Whirlpool Dishwasher Use and Care Guide

A Note to You

Thank you for buying a Whirlpool® appliance. Because your life is getting busier and more complicated, Whirlpool dishwashers are easy to use, save time, and help you manage your home better. To ensure you enjoy years of trouble-free operation, we developed this Use and Care Guide. It contains valuable information about how to operate and maintain your appliance properly and safely. Please read it carefully.

Also, please complete and mail the Ownership Registration Card provided with your appliance. This card helps us notify you about any new information on your appliance.

Please record your model's information.

Whenever you call to request service for your appliance, you need to know your complete model number and serial number. You can find this information on the model and serial number label (See the "Parts and Features" section).

Please also record the purchase date of your appliance and your dealer's name, address, and telephone number.

Model Number: _________________________

Serial Number: _________________________

Purchase Date: _________________________

Dealer Name: _________________________

Dealer Address: _________________________

Dealer Phone: _________________________

Keep this book and the sales slip together in a safe place for future reference.

Our Consumer Assistance Center number is toll-free: 1-800-253-1301

Help us help you

Please:

• Have your dishwasher installed by a qualified installer.
• Install where dishwasher is protected from the elements.
• Install and level dishwasher on a floor that will hold the weight, and in an area suitable for its size and use.
• Properly connect dishwasher to electricity, water, and drain.*
• See Installation Instructions for complete information.
• Remove all shipping plugs from hoses and connectors (such as the cap on the drain outlet) before installing.*
• Remove all hang tags and temporary labels.
• Make sure dishwasher is not used by anyone unable to operate it properly.
• Properly maintain dishwasher. See the "Caring for Your Dishwasher" section.

Dishwasher Safety

Your safety is important to us. This guide contains safety symbols and statements. Please pay special attention to these symbols and follow any instructions given. Here is a brief explanation of the use of the symbol.

⚠️ This symbol alerts you to hazards such as fire, electrical shock, or other injuries.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING - When using the dishwasher, follow basic precautions, including the following:

• Read all instructions before using the dishwasher.
• Use the dishwasher only for its intended function.
• Use only detergents or rinse agents recommended for use in a dishwasher and keep them out of the reach of children.
• When loading items to be washed:
  • Locate sharp items so that they are not likely to damage the door seal; and
  • Load sharp knives with the handles up to reduce the risk of cut-type injuries.
• Do not wash plastic items unless they are marked "dishwasher safe" or the equivalent. For plastic items not so marked, check the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Do not touch the heating element during or immediately after use.
• Do not operate the dishwasher unless all enclosure panels are properly in place.
• Do not tamper with controls.
• Do not abuse, sit on, or stand on the door or dish racks of the dishwasher.
• To reduce the risk of injury, do not allow children to play in or on the dishwasher.
• Under certain conditions, hydrogen gas may be produced in a hot water system that has not been used for two weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXPLOSIVE. If the hot water system has not been used for such a period, before using the dishwasher turn on all hot water faucets and let the water flow from each for several minutes. This will release any accumulated hydrogen gas. As the gas is flammable, do not smoke or use an open flame during this time.
• Remove the door to the washing compartment when removing an old dishwasher from service or discarding it.

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

For a grounded, cord connected dishwasher: The dishwasher must be grounded. In the event of a malfunction or breakdown, grounding will reduce the risk of electrical shock by providing a path of least resistance for electric current. The dishwasher is equipped with a cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug must be plugged into an appropriate outlet that is installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.

WARNING – Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a risk of electrical shock. Check with a qualified electrician or service representative if you are in doubt whether the dishwasher is properly grounded. Do not modify the plug provided with the dishwasher; if it will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.

For a permanently connected dishwasher: The dishwasher must be connected to a grounded metal, permanent wiring system, or an equipment-grounding conductor must be run with the circuit conductors and connected to the equipment-grounding terminal or lead on the dishwasher.

- SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS -

Parts and Features

Your dishwasher is illustrated below with the parts and features called out. To help you find information on specific parts or features quickly, page references are included.

Diagram Description: A line drawing of a dishwasher interior showing the top rack, third level wash (on some models), bottom rack, silverware basket, spray tower and protector, spray arm, water inlet opening, rack bumper, heating element, door latch, door color panel, access panel, overfill protector, detergent dispensers, and rinse agent dispenser. Labels point to each component with page references.

Series 400 models

Diagram Description: Control panel for Series 400 models showing a Whirlpool logo, an "Option selector switch", and a "Cycle control knob" with settings like NORMAL WASH, OFF, DRY, RINSE.

Series 800 and 806 models

Diagram Description: Control panel for Series 800 and 806 models showing a Whirlpool logo, an "Option selector switch", and a "Cycle control knob" with settings like LIGHT WASH, RINSE & HOLD, NORMAL WASH, OFF, DRY, RINSE.

Series 810 models

Diagram Description: Control panel for Series 810 models showing a Whirlpool logo, an "Option selector switch", and a "Cycle control knob" with settings like LIGHT WASH, NORMAL WASH, POTS & PANS, OFF, DRY, RINSE & HOLD, RINSE.

Series 830 models

Diagram Description: Control panel for Series 830 models showing a Whirlpool logo, "Selector buttons", and a "Cycle control knob" with settings like LIGHT WASH, NORMAL WASH, POTS & PANS, OFF, DRY, RINSE & HOLD, RINSE.

Series 840 models

Diagram Description: Control panel for Series 840 models showing a Whirlpool logo, "Cycle selector buttons", "Option selector buttons", and a "Cycle control knob" with settings like LIGHT WASH, NORMAL WASH, POTS & PANS, OFF, DRY, RINSE & HOLD, RINSE.

Starting Your Dishwasher

This section tells you how to start or stop your dishwasher. Refer to it for quick reference.

Before You Use Your Dishwasher

Diagram Description: Two warning boxes. The left box shows an illustration of a dishwasher tipping over and has the text "Tip Over Hazard". It warns not to use the dishwasher until completely installed and not to push down on the open door, as this can result in serious injury or cuts.

Diagram Description: The right box shows an illustration of a hand connecting a ground wire to a terminal and has the text "Electrical Shock Hazard". It warns to electrically ground the dishwasher, connect the ground wire to the green ground connector in the terminal box, not to use an extension cord, and that failure to do so can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.

Starting the Dishwasher

1. Load the dishwasher. See the "Loading Your Dishwasher" section.
2. Spin the spray arm. It should turn freely.
3. Add detergent. See the "Using the Dispensers" section.
4. Add rinse agent, if needed.
5. Close door firmly until it latches.
6. Run hot water at the sink nearest the dishwasher until water is hot. Turn off water.
7. Select a drying option. (See the "Setting the Controls" section.) For models with buttons, the indicator above the button will show red when the option has been selected. For models with rocker switches, the switch indicates which option has been selected. NOTE: Select Air Dry for the Rinse & Hold cycle. For Series 840 models, push a Cycle button for the desired cycle. Normal Wash, Light Wash, and Rinse & Hold cycles share the same button. The Cycle Control Knob determines which cycle operates. For Series 830 models, the Heat Dry option is automatically selected with the Pots & Pans cycle.
8. Turn the Cycle Control Knob clockwise to the desired cycle. You will feel a definite "stop" at each cycle mark. The dishwasher automatically starts the cycle you select. NOTE: If the door is latched, you will hear the cycles start and stop as the control knob passes each cycle mark. This is normal and does not hurt the dishwasher. If you prefer, you can set the Cycle Control Knob with the door unlatched.

Stopping the dishwasher

You can stop your dishwasher anytime during a cycle. All you have to do is:

• Open the door slightly. Wait for any filling or spraying action to stop before opening the door all the way. Close the door to continue the cycle.
• OR
• Turn the Cycle Control Knob slowly clockwise until you hear water draining. Let the dishwasher drain completely. Then open the door and turn the Cycle Control Knob to Off.

