Maytag Dishwasher Use and Care Guide

For Future Reference

Congratulations on your choice of a Maytag Jetclean™ dishwasher. This guide provides information on features, operation, and maintenance for unsurpassed cleaning, capacity, energy efficiency, and dependability.

For future reference, record your dishwasher's model and serial numbers. This information is located on the data plate on the upper left corner of the tub opening.

Model Number: [Space for Model Number]

Serial Number: [Space for Serial Number]

WARNING: Ensure the appliance is properly grounded to avoid electrical shock. Read the "Important Personal Safety Instructions" on page 2 before use.

Consumer Publications

Additional Maytag booklets are available for purchase. Contact Maytag Consumer Education, One Dependability Square, Newton, IA 50208. Allow 6-8 weeks for delivery.

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• Refrigerator - 276YG

Important Personal Safety Instructions

Follow these basic precautions when using your dishwasher:

1. Read all instructions before use.
2. Use the dishwasher only for its intended function.
3. Disconnect electrical power before servicing.
4. Ensure all panels are attached before applying power to avoid electrical shock hazard. Refer to installation instructions for grounding.
5. Connect to a properly rated power supply circuit to avoid overload.
6. Children should not operate or play in or around the dishwasher.
7. Load sharp or pointed items with handles up to prevent injury and damage to the door seal.
8. Avoid touching the heating element during or after a cycle as it may be hot.
9. Use only detergents and rinse additives designed for automatic dishwashers. Never use soap, laundry detergent, or hand washing detergent. Keep products out of reach of children.
10. Do not sit, stand on, or abuse the door or dish racks.
11. Hydrogen Gas Warning: If the hot water system has not been used for two weeks or more, hydrogen gas may be produced, which is explosive. Turn on all hot water faucets for several minutes to release accumulated gas before using the dishwasher. Do not smoke or use open flames during this process.
12. Wash only plastic items marked "dishwasher safe" or as recommended by the manufacturer.
13. Do not tamper with controls.
14. Always remove the door to the washing compartment when removing an old dishwasher from service or discarding it.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Using Your Dishwasher

Hot Water is Essential

For optimal cleaning and drying, water temperature should be 120°-140°F (49°-60°C). If your water heater delivers water below 120°F, use the "Temp Boost Sensor" option to heat the water.

To check water temperature: Run hot water from the nearest faucet into a glass until it is as hot as possible. Use a candy or meat thermometer to check the temperature. If below 120°F, have a qualified person adjust the water heater thermostat.

Before starting the dishwasher, run hot water from the faucet until it is hot.

Preparing Dishes

Rinsing dishes before loading is not necessary. Scrape off bones and large food pieces. The dishwasher's food disposer can handle items like pits, seeds, and toothpicks, chopping them into small pieces during the drain cycle.

• Scrape or soak foods burned onto utensils.
• Rinse stainless steel flatware if it will sit for a long time, as foods like mustard, mayonnaise, vinegar, or salt can cause rust and pitting.
• If draining into a food waste disposer, ensure it is empty before starting the dishwasher.

Loading Your Dishwasher

Your Maytag dishwasher is designed for flexibility. Follow these general recommendations for best results:

• Separate items and ensure soiled surfaces face the center for optimal water spray. Do not let items extend beyond the racks.
• Ensure upper and lower spray arms can move freely; do not block them with tall items or items hanging from racks.
• Do not block the detergent cup's water flow with large items.
• Place larger, flat, lightweight items (like plastic covers) next to the silverware basket or along rack sides/back.
• Avoid blocking the wash tower in the center of the lower rack, especially with tall items.

Upper Rack Loading

The upper rack is designed for glasses, cups, small plates, bowls, and pans. Load items in various positions to suit your needs.

• Leave a small space between glassware so pieces do not touch during the wash cycle. Do not place glasses over the tines.
• Dishes can be centered behind a single tine or loaded at an angle to maximize space.

The upper rack can be removed by pushing inward on the front rail ends to unsnap. To replace, reinsert the rack and snap the rail ends back into place.

Lower Rack Loading

Place large dinner plates and other dishes in convenient locations, ensuring soiled surfaces face the center.

• Load tall items like bakeware and large platters on the left side.
• Thin items (cookie sheets, pizza pans) can be placed behind the folding shelf. With the shelf down, two levels of glasses and cups can be loaded. Avoid placing items in short tines when the shelf is used.
• Convertible bowl tines in the right rear corner can be folded for narrow or wide spacing, accommodating serving bowls, plates, and pans.
• Small items like plates, saucers, or shallow bowls can be loaded in the elevated area behind the wash tower.

