Understanding Dishwasher Cycles

Almost every home is equipped with a working dishwasher. However, not every homeowner knows exactly how it works, and usually doesn't think twice about it. We always expect our dishwasher to work perfectly, and have our dishes shiny and clean after the cycle has completed. It is important for each homeowner to know exactly how their dishwasher works, and we at Appliance Educator are here to help.

Dishwasher Basics:

Each dishwasher is designed to run for a certain amount of time and use a certain amount of water. At the beginning of any cycle, your dishwasher will do an initial launch of water to ensure that any remaining material left behind from your previous cycle is gone. The amount of water released after that and how quickly it is dispersed is up to you and the cycle that you choose. The cycle you choose should be based on how dirty your dishes are and how thoroughly they will need to be cleaned. Be sure to refer to your owners manual for specifications on your dishwasher at home.

Various Dishwasher Cycles: 

There are eight general cycles that the typical dishwasher has. Keep in mind that each dishwasher is different, so please refer to your owners manual to find out which cycles your dishwasher has. 

Normal Cycle

This wash is typical for everyday cycles. The normal cycle usually runs for about 90 minutes. It is not a heavy wash cycle, so as long as your dishes are not extremely dirty, this is the perfect go to cycle.

Quick Wash Cycle

This is the perfect cycle for when you’re in a rush. This cycle releases the water and soap much faster, and usually runs for 30 minutes to an hour. 

Sensor Wash Cycle

A sensor wash is exactly like it sounds. This allows your dishwasher to make a decision on how long it needs to run, how much water needs to be released, and more based on temperature, soil level, and load size. 

Heavy Cycle

This cycle is perfect for harder to wash items such as pots and pans. It is also useful if a dishwasher is extremely dirty and a little extra work needs to be put in to wash your dishes.

Prewash Cycle

If you don’t want to let your dishes soak before washing, the prewash cycle is for you. Sometimes food is baked on and next to impossible to get off. This cycle is perfect for saving time when cleaning up your kitchen. 

Delicates Cycle

If you have any fine dining dishes, you will want to use the delicates cycle. It will go much lighter on the water released. China and crystal are perfect examples of items you would use for this cycle. 

High-Temperature Cycle

If there are burnt food remains, or anything else that is difficult to get off, this is the perfect cycle to use. The minimum washing temperature is 130 degrees, so it will make sure anything left on the dishes is removed.

Sanitize Cycle

This cycle turns up the heat to the max. It will kill 99.9% of germs and blast steam during the duration of the cycle.

Drying Cycles

These are more likely to vary from dishwasher to dishwasher. However, there are typically two different drying cycles. First, there is the heat dry option. This means there is just a typical heating element that will evenly dry all of your dishes. Sometimes, there is a second cycle called the extended dry cycle, which really only means that you can dry your dishes for a bit longer if necessary.

As usual, if there are questions about your specific model, please reach out to the manufacturer, or refer to your owners manual.

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