Loading Your Dishwasher

This section tells how to properly load your dishwasher for best washing and rinsing results.

Preparing to load your dishwasher

• To save water and energy, do not rinse dishes before putting them into the dishwasher.
• Remove large pieces of food, bones, and other hard items.
• Foods like eggs, rice, pasta, and cooked cereals may be hard to remove if left to dry over a period of time. Run a Rinse & Hold cycle to keep dishes moist if you do not plan to wash them soon.
• Load dishes so soiled surfaces face the rotating spray arm.
• Load dishes so they are not stacked or overlapping. It is important for the water spray to reach all soiled surfaces for best washing. For best drying, water must be able to drain from all surfaces.

Loading for quiet operation

• Secure lightweight load items in the racks.
• Pot lids and handles, pizza pans, cookie sheets, etc., should not touch interior walls, interfere with the spray arm's rotation, or cover the spray tower.
• Load dishes so they do not touch one another.
• NOTE: Keep sink drain plugs inserted during dishwasher operation to prevent noise transfer through drains.

Loading the silverware basket

Diagram Description: An illustration of a silverware basket with various utensils placed inside, some pointing up and some down.

Load the silverware basket while it is in the bottom rack or take the basket out for loading on a counter or table. NOTE: The loaded basket must be placed in the center front (over the spray tower) of the bottom rack for proper washing.

• Mix items in each section of the basket with some pointing up and some down to avoid nesting. Spray cannot reach nested items.
• IMPORTANT: Always load sharp items (knives, skewers, forks, etc.) pointing down.
• Put small items (baby bottle caps, jar lids, etc.) in any section.
• You can also remove the basket for easy unloading. Always unload or remove the basket before unloading the racks to avoid spilling water on the silverware.

Loading the bottom rack

Load items with cooked-on or dried-on food in the bottom rack, with soiled surfaces facing inward to the spray.

Mixed load

• Load plates, soup bowls, etc., between prongs and facing inward to the spray.
• Make sure pot handles and other items do not stop rotation of the spray arm. Spray arm must move freely.
• Load items so they do not block or cover the spray tower.
• Load heavily soiled cookware face down in rack.
• Do not stack or overlap dishes. Water spray must reach all soiled surfaces for best results.

Diagram Description: An illustration showing a bottom rack loaded with plates and bowls, with an arrow indicating "Do not cover spray tower".

Utensil load

• Load cookie sheets, cake pans, and other large items at sides and back. Loading such items in front may keep water spray from reaching detergent dispenser and silverware basket.

Diagram Description: An illustration showing a bottom rack loaded with larger items like cookie sheets and pans, with an arrow indicating "Bumpers must face dishwasher door".

• NOTES:
• Do not load glasses, cups, or plastic items in the bottom rack.
• Do not load items between the bottom rack and the dishwasher tub. This can block the water inlet opening.
• If you have removed the bottom rack for unloading or cleaning, replace it with bumpers in front.

Loading the top rack

Load the top rack with cups, glasses, and smaller items. Do not cover the third level wash (on some models) when loading the top rack.

Cup and glass load

• Load so open ends face down for cleaning and draining.
• Load glasses in top rack only – bottom rack is not designed for glasses. Damage can occur.
• Place items in the rows between prongs. Placing them over the prongs may lead to breakage.
• Secure lightweight items.
• China, crystal, and other delicate items must not touch each other during dishwasher operation. Damage may occur.

Diagram Description: An illustration showing a top rack loaded with cups and glasses, with an arrow indicating "Do not cover third level wash (on some models)".

Mixed load

• Small bowls, pans, and other utensils can be placed in the top rack.
• Load plastic items in the top rack only. Plastic items may melt in the bottom rack.
• Wash only plastic items marked "dishwasher safe."
• Load plastic items so the force of the spray does not move them during the cycle.

