In today's fast-paced world, numerous demands vie for our attention. When household issues arise, they can often feel overwhelming, especially in the current economic climate. However, here you can find practical DIY money-saving tips that you can implement today.
Let's start simple. Are your dishes coming out of the dishwasher less than clean? Before considering a repair, try these simple solutions:
1. Run the hot water at the kitchen sink until it's hot before starting the dishwasher.
This ensures that the 1.6 gallons of water filling the dishwasher is hot.
2. Every 3 months run the dishwasher empty.
Set the dishwasher to the longest, hottest cycle, such as Pots & Pans. Fill the dishwasher, open the door, and pour 1/2 cup of regular bleach into the bottom of the dishwasher. Ensure that the unit is filled with water, as undiluted bleach can harm the rubber or vinyl seals.
3. Ensure that you're using high-quality dishwasher-safe detergents and rinse aids. As a Merchandise stocking associate at Walmart wisely points out, "Just because it's $6 cheaper and there's 2/3 more of it, doesn't make it a bargain. They probably added water to it."
Now, let's talk about rinse aid. In my role as an appliance repair tech, and all around handyman. I've encountered numerous individuals who don't see the value in using rinse aid. They might say, 'The dishes come out clean without it,' or 'I don't care if my glassware has a few spots on it.' However, rinse aid offers more than just spot-free glassware. It's an alcohol-based micro-polymer that coats everything, including the inside of the dishwasher. This not only prevents spots on glassware but also safeguards against drying out and cracking of the vinyl dishwasher components. Furthermore, it aids in preventing limescale buildup.
Check back next week for more money saving ideas for your house.
