Do I Need to Put Salt in My New Dishwasher?

Salt’s Role in Your Dishwasher

Do I need to put salt in my new dishwasher? This question arises for many new dishwasher owners. The answer depends on your water hardness and your type. This article clarifies the reasons for using dishwasher salt, how to check your water hardness, and specific requirements for different models.

Understanding the role of salt in your dishwasher ensures optimal performance and prolongs its lifespan. Soft water prevents limescale buildup, a common culprit for dishwasher malfunctions. Salt assists in maintaining soft water, even if your home’s water supply is naturally hard.

Why Use Dishwasher Salt?

Dishwashers use salt to soften hard water. Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. These minerals can leave deposits on dishes and inside the dishwasher, reducing cleaning efficiency and eventually causing damage.

Most models include a built-in water softener. This softener uses ion exchange to remove the minerals from the water. The softener contains resin beads that attract and hold the minerals. Salt regenerates these resin beads, allowing them to continue softening the water effectively.

Without sufficient salt, the resin beads become saturated with minerals and lose their softening ability. This leads to limescale buildup, spotting on dishes, and potential damage to the heating element and other components.

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Dishwasher Salt Requirements

If your water is moderately hard or harder, you should use it regularly. The frequency of adding salt depends on your water hardness and usage. Most dishwashers have an indicator light that alerts you when to refill the salt reservoir.

Consult your instruction manual for specific recommendations regarding salt usage and type. Some units have specific settings for different water hardness levels. Adjusting these settings optimizes salt usage and prevents overfilling or underfilling.

Salt for Dishwashers with Built-In Softeners

Many modern dishwashers have built-in water softeners. They require special salt, not table salt. Table salt contains additives that can clog the softener and damage the dishwasher.

Dishwashers Without Built-in Softeners

Some models do not have built-in water softeners. If your dishwasher lacks a built-in softener and you have hard water, you may need to take additional steps. Consider using a rinse aid to help prevent spotting and filming on dishes. You can also install an external water softener for your entire home.

Using Rinse Aid with Hard Water

Rinse aid improves drying and reduces spotting, especially with hard water. It works by reducing the surface tension of the water, allowing it to sheet off dishes more effectively. While rinse aid doesn’t soften water, it complements the use of dishwasher salt in hard water situations.

Choosing the Right Dishwasher Salt

Use only salt specifically designed for dishwashers. Avoid using table salt, rock salt, or other types of salt. These can contain impurities that damage your dishwasher.

Look for a salt that is pure sodium chloride. This type is highly effective at regenerating the resin beads in the water softener. It also dissolves easily and doesn’t leave residue.

Where to Buy Dishwasher Salt

You can purchase dishwasher salt at most grocery stores, hardware stores, and online retailers. It is usually sold in large bags or boxes. Store it in a cool, dry place to prevent clumping.

Conclusion

Using dishwasher salt helps maintain your dishwasher’s performance and longevity, especially with hard water. Check your water hardness and follow your manufacturer’s instructions for optimal results. Choosing the correct type and refilling the reservoir as needed ensures clean, spot-free dishes and a properly functioning dishwasher.

Remember to consult your dishwasher’s manual for specific guidelines. Proper usage helps prevent limescale buildup, which can damage your appliance. By following these recommendations, you can maximize the effectiveness of your dishwasher and enjoy sparkling clean dishes for years to come.