Diagram Description: An illustration showing a top rack loaded with mixed items including bowls and plastic containers.

Using the Dispensers

For best washing results, review the information below. It is important to use detergents and rinse agents properly.

Using the detergent dispenser

• Use automatic dishwashing detergent only. Other detergents are too mild and much too sudsy.
• Add detergent just before starting cycle.
• Store detergent tightly closed in a cool, dry place. Fresh automatic dishwasher detergent results in better cleaning.

Filling the detergent dispenser

The detergent dispenser has one section with a cover and one without. Push cover down firmly until it latches. Detergent in the open section falls into the dishwasher when closing the door. The covered section opens automatically for the main wash.

NOTE: It is normal for the cover to open partially when dispensing detergent.

Diagram Description: Illustrations showing the detergent dispenser cover and latch. Text indicates "Use only covered section for: Light Wash*" and "Use both sections for: Normal Wash, Pots & Pans*". An asterisk notes "Cycle on some models only.".

How much detergent to use

• The amount of detergent to use depends on the hardness of your water and the type of detergent. If you use too little, dishes won't be clean. If you use too much in soft water, glassware will etch.
• Different brands of dishwasher detergent have different amounts of phosphorus for softening water. If you have hard water and use low phosphorous content detergent (6.0% or less), you may need to use more detergent or use a detergent with a higher phosphorous content (8.7%).
• Find out your water's hardness by asking your local water department, water softener company, or county extension agent.

Fill amounts shown are for standard powdered detergent. Amounts may vary if you use liquid or concentrated powdered detergent. Follow manufacturer's directions when using liquid dishwasher detergent or concentrated powdered detergent.

Using the rinse agent dispenser

Keep the rinse agent dispenser filled with a liquid rinse agent. A rinse agent greatly improves dish drying by helping water flow off during the last rinse. A rinse agent also keeps water from forming droplets and drying as spots or streaks. A small amount of rinse agent automatically releases into the rinse water during the final rinse of each cycle. For best drying results, check dispenser periodically to see if it needs filling.

To check dispenser:

• Check center of Fill Indicator Cap. Clear means it needs filling.
• OR
• Remove Fill Indicator Cap. An "E" is visible when dispenser is empty.

To fill dispenser:

The rinse agent dispenser holds 6 ounces (175 mL). Under normal conditions, this lasts about 3 months.

1. Open dishwasher door completely.
2. Remove Fill Indicator Cap.
3. Add rinse agent. Fill to smallest opening in lower part of dispenser only. Overfilling may cause rinse agent to leak out. This will not harm the dishwasher, but could cause oversudsing.
4. Clean up any spilled rinse agent with a damp cloth.
5. Replace Fill Indicator Cap. Keep it closed tightly.

NOTE: You do not have to wait until the dispenser is empty before refilling, but do not overfill it. Your dishwasher is designed to use a liquid rinse agent. You do not need to use a solid or bar-type rinse agent.

Diagram Description: Illustrations show the rinse agent dispenser cap with "Cap center clear when empty" and "'E' visible when empty" labels. Another illustration shows hands filling the dispenser, with the text "Do not fill past smallest opening".

Setting the Controls

Operating your dishwasher's controls properly helps you obtain the best possible washing results. This section tells you how to select wash cycles and options.

Selecting a wash cycle

For Series 400, 800, 806, and 810 models: Turn Cycle Control Knob to desired cycle.

For Series 830 models: Press Pots & Pans button for that cycle. Or press either Heat Dry or Air Dry for Normal Wash and Light Wash cycles. Press Air Dry for Rinse & Hold cycle. Turn Cycle Control Knob to desired cycle.

For Series 840 models: Press a cycle pad, then turn the Cycle Control Knob to desired cycle. Normal Wash, Light Wash, and Rinse & Hold all share the same cycle pad.

NOTE: Your model may have all or some of the cycles shown.

* Cycle time includes dry time.

Canceling a cycle

You can cancel a cycle at any time.

