Dishwasher help

[babywalker2]

We've managed to pick up a second hand dishwasher off freecycle. Dh is plumbing it in now, if it works (fingers crossed!) Can you give me your best tips? In all my 33 years, I have never used or had access to a dishwasher so I'm hugely excited but also don't want to get it wrong!

Anyone?

Only put plastic on the top, make sure nothing can flip over and get full of water. If you're in hard water area you'll need salt and rinse aid as well as tablets (even if they claim to be the 3 in 1 type).
You should be able to download a manual for your particular model.
Enjoy the break from washing up!

If in a hardwater area, treat yourselves to a water softener.
Definitely pre-soak pots and pans before putting in , don't let them dry out. I run water into the pans and let it stand while I eat, then drain the pans before stacking,
Rinse or wipe of food detritus before lading = less to clean from filter, & clean filter regularly

Don't overload it. The water needs to be able to get to everything.

Make sure all the water jet holes on the sprinkler arms are free of debris before using.

When its packed, give the arm attached to the upper shelf a spin, to make sure it is able to spin freely, and not banging into any of the loaded dishes.