What is the water temperature in the dishwasher during washing?

Knowing the water temperature when washing dishes in a dishwasher can not only satisfy your curiosity but also help you predict how clean your dishes will be. Modern dishwashers can be run in both cold and hot water, and the temperature reading on the thermometer will determine the final cleanliness and detergent consumption. We'll cover the optimal values ​​and how to measure them in more detail in this article.

What are the maximum values?

The machine won't be able to heat water above the system's preset maximum temperature. This temperature is specific to each model and is determined by the dishwasher's type, design features, and power output. Typically, one of two options is assumed.

1. High-temperature operation, where washing, rinsing, and drying are performed with water heated to 82 degrees Celsius. These machines are equipped with an additional heating element, which allows the machine to reach the optimal temperature. Thanks to the boiling water, plates and cups are quickly cleaned and dried, even without the use of detergent or rinse aid.

Complete disinfection of dishes is also an advantage. However, there is a drawback: daily operation of such a dishwasher requires significantly more electricity.

2. Low-temperature dishwashers wash dishes at 60 degrees Celsius, but to achieve impeccable cleanliness, you need cleaning products. However, these models are more energy-efficient and consume relatively little energy.

Type II dishwashers are more common, and you can tell which model you have by looking at the factory markings. The maximum temperature is also determined using a special thermostat. It's important to take measurements throughout the entire cycle to avoid erroneous readings.

Optimal temperature

Modern machines can operate at different temperatures, adjusting to the loaded dishes within a given mode. You can only understand which degree is the most effective through trial and error – by trying all the programs offered by the manufacturer..

• Standard wash. This is the basic mode found on both inexpensive and very expensive models. Typically, the cycle runs at 50-60 degrees Celsius, ensuring quick and effective removal of dirt.
• Intensive wash. Not all machines offer an intensive program, which involves washing dishes through several stages of thorough cleaning. Water is heated to 60-80 degrees Celsius, allowing the machine to thoroughly clean and disinfect dishes. However, it's important to understand that this cleaning process takes longer and uses more energy than a standard cycle.
• Delicate mode. An additional function designed for gentle washing of fragile materials such as porcelain or crystal. Heating is limited to 40 degrees Celsius, and the cycle takes no more than 30 minutes. The use of special low-temperature, non-abrasive detergents is also required.

If dishwashers are equipped with a special dish scanner, the temperature is set automatically.

You can more accurately determine the optimal temperature by looking at the special temperature sensor, which is included in most modern units. If the "thermometer" breaks, it's best to fix it quickly, otherwise the machine won't be as practical and effective as it once was.

Readers' comments