Using rinse aid in your LG dishwasher is a simple process that ensures sparkling, streak-free dishes and improved drying performance.
Understanding Rinse Aid and Its Importance
Rinse aid is a surfactant that reduces the surface tension of water, allowing it to sheet off dishes more easily during the final rinse cycle. This prevents water droplets from drying on surfaces, which can leave behind spots and streaks, especially in areas with hard water.
Key Benefits of Using Rinse Aid:
- Spot-Free Dishes: Eliminates water spots and streaks for a pristine finish.
- Enhanced Drying: Helps dishes dry faster and more thoroughly, reducing the need for towel drying.
- Improved Shine: Leaves glassware and silverware looking brighter.
- Odor Prevention: Can help prevent residue buildup that might lead to odors.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filling the Rinse Aid Dispenser
Follow these steps to properly fill your LG dishwasher's rinse aid dispenser:
- Locate the Dispenser: Open your dishwasher door and look for a small compartment, usually located next to the detergent dispenser on the inside of the door. It's often labeled "Rinse Aid" or has a star-shaped symbol.
- Open the Cap: Twist the cap counter-clockwise or flip open the cover of the rinse aid dispenser.
- Pour the Rinse Aid: Carefully pour liquid rinse aid into the dispenser opening. It's crucial to pour slowly and allow the liquid rinse aid to settle as you fill it to avoid overfilling and prevent air bubbles from forming. This ensures an accurate fill level and proper dispensing.
- Most dispensers have a fill-level indicator, usually a small window or a max fill line.
- Fill only to the indicated maximum level. Do not overfill, as this can lead to excessive sudsing or a sticky residue on dishes.
- Close the Dispenser: Securely close the cap or cover, ensuring it clicks into place. This prevents the rinse aid from leaking out during the wash cycle.
- Wipe Away Spills: If any rinse aid spills outside the dispenser, wipe it up immediately with a damp cloth. This prevents excessive sudsing during the wash cycle and potential residue on your dishes.
Adjusting Rinse Aid Release (Optional)
Many LG dishwasher models allow you to adjust the amount of rinse aid dispensed per cycle. This can be particularly useful if you notice:
- Excessive Spots/Streaks: Increase the rinse aid setting.
- Sticky Film/Too Much Suds: Decrease the rinse aid setting.
Refer to your specific LG dishwasher's owner's manual for instructions on how to adjust this setting, as the procedure can vary by model. Typically, you access this through the control panel or a small dial near the dispenser itself.
When to Refill Rinse Aid
Your LG dishwasher will usually have an indicator light or a visible liquid level gauge that signals when the rinse aid is low and needs refilling. Most dishwashers require refilling the rinse aid dispenser approximately once a month, depending on usage frequency and the chosen dispense setting.
Common Rinse Aid Issues & Solutions
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Water Spots/Streaks | Rinse aid too low or setting too low. | Refill dispenser; increase rinse aid dispense setting; consider a higher-quality rinse aid. |
| Sticky/Filmy Dishes | Rinse aid setting too high or overfilling. | Decrease rinse aid dispense setting; ensure you're not overfilling the dispenser. |
| No Dispensing | Dispenser cap not closed properly; clogged. | Ensure cap is secure; check for blockages in the dispenser opening; clean if necessary. |
| Excessive Suds | Too much rinse aid; rinse aid spilled in tub. | Reduce rinse aid setting; wipe up any spills around the dispenser before starting the cycle. |
For more detailed information or specific model instructions, always consult your LG Dishwasher Owner's Manual or the LG Support Website.
