Leak Proof Dishwashers

Hosing

• Most dishwashers have two basic hoses — one that pumps in fresh water and another that drains dirty water out from the bottom of the tub. These hoses vary in make and design. Many are transparent and all are made of rubber or other flexible materials. To prevent leaks, some dishwasher manufacturers thicken or double the skin that is used to build the hoses. Standard hoses can develop leaks over time due to wear and tear, but doubling the material might prolong the integrity of these tubes.

Leak and Overflow Detection

• Many modern dishwashers are advanced, high-tech appliances that manufacturers program to "think" in addition to cleaning your dishes. Most dishwashers already have temperature sensors that ensure the water is hot enough before starting the cycle. For leak detection, some brands and models have sensors built in and around the solid-mold base and tub. If the dishwasher develops cracks or becomes unsteady due to changes in leveling, water can seep through these openings. When that happens the sensors immediately halt dishwasher operations.

Automatic Drainage

• Detecting leaks is one thing, but another concern is what happens while the dishwasher is unattended. Many households wait to run the dishwasher in the evening, when it is full of dishes from the day's use. That gives a leak lots of time to allow water to seep from the dishwasher. Some manufacturers program the dishwasher to automatically initiate draining if a leak is detected. If a clogged drainage system itself is the cause of the leaks, some dishwashers are smart enough to detect this and stop the appliance.

Child-Safe Lock

• Sometimes dishwasher leaks have nothing to do with the materials and equipment. Instead, careless and accidental usage of the dishwasher, such as opening the door in the middle of a cycle, can cause water to escape the tub. Most modern dishwashers that have advanced electronics, such as a push button control panel, also include a "child lock" button. Locking the dishwasher door is not only good for preventing leaks, but it also ensures a level of safety by barring children from entering the tub of the dishwasher.