Frigidaire Dishwasher Use & Care

Introduction

Welcome to the Frigidaire family! This manual is your resource for the use and care of your Frigidaire dishwasher. Please read it before using your appliance and keep it handy for quick reference. For common issues, the troubleshooting section is available. FAQs, helpful tips, videos, cleaning products, and accessories are at www.frigidaire.com. Frigidaire offers support via website chat or phone. Please register your product.

Model Number:

Serial Number:

Purchase Date:

NOTE: Very Important Information - Read Before Operating Your Dishwasher!

Normal Operating Sounds

This Frigidaire dishwasher is quieter than many others. Its Precision Direct Wash System uses energy-efficient motors. Each cycle includes water fills and drains. You may or may not hear the drain motor. You will hear splashing water as it enters the tub, followed by the lower arm rotating and circulating water. A pause may occur, followed by a different sound as the upper arms spray water. Listen closely to hear the wash action switch between arms.

NOTE: Why Energy Efficient Units run long cycles

Energy efficiency is achieved by using more low-energy factors and fewer high-energy factors in the wash cycles. This results in longer wash cycles.

NOTE: Filter Cleaning

Clean the filters regularly to maximize wash performance. Refer to the "Recommended Frequency to Clean Your Filters" section for a cleaning schedule.

Important Safety Information

⚠ WARNING When using your dishwasher, follow basic precautions:

For your Safety:

• Use your dishwasher only as instructed in this Use and Care Manual.
• Use common sense and caution when installing, operating, and maintaining the appliance.
• NSF certified residential dishwashers are not intended for licensed food establishments.
• DISHWASHER MUST BE ELECTRICALLY GROUNDED. Refer to Installation Instructions.
• Operates on 120V, 60Hz. Use a 15 ampere fuse or circuit breaker. Use a 20 ampere fuse if connected with a food disposer.
• Do not operate without all enclosure panels in place.
• Remove door or latch mechanism from discarded dishwashers to prevent entrapment or suffocation.
• Keep young children and infants away from the operating dishwasher.
• Do not let children abuse, sit, stand, or play on the door or racks.
• Use only recommended detergents and rinse agents.
• Store detergents and rinse agents out of children's reach.
• Do not wash plastic items unless marked "Dishwasher Safe" or equivalent. Check manufacturer for recommendations. Items not marked safe may melt and create a fire hazard.
• Disconnect electrical power before servicing.
• If draining into a food disposer, ensure it is completely empty before running the dishwasher.
• Repairs should be done by a qualified technician.
• Do not tamper with controls.
• Do not touch the heating element during or immediately after the wash cycle.
• Use care when unloading a hot dishwasher, especially after using the Sanitize option. Contents may be hot.
• Water vapor from the vent may be hot when the Sanitize option is selected. Keep children away from the vent area.
• When loading items:
• Locate sharp items and knives to avoid damaging the door seal or tub.
• Load sharp items and knives with handles up to reduce cut injuries.
• Under certain conditions (e.g., hot water system unused for 2 weeks), hydrogen gas may be produced. Hydrogen gas is explosive. Before using, run hot water for several minutes to release accumulated gas. Do not smoke or use open flame during this time.
• Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids near the appliance.

⚠ WARNING To reduce the risk of fire, electrical shock, or injury, follow basic precautions.

⚠ WARNING Please read all instructions before using this appliance.

Safety Definitions

⚠ This is the safety alert symbol. Obey all safety messages to avoid possible injury or death.

DANGER

Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

IMPORTANT

Indicates installation, operation, or maintenance information that is important but not hazard-related.

Child Safety

Destroy or recycle carton, plastic bags, and wrapping material immediately after unpacking. Children should never use these items for play. Airtight chambers formed by materials like rugs, bedspreads, or plastic sheets can cause suffocation.

Safety Instructions

• DO NOT store or use gasoline or other flammable liquids near the appliance. Read product labels for warnings.
• Remove all staples from the carton. Staples can cause severe cuts and damage finishes.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Features

Your dishwasher cleans by spraying a mixture of hot water and detergent through spray arms against soiled surfaces. It first drains soils, then fills with water. Water is pumped through the spray arms, carrying soil particles through the filter and down the drain. This process repeats as needed, with the number of fills varying by cycle.

