So, my dishwasher wasn't getting the dishes clean.

[hedgehog]

My husband cleaned all the screens, but no luck. So I tried one of those dishwasher cleaners. They come in a bottle with a wax plug that melts out during the cycle to release the solvent. Well, the bottle didn't open.

I tired goosing the hot water heater a tiny bit, and this time the bottle emptied.

I took a good look at the heating coil, and it was coated with scale. I poured in enough vinegar to cover the coil and left it overnight. I'd say about 75% of the scale dissolved.

Success! Now the dishwasher is running fine!

[NMDemDist2]

1. great tip!

i'll have to take a look at mine :think:

[Stinky The Clown]

2. Great idea, but consider maybe using coffee brewer cleaner

That's made for direct contact on heating elements. Vinegar *might* be safe, but I'm not sure.

[hedgehog]

3. Thanks for that tip! Some of the coffee makers call for a vinegar flush,

but it can be worrisome not knowing the acid strength.