Bosch SGS43C02GB/35

[ZebraDriver]

We have one of the above machines which has worked well for 4 years but now we find that the bottom rack is not being cleaned properly. I have checked the filters and the water passageways accessible from below the filter (from inside the dishwasher). I have also checked the spray arms for blockages and the pipework leading up to the top arm. All other aspects of the machine are fine(heating, draining, cycle time etc).

I don't know if it makes any difference but we don't use salt in the dishwasher - we live in a soft water area. None of our appliances "fur" up

Any ideas?

Thanks
Martin

 

[Sleepyhead]

Your machine may have an alternating valve which has jammed. You'd have to check your manual to make sure.
As to salt, don't matter whether or not you're in a soft water area, your dishwasher still requires salt to clean out the softener unit. No salt, blocked softener unit eventually.

 

[ZebraDriver]

Thanks for your reply. I have checked the manual but can't find any reference to an alternating valve - where is it likely to be located? what does it do?

Re the issue of salt - the manual for the machine tells us not to add salt as the hardness value is set to zero - do you think it is worth adding salt anyway?

Thanks
Martin

 

[unclebuck001]

no need for salt if the regeneration is off (zero), your poor wash results is due to sump hose being blocked and prob pressure chamber blocked with food deposits also.

 

[Sleepyhead]

Thought about the transfer hose being blocked but ruled it out due to only the bottom rack not being cleaned, worth a look though.
If there is an alternating valve, it's part of the heater box.
Personally, I'd run the salt at the lowest setting to keep the softener unit working.