How to turn on and start a dishwasher

So, you've finally purchased and installed your dishwasher. You're just one step away from forgetting what it's like to wash dishes by hand. But this step needs to be done correctly, otherwise your brand new Electrolux, Bosch, or any other dishwasher could break down irreparably.

This is the first time you use a new dishwasher. We'll discuss how to properly start it for the first time, what to do before each subsequent start, and how to best operate the machine to ensure it cleans dishes more efficiently and safely.

Getting ready for the first launch

Using your Electrolux, Bosch, or any other dishwasher for the first time is a unique introduction to the new appliance. Don't be shy; the more you explore your dishwasher, the faster you'll learn how to use it properly. Experts have developed a recommended procedure before using your dishwasher for the first time; let's take a look.

• You need to make sure that your Electrolux, Bosch or any other dishwasher is plugged in and the water supply tap is open.
• We open the washing chamber and make sure that the impeller rotates normally, the filters (which are located nearby) are installed, and there are no foreign objects on the walls of the chamber, such as stickers, foam balls, etc.
• Next, you need a dishwasher starter kit. It's specially designed by the manufacturer for getting your dishwasher up and running for the first time. Which kit to buy is up to you; our experts prefer Filtero, although there are many other good options. Read more in the article. Dishwasher starter kit.
• The first thing we need to get from the starter kit is salt. Salt is needed by the dishwasher to regenerate the ion exchange resins, which in turn serve to soften hard water. Salt should always be present in the salt reservoir, and this must be carefully monitored. Pour a little water into the salt reservoir, then add salt and stir.
• Now, remove the special first-run dishwasher detergent from the kit and pour it into the special detergent drawer in the detergent compartment. Regular dishwasher detergent can be used instead of the first-run detergent.

Important! Most starter kits don't include powder for the first use, but the Filtero kit does.

• Next, you can turn on your Electrolux or other dishwasher and select a wash cycle. Find the longest wash cycle at a high temperature and run it empty. When you first run the dishwasher, the baskets should be empty. Save the dirty dishes for the second run.
• The first use of the dishwasher with special products is intended to clean the inside of the unit from dust and residues of machine oil, so that none of this gets on the dishes later. Once the program is complete, make sure the waste water has drained properly, unplug the machine, and open the door slightly to allow the moisture to evaporate from the washing chamber.

How to start the dishwasher in the future?

The first run was successful, meaning the dishwasher is ready for long-term use in its normal mode. However, it's important to run the dishwasher every day; it's not something you can do just "as God puts it." There are also rules to follow, which, by the way, are described in the dishwasher manual. Let's review these rules and remember them well!

1. Before each dishwashing, remember to add detergent and rinse aid.
2. Load the dishes into the baskets correctly, according to the instructions. Do not overload the baskets, this will affect the quality of the wash.
3. Before placing dishes in the wash baskets, remember to clean plates, cups, spoons, etc. from food debris, as large pieces do not pass through the filter, clogging it.
4. Before each start, check the rocker arm for proper rotation and that its nozzles are not clogged with dirt. Also, inspect the filters and clean them if necessary.
5. Choose a wash program that is appropriate to the level of soiling of your dishes; there is no need to waste too much water and energy on lightly soiled plates and bowls.

Please note: Always check the salt reservoir to make sure it's full and in good condition. Add water if necessary.

Tips for choosing a washing mode

To ensure your Electrolux, Bosch, or any other dishwasher cleans dishes effectively without wasting too much time, water, or electricity, you need to choose the right wash program. You should also familiarize yourself with all the available programs so you can use them when needed. Most users, without much thought, simply choose the program that's most convenient for them and then use it consistently, even when it's unnecessary.

Experts recommend first taking the dishwasher's manual and reading a brief description of all the wash modes. Second, you should try each mode at least once and note the strengths and weaknesses of each program—after all, manufacturers have put a lot of effort into developing them. Let's look at some examples of the wash modes that are most popular with users.

• All quick modes without exception. Quick wash modes are those that last no more than 45 minutes.
• Pre-rinse. This mode is useful when washing dishes with heavily caked-on food; it's a kind of soaking alternative.
• Economy wash. This mode is suitable for lightly soiled dishes. It uses relatively little water and energy.
• Intensive wash. A program for washing very dirty dishes, well suited if you need to wash pans and pots from a large amount of burnt fat.

As you can see, each mode is designed for its specific use. Your dishwasher may have a different set of modes and their names may be different, but the essence is the same: you need to learn all the programs so you can use your "iron helper" as efficiently as possible. May using your dishwasher be a joy, not a burden.

To summarize, it's important to use your dishwasher correctly for the first time and every subsequent time. This will directly impact how well it runs and how long it lasts before it breaks down. Follow the instructions, adhere to basic rules, and everything will be fine!

   

3 reader comments

1. August 20, 2017 at 2:54 PM

   Zhanara:

   Thank you! You helped me a lot!

   Answer
2. September 18, 2017 at 7:47 PM

   Vlad:

   I'm going to work tomorrow. They told me to learn how to turn on the dishwasher 🙂

   Answer
3. November 30, 2020 at 10:07 PM

   Elena:

   Thank you! You helped a lot!

   Answer