Kitchenaid dishwasher salt secret: what you need to know before you run it!

When it comes to dishwashers, understanding their specific requirements is crucial for optimal performance. One common question that arises is whether KitchenAid dishwashers require salt. This blog post delves into the intricacies of dishwasher salt, its role in dishwashing, and whether it’s necessary for KitchenAid models.

The Role of Dishwasher Salt

Dishwasher salt plays a vital role in softening hard water, which can contain high levels of calcium and magnesium ions. These ions can react with the detergent and form insoluble compounds that can leave deposits on dishes and the dishwasher itself. Salt helps to prevent this by exchanging sodium ions with calcium and magnesium ions, effectively softening the water.

Do KitchenAid Dishwashers Need Salt?

The answer to this question depends on the water hardness in your area. If you have soft water (less than 5 grains per gallon or 90 parts per million), then you may not need to use salt in your KitchenAid dishwasher. However, if you have moderately hard to very hard water (5 grains per gallon or more), then using salt is recommended.

How to Determine Water Hardness

There are several ways to determine the hardness of your water:

• Test strips: Dip a test strip into your water and compare the result to the color chart provided.
• Water utility report: Contact your local water utility and ask for a water quality report.
• Home water hardness test kit: Purchase a kit from a home improvement store or online.

Benefits of Using Salt in KitchenAid Dishwashers

Using salt in your KitchenAid dishwasher offers several benefits:

• Prevents scale buildup: Softens water to prevent scale buildup on dishes, the dishwasher’s interior, and its components.
• Enhances detergent performance: Improves the effectiveness of dishwasher detergent by preventing insoluble compound formation.
• Protects dishwasher components: Reduces the risk of damage to the dishwasher’s heating element, pump, and other parts.

How to Add Salt to a KitchenAid Dishwasher

Most KitchenAid dishwashers have a built-in salt reservoir. To add salt:

1. Locate the salt reservoir, typically at the bottom of the dishwasher.
2. Unscrew the cap and pour in dishwasher salt until the reservoir is full.
3. Replace the cap and wipe up any spilled salt.

Salt Usage Guidelines

The frequency of salt usage depends on the water hardness in your area. As a general guideline:

• Soft water: No salt needed
• Moderately hard water: Add salt every 1-2 months
• Hard water: Add salt every 2-4 weeks

Troubleshooting Dishwasher Salt Issues

If you encounter issues with dishwasher salt, consider the following:

• Salt not dissolving: Ensure the salt reservoir is clean and free of debris.
• Excess foam: Excessive foam may indicate a salt spill or an incorrect salt usage.
• Dishwasher not cleaning well: Hard water may not be sufficiently softened, requiring more frequent salt additions.

In a nutshell: The Importance of Dishwasher Salt

Understanding the role of dishwasher salt is crucial for the optimal performance of your KitchenAid dishwasher. By using salt when necessary, you can prevent scale buildup, enhance detergent performance, and protect your dishwasher’s components. Regular salt usage ensures sparkling clean dishes and a longer lifespan for your dishwasher.

What People Want to Know

Q: What type of salt should I use in my KitchenAid dishwasher?
A: Use dishwasher salt specifically designed for dishwashers. Avoid using table salt or rock salt.

Q: Can I use too much salt in my dishwasher?
A: Excessive salt usage can cause foaming and damage to the dishwasher’s components. Follow the recommended salt usage guidelines.

Q: What happens if I don’t use salt in my KitchenAid dishwasher?
A: Scale buildup may occur on dishes and the dishwasher itself, reducing cleaning performance and potentially damaging components.