Getting melted plastic off a dishwasher heating element requires letting it cool, carefully scraping off cooled debris with a non-metallic tool, and then running the dishwasher through cycles to burn off residue.
If you've accidentally melted plastic onto your dishwasher's heating element, it can cause odors and affect performance. The good news is that it's often possible to clean it off. The process involves safely removing the bulk of the material and then letting the residual plastic burn away during normal operation.
Steps to Remove Melted Plastic
Follow these steps to safely address the melted plastic on your heating element:
- Ensure Coolness: Crucially, make sure the dishwasher and the heating element are completely cooled down before you attempt any cleaning. The heating element gets very hot during the drying cycle, posing a burn risk.
- Scrape Cooled Debris: Once the element is cool to the touch, carefully remove any solidified plastic parts or other food particles that are stuck to it. As the reference suggests, you can use a non-metallic item, such as a wooden spoon, to gently scrape any debris from the heating element. Avoid using metal tools, which could potentially scratch or damage the element's surface.
- Burn Off Remaining Residue: For any plastic that remains stubbornly attached after scraping, you will need to rely on the dishwasher's heat. Run the dishwasher through a few normal wash cycles. The heat generated by the element during these cycles will cause the excess plastic to burn off. You might notice a burning plastic smell during these first few cycles, which is normal as the residue is removed.
By following these steps – cooling, gentle non-metallic scraping, and running cycles – you can effectively get melted plastic off your dishwasher heating element.
