The appearance of an unpleasant odor from the washing chamber or a whitish residue on the glasses often indicates that it is time to service the filtration system. Many owners of household appliances put off this procedure, not knowing how to properly get to the dirt, or are afraid of damaging fragile mechanisms. However, regular cleaning is the only way to prolong the life of the pump and ensure excellent dishwashing performance.
In modern models, be it Bosch, Electrolux or Hansa, the designs of filter elements can vary significantly. Some systems are a simple mesh, others are complex multi-stage designs with microfilters. Understanding the working principle circulation pump and self-cleaning systems will help you avoid critical mistakes during dismantling.
Before you begin any active actions, you need to make sure that the equipment is completely disconnected from the power supply. The water in the pan may be hot, so it is worth allowing the car to cool down after the last wash cycle. Next, we will look in detail at how to safely remove and rinse all components of the water purification system.
Types of filtration systems in dishwashers
Modern dishwashers are equipped with two main types of water purification systems: flow-through and recirculation. Most home models use a system with self-cleaning filter, where the water goes through several stages of purification before being reused in the washing cycle. Understanding what type is installed in your machine is critical to proper care.
A standard system usually consists of a coarse filter that captures large bones and food debris, and a fine mesh filter that captures fine particles. Available on some premium models Miele or Siemens additional may occur grease filter, which requires separate washing with degreasers. Ignoring any of these elements leads to rapid failure pump impeller.
It is important to note that structures can be flat or conical. Conical filters often have a screw thread or snap system that can be easily damaged if mishandled. Flat systems are usually simply inserted into the bottom of the washing chamber and secured with a rotating mechanism.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to remove the filter if the machine was running less than 10 minutes ago. Residual water in the system can have a temperature of up to 70 degrees and cause burns.
Some manufacturers are introducing technologies where the filter does not require frequent manual cleaning due to the powerful water pressure, but even in such systems, fat accumulation is inevitable. The fat film reduces the throughput of the mesh, forcing circulation pump work with increased load. This is a direct path to overheating and expensive repairs.
Necessary tools and preparation
To carry out the maintenance procedure, you do not need a complex professional tool. In most cases, your hands and a basic cleaning kit are enough. However, having certain items will make the process more hygienic and efficient. Preparation of the workplace is the key to the successful completion of the operation without unnecessary dirt in the kitchen.
You will need rubber gloves to protect your hands from harsh detergents and bacteria accumulated in the filter. Also prepare a soft brush with non-abrasive bristles to avoid damaging the fine mesh. A bowl of warm water and citric acid or a special dishwasher detergent is ideal for soaking heavily soiled parts.
- 🧤 Rubber gloves to protect the skin of your hands.
- 🧽 Soft sponge or old toothbrush for cleaning.
- 🧴 Fat remover or citric acid.
- 🔦 Flashlight for inspecting the bottom of the washing chamber.
If your model has a screw-on filter or a complex locking system, you may need a flathead screwdriver. Be careful: Using metal tools inside a stainless steel wash cabinet may leave scratches that will later become corrosion spots. It is better to use plastic spatulas or work with your hands.
Soak the filter in a solution of citric acid (2 tablespoons per liter of water) for 30 minutes - this will dissolve limescale and make it easier to remove grease.
Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the filter
The dismantling process begins with releasing the lower basket of the dishwasher. Remove the cutlery tray and basket itself to gain full access to the bottom of the washing chamber. Carefully inspect the area around the sprinkler (rocker arm), as this is where the entrance to the filtration system is located.
Most models Bosch, Siemens and Neva A locking system with counterclockwise rotation is used. The filter handle usually has special marks or arrows indicating the opening direction. Grasp the center section and gently rotate it. If the mechanism is jammed, do not use excessive force - there may be large food debris in the way.
After turning the central element, it should be easily pulled up. Below it there is often a second level of filtration - a flat mesh, which can simply lie in a recess or have its own fixing “ears”. Gently pull on the edge of the mesh to remove it. In some designs Electrolux or Zanussi the grid can be composite and consist of several elements nested within each other.
☑️ Filter removal algorithm
If you encounter a situation where the filter does not turn, check whether a dropped cutlery or bone has blocked it. Sometimes a slight rocking from side to side helps. It is strictly forbidden to use a knife or other sharp objects to pry up the filter, as this is guaranteed to damage the rubber seals.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Elements
After all components have been removed, the cleaning stage begins. Rinse the parts under a strong stream of hot water, removing any visible food residue. Pay special attention to the fine mesh: it is this that gets clogged with fat and starch, forming a dense crust that is difficult to wash off with a simple rinse.
