I'm moving back in with my dad this summer, and he hasn't used the dishwasher in nearly a decade, opting to wash everything by hand instead. I've become a big fan of dishwashers since living on my own, so I'm eager to get it up and running. What should I inspect or do before I attempt to run it for the first time? Is it likely some parts will need replacing after such a long time, or should I just run an empty cycle to clean it out? I'd love to avoid any plumbing disasters right away!
3 Answers
One thing to keep in mind is that dishwashers are actually more water-efficient than hand-washing, even if it's only half full. Just make sure you know where the water shutoff valve is in case things go wrong, and keep an eye on it during the first run.
Honestly, I'd be pretty cautious before using it. If the unit is around 15 years old and hasn't been run in a while, it might be better to expect that you will have some leaks due to dried seals or cracked hoses. Running vinegar or bleach through it to clear out mold might help, but prepare for a mess just in case.
It's definitely a good idea to check and clean all the filters and seals before you run it. Make sure the drain is properly connected too, especially if it hooks up to a garbage disposal. Running a quick empty cycle is smart to start with, but keep an eye out for any leaks! Also, removing the bottom panel can help you spot issues quicker if they arise.