How to Extend the Life of Your Dishwasher

A dishwasher is one of the most hardworking appliances in your home — and with the right care, it can last 10–15 years or longer. Regular maintenance not only prevents breakdowns but also keeps your dishes cleaner and reduces your utility bills.
Here are 8 proven ways to extend the life of your dishwasher and keep it running smoothly for years.

1. Clean the Filter Regularly

A clogged filter forces the dishwasher to work harder and reduces cleaning efficiency.
Do this: Remove the filter once a month, rinse it under warm water, and scrub off trapped grease and food particles.

2. Rinse Large Food Particles Before Loading

You don’t need to pre-wash dishes, but scraping off big pieces of food protects the pump and filter from clogging.

3. Load Dishes Properly

Incorrect loading leads to poor cleaning and added strain on the spray arms.
Tip: Keep dishes spaced out and never block the spray arms.

 4. Use the Right Detergent

Cheap or incorrect detergent can cause buildup, cloudy glasses, and internal wear.
Use high-quality pods or powder, and avoid using regular dish soap.

 5.Run a Monthly Cleaning Cycle

Mineral buildup and grease deposits shorten your dishwasher’s lifespan.
Use a dishwasher cleaner or run a cycle with white vinegar and baking soda to keep the interior fresh and clean.

 6. Avoid Overloading

Overloading forces the motor and pump to work harder and can cause premature failure.
Leave space between dishes to allow proper water flow.

 7. Address Small Problems Early

Ignoring minor issues — like strange noises, slow draining, or a weak spray — often leads to bigger (and more expensive) repairs.
If you notice something unusual, schedule a diagnostic before it becomes a major failure.

8. Clean the Spray Arms

Grease and mineral deposits can clog the spray holes.
Remove the spray arms every few months and rinse them thoroughly to maintain strong water flow.

When to Call IP Tech Repairs

If your dishwasher is:

- leaking
- not draining
- making grinding or buzzing noises
- showing repeated error codes
- leaving dishes dirty even after maintenance
…it’s time to contact a technician.

IP Tech Repairs offers same-day dishwasher repair, maintenance, and installation for all major brands across Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley.