Why Limescale Is a Hidden Threat in Dishwashers
Hard water may be invisible, but its effects aren’t. Over time, minerals in tap water — primarily calcium and magnesium — settle inside your Balay dishwasher, coating the heating element, spray arms, pump system, and internal walls. This limescale buildup reduces cleaning performance, causes cloudiness on dishes, shortens the machine’s lifespan, and forces it to consume more energy per cycle.
If your glasses come out with spots, the interior feels chalky, or the dishwasher sounds louder than usual, it’s time for a deep descaling session.
How Often Should You Descale a Balay Dishwasher?
Descaling frequency depends on water hardness and usage. As a general rule:
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Every 1–2 months in hard water areas
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Every 3–4 months with soft or filtered water
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More frequently if the dishwasher runs daily or shows signs of scale
If you’re unsure about your water hardness, a test strip from any home improvement store can give you clarity.
What You’ll Need for Descaling
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A commercial dishwasher descaler (Balay-approved or universal)
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Alternatively: White vinegar or citric acid (food-grade)
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A clean, empty dishwasher
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Optional: Old toothbrush or soft brush for manual deposits
Avoid using baking soda alone — it’s a mild abrasive but ineffective against hardened limescale.
Step-by-Step Descaling Instructions
1. Empty the Dishwasher Completely
Remove all dishes, cutlery, and racks (if removable). The descaling process works best when the spray system has full access to internal surfaces.
2. Clean the Filter and Spray Arms
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Remove the bottom filter and rinse it under warm water to remove food residue.
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Detach spray arms and clear out any blockages using a toothpick or soft brush.
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Reinstall both components before running the descaling cycle.
This ensures maximum contact between the descaling agent and internal systems.
3. Choose the Right Descaling Agent
Option 1: Commercial Descaler
Follow label instructions. Usually, it’s poured directly into the bottom of the dishwasher or detergent compartment.
Option 2: White Vinegar
Pour 1–2 cups of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl and place it upright on the top rack.
Option 3: Citric Acid Powder
Dissolve 2–3 tablespoons in warm water and pour into the detergent tray or directly into the tub.
4. Run a Hot Cycle
Select the hottest available program (typically 65–70°C). Do not add detergent or dishes. Let the machine complete a full cycle uninterrupted.
This heat activates the descaler and allows it to dissolve and flush out the scale from pipes, heater, and nozzles.
5. Inspect and Repeat if Necessary
After the cycle:
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Open the door and check for chalky deposits
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If stubborn scale remains, especially on heating elements or metal parts, repeat the process or use a stronger descaler
Prevention Tips to Minimize Future Limescale
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Use dishwasher salt regularly to soften incoming water
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Keep the rinse aid reservoir filled — it helps prevent spotting and residue
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Install a water softener if living in a hard water region
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Run the machine hot weekly — frequent short cycles can accelerate buildup
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Use high-quality detergents with anti-limescale additives
Balay dishwashers are designed for performance, but limescale can silently sabotage that promise. Regular descaling is not just maintenance — it’s protection. A clean machine cleans better, runs quieter, and lasts longer. Give it the care it deserves, and it will return the favor in every sparkling plate.