1. Turn the Cycle Control Knob slowly clockwise until you hear water draining. Let the dishwasher drain completely.
2. Open the door.
3. Turn the Cycle Control Knob to Off.

Selecting cycle options

You can select a drying option after the dishwasher starts as long as the Cycle Control Knob has not reached Dry.

Heat Dry option

If the Heat Dry option is selected, air in the dishwasher is heated during the "dry" part of the cycle. For best results, use a liquid rinse agent.

For Series 830 models, the Heat Dry option is automatically selected with the Pots & Pans cycle.

Air Dry option

When Air Dry is selected, the air in the dishwasher is not heated during the "dry" portion of a cycle. Using Air Dry helps save energy, but dishes take longer to dry and some spotting can occur. Some items (such as plastics) may need towel drying. For best drying, use a liquid rinse agent.

NOTE: You must choose either Air Dry or Heat Dry for each wash cycle. Select Air Dry when using the Rinse & Hold cycle (Series 800, 806, 810, 830, and 840 models).

Diagram Description: Illustrations show control panel options for "AIR DRY" and "HEAT DRY" for different series of Whirlpool dishwashers.

Changing a cycle setting (on some models)

You can change a cycle setting anytime during any cycle.

1. Lift up the door latch to stop the cycle.
2. Turn the Cycle Control Knob clockwise to the desired cycle.
3. Check the detergent dispensers. They must be filled properly for the new cycle. NOTE: Turning the Cycle Control Knob can cause the covered section of the detergent dispenser to open and release the detergent. Check the covered section if setting Normal Wash or Pots & Pans cycle.
4. Close the door firmly until it latches. The dishwasher starts the new cycle.

Adding an item during a cycle (on some models)

You can add an item to the dishwasher anytime before the Cycle Control Knob reaches Light Wash. Items added after the Cycle Control Knob reaches Light Wash will only be rinsed.

1. Lift up the door latch to stop the cycle. Wait for spraying action to stop before opening the door.
2. Open the door and add the item.
3. Close the door, but do not latch it. Wait 30 seconds for the air in the dishwasher to warm up. Doing so reduces the amount of moisture in the vent when restarting a cycle.
4. Close the door firmly until it latches. The dishwasher resumes the cycle.

Washing Special Items

If you have any doubts about washing a particular piece of dishware, check with the manufacturer to see if it is dishwasher safe.

Connecting a Portable Dishwasher

Electrical connection

Diagram Description: A warning box with an electrical hazard symbol (lightning bolt in a hand). Text reads "Electrical Shock Hazard". It advises to plug into a grounded 3 prong outlet, not remove the ground prong, not use an adapter, and not use an extension cord. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.

A power supply of 120 volts, 60Hz AC, 15 or 20 amps, is required. For your personal safety, this appliance must be grounded. This appliance is equipped with a power supply cord having a 3-prong grounding plug. To minimize possible shock hazard it must be plugged into a mating 3-prong grounding type wall receptacle, grounded in accordance with the National Electrical Code and local codes and ordinances. If a mating wall receptacle is not available, it is the responsibility and obligation of the customer to have a properly grounded 3-prong wall receptacle installed by a qualified electrician.

NOTE: A special adapter must be installed on the faucet before the dishwasher can be connected. Complete instructions and the adapter are packed with your dishwasher.

When moving your dishwasher make sure the door is latched. Hold the dishwasher at the top front corners.

Diagram Description: An illustration showing a 3-prong grounding plug, a power supply cord, and a 3-prong grounding type wall receptacle.

Connecting the dishwasher

1. Run water at faucet until it is hot. Turn water off.
2. Pull hoses out of their storage compartment on the back of the dishwasher. NOTE: Make sure the hoses are not kinked or twisted. Kinked hoses reduce washing performance.
3. Pull down on the locking collar while lifting the hose connector onto the faucet adapter.
4. When the connector snaps into place, release the locking collar.
5. Turn the hot water on slowly until it is all the way on.
6. Plug in power supply cord.
7. See the "Starting Your Dishwasher" section for instructions on how to start the dishwasher.

