Guide to Dishwasher Settings and Cycles
Dishwashers offer various cycles tailored to the cleanliness required for different loads. The choice of cycle depends on the items being washed and their level of soil. Typical options include Normal, Heavy, Delicate, and High Temp. Each dishwasher model has a unique set of cycles, so it’s important to consult your owner’s manual to understand the specific functions available for efficiently managing dish cleanup after meals.
Dishwasher Wash Cycles
Explore the various dishwasher cycles below to find the optimal setting for your dishes.
1. SENSOR
This cycle detects the level of dirt on your dishes and automatically adjusts the settings for optimal cleaning, including cycle time, water consumption, and temperature.
CYCLE TIME: 2 - 3.25 hours
2. HEAVY
Ideal for heavily soiled items like pots and pans, this cycle uses higher temperatures and more water to effectively clean tough messes.
CYCLE TIME: 2.75 - 4 hours
3. NORMAL
Recommended for everyday use, the normal cycle efficiently cleans a full load of typically soiled dishes.
CYCLE TIME: 1.5 - 2 hours
4. 1-HOUR WASH
Also known as Quick Wash, this cycle is perfect for rapidly cleaning lightly soiled items that you need soon. It uses more water and higher temperatures than the normal cycle.
CYCLE TIME: 1 hour
5. PREWASH
Often referred to as Soak and Clean, this short cycle is ideal for dishes with dried-on food, eliminating the need for pre-soaking.
CYCLE TIME: 6 - 8 minutes
6. High temp
This setting increases the water temperature to at least 130°F to help remove baked-on food from dishes.
CYCLE TIME: Adds 5 - 13 minutes to wash cycle
7. SANITIZE CYCLE
This cycle boosts the wash and final rinse temperatures to 140°F and 156°F, respectively, to sanitize dishes according to National Sanitation Foundation standards.
CYCLE TIME: 3 - 3.5 hours
8. DELAY
The delay feature allows you to schedule the start of the dishwasher cycle for a later time, including during off-peak energy hours.
CYCLE TIME: Varies
Dishwasher Drying Cycles
Learn about the different drying cycles available on your dishwasher, which vary in heat levels and duration to suit your needs.
1. HEAT DRY
This cycle uses a heating element to generate warm air that circulates around the dishes, speeding up the drying process by evaporating water. Opting for this feature will extend the total cycle time.
CYCLE TIME: 30 minutes
2. EXTENDED DRY
This option enhances drying by either raising the final rinse temperature or increasing the duration of the heat dry cycle. When combined with a rinse aid, it improves drying efficiency and helps minimize water spots on dishes.
CYCLE TIME: 30 minutes
3. SHORT OR LONG POWER DRY
Available in select Maytag® dishwashers, these drying options employ both heat and a fan to dry dishes effectively. You can choose between a shorter or longer drying time based on your needs.
CYCLE TIME: Varies
How Often Should You Use Your Dishwasher?
It's recommended to operate your dishwasher at least once weekly to maintain its functionality and prevent issues.
How to Shorten Your Dishwasher's Cycle Time?
For a faster cycle, select the quick wash or 1-hour wash option. If your dishes are particularly dirty, the dishwasher’s sensors may extend the cycle duration to guarantee thorough cleaning.
If you have hard water, limescale or mineral buildup, your sensors may default to a longer setting. Using affresh® dishwasher cleaner tablets1 once a month may help clean this build-up.
How to Improve Your Dishwasher's Cleaning Performance?
Here are some tips to enhance your dishwasher's effectiveness:
- Select a cycle based on the toughest stains in your dish load.
- Load your dishwasher properly.
- Use cycles or options that add extra heat to the wash or rinse portion of the cycle when needed.
- If you have a water softener at home, avoid running the dishwasher during its regeneration cycle, as this could lead to suboptimal cleaning results.
- Clean your dishwasher with affresh® Dishwasher Cleaner every 30 days.
- Clean your dishwasher filter every three to six months.
Tips for Making Glasses Sparkle in the Dishwasher
Using the correct amount of detergent and rinse aid can help reduce water spots on glasses.Using dishwasher pods instead of detergent can help ensure that you are using the correct amount.
Hard water can cause water spots on glassware. To minimize build-up from hard water and keep your dishes sparkling clean, clean your dishwasher every 30 days.
What Is the Most Energy-Efficient Dishwasher Setting?
Quick or short cycles usually consume less energy compared to a normal cycle. For an economical choice, consider ENERGY STAR® certified dishwashers, which help reduce utility bills.Explore Maytag® ENERGY STAR® certified dishwashers.
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SHOP MAYTAG® DISHWASHERS
With dishwashers from Maytag brand, you can unload confidently with features you can trust to bring the power, load after load. The high pressure jets of the PowerBlast® Cycle and the powerful fan of PowerDry Option on select models will leave your dishes sparkling clean each and every time.
LEARN MORE DISHWASHER TIPS WITH MAYTAG BRAND
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How to Choose the Right Dishwasher Size and Capacity There are a number of considerations, including measurements, when choosing a dishwasher. Our dishwasher size guide can help you get started. -
Dishwasher is leaving gritty residue See comprehensive guide to help you stop your dishwasher from leaving a gritty residue on your pots, pans and dishes. -
How to Clean a Dishwasher Filter Learn how to remove and clean your dishwasher filter in 4 easy steps. Discover how often you should clean your filter to prevent buildup and clogs.
