Dishwasher Maintenance Tips
- Clean Regularly: Wipe down the interior, door gasket, and edges with a damp cloth to remove debris and prevent mould and mildew.
- Run Empty Cycles: Periodically run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or vinegar to remove build-up and odours.
- Check for Blockages: Regularly inspect and clean the filters, spray arms, and drain to ensure there are no blockages.
- Use the Right Products: Always use detergents, rinse aids, and cleaners recommended for your LG dishwasher.
- Inspect Seals and Gaskets: Check the door seals and gaskets for wear and tear. Replace them if necessary to prevent leaks.
By following these tips, you can keep your LG dishwasher running smoothly, ensuring every dish comes out clean. We understand that dealing with dishwasher issues can be frustrating, but a bit of regular maintenance goes a long way in keeping things hassle-free.
Recommended Maintenance Schedule
Weekly Maintenance
Wipe Down the Door and Gasket: Use a damp cloth to clean around the door edges and gasket to ensure it seals properly.
Clean the Filter: Remove the filter and rinse it under warm water to prevent food particles from building up.
Monthly Maintenance
Run a Cleaning Cycle: Use a dishwasher cleaner or place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot water cycle to remove grease, grime, and odours.
Check the Spray Arms: Remove the spray arms and clear any clogged holes with a toothpick or small brush to ensure optimal water flow.
Quarterly Maintenance
Inspect the Seals and Gaskets: Check the door seals and gaskets for any signs of wear and replace them if needed.
Deep Clean the Interior: Wipe down the interior walls, racks, and door with a mild detergent and water solution to keep everything looking fresh and bright.
Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Dishwasher
A Few Simple Habits for Extending Your LG Dishwasher’s Lifespan
- Use High-Quality Detergents: Choose detergents recommended for your LG dishwasher to avoid residue build-up and ensure efficient cleaning. This is an essential part of regular dishwasher maintenance to keep it performing at its best.
- Avoid Overloading: Properly load your dishwasher to allow water to reach all items, preventing strain on the machine and ensuring all dishes are cleaned effectively. Overloading can lead to dishwasher not cleaning properly, so it's important to follow your LG dishwasher’s guidelines.
- Run Hot Water Before Starting: Run the hot water in your sink before starting the dishwasher to ensure the wash cycle starts with hot water, improving cleaning performance. This small step can prevent issues that require dishwasher troubleshooting later on.
Best Practices for Daily Use
Incorporate these tips into your daily routine to maintain your dishwasher.
- Scrape, Don’t Rinse: Scrape off large food particles from dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. Avoid pre-rinsing, as modern dishwashers clean more effectively with some food residue
- Load Properly: Place items in the designated racks, with larger items on the bottom and more delicate items on the top. Ensure nothing blocks the spray arms to prevent issues like the dishwasher not cleaning properly.
- Use the Right Cycle: Select the appropriate cycle for the load type. Heavier loads with pots and pans may require a more intensive cycle, while lighter loads can use shorter cycles. Choosing the right cycle helps avoid the need for frequent dishwasher troubleshooting.
By following this maintenance schedule and these tips, you'll keep your LG dishwasher performing at its best, making life a little easier and your dishes immaculate.
Remember, a well-maintained dishwasher not only performs better but also lasts longer, saving you time and money in the long run.
Life’s Good!