Diagram Description: An illustration showing the hose connector being attached to a faucet adapter, with labels for "Locking collar" and "Hose connection".

Drawing water when dishwasher is connected

You can draw water from the faucet while the dishwasher is connected. Do not draw water while the dishwasher is filling or while water is being pumped out. (This helps prevent a low fill when dishwasher is filling or mixing drain water with fresh water.)

• Press the red button on the hose connector to draw water from faucet. (The faucet is set on hot. Adjust faucet for the water temperature you want.)

NOTE: Turn hot water back on after you draw water from faucet. Turn off cold water.

Disconnecting the dishwasher

1. Turn hot water off. (This can be done after the last rinse.)
2. Press the red button on the connector to release the water pressure.
3. Lift slightly on the hose connector while pulling down the locking collar. Pull down on the connector.
4. Empty any remaining water from the connector by turning the connector upside down.
5. Unplug power supply cord and return to storage compartment.
6. Return hoses to storage compartment.

Diagram Description: An illustration showing the hose connector being disconnected from the faucet adapter, with labels for "Locking collar" and "Hose connection".

Converting a portable dishwasher to a built-in

Your Whirlpool® Portable Dishwasher can be converted to a built-in (undercounter) model by using conversion kit No. 4317856. The kit is available at your Whirlpool dealer or authorized Whirlpool service company. Instructions are included with the kit.

Caring for Your Dishwasher

Your new dishwasher is designed to give you many years of dependable service. There are a few things you can do to maintain your dishwasher properly. This section tells you how to clean and care for your dishwasher. Refer to the "Solving Common Dishwasher Problems" section for special cleaning problems. See Installation Instructions for information on storing your dishwasher and for cleaning the drain air gap.

Caring for simulated wood top (on portable models)

The simulated wood top can be used as a utility work surface for most kitchen jobs. It is stronger and more easily cleaned than genuine wood. The top can be used as a cutting board. Knife marks will be visible, but will not seriously damage top. Hot items from the oven can be placed on the top. Clean top with warm, soapy water. For dried-on foods, use a scouring pad.

Cleaning the exterior

In most cases, regular use of a soft, damp cloth or sponge and a mild detergent is all that is necessary to keep the outside of your dishwasher nice looking and clean.

Diagram Description: An illustration showing a hand wiping the exterior of a dishwasher door with a cloth.

Cleaning the interior

Hard water minerals may cause a white film to build up on the inside surfaces, especially just beneath the door area. To clean interior:

• Apply powdered dishwasher detergent to a damp sponge to make a paste.
• OR
• Use liquid automatic dishwasher detergent and clean with damp sponge.

Do not clean the dishwasher interior until it has cooled. Wear rubber gloves. Do not use any type of cleanser other than dishwasher detergent because it can cause foaming or sudsing.

NOTE: See "Removing spots and film" in the Solving Common Dishwashing Problems section to clean your dishwasher with white vinegar. Remember, this procedure is intended for occasional use only. Vinegar is an acid. Excessive use can damage your dishwasher.

Overfill protector

The overfill protector (in the front right corner of the dishwasher tub) keeps the dishwasher from overfilling. It must be in place for the dishwasher to operate. Check under the float for objects that may keep the protector from moving up or down.

Cleaning the filter screen

The filter system requires periodic cleaning as needed. To clean screen:

1. Unload and slide the bottom rack forward. (Remove bottom rack if necessary to reach filter screen.)
2. Remove collected particles from the screen with your fingers or paper towel.
3. Return the bottom rack to original position.

Diagram Description: An illustration showing the filter screen at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, with an arrow indicating how to remove it.

