Stop The Stink: Why Does My Ge Dishwasher Smell And How To Fix It
What To Know
- A faulty connection or a clogged drainpipe can allow sewer gas to seep into the dishwasher, resulting in a foul odor.
- Run a hot water cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar to disinfect and remove buildup.
- Run a hot water cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar once a month.
A smelly dishwasher can be an unpleasant and frustrating experience. If you’re asking yourself, “Why does my GE dishwasher smell?”, this comprehensive guide will explore the potential causes and provide effective solutions to eliminate any lingering odors.
Common Causes of Dishwasher Odor
- Food Debris: Food particles trapped in the filter, drain, or spray arms can decompose and create an unpleasant smell.
- Mold and Mildew: Moisture buildup in the dishwasher can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can cause a musty odor.
- Mineral Buildup: Hard water minerals can accumulate on the dishwasher’s interior, including the heating element and spray arms, creating a metallic or sulfurous smell.
- Sewer Gas: A faulty connection or a clogged drainpipe can allow sewer gas to seep into the dishwasher, resulting in a foul odor.
- Detergent Residue: Excess or improper use of detergent can leave a residue on dishes and the dishwasher’s interior, causing an unpleasant smell.
Solving the Odor Problem
1. Clean the Dishwasher Regularly
- Remove any visible food debris from the filter, drain, and spray arms.
- Run a hot water cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar to disinfect and remove buildup.
- Wipe down the dishwasher’s interior, including the door gasket, with a damp cloth.
2. Address Mold and Mildew
- Run a hot water cycle with a cup of white vinegar.
- Leave the dishwasher door open after a cycle to allow it to air out.
- Consider using a dishwasher deodorizer to prevent future mold growth.
3. Remove Mineral Buildup
- Use a commercial dishwasher cleaner specifically designed to remove mineral buildup.
- Run a hot water cycle with a cup of white vinegar.
- If the buildup is severe, consider descaling the dishwasher with a commercial descaling solution.
4. Check for Sewer Gas
- Inspect the drainpipe for any leaks or clogs.
- Run a hot water cycle with a cup of baking soda to neutralize any sewer gas.
- Contact a plumber if you suspect a faulty connection.
5. Use Detergent Properly
- Follow the recommended dosage instructions on the detergent label.
- Avoid using too much detergent, as it can leave a residue.
- Consider using a rinse aid to prevent water spots and detergent buildup.
6. Prevent Future Odors
- Rinse dishes thoroughly before loading them into the dishwasher.
- Clean the dishwasher filter regularly.
- Leave the dishwasher door open slightly after a cycle to allow it to air out.
- Run a hot water cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar once a month.
Final Note: Maintaining a Fresh-Smelling Dishwasher
By following these steps, you can effectively eliminate unpleasant odors from your GE dishwasher and maintain a fresh and clean appliance. Regular cleaning, proper detergent use, and addressing underlying issues will ensure that your dishwasher remains odor-free for years to come.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Why does my GE dishwasher smell like burnt plastic?
A: This could indicate a problem with the heating element. Contact a qualified appliance repair technician.
Q: How do I clean the dishwasher filter?
A: Refer to your dishwasher manual for specific instructions. Typically, the filter is located at the bottom of the dishwasher and can be removed by twisting or pulling it out.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean my dishwasher?
A: No, bleach can damage the dishwasher’s interior and should not be used. Use a dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar instead.