For deep cleaning, use a soft brush. Movements should be directed from the center to the edges so as not to push through the mesh. If the dirt is old, soak the filter in a solution of a special dishwasher detergent or in warm water with the addition of soda ash. This will help break down fatty deposits that do not dissolve with regular water.
| Filter element | Type of pollution | Cleaning method | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coarse filter (glass) | Bones, peels, large debris | Mechanical cleaning under tap | Once every 3-5 cycles |
| Fine mesh | Fat, starch, fine suspension | Soaking and brushing | Once every 1-2 weeks |
| Flat filter (bottom) | Sand, plaque, silt | Washing with a sponge | Once a month |
| Seals | Fat film | Wipe with a soft cloth | Every time you clean |
Don’t forget to inspect the bottom of the niche where the filter is installed. “Silt,” a mixture of fat and small debris, often accumulates there. Wipe the area with a damp cloth or sponge. Also check the holes in the bottom through which water flows into the pump - they should be free. If you notice an object stuck there, carefully remove it with tweezers.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use abrasive powders or steel wool to clean the mesh. Damage to the mesh cells will allow debris to enter the pump and cause it to break.
Assembly and installation back
Reassembling the filtration system is done in the reverse order, but requires increased care. First, install the flat mesh on the bottom (if it was removed separately). Make sure it lies flat and all the locking tabs are in their grooves. Incorrect placement of the bottom screen is a common cause of the top filter not turning all the way.
Then install the central filter cup. Align the guides and smoothly turn the handle clockwise until you hear a characteristic click or the marks match Lock. There is no need to make Herculean efforts: if the filter is installed correctly, it will close easily. Over-tightening may strip the plastic threads or break the latches.
What to do if the filter does not close completely?
If you feel resistance long before closing, most likely the bottom screen is crooked or debris has gotten into the threads. Remove the filter again, check the fit of the mesh and make sure there are no glass shards or seeds in the grooves. An attempt to forcefully close the mechanism will cause the latches to break.
After installing all components, return the rocker arm (sprinkler) to its place. Check if it rotates freely. Run a short wash cycle without dishes to make sure the connections are tight and there are no leaks. If the machine runs quietly and without errors, the procedure is successful.
Typical errors and troubleshooting
One of the most common mistakes is installing a filter “by eye” without checking the fixation. In this case, during washing with water pressure, the filter may rise, and untreated water with food particles will enter the pump. This is fraught with clogging drain pump and the appearance of a drain error.
Another mistake is using aggressive chemicals that are not intended for dishwashers. Regular dishwashing detergent creates a lot of foam, which can overfill the wash chamber and get into the electronic control units. Use only specialized gels or powders labeled “dishwasher safe.”
- 🚫 Using a metal brush to clean the mesh.
- 🚫 Installing a wet filter without drying it (a musty smell may appear).
- 🚫 Ignoring checking the drain holes under the mesh.
If after cleaning the machine begins to make more noise or pumps out water worse, you may have damaged the seal during assembly or did not close the filter completely. It is also worth checking to see if any small debris has gotten into the pump impeller. In such cases, a more in-depth diagnosis may be required with partial disassembly of the housing.
A correctly installed filter should not have any play and closes with a slight turn until it clicks - the closing force should be minimal.
Can the filter be washed in the dishwasher?
Technically possible, but not recommended. The filter may move under the pressure of water and block the sprinkler. In addition, if the mesh is plastic, hot water during drying may deform it. It is better to rinse it by hand under the tap.
How often should you change the filter in your dishwasher?
The filter is a consumable item, but it lasts a long time. With proper use and regular cleaning, it lasts for 5-7 years. Replacement is required only in case of mechanical damage to the mesh or deformation of the plastic.
What to do if the filter is stuck and cannot be unscrewed?
Don't use force. Try pouring some hot water with citric acid into the chamber and leaving it for 15 minutes. This will soften the limescale deposits. If it doesn’t help, contact service, as there is a risk of breaking the plastic mechanism.
Why does the smell remain after cleaning the filter?
The smell may not come from the filter itself, but from the drain hose or door seal. Service wash the machine at maximum temperature using a special dishwasher cleaner.