Storing your dishwasher

Moving or winterizing your dishwasher

Protect your dishwasher and home against water damage due to freezing water lines. If your dishwasher is left in a seasonal dwelling or could be exposed to near freezing temperatures, have a qualified person do the following:

NOTE: Pump motor styles vary by model. Refer to Figure 1 or Figure 2, depending on the style of your dishwasher.

1. Disconnect power supply to the dishwasher.
2. Turn off water supply to the dishwasher.
3. Remove the 4 screws on the lower access panel and remove the lower access panel.
4. Place a shallow pan under the water supply valve. Then, use a wrench to disconnect the water inlet from the water supply valve. Separate the water inlet from the water supply valve and drain water into the pan.
5. Remove the spring clamp from the water outlet and separate from the water supply valve; drain water into pan.
6. Reconnect both water inlet and water outlet to the water supply valve.
7. Empty the pan and reposition it under the water pump.
8. Remove the clamp and disconnect the drain hose from the water pump; drain water into pan.
9. Reconnect drain hose to the water pump, being sure to position the clamp over the connection.
10. Replace the lower access panel.

Diagram Description: Figure 1 shows a diagram of the water pump area with labels for "Water supply valve", "Water inlet", "Water pump and motor", "Spring clamp", and "Drain hose". Figure 2 shows a similar diagram with slightly different component placement.

Reconnecting your dishwasher

1. Remove the 4 screws on the lower access panel and remove lower access panel.
2. Turn on the water supply to dishwasher.
3. Turn on power supply to dishwasher.
4. Run dishwasher through a complete cycle and check for leaks.
5. Replace lower access panel.

Storing for the summer

Protect your dishwasher during the summer months by turning off the water supply and power to the dishwasher.

NOTE: If your dishwasher is connected to a garbage disposal, do not run water into the sink after winterizing. This could cause water to refill the drain hose on your dishwasher.

Saving Energy

Saving energy is important and helps you save money. This section gives you tips on the best ways to save energy with your dishwasher.

Loading tips

• Wash full loads. Running a half-filled dishwasher uses the same amount of electricity and hot water as a fully loaded machine.
• Load correctly for best washing results. Incorrect loading may cause poor washing and the need to rewash all or part of load.
• Do not prerinse normally soiled dishes. Select the correct cycle for the load and use the recommended amount of detergent.

Cycle and option tips

• If your model has the Light Wash cycle, use it whenever possible. The cycle uses less hot water and energy than the Normal Wash cycle.
• Run your dishwasher during off-peak hours. Local utilities recommend avoiding heavy usage of energy at certain times of day.
• Use the Air Dry option whenever possible. Allow longer drying times (overnight). Use a rinse agent to improve drying.
• Loads may not wash or dry as well if the water temperature is too low. For best dishwashing results, water must be at least 120°F (49°C) as it enters the dishwasher.

To check water temperature:

1. Run the hot water at the faucet closest to your dishwasher. Let the water run for at least 1 minute.
2. Hold a candy or meat thermometer in the running stream of water. If the water temperature at the faucet is below 120°F (49°C), have a qualified person raise the water heater's thermostat setting.

Diagram Description: Two illustrations. The first shows running hot water from a faucet. The second shows a thermometer being held in the running water stream.

Solving Common Dishwashing Problems

A convenient checklist for handling minor performance problems. Go over this list before calling for service. If you are unable to solve your dishwasher's problem, turn to the "Troubleshooting" section for service information.

Solution chart

Removing spots and film

Keep the rinse agent dispenser filled with a liquid rinse agent. A rinse agent prevents water from forming droplets and drying as spots or streaks.

To remove spots and film on dishes and glasses, or hard water film/lime buildup on the interior of the dishwasher, you may use white vinegar with the following procedure:

1. Load clean dishes and glasses in dishwasher. Do not load silverware or other metals in the dishwasher.
2. Put 2 cups of household vinegar (in a glass or dishwasher safe measuring cup) standing upright in the bottom rack.
3. Close and latch the door.
4. Select the Normal Wash cycle and Air Dry option. Do not use detergent. Allow the dishwasher to complete the entire cycle.

