How to Clean the Filter Screen on a Dishwasher
Datetime:2012-09-12 Hits:
How to Clean the Filter Screen on a Dishwasher
If dishes are still dirty after a cycle in the dishwasher, perhaps the filters are long overdue for a cleaning. The dishwasher has become a convenience almost impossible to live without once you've had one. Taken for granted in many a kitchen, not much thought may be given to dishwasher maintenance unless trouble happens. Properly maintaining a dishwasher by cleaning the filter screen may help prevent trouble from occurring in the first place.
Instructions
1 Put on rubber gloves, and empty the dishwasher of all clean dishes.
2 Remove the rack from the bottom of the dishwasher to expose the bottom of the dishwasher where a spray arm, and two filter-type sections are located. Fill the kitchen sink with hot water, and dish liquid.
3 Unscrew the cover near the spray arm.This filter acts as a cover to prevent large objects and utensils from getting caught in the main pump. The second area towards the back of the dishwasher filters other types of debris, such as food, and other scraps left on dishes. Place the removable piece in the soapy sink water.
4 Unscrew the filters located in the back of the dishwasher. Two kinds of filters are located in this area, a "coarse" and a "fine" filter. The "coarse" filter traps pieces of food and removes it to another area to be disposed of during the dishwasher cycle. The "fine" filter allows the flow of water back into the cleaning cycle while keeping all other particles away.
5 Wipe out the contents stuck to the "coarse" and "fine" filters using your gloved fingers, and throw away in the garbage. Place the removable parts of these filters in the soapy water of the kitchen sink to soak.
6 Wipe the dishwasher interior with a paper towel to remove built up grime and soap scum, which will dry out the area before you clean it with a sponge.
7 Put a dollop of dishwasher detergent onto a wet sponge, and wipe down the interior of the dishwasher. Rinse sponge until clear with water and begin cleaning filters soaking in the sink. Rinse off and dry with a clean towel.
8 Screw filters back into their proper places. Run the dishwasher empty for a final cleaning.
