How do I get calcium build up off of heating element in dishwasher? Thanks!?

Question

We have very hard water and have water spots on everything. The build up on the heating element worries me that it could be a fire hazard. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks

Answer 1

Run a cup of white vinegar through an empty dishwasher.=)

Answer 2

1st, unplug the dishwasher from the power receptacle (usually under the sink). Next, make sure the heating element is cool to the touch. Holding the heating element rock0steady with one hand, get a green 'Tuffy-"type scrubbing pad (ScotchBrite?) and dip into white vinegar, then scrub the heating element. White vinegar is a mild acid and will help to dissolve the calcium deposits (also called 'calculi'). A stronger solution is 'CLR' but try the vinegar first; you should wear gloves and eye protection, too. Wipe out as much of the scrubbed-off crud as possible, but don't worry about the vinegar or CLR: just run the dishwasher, empty, through a cycle afterwards. As long as you're on your knees, reach all the way to the back of the inside of the dishwasher and remove any broken glass, labels, etc., that may be there. If you're really adventurous, unscrew the cover for the filter screen and remove any stuff that might be in there as well. Something NOT to do: don't use those little gel-packs of soap, they don't always completely dissolve and will clog that drain filter. Something else ALWAYS to do: rinse your dishes and remove labels from jars, etc., before putting then in the dishwasher.

Answer 3

Dishwasher Heating Element

Answer 4

I do this once a month on an empty cycle... It works I swear and it's super cheap.. I run unsweetened/sweetened drink mix through my dishwasher.. Just fill the cups with the mix.. Kool-aid works, generic or regular Tang works any... Just run.. Don't worry the color won't harm anything.. The citric acid will take away any build-up and freshen the dishwasher... It's cheaper than jet-dry and it smells good....

Answer 5

Try using "Jet Dry Dishwasher Cleaner." It removes limescale, grease, & mineral deposits that can accumulate in the interior of your dishwasher. I use it on a regular basis & it works great!!!!! It's orange scented too. :) You can find it where dishwasher products are sold. It comes in a white plastic bottle with a blue cap.

Answer 6

CLR works rather well. I suggest after you use it though that you run the dishwasher with bleach in it at least 5 times before putting any dishes in it.

Good luck.

Answer 7

Replace the element and then have a water softener system installed. Some people just have it for drinking but if your water is really hard then you can have it for the entire house.

Answer 8

Try a product called lime away,it,s made for those kind of things.