What is dishwasher salt for?

Discover what dishwasher salt is for and how to improve its performance. Find out its function to get the best results. Don’t miss out!

What is the function of salt in the dishwasher?

The main function of salt is to help with the lime in the dishwasher. All dishwashers have an internal  water softener that helps soften the hardness of the water, But salt is an extra help to prevent it from getting damaged.

Salt in the dishwasher works mainly to soften hard water. Hard water contains high levels of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, which can leave limescale deposits on dishes and inside the dishwasher. In these cases, the salt from the dishwasher is essential. It helps to soften the water, and this ensures that the dishes come out impeccable and prevents the water softener from overworking.

In areas with soft or medium water, the water softener is enough to control limescale, although it does not hurt to add salt from time to time because it helps to regenerate it.

Lack of salt can lead to a build-up of limescale inside the appliance and on the tableware, which results in the formation of white, opaque stains on plates and utensils. In addition, the limescale can clog the ducts and components of the dishwasher, which affects its efficiency and long-term performance.

How to put salt in the dishwasher?

• Locate the salt compartment. It is usually located at the bottom, under the basket. In most of them there is a lid or screw that says 'salt' or ‘water softener’.
• Check the salt level. Before adding salt, Check the level of salt your dishwasher accepts or the level it is currently at.
• Uses specific salt for dishwashers. In no case common table or common salt because it could damage it.
• Open the lid or unscrew the salt compartment. Turn it anticlockwise.
• Fill the compartment with salt. You should do this carefully to avoid spills and fill the compartment to the brim, but without exceeding its capacity. You can use a funnel. If some salt comes out, You should clean it so that it does not come into contact with the inside of the dishwasher.
• Close or screw the lid back on to make sure nothing escapes during washing.
• Perform a rinse cycle. It is recommended you run a short rinse cycle so that the excess salt dissolves before starting the full wash cycle.

When do you have to put salt in the dishwasher?

Some dishwashers have a light indicating when to refill the salt tank. But, if your dishwasher is not one of those, it is best to change the salt in your dishwasher once a month, although it will also depend on the hardness of the water in the area where you live.

To determine if the dishwasher is lacking salt, without an indicator, you can inspect the dishes after a wash cycle.

If you notice white spots on the dishes or a buildup of limescale inside the dishwasher, It could be an indication that more salt is needed. In this case, it is advisable to check and refill the salt tank as needed.