How to Clean GE Dishwasher (Step-by-Step Guide)
A dishwasher in your kitchen is a blessing after a big meal or a busy day. This modern appliance saves time and effort and keeps your dishes squeaky clean. With time, your dishwasher can collect food particles, grime, and soap scum that can affect its performance. Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent this buildup and keep your dishwasher in top condition. In this guide, we’ll show you how to clean GE dishwasher easily.
Understanding Your GE Dishwasher
Your GE dishwasher has several components that need regular cleaning to keep it running smoothly. These include the filter, interior, and door seals.
The filter in the dishwasher
The filter in your dishwasher is a vital component that traps food particles and debris. It prevents them from clogging the dishwasher drain and recirculating onto your dishes. The filter is usually located at the bottom of the tub, under the lower rack. You can easily remove it by unscrewing, pushing, and twisting the knob. It’s essential to clean the filter regularly, ideally after every cycle, to prevent buildup and maintain optimal performance.
The Interior of the dishwasher
The interior of your dishwasher is where all the action happens. This includes the walls, racks, and spray arms. Food particles can get trapped in these areas, leading to odors or mold growth. You can prevent this by regularly wiping the interior with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Pay extra attention to the corners and edges where debris tends to accumulate. Using a toothbrush or small scrub brush can also help in tight spots.
The door seals of the dishwasher
The door seals of your dishwasher help keep the water inside and prevent leaks. Over time, they can collect food particles and grime, leading to a musty smell. These seals are usually rubber or silicone and can be cleaned with warm water and mild detergent. The deposits in this area can be stubborn and require gentle toothbrush scrubbing. The door seals should also be checked for any tears or cracks and replaced if necessary.
How to Clean a GE Dishwasher?
Cleaning your GE dishwasher is a simple process requiring no special tools. We’ve broken it down into four easy steps.
Remove debris from the dishwasher
When preparing to clean your dishwasher, the first step is to remove any food scraps or debris from the bottom of the tub. You can use a damp cloth or sponge to remove any visible particles. The bottom rack can also be removed for a more thorough cleaning. Remember any sharp objects that may have fallen into the dishwasher when removing debris. For harder-to-reach areas, you may need a toothbrush or small scrub brush.
Clean the filter of the dishwasher
Now that you’ve removed the debris, it’s time to know how to clean GE dishwasher filter. Filter in GE dishwashers can be easily removed for cleaning. Run the filter under running water and use a soft brush or toothbrush. If the filter is very dirty, soak it in warm, soapy water before rinsing it off. Make sure the GE dishwasher clean filter is completely dry before placing it back into the dishwasher.
Scrub the Interior of the dishwasher
Next, it’s time to scrub the interior of your dishwasher. Using a soft cloth or sponge, wipe down the walls, racks, and spray arms of the GE dishwasher. Use warm, soapy water or a specialized dishwasher cleaner for tougher stains and buildup. Soapy water is also safe for your dishwasher and won’t leave any harmful residue. Scrubbing is essential to prevent odors and maintain the overall cleanliness of your dishwasher.
Clean the dishwasher door seals
Finally, don’t forget to clean the door seals of your dishwasher. As mentioned earlier, these can collect food particles and grime over time.
Warm water will also be helpful to remove any deposits. Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild detergent. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently wipe down the door seals. If you see any tougher stains, gently scrub the area with a small amount of baking soda on a damp cloth. Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a towel. You should also check the dishwasher seals periodically for any signs of wear and tear.
Advanced Cleaning Techniques for Persistent Issues
Cleaning your dishwasher regularly can prevent most issues, but sometimes, you may encounter persistent problems like mildew or hard water deposits. Here are some advanced cleaning techniques to tackle these issues.
Vinegar cleaning cycle
Vinegar is an effective natural cleaning agent that can help remove stubborn stains and buildup in your dishwasher. To use vinegar as a cleaning agent, follow these steps:
- Fill a dishwasher-safe cup with white vinegar.
- Place the cup on the top rack of your dishwasher.
- Run a hot water cycle without any dishes in the dishwasher.
- The vinegar will help to loosen and remove stains and buildup from the interior of your dishwasher.
Vinegar is a mild acid that can dissolve mineral deposits and remove hard water stains. It also helps to eliminate odors and disinfect your dishwasher. For best results, use distilled white vinegar, which contains no dyes or additives that could harm your dishwasher.
When to use vinegar
You may want to use a vinegar cleaning cycle if you notice any of the following issues with your dishwasher:
- Cloudy glassware due to hard water deposits
- A musty smell coming from your dishwasher
- Visible stains or buildup on the interior walls or racks of your dishwasher
- Poor cleaning performance
Using vinegar every month can help to prevent these issues and keep your dishwasher running smoothly.
Use bleach for persistent mildew
If your dishwasher has persistent mildew growth, you may need bleach to remove it. Here’s how:
- Mix 1 cup of bleach with 1 gallon of water in a bucket.
