Dishwasher Quick Start Guide

Getting Started: 5 Easy Steps

1. Step 1: Prepare and Load the Dishwasher

   Refer to the Key Usage Tips for detailed information on loading your dishwasher.

2. Step 2: Add Detergent and Rinse Aid

   Consult the Key Usage Tips for guidance on adding detergent and rinse aid.

3. Step 3: Check Spray Arm Rotation

   Ensure all spray arms spin freely. Items in the rack can obstruct the spray arms.

4. Step 4: Select a Cycle and Options

   Efficient dishwashers use longer cycles to conserve water and energy, similar to how slower driving saves fuel. Typical cycle duration is about 2.5 hours but can vary based on selections.

   You can customize cycles by selecting desired options. To deselect an option, select it again. Not all options are available for every cycle. Invalid option selections for a cycle will cause indicator lights to flash. Adding options may extend cycle time.

   NOTE: Cycle and option availability varies by model. Consult the online Cycle and Options Guide for more details.

5. Step 5: Start or Resume a Cycle

   IMPORTANT: If the door is opened (e.g., to add a dish, even during a Delay Hours option), the Start/Resume button must be pressed each time.

   • If the Start/Resume button is on the top of the door: Close the door firmly within 4 seconds of pressing Start/Resume. Failure to do so will cause the Start/Resume button LED to flash, an audible tone to sound, and the cycle will not begin.
   • If the Start/Resume button is on the front of the door: Close the door firmly. The door latches automatically. Select the wash cycle, options, and then press Start/Resume.

   NOTE: Run hot water at the sink nearest your dishwasher until it is hot. Then, turn off the water.

   NOTE: Press Start/Resume each time you add a dish.

Cycle Guide

This information covers several different models. Your dishwasher may not have all of the cycles and options described.

*The government energy certifications are not based on this cycle and may increase your energy usage. See the Normal cycle description for the government energy certification cycle.

**No other washing and drying temperature options were selected, and the dishwasher was not subjected to truncated testing. Rinse aid was not used, and there was no detergent used in the prewash.

Online Ordering & Support Information

For detailed installation instructions, maintenance information, winter storage, and transportation tips, please consult the Owner's Manual included with your machine.

For comprehensive information including a full cycle guide, detailed product dimensions, or complete instructions for use and installation, visit:

• https://www.whirlpool.com/owners (United States)
• https://www.whirlpool.ca/owners (Canada)

This may help you avoid the cost of a service call.

If you need to contact Whirlpool, use the information below for your region:

Key Usage Tips

Loading the Dishwasher

IMPORTANT: Remove leftover food, bones, toothpicks, and other hard items from dishes. Remove labels from containers before washing.

NOTE: Upper and lower racks may vary by model.

• Ensure no items block the detergent dispenser when the dishwasher door is closed.
• Load items with soiled surfaces facing down and inward toward the spray arms for improved cleaning and drying. Angle dirtiest dish surfaces downward to allow water to flow up through the rack and between dishes.
• Avoid overlapping items like bowls or plates that may trap food.
• Place plastics, small plates, and glasses in the upper rack.
• Wash only items marked "dishwasher safe."
• To prevent thumping/clattering noises during operation, load dishes so they do not touch one another. Secure lightweight load items in racks.
• Use provided slots and suggested loading patterns to keep silverware separated for optimal washing.
• If silverware does not fit designated slots, lift and slide covers off to remove them and mix silverware types for separation.
• When loading silverware, always place sharp items pointing down and avoid "nesting."
• NOTE: Silverware basket configuration may vary by model.

[Diagram Description: Diagrams illustrate proper loading of upper and lower racks, and silverware basket, showing item placement for optimal cleaning.]

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is achieved by extending cycle times and reducing the wattage and water used. Longer cycles, including soak and pause periods, contribute to exceptional cleaning performance.

Efficient dishwashers run longer to save water and energy, much like slower driving saves fuel. The initial cycle will be longer to calibrate the optical water sensor.

Adding Detergent

Premeasured Detergents

High-quality premeasured tablets and packs are recommended for superior performance. These are proven more effective than powder, liquid, or gel detergents at reducing filming on dishes. Consistent use of tablets and packs helps reduce or eliminate white film over time. They are suitable for all water hardness and soil levels. Using rinse aid can further minimize white film buildup (note that not all packs and tablets include rinse aid). Always place premeasured detergents in the main compartment and close the lid.

NOTE: For other types of dishwasher detergent, follow package instructions. Refer to the complete Owner's Manual for details on powders, liquids, and gels.

• Use only automatic dishwasher detergent. Add detergent just before starting a cycle.
• Using fresh automatic dishwasher detergent ensures better cleaning. Store the detergent container tightly closed in a cool, dry place.

Filtration System (On some models)

IMPORTANT: Do not operate the dishwasher without filters properly installed to prevent damage. Ensure the lower filter is securely in place and the upper filter assembly is locked. If the upper assembly turns freely, it is not locked.

This dishwasher features advanced filtration technology designed to minimize sound and optimize water usage for superior cleaning. The filter system comprises two parts: an upper filter assembly and a lower filter.

[Diagram Description: Diagram shows the two-part filtration system: an upper filter assembly and a lower filter.]

Top Rack Adjuster (On some models)

This feature allows you to raise or lower the top rack to accommodate tall items in either the top or bottom rack. Adjusters are located on each side of the top rack.

• To raise the rack: Press both rack adjuster thumb levers simultaneously and lift the rack until it is in the up position and level.
• To lower the rack: Press both rack adjuster thumb levers simultaneously and slide the rack down to its lowest position, ensuring it is level.

NOTE: The top rack must be level for proper operation.

Adding Rinse Aid

Your dishwasher is designed to use rinse aid for optimal drying performance. Without rinse aid, dishes and the interior may retain excessive moisture, and the heated drying option will be less effective.

Rinse aid prevents water from forming droplets that can cause spots or streaks. It also aids drying by allowing water to drain off dishes after the final rinse. Rinse aid does not adhere to dishware and is dispensed during each cycle.

Check the rinse aid indicator (location varies by model) with the door down. Add rinse aid when the indicator shows "Add" level.

[Diagram Description: Visual depicts a rinse aid dispenser with indicators for "Full", "Add", and "Lock" positions.]

• For hinged lid dispensers: Twist the dispenser cap 1/4 turn clockwise to open and lift it off. Pour rinse aid into the opening until the indicator reaches "Full." Replace the cap and turn it to "Lock," ensuring it is fully secured.
• For sliding lid dispensers: Open the lid by gently pushing the center with your thumb and pulling up on the edge. Pour rinse aid into the opening until the dispenser is full. Close the dispenser by gently pushing down on the lid.

If drying performance is poor, consider increasing the rinse aid setting. Turn the arrow adjuster to a higher number to dispense more rinse aid.

NOTE: The factory setting typically provides good results for most water conditions.

Following Cycle Progress

Indicator lights will show the progress of your cycle, such as Add Dish, Washing, Drying, Clean, and Sanitized. The cycle is complete when the "Clean" light is illuminated. Refer to the online Cycle and Options Guide for details on the Sanitized indicator operation.

[Diagram Description: Visual shows indicator lights labeled "1 2 3 4" representing cycle progress stages.]

Recommended Detergent

Restrictions on phosphorus (phosphates) in household dishwasher detergents have been enacted in the United States and Canada. Major manufacturers have reformulated their detergents to comply with these changes, reflecting a commitment to environmental awareness. Due to these updates, using tablets and packs is recommended for convenience and enhanced performance.