Dishwasher Components:

• A Shower Nozzle: The primary water spray outlet.
• B Top Rack: For loading cups, glasses, stemware, and small plates.
• C Serial Label: Located on the right side of the door.
• D Silverware Basket: For holding cutlery and utensils.
• E Lower Rack: For loading plates, saucers, bowls, and cookware.
• F Glass trap: Collects debris like glass, straws, bones, and pits.
• G Heating Element: Heats the water for washing and drying.
• H Detergent Dispenser: Holds detergent for the wash cycles.
• I Rinse Aid Dispenser: Dispenses rinse aid to improve drying and reduce spots.
• J Overfill Protector: Prevents the dishwasher from overfilling.
• K Lower Spray Arm: Sprays water onto items in the lower rack.
• L Middle Spray Arm: Sprays water onto items in the upper rack.
• M Cup Shelves: Foldable shelves in the upper rack for cups and small items.

IMPORTANT

Accessories are available for your appliance and may be purchased at Frigidaire.com or by calling 1-800-374-4432 (Frigidaire.ca or 1-800-265-8352 in Canada) or from an authorized seller.

Controls and Settings

NOTE: DishSense™ Technology

Your dishwasher uses DishSense™ Technology to sense the soil level on dishes and adjust the cycle accordingly.

CAUTION: Property Damage Hazard

Ensure the water is connected and turned on before starting the dishwasher to prevent damage to the pump seal and potential water leakage.

NOTE: Last Cycle Memory

The dishwasher remembers your last cycle. To start the same cycle and options, simply press the START/CANCEL pad.

Recommended Cycle for typical use:

The Normal cycle with default Normal temperature and Heated Dry options offers the best all-around performance for everyday use, suitable for various load sizes and soil levels.

NOTE: Cycle Availability

Not all cycles and options are available on all models.

Option Selections

1. Wash Cycle Selections: Cycle times vary with options. Hot water is essential for detergent activation and melting fatty soils. An automatic sensor checks water temperature; if insufficient, the cycle lengthens for automatic water heating. High Temp wash selects an even higher temperature for heavier soil loads.
2. Temp: Default is Normal cycle. Press the Temp pad to select High.
3. High Temp Option: Selects approximately 155°F (68°C) water temperature for better grease and soil removal and improved drying. Available on all cycles except Rinse Only. Automatically provided with Heavy Wash. The indicator light stays on until the cycle ends. Press again to turn off.
4. Heat Dry: Enhances drying performance when used with rinse aid. Costs minimal energy per cycle. Items may not be completely dry if this option is not selected.

Select the Normal Wash and High Temp options along with Rinse Aid for improved drying performance.

Control Lock

To prevent accidental changes, press and hold the Options pad for 3 seconds while the door is latched. A lock indicator light will illuminate. Press again for 3 seconds to unlock.

4. Delay Time

The Delay Start option delays the start of a wash cycle by 4 hours. Press and hold the Options pad for 3 seconds to activate. The indicator light will illuminate. Press START/CANCEL to set. Press START/CANCEL again to resume if interrupted. To cancel, press and hold START/CANCEL for 3 seconds.

5. Start/Cancel Button

Press START/CANCEL and close the door to start a cycle. Press and hold START/CANCEL for 3 seconds during a cycle to cancel. The dishwasher will drain, and indicator lights will go out except for START/CANCEL.

6. Status Indicator Lights

The Clean light illuminates at the end of the cycle and remains on until the door is opened.

Operating Instructions

Getting Started

1. Load Dishwasher (See Dish Preparation).
2. Add detergent (See Filing the Detergent Dispenser).
3. Add Rinse Aid, if needed (See Rinse Aid).
4. Select desired Cycle. The cycle indicator light will glow.
5. Select desired Option. The indicator light beside the option will glow.
6. Run hot water faucet nearest dishwasher until water is hot. Turn water off.
7. Press START/CANCEL pad.
8. Immediately close door to latch.

NOTE: If the dishwasher door is opened while running, press START/CANCEL and shut the door within 10 minutes to continue the cycle.

Cycle and Option Chart

*Does not include drying time.

Dish Preparation

Scrape away large food pieces, bones, pits, and toothpicks. The filtered wash fluid removes remaining food particles. Loosen burned-on foods before loading. Empty liquids from glasses and cups.

Foods like mustard, mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, and tomato-based products can discolor stainless steel and plastics if left for a long period. Pre-rinse or use the rinse-only cycle if the dishwasher won't be operated immediately.

• Load racks so large items do not block the detergent dispenser.
• Check manufacturer recommendations for specific items.
• If draining into a Food Disposer, ensure it is completely empty before starting.

