Hi Lisab.
That is a very good question that you bring up on what to expect from your dishwasher. A perfectly functioning dishwasher can alleviate some of the drudgery of kitchens tasks after the meal is served and make your life more enjoyable knowing that it is doing the job it was supposed to do.
I did notice that you did not mention silverware. A check for drops of water are being left on some of the plates and cups and the eating utensils leads to a conclusion that the settings on the dishwasher may be leading to a degradation of performance and may require a reset. Before doing that though, as it involves intricate detail and perseverance, please do your own verification that you have pressed the right buttons. As most dishwashers do not come with a manual this may take some trial and error to get things right. Coaching the diswasher for correct procedure will help as it may have forgotten, or it may be taking shortcuts to complete the task so it can take a rest break sooner.
In any event, you may have become accustomed to your dishwasher and have grown so fond of it after all the years of service and being together that it part of the family. That is OK. Some shortcomings will have to be overlooked, but many have chosen this path instead of aquiring a brand new shinier model, which, like many products nowadays, do not have the reliabilitity and endurance and especially the cherished memorable moments of your keepsake model.
Some hints on how to get the best performane from your dishwasher:
1. Praise your dishwasher for a job well done ( even if not ), and it may begin to work harder and more efficient knowing that such a thankless task is being very much so appreciated.
2. contrarily, refrain from yelling at or berating your dishwasher as it may become disillusioned and depressed and that is not good for its interior working parts.
3. Give you dishwasher a much needed break sometimes and do the washing and drying yourself. Some pampering does wonders.
4. Act apologetic for any ardeous task the dishwasher may encounter such as dried on egg yolk or greasy food cleanup. The dishwasher will feel part of the solution and attack the problem with so much more vigor.
While specific to each household, the patron-dishwasher relationship can last years if nurtured, and after every meal the relaxation period can be most enjoyable for the both of you. After all, dishwashers are human too.
