Whether you have recently bought a dishwasher or you are simply looking for a more suitable detergent, making the right choice will depend on a few factors. While your budget is obviously a main concern, your dishwasher detergent needs are also determined by factors that are beyond your control.
Hard water can make any dishwasher less effective due to the high levels of calcium, magnesium, and other minerals. If you are not sure whether or not you have hard water, you can purchase a test kit from your local hardware store and, if the levels are really high, you could install a water softener system. Another good tip to remember is that rinse aid can help prevent water spots and you should also check the instructions on your detergent package. Some types of dishwasher detergent advise that you use extra amounts if you have hard water. Of course, you should never use too much, or it can result in soapy residue left behind on your dishes.
Apart from different brands, you will also need to choose between gels, pods, powders, and more. Each of these offers their own benefits, but it’s important to understand these benefits before making your choice. Tablets are conveniently packaged so that you don’t need to measure anything at all. You simply place the solid “cake” in the dispenser, and you’re all set. Packages are also pre-measured, but they come in packets that dissolve in the water during the wash cycle. Liquid and gel dishwasher detergents need to be measured and poured according to the package instructions. You should also measure powder varieties, just like you do with laundry washer detergent. Somewhat on the expensive end of the scale, you will come across cartridges. These cartridges dispense 12 doses of detergent, and they do take up some extra space in the dishwasher.
Apart from your regular detergent, you can also choose to add other substances like bleach and enzymes. Bleach is known to help remove stains like those from coffee or tea. Enzymes can be added to make for easier food removal. Rinse aid helps ensure that your dishes come out without watermarks – particularly if you have hard water.
A good tip to remember is to try different brands and types of detergents until you find the one that works best for you and your dishwasher. Different types of dishwashers work best with different types of detergent. It also helps to check the user manual or ask the manufacturer for professional advice. The same can be said for additives. If you’re not sure which brand to choose, try a few until you find the one that works best. When testing, you should buy small quantities and try to do so when these products are on sale so that you can get the best value for money. Remember to always store your detergent in the appropriate place so that they are not exposed to excessive heat or dampness.
If, despite all your efforts, your dishwasher is not performing as it should or as well as it once did, it’s time to call Express Appliance Repair at (647) 492-7773. Our team is available 24/7 throughout GTA.
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