Halachot and Customs
Operating a dishwasher before Shabbat so that it continues running on Shabbat
Question
Is it permitted to operate a dishwasher before Shabbat so that it continues working on Shabbat?
If yes, is it permitted to use the utensils during Shabbat?
Thank you
Answer
Shalom rav,
According to the custom of the Sephardim, it is permitted to operate a dishwasher on Erev Shabbat even though it will continue to run on Shabbat as well.
However, according to the custom of the Ashkenazim, one should be stringent in this matter unless it is a situation of need (according to what is explained in Shulchan Aruch and the Rama, סימן רנב סעיף ה. And so too in She'elat u-Teshuvot Yechaveh Da'at, חלק ג' סימן יח, regarding operating a washing machine on Erev Shabbat).
According to all customs, it is permitted to use the utensils.
With blessings,
Hillel Meirs
