Heater needs replacement??

We just noted our 2 year old dishwasher isn't cleaning well, leaving particulate matter on some cups, etc. We also noticed that the water is not heating, because when we interrupt the cycle by opening the door, the "steamy blast of moist air" does not come out. The dishwasher is run on average one time a day (or slightly more).

I also just cleaned out the "steam release" panel--wow, was it caked with deposits and grit. Could this being blocked have shortened the life of the heating element? Could these deposits cause debris to be left on cups?

So, are there other things to check before buying and replacing the heating element? Also, it looks like a simple fix. Here are some instructions that I found online. Are they adequate?
[LIST=1]

Shut off the main water supply in your home, which is usually in the basement. Remove the bottom rack of the dishwasher by pulling it all the way out and setting it aside.

Step 2
Unplug the dishwasher before you attempt to do any repairs. Remove the bottom access panel of the dishwasher and disconnect the wires that lead to the element. You may need a flashlight to see them. These wires are to the left inside of the panel and are white and brown on most dishwashers.

Step 3
Loosen all the brackets that hold the heating element in place by taking out the screws and gently pulling the brackets up. Lift out the old element and set aside. Place all the screws and brackets into a plastic bag so they don't get lost. You'll need these to hold down the new element.

Step 4
Place the new element in the dishwasher in the same manner that the burned-out element was set.

Step 5
Reconnect the power leads by threading them back down through to the front access panel. Wrap the wires around the electrical connectors and tighten the terminal screws. Make sure all the connections are tight.

Step 6
Replace the brackets in the dishwasher and screw them down to hold the new element in place. Jiggle the element lightly to make sure it's secure. Replace the bottom access panel.

Step 7
Turn the electricity and the water supply back on. Run the dishwasher one time without dishes or soap to make sure everything is working properly.[/LIST]