Cleaning your dishwasher pump filter is a straightforward process that significantly improves your appliance's performance and prevents unpleasant odors. It involves locating, removing, thoroughly cleaning, and then reinserting the filter, typically taking only a few minutes.
Why is Cleaning Your Dishwasher Filter Essential?
The dishwasher filter traps food particles and debris, preventing them from recirculating and redepositing on your dishes. Over time, this debris accumulates, leading to:
- Poor Cleaning Performance: Dishes come out with food bits or a cloudy film.
- Unpleasant Odors: Trapped food particles decompose, causing foul smells.
- Drainage Issues: A severely clogged filter can hinder proper water drainage.
- Pump Strain: The dishwasher's pump has to work harder, potentially shortening its lifespan.
Regular cleaning, ideally once a month or more often if you pre-rinse less, is crucial for optimal dishwasher function.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Dishwasher Pump Filter
Follow these steps for a sparkling clean filter and dishwasher:
1. Preparation and Safety First
Before you begin, ensure your safety and prepare your workspace:
- Unplug the Dishwasher: Always disconnect the power supply to prevent accidental activation.
- Clear the Bottom Rack: Remove the lower dish rack to gain easy access to the filter area at the bottom of the dishwasher tub.
- Gather Supplies: You'll need gloves, a soft brush (an old toothbrush works well), dish soap, and a towel.
2. Locate and Remove the Filter
The filter is typically found at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, usually in the center.
- Identify the Filter: Look for a short cylindrical tube. This is often the primary filter component.
- Twist to Unlock: Gently twist the cylindrical filter to unlock it, usually by turning it counter-clockwise.
- Remove Carefully: Once unlocked, gently lift and remove the cylindrical filter from the machine.
- Check for Multiple Parts: Many dishwashers have a two-part filter system. There might be a flat filter or screen located beneath the cylindrical tube. This secondary filter will also need to be removed for thorough cleaning.
3. Thoroughly Clean the Filter Components
Once removed, it's time to get rid of the trapped gunk.
- Rinse Under Running Water: Hold the filter components under warm running water to rinse away loose food particles and debris.
- Scrub with a Brush and Soap: For stubborn grime, use a soft brush (like an old toothbrush) and a small amount of dish soap to gently scrub the mesh and plastic parts. Pay close attention to any crevices where food might be trapped.
- Soak if Necessary: If the filter is particularly greasy or has dried-on residue, you can soak it in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing.
- Rinse Again: Ensure all soap residue and debris are completely washed away. The filter mesh should be free of blockages and appear clean.
4. Clean the Filter Housing
Don't forget the area where the filter sits within the dishwasher tub.
- Wipe Down: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe any debris or grime from the filter housing and surrounding area.
- Check for Obstructions: Ensure there are no large food particles or foreign objects left in the drain area.
5. Reassemble and Test
Once clean, carefully put everything back together.
- Reinsert the Flat Filter (if applicable): If your dishwasher has a flat filter beneath the cylindrical one, place it back into its position first.
- Reinsert the Cylindrical Filter: Place the cylindrical filter back into its housing.
- Twist to Lock: Twist the filter clockwise until it locks securely into place. It should feel snug and stable.
- Replace Dish Racks: Put the lower dish rack back into position.
- Restore Power: Plug the dishwasher back in.
- Run a Test Cycle: Run a short, empty cycle with just water and possibly a dishwasher cleaner to flush out any remaining residue and ensure everything is working correctly.
Maintenance Tips for a Healthy Dishwasher
- Regular Cleaning: Aim to clean your filter monthly. If you have a large household or use your dishwasher frequently, consider cleaning it every two weeks.
- Scrape, Don't Rinse: While pre-rinsing dishes might seem helpful, it often leads to less debris reaching the filter, which can sometimes lead to issues with detergent activation (many modern detergents need some food soil to work properly). Instead, scrape off large food particles into the trash before loading.
- Use a Dishwasher Cleaner: Periodically (e.g., every 3-6 months), run a cycle with a specialized dishwasher cleaner to tackle grease, limescale, and build-up in hard-to-reach areas. Brands like Finish or Affresh offer effective cleaners.
- Check Spray Arms: Ensure the spray arms are not clogged. They can be cleaned similarly to the filter by removing and rinsing them.
- Inspect Door Gasket: Wipe down the door gasket regularly to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Common Dishwasher Filter Types and Cleaning Tools
| Filter Type | Description | Recommended Cleaning Tool(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Coarse Filter | Larger, often cylindrical, designed to catch bigger food particles. | Running water, soft brush, dish soap |
| Fine/Micro Filter | Flat, mesh-like screen beneath the coarse filter, designed to trap smaller particles. | Running water, soft brush, dish soap |
| Self-Cleaning | Some older or higher-end models may have a built-in grinder that pulverizes food waste. (No manual filter cleaning needed). | N/A (Requires no manual filter cleaning) |
For more detailed model-specific instructions, always refer to your dishwasher's user manual or visit the manufacturer's support website, such as Whirlpool or GE Appliances.
Maintaining a clean dishwasher filter is a simple yet effective way to ensure your dishes emerge spotless and your appliance continues to operate efficiently for years to come.
