Using rinse aid in a dishwasher serves several important purposes, and not using it can lead to some consequences:
Water spots and residue: Rinse aid helps to prevent water spots and streaks on your dishes. Without it, the water droplets may not disperse evenly during the rinse cycle, leading to the formation of spots and residues on glassware, utensils, and plates.
Longer drying time: Rinse aid helps in the drying process by reducing the surface tension of water. This allows the water to flow off dishes more easily, leading to quicker drying. Without rinse aid, dishes may take longer to dry, which could be inconvenient if you need to use them right away.
Streaky and cloudy dishes: Without rinse aid, dishes may dry with a cloudy or streaky appearance. This can be especially noticeable on glassware and plastics.
Increased energy consumption: Longer drying times without rinse aid mean the dishwasher will be running for a more extended period, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.
Bacterial growth: Moisture left on dishes for extended periods can create a conducive environment for bacterial growth. If the dishes do not dry completely, it may promote the growth of bacteria, which is not ideal for the health and safety of those using the dishes.
Decreased lifespan of dishwasher parts: Rinse aid helps to reduce mineral deposits and limescale buildup on the dishwasher's interior and components, such as the spray arms and heating element. Over time, without rinse aid, these parts may suffer from increased mineral buildup, potentially leading to decreased performance and a shorter lifespan for the dishwasher.
Overall, while you can let the dishes air dry without using rinse aid, it's advisable to use it to enhance the performance of your dishwasher and ensure your dishes come out clean and spot-free. If you prefer not to use rinse aid, you can experiment with different dishwasher settings to find the most effective drying option available in your dishwasher model.