Buy detergent in a size that you can use in
30 days. It works better when fresh.
Scrape the dishes, but no need to pre-rinse
(unless there is dried on food).
If you have hard water use more detergent.
If you have hard water use a rinse aid.
A water temperature of at least 130 degrees
is needed for the best results.
If your dishwasher doesn't heat the water,
run the hot water in your sink before starting the dishwasher
to get more hot water to your dishwasher when it is filling.
Heated dry is more sanitary, but air dry is
more energy efficient (you decide)
Once every two months, run an empty load and
add two cups of white vinegar to dissolve hard water deposits.
Clean the filter at least once a year.
Don't:
Don't ever use dish soap, it will oversuds
and make a mess.
Don't use gel soap, it tends to gunk up the
system.
Don't overload the dishwasher.
Don't bother to pre-rinse dishes unless there is dried
on food.