Flatware Loading

Place flatware in the silverware basket, mixing knives, forks, and spoons. Load some handles up and some down to prevent nesting. Load sharp or pointed items with handles up.

The silverware basket can be removed for easier loading. Use the covered section for small, lightweight articles like measuring cups and spoons.

Using Detergent and Rinse Aid

Detergent

Use only powder or liquid detergent specifically designed for automatic dishwashers. Store detergent in a cool, dry place.

Recommended Amount to Use: The amount depends on water hardness (gpg) and soil level. Generally, more detergent is needed for harder water and heavier soil.

Too little detergent can cause poor cleaning, filming, and spotting. Overuse, especially with chemically softened water, can cause permanent etching on glassware.

Guideline: 1 teaspoon of detergent per grain of water hardness (gpg). Minimum 3 teaspoons (1 tablespoon) in soft water.

Water Hardness & Detergent Use Chart:

Consult your local water utility for your water hardness. For water hardness of 13-14 grains, add 1 extra teaspoon per grain over 12 to the main wash. For water 15 grains or harder, a mechanical water softener may be necessary.

Adding Detergent

Add detergent just before selecting the cycle:

• Normal Cycle or Pots & Pans: Place detergent in both Prewash and Main Wash cups.
• Light/China: Place detergent in the Main Wash cup only.
• Quick Wash/Rinse: Place detergent in the Prewash cup only.
• Rinse & Hold: Do NOT use detergent.

Rinse Aid

The automatic rinse aid dispenser improves drying and reduces spotting and filming.

To fill: Turn the cap counterclockwise, pour rinse aid, and replace the cap, turning clockwise to the LESS setting. For hard water or better drying, turn towards the MORE setting.

The clear indicator in the center of the cap changes from dark to light when the reservoir is nearly empty.

Selecting Cycles and Options/Starting Dishwasher

The dishwasher control panel features various cycle settings and options.

Cycle Settings:

• Rinse & Hold: For rinsing a few dishes to be held until the dishwasher is full. (Approx. 7 Min, 2 Gal)
• Quick Wash/Rinse: For quickly washing dusty or lightly soiled dishes. (Approx. 17 Min, 5 Gal)
• Light/China: For china, crystal, and loads with medium to light soil. (Approx. 41 Min wash, 35 Min dry, 76 Min total + Heating Delay, 7 Gal)
• Normal Cycle: For normally soiled dishes, including those with problem soils. (Approx. 49 Min PreWash, 35 Min wash, 84 Min total + Heating Delay, 9 Gal)
• Pots & Pans: For heavy or dried soils. (Approx. 64 Min PreWash, 35 Min dry, 99 Min total + Heating Delay, 11 Gal)

*The TEMP BOOST SENSOR may extend the main wash to heat water. The HEATING DELAY indicator lights when this occurs due to low water temperatures.

Options:

• Temp Boost Sensor: Heats water to 120°F for better cleaning/drying if incoming water is cooler. May extend main wash and activate Heating Delay light. Press "Off" to cancel.
• Rinse Temp (Sani): Heats water during all rinses for improved drying. "Normal" uses no heated rinse.
• Fan Dry (Heat): Uses a heating element for fan drying. "Air" turns the element off for towel drying.

Temp Boost Sensor, Rinse Temp, and Fan Dry options can be used together or separately.

Starting the Dishwasher

1. After loading, set the dial to the desired cycle and press desired options.
2. Note: Run hot water from the tap to clear cold water from the line before starting.
3. Press the door until it latches. The cycle begins with a drain, then fill. The "On" indicator light will illuminate.

Indicator Lights:

• Delay Start: Glows until the cycle begins.
• On: Indicates the dishwasher is operating.
• Clean: Stays lit until the dial is advanced or the door is opened for more than 30 seconds (touch models).
• Heating Delay: Indicates the main wash is extended to heat water.

Adding a Forgotten Item

For best cleaning, add forgotten items early in the cycle:

1. Unlatch the door and wait for circulating water to stop.
2. Open the door and add the item.
3. Pause before latching the door; the cycle will resume from where it was interrupted.

