How to Maintain Your Dishwasher for Maximum Lifespan

A well-maintained dishwasher can last 12-15 years, while a neglected one might struggle to reach 7 years. The difference? Simple, regular maintenance that takes just minutes per month. As an appliance technician, I've seen countless dishwashers die prematurely from easily preventable issues—clogged filters, limescale buildup, and worn seals that could have been spotted early.

This guide covers everything you need to keep your dishwasher running efficiently, cleaning effectively, and lasting as long as possible. Whether your machine is brand new or several years old, these maintenance practices will extend its life and improve performance.

Daily Habits for a Healthy Dishwasher

Good maintenance starts with how you use your dishwasher day-to-day. These simple habits prevent the majority of common problems.

Proper Pre-Loading Practices

• Scrape, don't rinse: Remove large food particles but don't pre-rinse dishes. Modern detergents need some soil to work effectively, and pre-rinsing wastes water.
• No large debris: Bones, fruit pits, and large food chunks should go in the bin, not the dishwasher
• Remove labels and stickers: Paper labels can clog filters and pumps
• Check for fallen items: Before starting, ensure nothing has dropped to the bottom that could block the spray arm or pump

After Each Cycle

• Wipe the door seal: A quick wipe removes trapped moisture that can lead to mould
• Leave the door ajar: Allow air circulation to prevent musty odours and mould growth
• Empty promptly: Don't leave clean dishes sitting for days—humidity promotes bacterial growth

Weekly Maintenance Tasks

A few minutes each week keeps small issues from becoming big problems.

Clean the Filter

Your dishwasher's filter catches food particles to prevent them recirculating onto clean dishes. A clogged filter is the most common cause of poor cleaning performance.

1. Locate the filter assembly at the bottom of the dishwasher tub (consult your manual if unsure)
2. Twist and remove the cylindrical filter and the flat mesh filter beneath it
3. Rinse under warm running water, using a soft brush to remove stubborn debris
4. Check for damage—cracked filters should be replaced
5. Reinstall securely, ensuring proper alignment

Inspect the Spray Arms

Spray arms have small holes that can become blocked with mineral deposits or food particles.

• Remove the spray arms (they usually twist or clip off)
• Hold up to light and check each hole for blockages
• Use a toothpick or fine wire to clear blocked holes
• Rinse thoroughly and reinstall

Wipe Down the Door and Edges

The door edges, especially around the soap dispenser, accumulate grime that doesn't get washed during cycles.

• Wipe the inner door edges with a damp cloth
• Clean around and inside the detergent dispenser
• Check the bottom of the door where water doesn't reach

Monthly Deep Cleaning

Once a month, give your dishwasher a thorough clean to remove buildup and maintain optimal performance.

Run a Cleaning Cycle

Even with regular use, grease and mineral deposits accumulate inside your dishwasher. Monthly cleaning prevents odours and maintains efficiency.

Descaling for Hard Water Areas

If you live in an area with hard water (much of Adelaide, Perth, and parts of Melbourne and Brisbane), limescale buildup is a significant concern.

• Signs of limescale: White chalky deposits on dishes, cloudy glassware, reduced spray pressure
• Solution: Use a commercial dishwasher descaler monthly, or run a vinegar cycle
• Prevention: Use rinse aid regularly and ensure your water softener setting (if equipped) matches your water hardness

Check and Clean the Drain

The drain area at the bottom of your dishwasher can harbour debris and promote bacterial growth.

1. Remove the bottom rack to access the drain area
2. Remove any visible debris around the drain
3. Wipe around the drain opening with a cloth
4. Check for standing water (which indicates a drainage problem)

Quarterly Maintenance Checks

Every three months, perform these slightly more involved checks:

Inspect Door Seals

The rubber gasket around the door keeps water inside. Damaged seals lead to leaks and water damage.

• Run your fingers along the entire seal, feeling for cracks, tears, or hardened areas
• Clean the seal thoroughly with a damp cloth and mild soap
• Check that the seal sits properly in its channel
• Look for mould—clean with a vinegar solution if present

Examine Hose Connections

• Check the water inlet hose for cracks, bulges, or wear
• Ensure connections are tight (hand-tight, not over-tightened)
• Look for signs of past leaks (water stains, mineral deposits)
• Replace hoses showing any signs of deterioration

Clean the Exterior

Don't neglect the outside of your dishwasher:

• Wipe down the control panel with a damp cloth (avoid excessive moisture near buttons)
• Clean the door with appropriate cleaner for the finish (stainless steel cleaner for stainless fronts)
• Vacuum or sweep around and under the unit to prevent pest attraction

Annual Professional Check (Optional but Recommended)

While not essential, an annual professional inspection can catch developing problems before they become expensive failures.

A technician can check:

• Pump motor condition and performance
• Heating element functionality
• Water inlet valve operation
• Internal hoses and connections
• Electronic controls and sensors

This is especially worthwhile for dishwashers over 5 years old or premium models where repairs are expensive.

Maintenance Schedule Summary

Here's a quick reference for your maintenance routine:

• Daily: Wipe door seal, leave door ajar between uses
• Weekly: Clean filter, check spray arms, wipe door edges
• Monthly: Run cleaning cycle, descale if in hard water area, clean drain area
• Quarterly: Inspect door seals, check hose connections, clean exterior
• Annually: Consider professional inspection for older machines

Warning Signs That Need Immediate Attention

Don't ignore these red flags—they indicate problems that worsen over time:

• Standing water after cycles: Drain pump or drainage issue
• Dishes not getting hot: Heating element failure
• Unusual noises: Pump, motor, or spray arm problems
• Visible rust inside: Tub corrosion requiring urgent attention
• Water leaking: Seal, hose, or pump seal failure
• Error codes: Consult manual; persistent codes need professional diagnosis

Regular maintenance isn't glamorous, but it's the difference between an appliance that serves you well for over a decade and one that frustrates you with poor performance and early failure. The small time investment pays dividends in reliability, cleaning performance, and avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement.