If the heating element in a dishwasher is broken, it can still clean dishes to some extent, but the cleaning performance may be compromised, particularly when it comes to removing tough stains, grease, and dried-on food residues. The heating element plays a crucial role in the dishwasher's cleaning process, and its absence can have several impacts:
Temperature: The heating element is responsible for raising the water temperature during the wash and rinse cycles. Hot water helps to dissolve grease and food residues, sanitize dishes, and improve the efficiency of detergents. Without the heating element, the water may not reach the optimal temperature for effective cleaning.
Drying: The heating element also aids in the drying process during the final stage of a dishwasher cycle. Without the heating element, the dishwasher may struggle to evaporate the remaining water from the dishes, leaving them damp or wet after the cycle is complete.
Sanitization: High water temperature provided by the heating element is crucial for effectively sanitizing dishes, killing bacteria, and ensuring proper hygiene. Without this high-temperature wash, there might be concerns about the dishwasher's ability to achieve adequate sanitization.
Stain and Residue Removal: Stubborn stains and dried-on food particles are more challenging to remove without the assistance of hot water from the heating element. The dishwasher's cleaning performance may suffer, and you may need to pre-rinse dishes more thoroughly before loading them into the dishwasher.
To compensate for the broken heating element and maintain reasonably clean dishes, you can try the following steps:
Use Hot Water: If possible, pre-heat the water in the sink before starting the dishwasher. This will help to ensure that the initial wash water is at a higher temperature, enhancing cleaning efficiency.
Choose the Right Detergent: Select a high-quality dishwasher detergent that can perform well in lower water temperatures.
Pre-Rinse Dishes: To help the dishwasher handle tough stains and residues, pre-rinse dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. This can help reduce the workload for the dishwasher and improve cleaning results.
Use a Rinse Aid: Adding a rinse aid to the dishwasher can help improve drying performance, leaving dishes with fewer water spots.
Despite these steps, it's important to remember that a broken heating element will limit the dishwasher's capabilities, and for optimal cleaning and sanitization, it's best to have the heating element repaired or replaced by a qualified technician.