You have to take extra precautions when storing some things over the winter in cold storage. Cold storage means that the storage facility is not providing heat to the section of the building where your belongings will be kept. The freezing temperatures of winter can penetrate these storage areas and harm household appliances that have not been properly prepared for storing in a cold environment. Here is how you can prepare your dishwasher for storage in a facility without heat during the winter.
Disconnect Hoses and Electric
Slide the washer out from under the kitchen counter so you can get to the shut-off valve and switch for the water and electricity. Turn off the water at the valve where the dishwasher hose connects to the household's water supply—this is typically located along the wall behind the dishwasher.
Disconnect the water hose from the household water supply and the back of the dishwasher. Make sure you place some towels or rags on the floor to collect any water that spills out.
Unplug the dishwasher from the electrical outlet. Roll up the electrical cord and tape it to the back of the dishwasher with duct or masking tape
Drain Dishwasher
You have to remove the residual water in the bottom of the dishwasher. Connect a hose to the drain valve and place the other end into a shallow catch basin. Open the drain valve and let the water drain into the catch basin. Pour the water from the catch basin into the sink.
You may need to blow air into the waterline to get all the water out of the lines. If you have to do this, remove the water valve at the water supply inlet first. Get a small air compressor and place the nozzle end of the air hose into the valve opening. Turn on the air compressor and blow air into the line.
Drain Pump
Open the door and reach into the dishwasher to remove the plastic cover to the pump at the bottom of the dishwasher. The pump is usually only held in place with a couple of screws.
Use a sponge or dry rags to soak up the water at the bottom of the dishwasher and in and around the pump. Replace the pump cover and screws. Get the water hoses and put them into the dishwasher for safe keeping. Close and tape the dishwasher door shut with masking tape.
The dishwasher can now be safely stored in a cold environment without you having to worry about water and ice damage if the temperatures drop below freezing. To find a storage unit, contact a company like Bill King Moving.
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