Special Tips

For Best Results

• Hot Water: Essential for dissolving detergent, grease, and aiding drying. Ensure all loads use hot water (refer to page 3).
• Use Enough Detergent: Use the recommended amount for water hardness and soil level (refer to pages 6-7) to prevent filming and etching.
• Use a Rinse Aid: Improves drying and reduces spotting (see page 7).
• Load Properly: Follow loading instructions (pages 3-6) to ensure all surfaces receive wash action and spray arms move freely.
• Select Proper Cycle: Choose the cycle based on food soil level (see page 8).
• Select Heat Dry: For improved drying.

Water Conditions

Hard Water Deposit

Calcium buildup can cause a lime film or "cloudy" glasses. To test: Soak a glass in undiluted white vinegar for 5 minutes, rinse, and dry. If the film is removed, it's due to hard water.

To Correct:

1. Increase detergent amount based on water hardness (page 6).
2. Check water temperature (page 3).
3. Use a rinse aid (page 7).

To Remove Interior Film:

1. Use a damp cloth and mild scouring powder.
2. Run an empty Rinse & Hold cycle. During fill, add 1/2 cup white vinegar to the water. Complete the cycle without detergent, followed by a regular detergent wash.

Soft Water Etching

If vinegar doesn't remove the cloudy film, it may be etching (pitting of glass surfaces), which is permanent. It can occur with soft water, excessive detergent, heat, and prerinsing.

To Prevent:

1. Adjust detergent to water hardness (page 6).
2. Lower water temperature (page 3).
3. Do not manually pre-rinse dishes; this aggravates etching.

Rust

Iron or manganese in water can cause brown, red, or black discoloration on dishes and the dishwasher interior. To remove:

1. Use a rust remover like Rover Rust Remover (Maytag Part No. 57961).
2. Run an empty Rinse & Hold cycle. During fill, add 1/2 cup Rover Rust Remover. Complete the cycle, then run a detergent wash.

A permanent solution is installing special water filters.

Energy Saving Tips

• Wash Full Loads: A half-filled dishwasher uses the same energy as a full one.
• Do Not Pre-rinse: Select the correct cycle and use adequate detergent for normally soiled dishes.
• Load Correctly: Proper loading ensures good washing results and avoids rewashing.
• Use Light/China Cycle: For lightly soiled dishes, it uses less hot water and energy.
• Fan Dry (Air Dry): Use without heat for longer drying times (overnight) to save energy.
• Off-Peak Hours: Run the dishwasher during off-peak hours if your utility company offers lower rates.

What Can and Cannot Be Washed in Your Dishwasher

Most tableware, cookware, and silverware can be washed. Always check manufacturer recommendations. If unsure, test-wash a small item first.

Maintaining the Dishwasher

The interior is generally self-cleaning. Periodically check the bottom of the tub for food particles.

Clean the bottom edge of the dishwasher door liner, where food and liquids can drip.

To Remove Odors:

• Try a different detergent, especially a lemon-scented one.
• If odors persist, use the Rinse & Hold feature daily to remove food soil.
• Method 1: Place baking soda in both detergent dispenser sides. Run Light/China cycle for 10 minutes, stop by unlatching the door, let stand overnight, then restart to complete.
• Method 2: Run Light/China cycle. During fill, add 1 cup of chlorine bleach to the bottom of the dishwasher. Let the cycle complete.

Clean the control panel and front panel with a soft damp cloth and liquid spray cleaner. Avoid abrasive powders or pads.

Changing Panels

Your Maytag dishwasher may have reversible panel inserts for color customization. Consult your dealer or installation instructions for specific steps.

General steps involve removing trim strips, carefully bowing out the panels, replacing them with the desired color facing out, and reinstalling the trim.

Use care to avoid sharp edges and panel damage during this process.

Before You Call For Service

Check these points if your dishwasher has issues:

Leaves Food Soil on Dishes

• Check water temperature (page 3).
• Turn on hot water at the sink before starting.
• Use Temp Boost option if available.
• Check water hardness; a softener may be needed for extreme conditions.
• Use the recommended detergent amount for your water hardness.
• Use fresh, non-caked detergent.
• Select the proper cycle for the soil level.
• Ensure dishes are loaded properly, not blocking wash arms or dispenser.
• Check for nesting of dishes.
• Ensure glasses are not loaded over prongs.
• For convertible models, ensure the hot water faucet is on.

