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 for quick reference. The troubleshooting section is available for common issues. FAQs, helpful tips, videos, cleaning products, and accessories are available at www.frigidaire.com. For assistance, visit the website, chat with an agent, or call for help. Register your product to keep your product information handy.
Model Number:
Serial Number:
Purchase Date:
Note: Filters need regular cleaning for optimal wash performance. Refer to the "Recommended Frequency to Clean Your Filters" section for a cleaning schedule.
Note: This dishwasher is quieter than most and uses energy-efficient motors. You may notice different sounds compared to previous models. The drain motor may be heard, followed by water entering the tub.
Note: The dishwasher remembers your last cycle. Press START to use the same cycle and options.
Note: Not all cycles and options are available on all models.
Note: Energy-efficient units may have longer cycles. This is due to the efficient use of energy-consuming factors.
Important Safety Information
Warning: Please read all instructions before using this dishwasher.
For your Safety:
- Use your dishwasher only as instructed in this User Manual.
- Use common sense and caution when installing, operating, and maintaining any appliance.
- NSF certified residential dishwashers are not intended for licensed food establishments.
- The dishwasher must be electrically grounded. Refer to Installation Instructions.
- This dishwasher operates on regular house current (120V, 60Hz). Use a circuit with a 15 ampere fuse or circuit breaker. Use a 20 ampere fuse if connected with a food disposer.
- Do not operate the dishwasher unless all enclosure panels are in place.
- Remove door or door 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.
- Wash plastic items only if marked "Dishwasher Safe" or equivalent. Check manufacturer recommendations if not marked. Non-dishwasher safe items may melt and create a fire hazard.
- Disconnect electrical power before servicing.
- If the dishwasher drains into a food disposer, ensure the disposer is 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 use.
- Use care when unloading the dishwasher after using the Sanitize option, as contents may be hot.
- Water vapor from the vent may be hot. Use care and keep children away from the vent area.
- When loading items: Locate sharp items and knives with handles up to reduce the risk of cut-type injuries.
- Under certain conditions, hydrogen gas may be produced in a hot water system not used for 2 weeks or more. Hydrogen gas is explosive. If the hot water system has not been used for a period, turn on hot water for several minutes before using the dishwasher to release accumulated hydrogen gas. Do not smoke or use an open flame during this time.
- Do not store or use combustible materials, gasoline, or other flammable vapors and liquids near the appliance.
Warning: Follow basic precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electrical shock, or injury.
Warning: This symbol alerts you to dangers such as personal injury, burns, fire, and electrical shock.
Child Safety: Destroy or recycle carton, plastic bags, and exterior wrapping immediately after unpacking. Children should NEVER use these items to play. Cartons covered with materials can become airtight chambers and cause suffocation.
Safety Instructions:
- DO NOT store or use gasoline, or other flammable liquids near any 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. The process involves draining, filling, pumping water through spray arms, and filtering soil particles. The number of water fills varies by cycle.
Features may vary according to model.
| Label | Component | Label | Component |
| A | Nozzle or Spray Arm (located inside the unit) | H | Heating Element |
| B | Bowl Tines | I | Rinse Aid Compartment |
| C | Top Rack | J | Detergent Dispenser |
| D | Serial Label (Located on Right) | K | Overfill Protector |
| E | Lower Rack | L | Lower Spray Arm |
| F | Silverware Basket | M | Middle Spray Arm |
| G | Glass Trap | N | Cup Shelves |
Important: Accessories are available at Frigidaire.com or by calling 1-800-374-4432 (USA) or 1-800-265-8352 (Canada), or from an authorized seller.
Controls and Settings
Your dishwasher uses DishSense™ Technology to adjust cycles based on food soil levels.
Caution: Property Damage Hazard. Ensure water is connected and turned on before starting. Failure to do so may damage the pump seal and cause water leakage.
Cycle times are approximate and vary with selected options. Hot water is necessary for detergent activation and melting fatty food soils. An automatic sensor adjusts cycle length for water heating if incoming water is not hot enough. High Wash Temp option ensures even higher temperatures for heavier soil loads.
Note: Console lights remain on during operation. Refer to the "Console Lights" section for instructions on turning them off.
Recommended Cycle for typical use:
The Normal Wash cycle with factory default options (normal temperature and heated dry) provides the best all-around performance for everyday use and various load sizes and soil levels.