Loading the Top Rack

The upper rack is designed for flexibility with items like cups, glasses, stemware, and small plates. Load glasses and plastic items in the top rack only. Load items with open ends facing down for better cleaning and draining. Delicate items should not touch each other. Long-handled knives and utensils can be placed here. Ensure nothing protrudes through the rack to block the middle spray arm.

Some models have fold-down cup shelves or stemware holders. These can hold two levels of cups or glasses. Stagger items on the upper level for better water access. Fold up to load tall glasses.

Loading Patterns: The manual illustrates 10 and 12 place settings standard loading patterns.

Upper Rack

The UPPER RACK option can wash a variety of items when you don't have a full load. If the upper rack is full of glasses and the lower rack is empty, you don't need to wait for clean glasses.

STEMWARE HOLDER/CUPSHELF may not be available on all models. To attach a cup shelf, place clips over horizontal rack wires and push down onto the second wire.

Loading the Bottom Rack

The lower rack is best for plates, saucers, bowls, and cookware. Place large items along the edge to avoid blocking the spray arm. For best results, place bowls, casseroles, and sauce pans with soiled surfaces facing down or toward the center, tilted slightly for drainage. Ensure tall items and pan handles do not block spray arm rotation.

Loading Pattern: The manual illustrates a 10 place settings standard loading pattern.

Loading the Silverware Basket

CAUTION: Sharp Items

Load sharp items like knives and skewers pointing down to prevent injury.

Load the silverware basket while it is in the bottom rack or remove it for loading on a counter or table. Mix items in each section with some pointing up and some down to avoid nesting, as water spray cannot reach nested items. Do not mix silver and stainless steel to avoid damaging silver finishes.

Loading Pattern: The manual illustrates a 12 place settings standard loading pattern.

Adding a Dish

To add or remove items after the wash cycle starts:

1. Unlatch the door and wait a few seconds for wash action to stop before opening.
2. Add the item and wait a few seconds for cold air to slowly expand inside.
3. Close the door firmly and press START/CANCEL to resume.

Filling the Detergent Dispenser

The dispenser has two cups: a smaller one for pre-wash and a larger one for the main wash. Use only fresh automatic dishwashing detergent; others may cause oversudsing. For detergent tabs, place one in the main wash cup. Add detergent just before starting the cycle. Store detergent in a cool, dry location.

CAUTION: Industrial Detergent

Industrial grade detergent can damage the heating coil and other parts. Use only household grade automatic dishwasher detergents.

Detergent Dispenser Diagram: Shows Cover, Rinse Aid Indicator, Main Wash Cup, Cover Latch, and Pre-Wash Cup.

How much Detergent to use

Detergent amount depends on water hardness (measured in grains per gallon). Too little detergent results in poor cleaning and spotting. Too much in soft water can cause etching on glassware.

Detergent Usage Chart

For very hard water, use 1 teaspoon per grain above 12. A water softener is recommended.

Rinse Aid

Rinse aid improves drying, reduces water spots and filming, and lubricates wash arm bearings. It helps water sheet off dishes. The dispenser automatically releases rinse aid during the last rinse. If spotting or poor drying occurs, increase rinse aid by rotating the dial to a higher number. The indicator is dark when full and clear when low.

To add rinse aid, turn the dispenser cap 1/4 turn counterclockwise, lift, and pour until liquid reaches the fill level. Do not overfill. Wipe up spills.

The dispenser holds enough for 35 to 140 washes.

Rinse Aid Dispenser Diagram: Shows Dispenser Opening, Indicator (Full/Add), Dispenser Cap, and Adjustable Setting.

The HEAT DRY option with rinse aid enhances drying. You may choose not to select HEAT DRY, but items may not be completely dry.

Water Pressure

The hot water line must provide 20 to 120 psi. Low water pressure may occur during laundry or shower use; wait until water use is reduced.

Water Temperature

Hot water (at least 120°F / 49°C) is needed for best results. To check temperature: run hot water faucet for several minutes, then hold a thermometer in the stream. If below 120°F (49°C), have a qualified person adjust the water heater thermostat.

IMPORTANT: Before starting a cycle, run hot water to clear cool water from the pipe.

Care and Cleaning

To empty the glass trap:

1. Pull the glass trap handle up and out to remove.
2. Empty collected debris.
3. Slide the glass trap back into position and push down to lock.

⚠ WARNING: Burn Hazard

Allow heating element to cool before cleaning the interior.

Outer Door: Clean with warm soapy water and a sponge/cloth. Rinse and dry. Do not use harsh cleaners.

Inside: The interior and filter are self-cleaning with normal use. Clean around the tub gasket area with a damp cloth if needed. The filter is self-cleaning; the glass trap collects debris.

