How to Clean a Dishwasher Coil

The heating coil is the element that heats the water in your dishwasher, and works much like the electric range on your stovetop. The hot water is distributed throughout the dishwasher via a spout in the center. Sometimes, items can shift around during the washing process, especially smaller, lighter items such as lids and plastic cups. If these items fall through the dish racks, they may even melt onto the heating coil. Cleaning the heating coil is key to keeping your dishwasher clean, even if no items have melted on it. The process is simple.

Razor blade
Steel wool
Baking soda
Bowl
White vinegar

Instructions

- 1
  Wait until the dishwasher is cool. If the dishwasher has been recently run, wait at least an hour with the door open for the appliance to cool down. The heating coil gets very hot.
- 2
  Remove any and all dishes from the dishwasher. Remove both the top and bottom dish racks.
- 3
  Break off any and all large items attached to the heating coil -- melted plastic, for example. This may not be applicable or possible, but be sure to check.
- 4
  Scrape off any stubborn messes on the coil with a razor blade. Be careful with the razor blade.
- 5
  Mix a 1:1 solution of baking soda and water in a small bowl. Dip the steel wool in the solution and scrub the heating coil.
- 6
  Replace the racks in the dishwasher. Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the dishwasher and run a normal cycle. The vinegar will cleanse the inside of the dishwasher and remove any odors.

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