Dishwasher filters play a crucial role in preventing small, soggy foods from finding their way into your newly cleaned dishes or blocking your drain. In order for your dishwasher to function optimally, the filter needs to be cleaned or changed on a regular basis (at least once a month). If not, then food from your dishwasher will build up in the filter resulting in dirty water, dirty dishes, funky smells, and unsanitary conditions. Additionally, your dishwasher cleaning efficiency will also reduce drastically.
So have you just bought the best dishwasher and are wondering how to change dishwasher filter? If yes, then today you have landed in the right place. In this article, we will give you a step by step guide on how to change your dishwasher filter.
Step 1: Turn off the Power
The first important thing to do before you start the process of changing the filter is to switch off the power to cut off the power supply to the dishwasher. This will help prevent electrocution or any other form of injury while working on changing the filter.
Step 2: Find Where the Filter is Located
Once you have switched off the power, the next process is to locate where the filter is located. The location of the filter usually varies, depending on the dishwasher brand. But in general, dishwasher filters are usually located under the drain cap, just below the wash area. The best way to know where the filter is located is by reading the user manual. This way, you will know the exact place where the filter is located and how to get it out. Once you locate the filter, remove it gently as per the instructions given by the manufacturer.
Step 3: Buy the Right Filter
Most people usually buy filters for their dishwasher only to find out later that they have purchased the wrong one. Dishwasher filters usually vary depending on the brand. For instance, some dishwashers use extra fine filters while others use triple-layer helix filters. That is why it is always recommended that you first remove your old dishwasher filter and take it to the dishwasher dealer to ensure you get the right replacement.
Step 4: Install the New Dishwasher Filter
Once you have removed the old filter and you have purchased the right new filter for your dishwasher, the next process is installing it on your dishwasher. This process is easy and straightforward. Start by placing the new filter into the drain housing cup and make sure it clicks. Before you return the filter back to the dishwasher, check if the water line which is connected at the bottom of the drain housing cup is well connected.
If you discover that it is leaking, fix it before you install the filter to prevent it from damaging your filter. Gently install the cup back to its original place and twist it until it holds firmly into the housing. If there are screws, refasten them to secure the filter.
Step 5: Replace the Filter Cover
Once the drain cup is in place, replace the dishwasher cover by gently snapping it on the drain cup. Make sure the cover is facing the same direction as it was before. If there were any screws securing the filter housing, install them back to secure the drain cup housing.
Step 6: Test Your Dishwasher
Once the filter installation process is complete, switch on the power then test it to see if the filter replacement was a success. Run a few dishes on the dishwasher with little food left on them. If the dishes are sparkling clean with no leftovers on them, then your filter replacement process was a success.
Importance of dishwasher filter replacement:
- It helps to prevent the pump from getting damaged or clogged by food leftovers
- It helps to prevent food remnants from recirculating back to your dishes
- It prevents your dishwasher from producing a foul smell
- It enhances your dishwasher efficiency. When the filter is in perfect condition, your dishwasher will operate more efficiently, thus saving on power costs.
How Often Should I Change My Dishwasher Filter?
The frequency of changing your dishwasher filter depends on how frequently you use your dishwasher. If you use it frequently, then you should change your filter more often and vice versa. But according to experts, you should clean your dishwasher filter once a month and change it once every six months.
Final Thoughts
If you have been thinking of changing your dishwasher filter and wondering what to do, we hope that the information given above has been useful. Changing a dishwasher filter is not difficult as many people think, it is a simple process that will take you less than 30 minutes to complete. The only tool you need to have is a screwdriver. However, to get the results that you are looking for, make sure you replace it with the right one that suits your double-drawer dishwasher.