My Dishwasher is not cleaning as well as it should

' My Dishwasher is not cleaning as well as it should.' and  ' It takes a Very long time for my dishwasher to complete a full cycle' Is the most common statement we hear from our customers about there dishwashers here at On-time Appliance.  And both  problems seems to  run  together.
The first thing that you should check if your dishwasher is having these symptoms is the water level. Start your dishwasher in a normal way, after the water fills and you here the pump start. Open  your dishwasher (slowly, your dishwasher will automatically stop but the water may splash for a moment.) Move your lower rack out and check the water level. I have found a good level should be approximately 1" to 1.5"  bellow the heating element. Now check the  temperature of the water. Dishwasher detergent does not completely  dissolve and activate until 120 degrees. If you find that the water temperature is find and water level is ok, Then call the Appliance Repair Service people. You may have a more serious problem. But often this is not the case.
Typically you find the water temperature is to cold. If you run the hot water at your sink  prior to starting your dishwasher cycle. The water entering your dishwasher will also be Hot. Check the temperature of the water by filling a glass and using a thermometer. You may have to increase The temperature of your hot water heater.  This is always a trade off. Hot water uses more energy. But to have clean and dry dishes, only you can decide.

Now that the water temperature is checked and corrected what do we do with all of that soap scum that has built up over time. I recommend Dish Washer Magic. There are several other types of cleaners for your dishwasher but I have been using this product for several years now with very good success. It may take a few applications to completely remove all of the build up. But you will shortly see a significant difference.

A monthly cleaning of your dishwasher  keeps your dishwasher clean and washing at peek performance.
1 cup of apple cider vinegar placed in your lower dishwasher rack (empty dishwasher). Start a normal cycle and allow the water to wash over the vinegar to slowly distribute. Your dishwasher will be cleaning like new again. Hope this helps. If it turns out you still need service and are in the Dallas county or Collin county area Give us a call here at On-Time Appliance.