How to Get Melted Plastic off Dishwasher Coil: Effective Solutions and Preventive Tips
How to Get Melted Plastic off Dishwasher Coil?
To get melted plastic off a dishwasher coil, first, turn off the dishwasher and use metal tongs to carefully remove as much of the plastic as possible.
Wait for the heating coils to cool down, then remove all dishes and cutlery from the dishwasher.
Use a hairdryer to heat the remaining plastic, making it easier to scrape off with a wooden stick.
Clean any remaining plastic residue with a wet cloth.
Once the coil is clean, run a quick cycle with the heating dry function but ensure the dishwasher is empty.
To prevent this issue in the future, avoid putting small plastic lids in the dishwasher.
Key Points:
- Turn off dishwasher and remove melted plastic with metal tongs
- Wait for heating coils to cool and remove dishes and cutlery
- Use hairdryer to heat remaining plastic and scrape off with wooden stick
- Clean any remaining residue with wet cloth
- Run a quick cycle with heating dry function while dishwasher is empty
- Avoid putting small plastic lids in dishwasher to prevent future melting
Did You Know?
1. The use of a hairdryer can be effective for removing melted plastic from a dishwasher coil. By applying heat, the plastic softens and becomes easier to scrape off without damaging the coil.
2. You can also use a credit card or an old gift card as a makeshift scraper to gently peel away melted plastic from the dishwasher coil. Its flexible and smooth surface reduces the risk of scratching the coil.
3. Rubbing alcohol, combined with a soft cloth or cotton swab, can effectively dissolve melted plastic residue on a dishwasher coil. The alcohol breaks down the plastic, making it easier to wipe away.
4. Another surprising solution for removing melted plastic is coconut oil. The oil acts as a lubricant, making it easier to gently peel off the plastic from the coil without causing any damage.
5. Applying a paste made from baking soda and water onto the melted plastic area of the dishwasher coil can help to soften and break down the plastic, making it simpler to remove. Massage the paste onto the plastic and let it sit for a few minutes before gently scrubbing it off.
Dishwasher Mishap: Plastic Lid Melted On Heating Coil
Imagine the frustration of discovering a melted plastic lid on your brand new dishwasher’s heating coil. That’s exactly what happened to the author, whose dishwasher was less than two months old. The plastic lid had accidentally made its way to the heating coil during a cycle and had fused to the metal surface. The author was determined to find a solution and salvage their beloved appliance.
Key points:
- Melted plastic lid found on brand new dishwasher’s heating coil
- Lid accidentally made its way during a cycle and fused to metal surface
- Author determined to find a solution and salvage the appliance.
Failed Attempts: The Ice Bag And Wooden Spoon Method
In a desperate attempt to remove the melted plastic, the author initially tried using an ice bag to cool down the plastic and then scrape it off with a wooden spoon. Unfortunately, this method proved ineffective. The plastic seemed to be stubbornly clinging to the heating coil, making it impossible to remove with a simple ice bag.
- The author attempted removing the melted plastic using an ice bag and a wooden spoon.
- The method proved ineffective as the plastic clung to the heating coil.
- A better solution is needed to remove the plastic residue.
“The plastic seemed to be stubbornly clinging to the heating coil, making it impossible to remove with a simple ice bag.”
Success With A Hairdryer: Removing Melted Plastic
Not willing to give up just yet, the author decided to try a different approach. Armed with a hairdryer, they carefully heated the melted plastic, hoping to soften it enough to be scraped off. To their delight, this method worked like a charm. By directing the hot air from the hairdryer onto the plastic, it gradually softened, allowing the author to easily scrape it off with a wooden stick.
Step-By-Step Guide: Getting Rid Of Melted Plastic
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you remove melted plastic from your dishwasher coil:
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Turn off the dishwasher: This is crucial to ensure your safety while working around the heating coil.
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Use metal tongs: Carefully remove any larger pieces of melted plastic from the heating coil using metal tongs. Be cautious not to damage the coil or injure yourself.
