How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Dishwasher

If you want to extend the lifespan of your dishwasher, the smartest approach is regular maintenance paired with good daily habits. A well-cared-for dishwasher not only lasts longer but also cleans better, uses less energy, and helps prevent costly repairs. Whether you own a built-in, portable, or high-efficiency model, following consistent dishwasher care strategies can help you get years of reliable performance from your appliance.

In this guide, you’ll learn practical steps to help your dishwasher last longer, why these maintenance habits matter, and how to recognize when it’s time to repair or replace the unit.

 

 

Why Does Dishwasher Maintenance Matter?

Many homeowners assume dishwashers are “set-and-forget” appliances, but they’re not. Dishwashers handle food debris, grease, soap residues, and minerals daily. When these accumulate, they strain internal components, reducing cleaning performance and accelerating wear.

Good maintenance matters because it:

• Reduces energy and water use

• Improves cleaning efficiency

• Prevents unnecessary breakdowns

• Protects pumps, filters, spray arms, and seals

• Helps you avoid premature replacement

Improving your dishwasher’s longevity starts with a few easy habits.

 

 

What Daily Habits Help Your Dishwasher Last Longer?

Small daily actions can greatly improve your dishwasher’s lifespan. Here are the habits that make the biggest impact:

1. Scrape, Don’t Rinse

Pre-rinsing wastes water and can confuse modern soil sensors. Instead, scrape away large pieces of food to prevent clogs in the filter and pump.

2. Load Dishes the Right Way

Improper loading restricts water flow and forces the appliance to work harder. Avoid stacking items directly on top of each other, and always keep plastics on the top rack.

3. Use the Right Detergent

High-quality detergent prevents residue buildup. Avoid powders in hard-water regions—they often leave minerals behind that can clog spray arms.

4. Run Hot Water Before Starting

Running the kitchen faucet until hot ensures your dishwasher begins its cycle with optimally heated water, improving cleaning and reducing strain.

 

How Often Should You Clean Your Dishwasher?

Regular cleaning is the most reliable way to extend the lifespan of your dishwasher.

Monthly: Deep Clean the Interior

A monthly cleaning cycle removes grease, soap residue, and mineral deposits. Running a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner keeps the interior fresh and operating efficiently.

Weekly: Rinse and Inspect the Filter

Your dishwasher’s filter is designed to trap food particles and protect the pump. Remove the filter weekly, rinse it under warm water, and scrub gently with a soft brush.

Every 2–3 Months: Remove and Unclog Spray Arms

Food debris and minerals can block spray arm holes, reducing water pressure. Removing them every few months and cleaning out each hole ensures a powerful, even wash.

 

 

Which Parts of Your Dishwasher Need Routine Maintenance?

Certain components naturally experience more wear and require periodic care.

1. Door Gasket

The rubber seal that runs along the door can collect residue and mold. Wipe it with warm soapy water monthly to maintain a watertight seal.

2. Detergent Dispenser

A sticky dispenser prevents proper detergent release. Make sure detergent tabs dissolve fully and keep the compartment clean.

3. Drain Hose

If your dishwasher smells bad or isn’t draining properly, the drain hose may be partially blocked. Inspect it annually and replace the drain hose if it shows signs of wear or kinks.

4. Float Switch

The float switch prevents overfilling. If soap residue or food debris prevents it from moving freely, your dishwasher may overflow or stop filling prematurely.

 

How Can Hard Water Affect Your Dishwasher’s Lifespan?

Hard water is one of the biggest obstacles to long dishwasher life. Mineral deposits from calcium and magnesium can:

• Coat heating elements

• Block spray arms

• Reduce pump efficiency

• Leave cloudy residue on dishes

• Cause faster wear on moving parts

If you live in a hard-water area, you can counteract these effects by:

• Using a rinse aid

• Running a monthly descaling cycle

• Installing a whole-home water softener

These two to three steps can add years to your dishwasher’s life by preventing mineral buildup.

 

Can Using the Wrong Dishwasher Cycle Shorten Its Lifespan?

Yes. Constantly using heavy-duty or high-temperature cycles when they’re unnecessary puts more strain on your dishwasher’s pump and heating components.

To reduce wear:

• Use normal and eco cycles for everyday loads

• Reserve heavy cycles for pots, pans, or heavily soiled dishes

• Choose heat-dry only when needed, or use air-dry to reduce component strain

Smart cycle usage helps preserve both energy and appliance lifespan.

 

Signs Your Dishwasher Needs Maintenance or Repair

Even with great care, dishwashers eventually show signs of wear. Addressing issues early helps extend the unit’s overall lifespan.

Look for:

• Dishes coming out dirty or feeling gritty

• Water pooling at the bottom

• Odd noises like grinding or humming

• A bad odor even after cleaning

• Leaks around the door

• Longer cycle times

• Cloudy glassware despite using rinse aid

If problems persist after cleaning filters and spray arms, it may be time for a professional assessment.

 

When Is It Time to Replace Your Dishwasher?

Most dishwashers last 10 to 12 years with proper care. However, replacement may be the best choice when:

• Repairs cost more than half the price of a new model

• The motor or pump fails

• The control board malfunctions

• The dishwasher constantly leaks

• Cleaning performance declines even after thorough maintenance

When replacement becomes the sensible option, Kelly’s Home Center offers a wide range of new built-in and portable dishwashers to fit every kitchen.

 

Upgrade or Maintain Your Dishwasher with Kelly’s Home Center

Whether you're looking to keep your current dishwasher running for years or you're ready to upgrade to a new, more efficient model, Kelly’s Appliances is here to help. Explore durable, high-performance dishwashers and get expert guidance on choosing the right model for your home from top brands, including LG, Whirlpool, GE, Bosch, and more.

Visit us in Salem, Corvallis, Eugene, or Central Point to view the latest dishwasher models in person and see which unit fits your home and budget..

Related readings from our blog:

• Dishwasher Buying Guide

• Fisher Paykel Dishdrawer

• Choosing Your Next Dishwasher

 

FAQs: How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Dishwasher

What is the best way to extend the lifespan of a dishwasher?

The most effective ways include regular filter cleaning, properly loading dishes, using the right detergent, running a monthly cleaning cycle, and preventing mineral buildup.

How often should I clean my dishwasher filter?

Clean the filter weekly to prevent food debris from clogging the pump and affecting cleaning performance.

Does hard water shorten dishwasher lifespan?

Yes. Hard water causes mineral buildup that strains components, reduces cleaning efficiency, and can lead to early breakdowns. Using a rinse aid and regular descaling helps.

How long should a dishwasher normally last?

Most dishwashers last 10-12 years, though regular maintenance can extend that lifespan.

When should I replace my dishwasher instead of repairing it?

If repairs cost more than half the price of a new unit, or if core components like the motor fail, replacement is usually the best choice.