An LG dishwasher, like most modern dishwashers, gets hot inside during certain phases of its operation to effectively clean and sanitize the dishes. The high temperature is an essential aspect of the dishwasher's cleaning process, and it serves several purposes:
Effective Cleaning: Hot water can dissolve and remove stubborn food residues, grease, and stains more efficiently than cold water. The elevated temperature helps to break down and loosen dried-on particles from dishes, ensuring a more thorough cleaning.
Sanitization: The high heat helps to kill bacteria, germs, and other pathogens that may be present on the dishes. This is especially important for ensuring proper hygiene and preventing the spread of foodborne illnesses.
Optimized Detergent Performance: Dishwasher detergents work best at higher temperatures. The heat enhances the effectiveness of the detergent, leading to better cleaning results.
Energy Efficiency: Using hot water is more energy-efficient than using cold water with excessive detergent. The heat helps to activate the enzymes present in some detergents, which leads to better cleaning with a smaller amount of detergent and water.
Now, to elaborate on the specific phases where the dishwasher gets hot:
Pre-Wash/Rinse: Some dishwashers, including LG models, have a pre-wash or rinse cycle where the dishwasher sprays hot water on the dishes before the main wash cycle. This helps to remove loose food particles and debris, preparing the dishes for the thorough cleaning in the subsequent cycles.
Main Wash Cycle: During the main wash cycle, the dishwasher heats water to a high temperature (typically around 120-140°F or 49-60°C) and sprays it on the dishes. This hot water, combined with detergent, effectively cleans and sanitizes the dishes.
Sanitization Cycle: Some dishwashers have a dedicated sanitization cycle, which exposes the dishes to even higher temperatures (often around 155-160°F or 68-71°C) to ensure complete sanitization.
To maintain safety and prevent damage to kitchen cabinets and surrounding areas, dishwashers are designed with proper insulation and safety features to contain the heat inside the unit. The exterior may feel warm to the touch during operation, but it should not pose a risk to the surrounding environment if the dishwasher is properly installed and used according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
If you have concerns about the heat levels in your LG dishwasher, it's a good idea to refer to the user manual or contact LG customer support for guidance and assistance.