Wash Cycle Selections
- Favorite Cycle: Program your preferred cycle and options into one button. Press the Favorite Cycle button, then START/Cancel, and close the door to start. To save, select cycle/options, then hold Favorite Cycle button for 3 seconds. The LED will light up.
- START/Cancel Button: Press to start a cycle. Hold for 3 seconds to cancel. The cycle and option LEDs will turn off, and the START/Cancel light will remain illuminated. A 90-second drain will begin. Select a new cycle after the drain.
- Status Window: Displays delay start hours, minutes left in cycle, and "CLOSE" message.
Option Selections
- Wash Pressure: Defaults to "surge" pressure. "Spray" or "scour" options may be available depending on the cycle.
- Wash Temp: Defaults to "normal" temperature. Select "High" or "Sanitized" by pressing the Wash Temp pad.
- Sanitize Option: Raises final rinse water temperature to 156°F (69°C) to sanitize dishes and glassware. Available on Heavy Wash, Normal Wash, and Top Rack Cycles. Meets NSF requirements. To turn off, press Wash Temp until the desired temperature option is selected.
- High Wash Temp Option: Heats water in the main wash to approximately 140°F (60°C) for better cleaning and drying. Available on Heavy Wash, Normal Wash, and Top Rack cycles. Automatically provided with Heavy Wash. Indicator light stays on until cycle end. To turn off, press Wash Temp until the desired temperature option is selected.
- Dry Options: Choose from MaxBoost™, Heat, or Air Dry.
- MaxBoost Dry™: Extends drying time by approximately 20 minutes. Use with all cycles except China Crystal, Energy Saver, and Rinse Only. For best results, use with High Wash Temp or Sanitize options.
Operating Instructions
Getting Started:
- Load Dishwasher.
- Add detergent.
- Add Rinse Aid, if needed.
- Run hot water faucet nearest the dishwasher until water is hot. Turn water off.
- Select desired Cycle.
- Select desired Option.
- Press START/Cancel pad and close door immediately to start.
To Start a Cycle:
When cycle and options are selected, LEDs illuminate, and the status window displays cycle time. Press START/Cancel button and close the dishwasher door immediately. The status window displays “CLOSE door”.
To Cancel a Cycle and Delay Cycle:
Open the dishwasher door and press the START/Cancel button until cycle and option LEDs turn off. Press START/Cancel button and close the door to drain. A new cycle can be selected after a 90-second drain.
Opening the door during cycle:
If the door is opened while a cycle is running or delay is counting down, the dishwasher stops. LEDs remain illuminated, and the status window displays remaining time. Press START/Cancel to resume and close the door immediately. If the door is left open too long or closed without pressing START/Cancel, the cycle or delay will be canceled.
Status Indicator Lights:
- Console lights provide information about cycle selection and status. They remain on during operation. The clean light comes on at cycle completion. The Sanitized light comes on if the Sanitize option was used and achieved.
- Green Light: Illuminates on the floor when the wash is complete.
- Blue Light: Illuminates on the floor to indicate the wash cycle is operating.
Status Window:
- 1H-24H: Number of delay start hours.
- MINUTES: Number of minutes left in cycle (1-199).
- CLOSE DOOR: Scrolls in the status window.
If the dishwasher malfunctions or provides poor performance, contact the Frigidaire Customer Care Center at 1-800-944-9044 for assistance.
Console Lights: To turn off console lights during operation, press and hold Heavy Wash and Rinse Only simultaneously for approximately 8 seconds until corresponding lights flash. Repeat to revert.
Cycle and Option Chart
DishSense™ Technology adjusts cycles for optimal cleaning. Cycle time varies based on options and incoming water temperature. Not all cycles are available on all models.
