The heating element in a dishwasher typically comes on during specific phases of the dishwasher cycle to aid in the cleaning and drying processes. The exact timing of the heating element activation may vary depending on the dishwasher model and settings. Here are the typical stages when the heating element is activated:
Wash Cycle: During the main wash cycle, the dishwasher's heating element may turn on to heat the water to the desired temperature. Hot water helps to dissolve detergent effectively and remove food particles and stains from the dishes.
Rinse Cycle: In some dishwasher models, the heating element may also come on during the rinse cycle to ensure that the final rinse water is warm. Warm water aids in rinsing off detergent residues and helps in the drying process.
Drying Cycle: The primary purpose of the heating element in a dishwasher is to assist in the drying process. After the wash and rinse cycles are completed, the heating element is activated during the drying cycle to heat the air inside the dishwasher. The hot air helps evaporate the remaining water droplets on the dishes, leaving them dry and ready for use.
It's worth noting that some modern dishwashers may use alternative methods for drying, such as condensation drying or fan-assisted drying, which may reduce the reliance on the heating element. Condensation drying uses the residual heat from the wash and rinse cycles to create steam on the cooler stainless steel walls of the dishwasher, which then condenses on the dishes, aiding in the drying process.
The specific functionalities and cycles of a dishwasher, including the activation of the heating element, can be found in the manufacturer's user manual or specifications for the particular model you are using.