If your dishwasher is stored in an unheated location like a basement, garage or you are relocating to your summer home for the winter season; you want to protect your appliances to ensure they are not exposed to below freezing temperatures.
Dishwashers may have residual water in the pump and hoses that may freeze and damage your pipes in the cold weather. As water freezes it expands, damaging the pipes in your home and unit. Taking some precautions to protect your dishwasher will prevent damage and optimize performance.
Supplies Needed
Screwdriver
Antifreeze
Bucket
7 steps to winterize your dishwasher
-
Water Supply
Turn off the water supply to your home.
-
Disconnect Inlet Hose
Use the screwdriver to disconnect the inlet hose from the water supply and the dishwasher. Set aside the inlet hose inside the bucket.
-
Add Antifreeze
Add a half a gallon of nontoxic recreational vehicle (RV) antifreeze inside the tub and close the door.
-
Power ON the Unit.
Power on the unit and start a cycle. The cycle should start with the unit draining. As soon as you hear water moving through the drain, turn off the unit and disconnect the power or turn off the breaker.
-
Open the door.
Keep the door propped open to prevent odors and mold from forming.
-
Run a wash cycle.
If you winterize the unit, run a complete wash cycle with detergent before using the machine again.
NOTE: Dishes should not be placed inside the unit during this cycle.
-
Disconnect power Cord.
(Optional) If leaving your home for the winter season, keep the inlet hoses disconnected and power cord unplugged and turn off the circuit breaker until you return.
Ryan is a Home Electronics expert and author of this help library article. Please leave him feedback below about the page.
