We sell and repair dishwashers every week, and the same questions come up again and again. Here are straight answers to the most common ones.

Do I need to rinse plates before loading them?

No. Scrape off food scraps into the bin, but there is no need to rinse. Modern detergents contain enzymes that work on food soil, and many machines use sensors to judge how dirty the water is. Pre-rinsing wastes water and can actually make the detergent less effective.

Why does my dishwasher need salt?

Dishwasher salt regenerates the water softener inside the machine. Without it, limescale builds up on glasses, the heating element and the spray arms, and cleaning results get worse. In hard-water areas it is essential, even if you use all-in-one tablets. Set the water hardness on your machine to match your local supply.

What does rinse aid do?

Rinse aid helps water run off dishes in sheets rather than droplets, which means fewer spots and smears and much better drying, especially for plastics.

Is the eco programme really cheaper?

Yes. Eco programmes take longer, but they use lower temperatures and less water, and they are usually the most efficient way to run the machine. The long cycle time is what allows them to clean well at a lower temperature.

What should never go in the dishwasher?

Sharp kitchen knives, wooden boards and utensils, cast iron, non-stick pans unless marked dishwasher safe, crystal and hand-painted china, insulated travel mugs, and anything made of copper or aluminium that you want to keep shiny.

Why does my dishwasher smell?

Usually a dirty filter. Remove and rinse the filter every week or two, wipe the door seal, and run an empty hot cycle with a dishwasher cleaner once a month. If the smell persists, water may be sitting in the base because of a drainage problem.

How long should a dishwasher last?

Most last around ten years with regular care. Common faults such as a failed drain pump, heater or inlet valve can usually be repaired at a fraction of the cost of a new machine.

Need a repair or a replacement?

If your machine has stopped draining, heating or cleaning properly, see our dishwasher repair service. If it is time for a new one, browse our dishwashers or visit the S&D Ireland store in Ormskirk.