Viking dishwashers combine powerful cleaning performance with elegant design, making them a premium choice for discerning homeowners. To keep your Viking dishwasher running smoothly and extend its lifespan, regular maintenance is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we'll share professional maintenance tips and cleaning procedures recommended by our factory-trained technicians.

Daily Maintenance

Proper Loading Techniques

How you load your dishwasher affects both cleaning performance and long-term reliability:

Scrape large food particles from dishes before loading
Position dishes to face the center of the dishwasher
Avoid overcrowding, which can block water spray
Place plastic items on the top rack to prevent warping
Ensure spray arms can rotate freely

Detergent Selection

Using the right detergent is crucial for optimal performance:

Use high-quality detergents specifically designed for dishwashers
Avoid using hand dishwashing soap, which creates excessive suds
Consider water hardness when selecting detergent
Use rinse aid to prevent water spots and improve drying

Weekly Maintenance

Filter Cleaning

Viking dishwashers have a filtration system that prevents food particles from recirculating:

Remove the bottom rack
Rotate and remove the cylindrical filter assembly
Separate the fine and coarse filters
Rinse under warm water to remove debris
Use a soft brush to clean stubborn residue
Reassemble and lock the filter in place

Spray Arm Inspection

Clogged spray arms can significantly reduce cleaning performance:

Remove the upper and lower spray arms
Check spray holes for food particles or mineral buildup
Use a toothpick or thin wire to clear any blockages
Rinse thoroughly under warm water
Reinstall, ensuring they rotate freely

Monthly Maintenance

Door Seal Cleaning

The door gasket creates a watertight seal that prevents leaks:

Inspect the gasket for food particles, mold, or mildew
Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth
Pay special attention to the bottom and corners
Check for cracks or damage that might require replacement

Interior Cleaning

Regular interior cleaning prevents odors and maintains performance:

Run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar
Wipe down interior walls and door with a damp cloth
Clean the utensil basket thoroughly
Remove and clean the detergent dispenser

Quarterly Maintenance

Water Inlet Screen Cleaning

The water inlet screen prevents debris from entering your dishwasher:

Turn off water supply to the dishwasher
Disconnect the water supply line at the inlet valve
Remove and clean the small mesh screen with a brush
Reinstall the screen and reconnect the water line

Note: If you're not comfortable with this procedure, our technicians can perform this as part of a maintenance service.

Drain System Check

Proper drainage is essential for effective cleaning:

Check the drain hose for kinks or blockages
Ensure the air gap (if installed) is clean and free of debris
Verify that the drain hose is properly connected to the disposal or drain pipe
Run a cycle with a dishwasher cleaner to clear internal drain passages

Annual Maintenance

Professional Inspection

We recommend scheduling annual maintenance with our factory-trained technicians to:

Inspect electrical components and connections
Check water temperature and pressure
Test cycle functions and timers
Inspect the pump and motor assembly
Verify proper drainage and check for leaks
Clean areas not easily accessible to homeowners

Water Hardness Adjustment

Viking dishwashers with water softening systems require periodic adjustment:

Test your water hardness with a kit
Adjust the water softener settings according to your manual
Refill salt reservoir if your model requires it

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Poor Cleaning Results

If dishes aren't coming clean:

Check and clean filters and spray arms
Verify water temperature (should be 120-125°F)
Ensure proper detergent dosage
Check for proper loading technique

Water Spots or Cloudy Glassware

These issues are often related to water quality:

Use rinse aid consistently
Check water softener settings if applicable
Consider using a glass protection additive

Unusual Noises

If you hear grinding, buzzing, or other unusual sounds:

Check for foreign objects in the filter or pump area
Ensure spray arms rotate freely
Verify that the dishwasher is level

By following these maintenance procedures, you can keep your Viking dishwasher performing at its best for many years. If you encounter any issues that you can't resolve with basic maintenance, our factory-trained technicians are ready to help with expert Viking dishwasher repair services.

The Ultimate Guide to Viking Dishwasher Maintenance