What you need to know:

How to Descale a Commercial Dishwasher

Your dishwasher likely runs non-stop during service hours, making sure you have clean cutlery, dishes and glassware on tap. The last thing you need is for a buildup of hard water minerals to impact its heating efficiency, wash quality and hygiene.

Learning how to descale a commercial dishwasher will help keep these deposits from hardening, potentially coating heating elements and blocking spray jets. In this guide, you’ll learn why it’s important to descale your commercial dishwasher, signs it needs to be done and how to do so effectively to reduce any downtime in one of your kitchen’s most important appliances.

Descaling a commercial dishwasher
Pouring descaling solution

Why Descaling a Commercial Dishwasher Is Important

Descaling is an important step of commercial dishwasher maintenance, removing any built-up mineral deposits that impact its efficiency and sanitation abilities. Limescale is one of the biggest problems when it comes to dishwashers and mineral buildup, leaving a hard, chalky deposit that can damage your machine. It can lead to your dishwasher not heating properly, cloudy or dirty dishes even once washed, and can cause increased running costs, as well as breakdowns. So, getting on top of it is important.

Signs Your Dishwasher Needs Descaling

The good news is, there are signs you can look out for to know you need to remove limescale in a dishwasher, including:

  • A film or chalky residue on dishes or inside the machine.
  • Slower wash cycles or reduced water pressure.
  • Spotting or streaking on glassware.
  • A noticeable drop in cleaning performance.

If your dishwasher is consistently in use or you live in an area with known hard water, you’ll typically need to descale your bar, café, restaurant or hotel’s dishwasher more often.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

There are a few things you’re going to need to effectively and safely clean a commercial dishwasher, including:

  • Manufacturer-approved descaling solution or citric acid cleaner.
  • A soft brush or cloth.
  • Protective gloves and eye protection.
  • A bucket and warm water.
  • Cleaning clothes or sponges.

You should always check your specific machine’s manual for specific product recommendations and dilution ratios, as each one can be a little different.

How to Descale a Commercial Dishwasher Safely and Effectively

Step 1: Power down the dishwasher.

Start by turning off and disconnecting your dishwasher from the start. Empty any dishes and let the washer cool completely before you start the descaling process.

Step 2: Remove the internal components.

Next, take out all of the racks, filters, screens and spray arms. These tend to collect the most limescale and food debris, so it’s important to include them in the cleaning.

Step 3: Prepare the descaling solution.

Follow the instructions on the descaling product’s packaging, mixing it in a bucket or a jug, using warm water if directed.

Step 4: Soak removable parts.

Place the spray arms, filters and other removable items into the solution. Let them soak until any noticeable mineral deposits soften. Use a soft brush to lift any stubborn residue.

Step 5: Clean the interior.

Wipe down all exposed parts of the tank and any visible build-up around corners or seams. Be sure to avoid using any abrasive tools that can damage stainless steel.

Step 6: Run an internal clean cycle.

Fill the tank to its normal operating level, add the correct amount of descaling product and start a full cycle without dishes. Many commercial dishwashers have a dedicated cleaning or descaling program, but if yours does not, run a regular hot cycle where the solution can still circulate.

Step 7: Drain and rinse thoroughly.

Once the cycle finishes, drain the tank. Rinse the interior with clean water and rinse everything down to remove any leftover cleaner so the next wash is safe for food service items.

Step 8: Reassemble the dishwasher.

Put the racks, filters and spray arms back in place, making sure everything is where it should be, specific to your manufacturer’s manual.

Step 9: Run a final rinse cycle.

Complete one more cycle using only clear water. This will clear any remaining traces of the descaler so your dishwasher is ready for service again, free of limescale.

How Often Should You Descale a Commercial Dishwasher?

Most commercial dishwashers benefit from descaling every one to three months, depending on water hardness, daily usage and machine type. If you’re unsure about local water conditions, you can contact your water supplier or use a simple testing strip. Understanding your water hardness will help you build a schedule that keeps performance consistent and simple.

Tips to Prevent Limescale Build-Up

There are a few things you can do to help reduce how often you need to do a full descale and keep your commercial dishwasher cleaner for longer. Try to include these steps in your regular cleaning routine:

  • Install a water softener or filtration unit if your area has hard water.
  • Clean filters and spray arms weekly.
  • Wipe down the unit’s interior at the end of each day.
  • Leave the door slightly open after each service to help the machine dry.
  • Use the correct amount of detergent and rinse aid for your mode

When to Call a Professional Technician

Even with regular descaling, limescale can accumulate in places you may not think to check or clean. If these cause problems with your dishwasher, it’s best to call in a trained technician, especially when they involve electrical components or persistent faults. Make the call if you notice:

  • Residue that returns quickly even after multiple descaling cycles.
  • Error messages related to temperature, heating or damage.
  • Visible leaks or ongoing drainage problems.
  • Uncertainty about handling chemical cleaners.

Regular professional servicing also supports warranty conditions and makes sure your machine stays compliant with hygiene standards, especially in food service environments.

Explore Commercial Dishwashers at AGC Equipment

If your current machine is struggling to keep up with daily demands, it may be time for an upgrade. ACGC Equipment offers a wide range of commercial dishwashers built for reliable performance in busy Australian kitchens. Browse our full range of underbench models, pass-through units and conveyor systems designed to handle high volumes while staying energy efficient.

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