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Let the heating coils cool down: It is crucial to wait for the heating coils to cool down completely before proceeding to prevent any potential burns.
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Remove all dishes and cutlery: Take out all the dishes and cutlery from the dishwasher to avoid any contamination or damage during the cleaning process.
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Use a hairdryer: Direct the hot air from a hairdryer onto the melted plastic. Move the hairdryer in a back-and-forth motion to ensure even heating. Be patient, as it may take some time for the plastic to fully soften.
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Scrape off the plastic: Once the plastic has softened, use a wooden stick or any non-abrasive tool to gently scrape it off the heating coil. Be cautious not to scratch or damage the coil during this process.
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Clean any remaining plastic: Use a wet cloth to wipe away any remaining residue from the heating coil. Ensure the cloth is damp, but not dripping wet, to avoid potential electrical hazards.
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Empty dishwasher cycle: To further remove any lingering plastic particles or residue, run a quick cycle with the heating dry function with the dishwasher empty. This will help ensure the dishwasher is thoroughly cleaned and ready for use again.
Tidying Up: Cleaning The Dishwasher After Removal
After successfully removing the melted plastic from the heating coil, it’s important to clean the entire dishwasher to eliminate any traces of residue. Ensure that all remaining plastic bits are removed from the dishwasher before proceeding with the cleaning process. Use a mild household detergent and warm water to wipe down the interior of the dishwasher, paying extra attention to the areas surrounding the heating coil. Once cleaned, rinse the interior and wipe it dry with a clean cloth to prevent any potential moisture-related issues.
Prevention Tips: Avoiding Future Plastic Meltdown
While it’s unfortunate that the plastic lid melted onto the dishwasher coil, there are steps you can take to prevent this mishap from occurring in the future.
The author advises against putting tiny lids in the dishwasher, as they can easily get dislodged and end up in unwanted places. It’s essential to be mindful of what items are being placed inside the dishwasher, ensuring they are suitable and won’t pose any potential threats to the appliance.
By following the step-by-step guide and utilizing effective techniques such as using a hairdryer, you can successfully remove the melted plastic and restore your dishwasher to its original state. Remember to prioritize safety, take preventative measures to avoid future incidents, and maintain good dishwasher hygiene to ensure the longevity of your appliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you remove melted plastic from dishwasher heating coil?
To remove melted plastic from a dishwasher heating coil, start by ensuring the door is locked and advance the Timer/Dial to the Dry cycle. Let the dishwasher heat for approximately 4 minutes. Next, advance the Timer/Dial to the “OFF” position and unlatch the door. To remove the melted plastic, use a non-metallic object like a wooden spoon to scrape it off the element. Be gentle to avoid damaging the heating coil.
What to do when plastic melts on bottom of dishwasher?
If plastic has melted on the bottom of your dishwasher, one effective solution is to cool it down by placing an ice pack over the affected area. The cold temperature will cause the plastic to harden, making it easier to remove. Once the plastic has hardened, gently crack it off the surface and use a scraping tool if necessary to eliminate any remaining residue. Remember to be cautious and avoid using sharp objects that could potentially damage the dishwasher.
How do you remove hard melted plastic?
To remove hard melted plastic, an effective method involves using a combination of vinegar and olive oil. First, mix equal parts vinegar and olive oil in a bowl. Apply the mixture generously to the affected area and let it sit for approximately 15 minutes. The vinegar’s acidity helps break down the plastic while the olive oil provides lubrication. Afterward, use a plastic scraper or an old credit card to gently scrape away the plastic residue. Repeat the process if necessary until all the plastic is completely removed.
What happens if plastic burns in your dishwasher?
If plastic burns in your dishwasher, it can have several consequences. Firstly, the melted plastic can damage the dishwasher’s interior, causing it to become warped or discolored. This could lead to further issues, such as clogged or damaged dishwasher components. Additionally, the melted plastic can mix with the water and potentially contaminate your dishes, compromising their cleanliness and creating a messy situation that requires thorough cleaning to eliminate any traces of melted plastic.