Is Your Dishwasher Heating Element Supposed To Be Hot? Here’s What You Should Know
What To Know
- The heating element is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher, and it’s made of a metal that can withstand high temperatures.
- If the heating element is covered in scale, you can clean it with a vinegar solution.
- By following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent your dishwasher heating element from getting too hot and keep your dishwasher running smoothly.
Dishwashers are a modern convenience that make our lives easier. However, like any appliance, they can malfunction. One common issue is a heating element that gets too hot to touch. This can be a safety hazard, and it can also damage your dishes. If you’re wondering “should dishwasher heating element be hot to touch?”, the answer is a resounding no.
What is a Dishwasher Heating Element?
The heating element is a key component of a dishwasher. It’s responsible for heating the water that washes your dishes. The heating element is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher, and it’s made of a metal that can withstand high temperatures.
Why Should a Dishwasher Heating Element Not Be Hot to Touch?
There are several reasons why a dishwasher heating element should not be hot to touch.
- Safety hazard: A hot heating element can cause burns if it’s touched. This is especially dangerous for children.
- Damage to dishes: A hot heating element can damage your dishes. If the water is too hot, it can cause the dishes to crack or break.
- Energy waste: A hot heating element wastes energy. The hotter the heating element, the more energy it uses.
What Causes a Dishwasher Heating Element to Get Too Hot?
There are several factors that can cause a dishwasher heating element to get too hot.
- Faulty thermostat: The thermostat is responsible for controlling the temperature of the water. If the thermostat is faulty, it can cause the heating element to overheat.
- Scale buildup: Scale is a mineral deposit that can build up on the heating element. This can insulate the heating element, causing it to overheat.
- Clogged water jets: The water jets are responsible for spraying water onto the dishes. If the water jets are clogged, it can cause the water to overheat.
How to Fix a Dishwasher Heating Element That’s Too Hot
If your dishwasher heating element is getting too hot, there are several things you can do to fix it.
- Check the thermostat: The first step is to check the thermostat. If the thermostat is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
- Clean the heating element: If the heating element is covered in scale, you can clean it with a vinegar solution. To do this, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a bowl. Then, soak the heating element in the solution for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, scrub the heating element with a brush to remove any remaining scale.
- Clean the water jets: If the water jets are clogged, you can clean them with a toothpick or a pipe cleaner.
How to Prevent a Dishwasher Heating Element from Getting Too Hot
There are several things you can do to prevent a dishwasher heating element from getting too hot.
- Use a dishwasher cleaner: Dishwasher cleaners can help to prevent scale buildup. You should use a dishwasher cleaner once a month to keep your dishwasher in good condition.
- Rinse dishes before loading them into the dishwasher: Rinsing dishes before loading them into the dishwasher can help to remove food particles that can clog the water jets.
- Don’t overload the dishwasher: Overloading the dishwasher can put strain on the heating element. You should only load the dishwasher with as many dishes as it can hold comfortably.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried the above steps and your dishwasher heating element is still getting too hot, you should call a professional. A professional can diagnose the problem and repair it safely and effectively.
Final Note: The Importance of a Properly Functioning Dishwasher Heating Element
A properly functioning dishwasher heating element is essential for a clean and efficient dishwasher. If your dishwasher heating element is getting too hot, it can be a safety hazard, damage your dishes, and waste energy. By following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent your dishwasher heating element from getting too hot and keep your dishwasher running smoothly.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Why is my dishwasher heating element hot to the touch?
A: There are several reasons why a dishwasher heating element can get too hot. The most common causes are a faulty thermostat, scale buildup, or clogged water jets.
Q: Is it safe to touch a hot dishwasher heating element?
A: No, it is not safe to touch a hot dishwasher heating element. A hot heating element can cause burns.
Q: How can I fix a dishwasher heating element that’s too hot?
A: There are several things you can do to fix a dishwasher heating element that’s too hot. You can check the thermostat, clean the heating element, or clean the water jets. If you’ve tried these steps and the heating element is still too hot, you should call a professional.
Q: How can I prevent a dishwasher heating element from getting too hot?
A: There are several things you can do to prevent a dishwasher heating element from getting too hot. You can use a dishwasher cleaner, rinse dishes before loading them into the dishwasher, and avoid overloading the dishwasher.
Q: When should I call a professional to fix a dishwasher heating element?
A: You should call a professional to fix a dishwasher heating element if you’ve tried the above steps and the heating element is still too hot. A professional can diagnose the problem and repair it safely and effectively.
