Tricks to Keeping Dishwasher Drains Clog-Free

Having to call in a plumber when your dishwasher drains get clogged can be a hassle -- and expensive -- so you need to make sure that you're loading the machine correctly and doing your best to keep the drains free of food. When pieces of food get stuck in the dishwasher pipes, you'll start to notice that your dishes and glassware are covered in residue or just never seem to be clean after running them through the dishwasher cycle. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to keep your drains clog-free and running efficiently.

Use some of these tips and tricks to keep your dishwasher drains free of clogs and debris:

Check the Sprayer Arm for Clogs Regularly

The sprayer arm inside the dishwasher can become clogged with food particles fairly easily, and you might not even notice a problem until you find that dishes keep coming out dirty after a clean cycle. Make sure you clean the small holes in the sprayer arm regularly with a small brush or even a toothbrush.

Rinse Dishes Thoroughly Before Loading

Make sure you're not overloading the dishwasher with excess food and grime in the first place by rinsing your dishes thoroughly before each load. Use dishwashing soap to break down grease and food particles, rinse lightly with warm water, then set each item in the dishwasher. This will reduce the risk of a clogged drain and will also keep your dishwasher running as efficiently as possible throughout the week.

Clean the Dishwasher Screen or Filter Every Other Week

One of the best ways to keep the main drains of the dishwasher free of clogs is to remove and clean the filter or screen that sits near the bottom of the dishwasher. This screen or filter is designed to catch food particles before they go down into the drains, and they can fill up with food fairly easily. Remove these completely for a thorough hand-washing so that food doesn't get stuck or trapped around the drain.

Replace a Damaged Filter

If your filter has a hole in it or appears cracked, you'll need to invest in a new filter or screen as soon as possible. Check the dishwasher's owner's manual to find out where you can purchase the part, or check with the store you purchased the appliance from to see if they offer parts for sale. This should be relatively easy to replace yourself, so check the owner's manual for step-by-step instructions.

Taking steps to take good care of your dishwasher and loading half-clean dishes and glassware can prevent clogging of the dishwasher drains and pipes in your plumbing system. Use the tips above to keep your dishwasher drains clog-free.