| Cycle | Available Options | Water (approx.) | Time *(Hours) |
| Heavy Wash* Recommended for pots, pans, casseroles and dinnerware having light to heavily soiled loads. |
Wash Pressure: Scour, Surge Temperature: Sanitize, High Drying: MaxBoost™, Heat, Air |
7.1 - 9.4 gal. 27 - 36 L. |
21⁄2 - 4 |
| Normal Wash* Recommended for lightly to heavily soiled loads. |
Wash Pressure: Scour, Surge, Spray Temperature: Sanitize, High, Normal Drying: MaxBoost™, Heat, Air |
3.4 - 9.2 gal. 13 - 35 L. |
13⁄4 - 4 |
| Quick Wash Recommended for lightly soiled loads only. |
Wash Pressure: Surge Temperature: Normal Drying: MaxBoost™, Heat, Air |
5.4 gal. 20 L. |
34 min. (Air Dry Only) |
| China Crystal Recommended for lightly soiled China, Crystal or other delicate items. |
Wash Pressure: Surge, Spray Temperature: Normal Drying: Heat, Air |
6.0 gal. 23 L. |
11⁄2 - 21⁄2 |
| Top Rack* Recommended for small loads in the upper rack only that are light to heavily soiled. |
Wash Pressure: Surge Temperature: Sanitize, High, Normal Drying: MaxBoost™, Heat, Air |
4.9 - 9.3 gal. 19 - 35 L. |
1 - 4 Hours |
| Energy Saver* Recommended for lightly soiled loads. |
Wash Pressure: Scour, Surge, Spray Temperature: Normal Drying: Air |
4.8 - 5.8 gal. 18 - 22 L. |
11⁄2 - 21⁄2 |
| Rinse Only For rinsing dishware that will be washed later. |
Default: Surge Options: None Available |
2.5 gal. 9 L. |
1⁄4 (Air Dry Only) |
* Cycle uses Soil Sensing feature to determine best Wash performance.
Care and Cleaning
Dish Preparation
Scrape away large pieces of food, bones, pits, and toothpicks. Loosen burned-on foods before loading. Empty liquids from glasses and cups. Foods like mustard, mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, and tomato-based products may cause discoloration if left on surfaces for a long time. Use the Rinse Only cycle or pre-rinse to remove these soils. Load racks so large items do not block the detergent dispenser. Check manufacturer recommendations for washing specific items. Ensure the food disposer is empty before starting the dishwasher if it drains into one.
Long-handled knives and utensils can be placed in the top rack. Ensure nothing protrudes through the bottom of the rack to block the middle spray arm rotation.
Loading the Top Rack
The upper rack is designed for flexibility and can wash cups, glasses, stemware, and small plates. Load glasses in the top rack only; damage may occur if placed in the bottom rack. Load plastic items in the top rack only; melting may occur if placed in the bottom rack. Load items with open ends facing down for better cleaning and draining. Delicate items should not touch each other during operation.
STEMWARE HOLDER/CUPSHELF not available on all models.
Bowl Tines
Bowl tines offer flexibility. When closed, load with saucers or small dishes. Open halfway for small casserole dishes. Open completely for hard-to-fit items.
Adjustable Upper Rack
To raise the upper rack: Press the lever toward the center of the rack and pull straight up. To lower the upper rack: Press the lever and push down on the rack.
To attach the cup shelf: Place the clips over the horizontal rack wires and push down onto the second wire of the upper rack.
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 rotation. Place bowls, casseroles, and saucepans with soiled surfaces facing down and toward the center. Tilt slightly for better drainage. Spin the middle spray arm to ensure tall items do not block its rotation. Ensure pan handles do not protrude through the bottom of the rack to block the lower spray arm rotation.
Fold-down Tines
Fold-down tines in the lower rack accommodate larger and hard-to-fit items. They can be left up for normal use or folded down for more flexible loading of large pots or pans.
Loading the Silverware Basket
Caution: Load sharp items (knives, skewers, etc.) pointing down to prevent injury.
Load the silverware basket in the bottom rack or remove it for loading on a counter. For baskets with lids, small items like baby bottle caps and jar lids can be placed in covered sections. Use suggested loading patterns to increase washability. Ensure nothing protrudes through the bottom of the basket or rack to block the spray arm. Do not mix silver and stainless items to avoid damaging the silver finish. When covers are up, mix items in each section with some pointing up and some down to avoid nesting, which can prevent water spray from reaching items.
Warning: Open the door very slowly and carefully if the dishwasher is operating, as there is a risk of hot water squirting out.
Adding a Dish
To add or remove items after the wash cycle starts:
- Unlatch the door and wait a few seconds until the wash action stops before opening.
- Add the item, move the door to a near-closed position, and wait a few seconds for cold air to expand inside.
