Knowing how a dishwasher works can simplify your cleaning up, and help you better maintain and operate your appliance. Further, familiarity with your dishwasher’s settings accounts for different washing needs where your convenience is concerned. A dishwasher uses multiple functions to clean your dishes efficiently, so how does a dishwasher work step by step?
- Filling: The dishwasher fills with water, drawn from your home's water supply. A heating element often preheats the water to an optimal temperature for cleaning, according to the selected cycle.
- Washing: The washing cycle begins with water being sprayed through rotating spray arms. These arms distribute a mix of water and detergent over the dishes, loosening and removing food particles.
- Draining: After washing, the dirty water is drained through a filter system. The water is pumped out, and any residual debris is captured in the filter to prevent clogging.
- Rinsing: Clean water is sprayed over the dishes to remove any detergent residue. This ensures the dishes are free of soap and ready for drying.
- Drying: The dishwasher uses either a heating element or a fan to dry the dishes, completing the cycle.