Overfill Protector: Located in the left front corner of the tub. It should move up and down freely about one inch. If it does not, lift and clean underneath.

Clean occasionally with household cleaner containing vinegar or bleach to dissolve buildup.

NOTE: Hard Water Buildup

Hard water can cause lime deposit buildup. Refer to "Removing Spots and film" section for cleaning instructions.

Care of Drain Air Gap

If a drain air gap is installed, ensure it is clean for proper draining. It is usually mounted on the countertop and can be inspected by removing the cover. This is not part of the dishwasher and is not covered by warranty.

Winterizing

If the dishwasher will be left in an unheated place, protect it from freezing. Have a qualified person perform the following:

To Disconnect Service:

1. Turn off electrical power at the source (fuse or circuit breaker).
2. Shut off water supply.
3. Place a pan under the inlet valve. Disconnect water line and drain into pan.
4. Disconnect drain line from pump and drain water into pan.

To Restore Service:

1. Reconnect water, drain, and electrical power supply.
2. Turn on water and electrical power supply.
3. Fill both detergent cups and run a HEAVY WASH cycle.
4. Check connections for leaks.

NOTE: See Installation Instructions for more details.

Troubleshooting

Before You Call:

Review this list to save time and expense. It covers common experiences not due to defects.

Food Soils Left on Dishes

• Choose a longer wash cycle.
• Check rack loading for proper placement to avoid nesting.
• Do not overload the dishwasher.
• Ensure the glass trap is maintained and installed properly.
• Check home water pressure (should be 20-120 psi).
• Check incoming water temperature (should be at least 120°F / 49°C).
• Check water hardness; a water softener may be needed for extremely hard water.
• Use fresh detergent.
• Ensure items do not block spray arms.

Dishes not Dry

• Select Heat Dry or High Temp Wash for better drying.
• Ensure the rinse aid dispenser is filled.
• Increase the rinse aid discharge setting.
• Check incoming water temperature (at least 120°F / 49°C).
• Check for proper loading to avoid nesting.
• Plastic items may need towel drying.
• Load cups with concave bottoms at the far left of the upper rack, tilted for drainage.
• Place containers, bowls, pots/pans, and dishware with concave surfaces facing or angled down for drainage.

Drying Tip

Select NORMAL WASH and HI-TEMP WASH pads along with Rinse Aid for improved drying performance.

Glassware/Flatware Spotted or Cloudy

• Check water hardness; a water softener may be needed for extremely hard water.
• Water temperature may be low. Avoid extreme temperatures.
• Avoid overloading and improper loading.
• Use fresh detergent.
• Ensure rinse aid dispenser is filled.
• Check detergent amount for the selected cycle.
• Check home water pressure (should be 20-120 psi).

Dishware Chipped

• Load with care and do not overload.
• Place delicate items in the top rack.
• Place glasses securely against pins, not over them.
• Load items securely so they don't jar loose when moving racks. Move racks slowly.
• Ensure tall glasses and stemware clear the tub top when the rack is pushed in.
• Fine antique china and crystal should be hand-washed.

Dishware Stained or Discolored

• Tea and coffee stains on cups: hand wash with a solution of 1/2 cup bleach and 1 quart warm water; rinse thoroughly.
• Iron deposits can cause a yellow/brown film. A special filter may correct this.
• Aluminum utensils can leave gray/black marks. Load properly.
• High acid foods can discolor stainless steel and plastics. Rinse by hand if not operating the dishwasher immediately.
• Mixing stainless steel and silver utensils can cause pitting. Avoid mixing them.

Etching

• Using too much detergent, especially in soft water, causes film-like damage that cannot be removed.
• Adjust detergent amount based on water hardness.
• Lower water temperature by selecting the Normal Cycle.

Dishwasher Won't Fill

• Ensure water supply is turned on.
• Check that the overfill protector moves freely.

Detergent Left in Cups

• Detergent may be old; use fresh detergent.
• Ensure the dish load does not spray into the detergent cup.
• Check if the cycle has been completed.
• Make sure items do not prevent the detergent dispenser from opening.

Vapor at Vent

• Water vapor escaping from the vent during drying is normal.
• Spilled rinse aid can cause foam and overflowing. Wipe spills with a damp cloth.
• Check that the dishwasher is level.

Normal Sounds You Will Hear

• Normal sounds include water fill, circulation, and motor sounds.
• A noticeable sound change occurs when the wash action switches between spray arms.
• It is normal for the dishwasher to pause (no sound) during spray arm switching.

