Summer utility bills often climb as fans and air conditioners run all day. The kitchen is one place where you can control costs without much effort, and the dishwasher offers several easy ways to save water and electricity.
Run full loads and choose the right cycle
A dishwasher uses about the same amount of water and power whether it is half full or completely full, so running it only when it is full saves both. Scrape food into the bin rather than rinsing plates under the tap, which wastes water before the machine even starts.
If your dishes are not heavily soiled, choose an eco or light cycle. Most modern machines clean well at lower temperatures and use less energy for the heating step. If you notice that dishes come out dirty even on a longer cycle, the machine may have a fault. Our dishwasher repair team can check the spray arms, pump, and heating element.
Clean the filter regularly
Food particles trapped in the filter restrict water flow. The pump then has to work harder, uses more electricity, and may fail sooner. Remove the filter once a month, rinse it under warm water, and use a soft brush on the mesh. A clean filter also helps the machine drain properly.
Watch for signs of a pump or drain problem
Loud humming, grinding, or water left in the base after a cycle usually means something is blocking the pump or drain hose. Do not keep running the machine in that state, because each cycle adds strain. Turn it off, clear what you can reach, and call a technician if the problem remains.
Skip the heat-dry setting in summer
Heat-dry uses a noticeable amount of electricity, and it adds warmth to the kitchen just when you want it cooler. Try turning off the heat-dry option and leaving the door slightly open after the cycle ends. The dishes will dry in the air, and the room will stay cooler.
Keep the rest of the house efficient
Your other appliances also affect the budget. Use a cold or cool wash setting on the washer when the laundry allows it, and only run full loads there too. On the dryer, clean the lint screen after every load. Restricted airflow makes the dryer run longer and wastes energy. Vacuum the back of the refrigerator once or twice a year, because dusty coils force the compressor to work harder.
Cooking heat adds to the load on your air conditioner too. A poorly sealed oven door lets heat leak into the room, so check the gasket as well. For more on that, see our oven repair service.
When to call a technician
If your dishwasher runs much longer than usual, leaves dishes wet, or uses far more water than the manual suggests, the cause may be a failing component rather than the settings. A technician can check the heating element, water inlet, and drain system, and explain the options before any work starts.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my dishwasher leave dishes wet?
Check the rinse aid level first, and make sure the heating element is working. A setting change sometimes helps. If the problem continues, a technician can test the heating system and drain.
How does a clean dishwasher save money?
A clean machine uses water and energy more efficiently. Clear filters and spray arms let water circulate properly, so you avoid rewashing dishes. Over a summer, that saves water, detergent, and electricity.
Should I use the heat-dry setting?
Heat-dry uses a lot of electricity and adds heat to the kitchen. In summer, turn it off and leave the door slightly open after the cycle so the dishes can air-dry.
What causes loud noises from a dishwasher?
Strange sounds often mean a failing pump or debris caught in the spray arm. Do not ignore them, because continued use can cause more damage.
Do you repair all dishwasher brands?
We service major brands and models. If you are not sure whether we cover your machine, call us and check before you book.
Call Jay Appliance Repair Sherwood Park at (780) 782-9600 to book a dishwasher check.