NOTE: This cleaning procedure is intended for occasional use only. Vinegar is an acid. Excessive use may damage your dishwasher.

Troubleshooting

Before calling for assistance please check the chart below for problems you can fix. It could save you the cost of a service call.

Dishwasher problems

Requesting Assistance or Service

Before calling for assistance or service, please check the "Troubleshooting" section. It may save you the cost of a service call. If you still need help, follow the instructions below.

1. If you need assistance*

Call the Whirlpool Consumer Assistance Center telephone number.

Dial toll-free from anywhere in the U.S.A.: 1-800-253-1301

and talk with one of our trained consultants. The consultant can instruct you in how to obtain satisfactory operation from your appliance or, if service is necessary, recommend a qualified service company in your area.

If you prefer, write to:

Whirlpool Brand Home Appliances
Consumer Assistance Center
c/o Correspondence Dept.
2000 North M-63
Benton Harbor, MI 49022-2692

Please include a daytime phone number in your correspondence.

2. If you need service*

Whirlpool has a nationwide network of authorized service companies. Whirlpool service technicians are trained to fulfill the product warranty and provide after-warranty service, anywhere in the United States. To locate the authorized Whirlpool service company in your area, call our Consumer Assistance Center telephone number (see Step 1) or look in your telephone directory Yellow Pages under:

• APPLIANCE-HOUSEHOLD-MAJOR, SERVICE & REPAIR
  See: Whirlpool Appliances or Authorized Whirlpool Service (Example: XYZ Service Co.)
• WASHING MACHINES & DRYERS, SERVICE & REPAIR
  See: Whirlpool Appliances or Authorized Whirlpool Service (Example: XYZ Service Co.)

3. If you need FSP® replacement parts

FSP is a registered trademark of Whirlpool Corporation for quality parts. Look for this symbol of quality whenever you need a replacement part for your Whirlpool® appliance. FSP replacement parts will fit right and work right, because they are made to the same exacting specifications used to build every new Whirlpool appliance.

To locate FSP replacement parts in your area, refer to Step 2 or call the Whirlpool Consumer Assistance Center number in Step 1.

4. If you are not satisfied with how the problem was solved

• Contact the Major Appliance Consumer Action Program (MACAP). MACAP is a group of independent consumer experts that voices consumer views at the highest levels of the major appliance industry.
• Contact MACAP only when the dealer, authorized servicer, and Whirlpool have failed to resolve your problem.

Major Appliance Consumer Action Program
20 North Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60606

• MACAP will in turn inform us of your action.

*When asking for help or service: Please provide a detailed description of the problem, your appliance's complete model and serial numbers, and the purchase date. This information will help us respond properly to your request.

Index

This index is alphabetical. Look for the word or phrase you are interested in, then look for the page number.

Whirlpool Dishwasher Warranty

WHIRLPOOL WILL NOT PAY FOR

A. Service calls to:

1. Correct the installation of the dishwasher.
2. Instruct you how to use the dishwasher.
3. Replace house fuses or correct house wiring or plumbing.

B. Repairs when dishwasher is used in other than normal, single-family household use.

C. Pickup and delivery. This product is designed to be repaired in the home.

D. Damage to dishwasher caused by accident, misuse, fire, flood, acts of God, or use of products not approved by Whirlpool.

E. Repairs to parts or systems caused by unauthorized modifications made to the appliance.

WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so this exclusion or limitation may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Outside the United States, a different warranty may apply. For details, please contact your authorized Whirlpool dealer.

If you need service, first see the "Requesting Assistance or Service" section of this book. After checking "Requesting Assistance or Service," additional help can be found by calling our Consumer Assistance Center telephone number, 1-800-253-1301, from anywhere in the U.S.A.

PART NO. 3376815 Rev. A © 1996 Whirlpool Corporation ® Registered trademark of Whirlpool, U.S.A. 12/96 Printed in U.S.A.