Leaves Glassware Cloudy or Spotted

• Adjust detergent amount based on water hardness (page 6). Avoid overuse/underuse.
• Check water temperature; avoid extremes (page 3).
• Use a rinse aid (e.g., Jet-Dry, Cascade Crystal Clear).
• Do not pre-rinse dishes.
• Refer to "Water Conditions" for more information.

Does Not Dry Properly

• Ensure Heat Dry option is selected.
• Use a rinse aid.
• Check water temperature (page 3).
• Select Temp Boost and Sani Rinse options if available.
• Increase detergent use according to water hardness.
• Check for improper loading; do not overload or allow dishes to nest.
• Plastic items and glasses with concave bottoms may hold water; towel drying may be required.
• Quick Wash/Rinse cycles may require towel drying.

Stains or Discolors Dishes

• Aluminum items may leave marks if they rub against other items; load properly.
• Iron deposits can cause yellow/brown film. Consider a water supply filter or periodic use of Rover Rust Remover (see Water Conditions).

Cycle Takes Too Long (Heating Delay Light Stays On)

• Temp Boost option may be selected, extending the cycle to heat water.
• Ensure water temperature is at least 120°F.

"Clean" Light Remains On (Select Models)

• Timer models: Turn dial slightly clockwise to the next setting.
• Touch control models: Light stays on until the door is opened for over 30 seconds.

Seems Noisy

• Water circulation and drain humming noises are normal.
• Dishes may not be loaded properly (touching each other).
• Wash arm may be hitting an item; load to avoid this.
• Chopping/grinding noise during drain may occur if the food disposer is chopping hard items (seeds, nuts).
• Detergent cup lid hitting the door liner when opening is normal.
• Installation factors (flooring, cabinetry) can affect noise.
• Water valve hiss during fill is normal.

Does Not Run Properly/Won't Fill

• Ensure door is tightly closed and latched.
• Check that the water supply is turned on.
• Verify the correct cycle is selected and the dial is fully turned or pad depressed.
• Cycle may start with a drain.
• Check home's circuit breaker or fuse box.
• Check for kinked inlet hose.
• Water inlet valve may be clogged with sediment.

Does Not Drain Properly

• Check that the cycle has completed.
• Dishwasher may be paused between cycles.
• Check for kinked drain hose.
• Ensure drain hose is elevated 32" during installation.
• Check home's circuit breaker or fuse box.
• Check for food backup in sink pipes; if using a food waste disposer, ensure its knockout plug was removed and it is run regularly.
• Some water remaining is normal to keep seals from drying.

Detergent Cup Did Not Empty Completely

• Check that the cycle has completed.
• Ensure dispenser is not blocked from wash action.
• Ensure dispenser was not wet when detergent was added.
• Check that large items in the upper rack are not blocking the detergent cup.
• Use fresh detergent stored in a dry, cool place.

Leaks

• Check if the dishwasher is level (refer to Installation Instructions).
• Excessive suds can cause overflow; measure detergent carefully and use only automatic dishwasher detergents.
• Follow directions for adding forgotten items.

Has an Odor

• Soiled dishes held too long can cause odors; use Rinse & Hold if available.
• A "new" smell is normal for new installations.
• Check "Does not drain properly" if odor persists.

Chips Dishware

• Load dishes according to instructions to prevent them from striking each other.
• Avoid washing fine antique china and crystal.
• Do not load glasses over rack tines or allow them to touch each other.
• Do not overload.

Dishwasher Warranty

This warranty covers parts and labor for specified periods, depending on the type of failure and warranty term (e.g., One Year, Two Year, Five Year, Twenty Year for leaks).

Warranties apply to appliances located in the United States or Canada. Appliances elsewhere are covered by limited warranties including parts failing during the first year.

Canadian Residents: Warranty covers appliances listed with Canadian Standards Association, unless brought into Canada due to residence transfer.

This warranty provides specific legal rights, which may vary by state.

To Receive Warranty Service

Contact your Maytag dealer or Maytag Customer Service:

• US: 1-800-688-9900
• CANADA: 1-800-688-2002

When contacting customer service, provide your appliance's model and serial number, dealer name and address, and date of purchase.

If a problem remains unsolved, write to: Major Appliance Consumer Action Panel, 20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606.

When writing about a service problem, include your name, address, phone number, appliance model/serial number, dealer information, a description of the problem, and details about water hardness, detergent, water temperature, and cycle used.