Water in Bottom of Tub

Water left in the tub bottom after the cycle is not normal and may indicate a draining issue.

Dishwasher Leaks

• Check that the door gasket is properly seated in its channel and does not interfere with door closure.
• Spilled rinse aid can cause foam and overflowing. Wipe spills with a damp cloth.
• Ensure the dishwasher is level.
• Avoid oversudsing by using the correct detergent amount.

Dishwasher Won't Run

• Check if the circuit breaker is tripped or a fuse is blown.
• Ensure water supply is turned on.
• Check if the cycle is set correctly.
• Check if the Delay Start Option is active.
• Ensure the door is closed and latched.
• Ensure the START/CANCEL pad is pressed after cycle selection.

Dishwasher Does Not Drain Properly

• If connected to a food waste disposer, ensure it is empty.
• Verify the knockout plug was removed from the food waste disposer inlet.
• Ensure the drain hose is not kinked.
• Make sure the cycle is complete and not paused.
• Ensure the glass trap is maintained and installed properly, free of clogs.

Cycle Takes a Long Time

• The cycle may automatically lengthen to reach temperature due to cool water supply or a large load.
• Check if the Delay Start option was selected.
• Choose lower temperature options to shorten the cycle.
• Soil-sensing cycles adjust automatically; heavier soils result in longer cycles.

Dishwasher has an Odor

• Soiled dishes left too long can create an odor.
• A "new" smell upon installation is normal.
• Check if the unit is draining properly.

Stains on Tub Interior

Washing large amounts of tomato-based soil can cause a pink/orange appearance, which will fade over time and does not affect performance. Pre-rinsing can reduce staining. Using no heat dry option may lessen staining.

Opening the door during cycle

If the door is opened during a cycle, press START/CANCEL and shut the door immediately within 10 minutes to resume the selected cycle and options.

Removing Spots and Film

Hard water can cause lime deposit buildup, spots, and film. To remove buildup:

1. Load clean dishes and glasses normally. Do not load metal utensils or silverware.
2. Do not add detergent.
3. Select the Normal Wash cycle, close and latch the door, then press START/CANCEL.
4. Allow the dishwasher to run until it starts the second water fill (approx. 10 minutes).
5. Unlatch and open the door. Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher.
6. Close and latch the door and allow the cycle to finish.

Limited Warranty

Your appliance is covered by a one-year limited warranty from the original purchase date for defects in materials or workmanship, provided it is installed, used, and maintained according to instructions. The stainless tub and door liner have a lifetime limited warranty for leaks due to defects. Racks and the electronic control module are covered by a two-to-five-year limited warranty.

Exclusions:

1. Products with altered or missing serial numbers.
2. Products transferred from the original owner or removed from the USA or Canada.
3. Rust on interior or exterior.
4. Products purchased "as-is".
5. Food loss due to refrigerator/freezer failures.
6. Products used in commercial settings.
7. Service calls not involving defects or for non-ordinary household use.
8. Service calls for installation correction or user instruction.
9. Expenses for making the appliance accessible for servicing (e.g., removing trim, cupboards).
10. Service calls to replace consumables like bulbs, filters, or cosmetic parts.
11. Labor or in-home service costs beyond the first year.
12. Pickup and delivery costs; repairs are designed for in-home service.
13. Surcharges for after-hour, weekend, holiday calls, tolls, ferry charges, or mileage to remote areas.
14. Damages to appliance finish or home incurred during transportation or installation.
15. Damages caused by unauthorized service, non-genuine parts, abuse, misuse, inadequate power supply, accidents, fires, or acts of God.

DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES; LIMITATION OF REMEDIES

Customer's sole remedy is repair or replacement. Implied warranties are limited to one year or the shortest period allowed by law. Electrolux is not liable for consequential or incidental damages. Some states/provinces may not allow these limitations.

If You Need Service

Keep your receipt or payment record to establish the warranty period. Obtain and keep all service receipts. Service must be obtained by contacting Electrolux.

This warranty applies only in the USA, Puerto Rico, and Canada.

USA Contact:

Frigidaire

1-800-374-4432

10200 David Taylor Drive

Charlotte, NC 28262

Canada Contact:

Electrolux Canada Corp.

1.800.265.8352

5855 Terry Fox Way

Mississauga, Ontario, Canada L5V 3E4

Welcome Home

Visit Frigidaire for help with owner support, accessories, service, and registration. See your registration card for more information.

Frigidaire.com

1-800-374-4432

Frigidaire.ca

1-800-265-8352