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Understanding the Red Star Symbol on Your Beko Dishwasher
Dishwashers are essential kitchen companions, simplifying our daily routines and ensuring spotless plates and cutlery. However, their sleek designs often feature a cluster of symbols that, at first glance, can feel puzzling. One such symbol on many Beko dishwashers is the red star. If you’ve been staring at this icon and wondering what it means, you’re not alone. This guide will help you understand the red star symbol and provide actionable advice on how to address it when it lights up.
What Does the Red Star Symbol Mean?
The red star symbol on your Beko dishwasher serves as an indicator for dishwasher salt levels. Dishwasher salt is an essential component for certain dishwashers, particularly those living in areas with hard water. The salt helps to soften the water entering your appliance, preventing limescale build-up, safeguarding your machine, and ensuring the best possible cleaning results.
When the red star light turns on, it’s your dishwasher’s way of telling you that the salt reservoir is running low and needs refilling.
Why Is Dishwasher Salt Important?
The inclusion of dishwasher salt in your routine is vital if you want your appliance to perform at an optimal level. Here’s why:
- Prevents Limescale Build-Up
Hard water contains a high mineral content, which can create limescale deposits in your dishwasher. Over time, this reduces efficiency and can lead to costly repairs. Dishwasher salt acts as a water softener, preventing these issues.
- Improves Cleaning Performance
Softened water allows detergent to work effectively, ensuring your dishes come out sparkling clean with no unpleasant streaks or residue.
- Extends the Lifespan of Your Appliance
By minimising mineral deposits, you protect your dishwasher’s internal components and prolong its life.
How to Refill Dishwasher Salt
If the red star symbol is lit on your Beko dishwasher, it’s time to refill the dishwasher salt. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you:
- Locate the Salt Reservoir
Open your dishwasher and remove the bottom rack. You’ll typically find the salt reservoir at the bottom of the dishwasher, near the drain.
- Check for Residual Salt
Unscrew the reservoir cap and check to see if there’s any salt left inside. If the reservoir is empty or nearly empty, proceed to refill.
- Add Dishwasher Salt
Use a funnel to pour dishwasher-specific salt into the reservoir. It’s important to only use salt designed for dishwashers, as regular table salt can damage your machine. Fill the reservoir until it is full; it’s okay if water overflows slightly, as this is a normal part of the process.
- Replace the Cap
Screw the cap back onto the reservoir, ensuring it’s secure.
- Wipe Away Excess Salt
Take a damp cloth and clean up any excess salt around the reservoir opening. This prevents it from affecting your dishwasher’s performance.
- Run a Quick Wash (Optional)
If you’ve spilled any salt inside the dishwasher, you may want to run a quick rinse cycle to clear out any debris.
Once you’ve completed these steps, the red star light should turn off automatically. If it remains on, double-check that the reservoir is full and the cap is securely tightened.
What If the Red Star Symbol Stays On?
If the red star symbol doesn’t turn off after refilling the salt reservoir, there could be a few underlying issues:
- Faulty Salt Indicator
The salt sensor might be malfunctioning. Contact Beko’s customer service or arrange for a professional technician to inspect your dishwasher.
- Incorrect Salt Type
Ensure you’re using dishwasher-specific salt. Products that aren’t designed for dishwashers might not dissolve properly, which can confuse the sensor.
- Clogged Reservoir
Minerals may have built up inside the salt reservoir. Try cleaning it out with warm water before refilling it.
Tips for Maintaining Your Beko Dishwasher
To keep your dishwasher running smoothly and avoid future issues, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Monitor Your Salt Levels Regularly
Check your dishwasher salt levels monthly to prevent the red star from catching you off-guard.
- Use Dishwasher-Specific Products
Always use products designed for dishwashers, including salt, detergent, and rinse aid.
- Descale When Necessary
Even if you consistently add salt, it’s a good idea to descale your dishwasher periodically, especially if you live in a hard water area.
- Clean Filters and Spray Arms
Remove and clean your dishwasher filters and spray arms every few weeks to ensure optimal water flow and debris removal.
- Inspect Your Dishwasher Seal
Check the door seal regularly for dirt or damage, which can impact the appliance’s effectiveness.
Encouragement for Troubleshooting
It’s perfectly normal to feel slightly overwhelmed when dealing with appliance symbols, but understanding what they mean and addressing them promptly can save you time, money, and frustration. The red star is simply a helpful reminder, guiding you to maintain your dishwasher’s efficiency and extend its lifespan. With just a few simple steps, you can get back to enjoying clean dishes without a care!
By staying on top of maintenance and knowing the meaning behind your Beko dishwasher’s indicators, you can ensure it remains a reliable part of your kitchen. If you have persistent issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to Beko’s support or consult a professional technician.
Happy washing!