- Wearing gloves, dip a cloth or sponge into the bleach solution.
- Wipe down the interior of your dishwasher with the bleach solution.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Note: Do not mix vinegar and bleach, creating toxic fumes. Only use one cleaning agent at a time.
Deep clean with affresh
For a deep cleaning of your dishwasher, you can use Affresh dishwasher cleaner. This product is specifically designed to remove buildup and odors from dishwashers. Follow these steps for a deep clean:
- Place one tablet of Affresh in the bottom of your dishwasher.
- Run a hot water cycle without any dishes in the dishwasher.
- The tablet will dissolve and release powerful cleaning agents to remove any stubborn buildup or odors.
For best results, use Affresh once a month or as needed. This will help to maintain the cleanliness and efficiency of your dishwasher.
Cleaning Underneath the Screen in the Bottom of a GE Dishwasher
The bottom of your GE dishwasher is an often overlooked area when it comes to cleaning. However, keeping this area clean is crucial for your appliance’s proper functioning and longevity. In this section, we will provide detailed instructions on cleaning underneath the screen at the bottom of your GE dishwasher.
Step 1: Prepare your dishwasher
Before starting the cleaning process, prepare your dishwasher. Start by unplugging the appliance and removing any remaining dishes or utensils from the racks. This will give you better access to the bottom of your dishwasher.
Step 2: Remove the screen
The first step in cleaning underneath the screen is to remove it. The screen is located at the bottom of your dishwasher and is a barrier between the drain and the pump. You must twist and lift it out of its position to remove it. Be careful not to bend or damage the screen, affecting its functionality.
Step 3: Clean the screen
Once you have removed the screen, it’s time to clean it. Use warm water and a mild detergent to scrub any buildup or debris gently. You can also use an old toothbrush to reach any crevices or corners. This will help ensure the water can flow freely through the screen and prevent clogs.
Step 4: Clean underneath the screen
With the screen out of the way, you can now clean underneath it. Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe away any residue or debris that may have accumulated. Be sure to reach all corners and edges to ensure a thorough clean.
Step 5: Check the drain opening
While cleaning underneath the screen, take a moment to check the drain opening for any clogs. If you notice any buildup, use a small brush or cloth to remove it gently. This will help prevent any future drainage issues.
Step 6: Reinstall the screen
After cleaning and inspecting the bottom of your dishwasher, it’s time to reinstall the screen. Carefully place it back into its original position and ensure it is secure. When reinstalling the screen, be mindful not to bend or damage it, as this can affect its functionality.
Step 7: Run a test cycle
Run a test cycle with an empty dishwasher to ensure everything functions properly. This will allow you to check for leaks or drainage issues before using the dishwasher for your next load of dishes.
Maintaining your GE Dishwasher
Regular GE dishwasher maintenance is crucial for keeping it clean and efficient. Here are some tips to help maintain your appliance:
- Run hot water before starting the dishwasher cycle to ensure it starts with hot water.
- Check and clean the filter regularly, at least once a month.
- Wipe down door seals after each use to prevent any buildup of debris or mold.
- Use dishwasher cleaner or vinegar every month to maintain the cleanliness and efficiency of your dishwasher.
- Avoid overloading the dishwasher, as this can affect its cleaning performance.
Frequently Asked Questions:
One common problem with GE dishwashers is the buildup of food particles and debris in the dishwasher’s spray arms, filter, and other parts. This can result in poor cleaning performance and odors.
The average lifespan of a dishwasher is about 10 years, with proper maintenance and usage. The GE dishwasher cleaning performance can also vary depending on how often it is used and the types of dishes being washed.
If your GE dishwasher is not cleaning properly, there could be a few reasons. The first thing to check is whether the spray arms and filter are debris or blockage-free. Also, use the appropriate detergent for your water hardness level. If the issue persists, it could be a malfunctioning part or an error code that needs to be addressed by a technician.
Yes, it is normal to run a dishwasher every day. Running your dishwasher daily can help keep it clean and prevent the buildup of food particles and debris that can lead to poor cleaning performance. However, be mindful of overloading the dishwasher or using too much detergent, which can also impact its effectiveness.
The best time to use a dishwasher is at night or during off-peak energy hours. This can help save on utility bills and prevent disruptions to your daily routine. Additionally, running the dishwasher at night allows ample time for the dishes to dry without needing to be immediately unloaded.
Conclusion
Now you know how to clean GE dishwasher like a pro with these simple steps. Remember, regular maintenance and cleaning of your dishwasher will ensure its longevity and performance. Following these steps, you can easily keep your dishwasher sparkling clean and free of debris buildup. Remember to check and clean the dishwasher filter regularly for optimal performance. With these tips, you can say goodbye to dirty dishes and hello to a shiny, efficient dishwasher.
