Troubleshooting a Bosch Dishwasher That Is Leaving a Film
Bosch dishwashers require water at a temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit to clean dishes effectively. Some Bosch dishwashers come with on-demand hot water heaters, but some do not. Make it a practice to get the water hot before running the dishwasher to ensure quality cleaning. Other areas to review include the type of dishwashing detergent as well as the condition of the water itself.
Step 1
Check the temperature of the water by opening the door after the cycle begins. If steam emits, it's a good bet the water is hot enough. If it seems tepid, run the hot water in the kitchen sink to ensure the water is hot before beginning the cycle. Bosch dishwashers only hook up to one water supply. Check that the Bosch water supply hooks into the hot water supply valve beneath the sink.
Step 2
Avoid using gel detergents. Gels leave a residue in the sump and interior area of the dishwasher that ends up as a white film on dishes and glassware. Gels also contain chlorine, which can leave a film on glassware. Because gels clog the dispenser, they often don't release timely.
Step 3
Choose small boxes of powered detergents when using a Bosch dishwasher. Larger boxes of detergent hold more than can be used within the shelf life of the product. When air reaches the detergent, the detergent hardens and its chemical value also changes, making it a less efficient cleaner.
Step 4
Use a rinsing product--preferably one that hangs in a basket--so you can tell when it needs replacing. Use the rinse especially when you have hard water to remove the magnesium and calcium causing the film. If you have soft water, don't use a rinsing product, as it will cause a film on your dishware.
References
Tips
- Complete a simple hard water test by using liquid dishwashing soap, a bottle with a cap and some water. Fill the bottle with about 1/2 cup of water, add 10 drops of dishwashing liquid and close the cap. Shake up the bottle. If you have lots of suds and a soapy solution that forms quickly, it's a safe bet that you have soft water. Hard water takes longer to lather with less suds and often just creates a scum on the surface of the water. Regularly clean the dishwasher with a quart of white vinegar. Put the vinegar into the tank and run it without washing anything. This helps to clean residue and soap scum, which can leave a film on dishware.
Warnings
- Ensure the water-delivery arms spin freely. Tall trays or large pans can keep them from spraying properly. Lay large utensils flat in the top basket rather than standing them up in the utensil tray.
Writer Bio
As a native Californian, artist, journalist and published author, Laurie Brenner began writing professionally in 1975. She has written for newspapers, magazines, online publications and sites. Brenner graduated from San Diego's Coleman College.
Photo Credits
- George Doyle/Stockbyte/Getty Images
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