- Press START/Cancel button, then close the door firmly 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; other detergents may cause oversudsing. For tablets or packets, use one and place it in the main wash cup. Add detergent just before starting the cycle. Store detergent in a cool, dry location.
How much Detergent to use
Detergent amount depends on water hardness. Using too little detergent can result in poor cleaning and filming. Using too much detergent in soft water can cause etching on glassware. Consult your local water company or a water softener company to determine your water hardness. Caution: Industrial grade detergent can damage the dishwasher. Use only household grade automatic dishwasher detergents.
| Cycle | Soft Water (0-3 grains) | Medium Hard Water (4-8 grains) | Hard Water (9-12 grains) | Very Hard Water (Over 12 grains) |
| Heavy Wash or Normal Wash | 2 teaspoons (each cup: 1⁄4 full) | 4-8 teaspoons (each cup- fill to line above "Regular") | 5 teaspoons (each cup- fill to line above "Regular") | 8 teaspoons (each cup- completely full) |
| Top Rack, Quick Wash, China Crystal or Energy Saver | 2 teaspoons (Main Wash cup: 1⁄4 full) | 5 teaspoons (each cup- fill to line above "Regular") | 5 teaspoons (each cup- fill to line above "Regular") | 8 teaspoons (each cup- completely full) |
| Rinse Only | No Detergent | No Detergent | No Detergent | No Detergent |
Note: For very hard water, use 1 teaspoon per grain above 12. A water softener may be recommended. For tablets or packets, place one in the main wash cup.
Rinse Aid
Rinse aid improves drying and reduces water spots by causing water to sheet off dishes. The dispenser automatically releases rinse aid during the last rinse. If spotting or poor drying occurs, increase the rinse aid by rotating the dial to a higher number. The indicator will be dark when full and clear when it's time to refill. To add rinse aid, turn the dispenser cap 1/4 turn counterclockwise and lift. Pour rinse aid until it touches the fill level. Do not overfill. Wipe up spills with a damp cloth. The dispenser holds enough for 35 to 140 washes.
Water Pressure
The hot water line must provide water pressure between 20 and 120 psi. Low water pressure may occur during laundry or shower use. Wait until water use is reduced for better performance.
Water Temperature
Hot water is needed for best dishwashing and drying. Water entering the dishwasher should be at least 120°F (49°C). To check water temperature: Turn on the hot water faucet nearest the dishwasher for several minutes to clear cool water. Hold a thermometer in the water stream to check the temperature. If below 120°F (49°C), have a qualified person raise the hot water heater thermostat setting.
Important: Before starting a cycle, run hot water to clear cool water from the pipe.
The Heat Dry option, combined with rinse aid, enhances drying performance. You may choose not to select Heat Dry, but items may not be completely dry.
Glass Trap
To empty the glass trap:
- Grasp the glass trap handle, rotate it 90° clockwise while pressing down on the wash arm center.
- Lift the spray arm and glass trap assembly out.
- Tip the assembly over a container to empty the glass trap, or separate the glass trap by pulling the handle toward you, then up, then toward you to slide it away. Empty into a container, then slide the glass trap back into the assembly.
- Place the assembly back into position, press down on the arm at the center, and rotate the glass trap handle 90° counterclockwise, ensuring the glass trap is in the correct orientation. Ensure the spray arm and glass trap are fully snapped in place.
Warning: Burn Hazard. Allow heating element to cool before cleaning the interior. Failure to do so can result in burns.
Outer Door: Clean with warm soapy water and a dishcloth or sponge. Rinse with clean water and dry. Do not use harsh cleaners.
Inside: The inside and filter are self-cleaning with normal use. Clean around the tub gasket area with a damp cloth. The glass trap in the center of the filter collects debris. The Overfill Protector (in the left front corner) keeps the dishwasher from overfilling. Clean it occasionally with a household cleaner containing vinegar or bleach. The Overfill Protector should move up and down freely. If it doesn't, lift and clean underneath.
Note: Hard water may cause lime deposit buildup. Refer to "Removing Spots and film" section for cleaning instructions.
Troubleshooting
Food Soils Left on Dishes
- Choose another cycle for longer washing time.
- Check rack loading for proper placement to avoid nesting items.
- Home water pressure may be too low (20-120 psi).
- Check incoming water temperature (should be about 120°F / 49°C).
- Check water hardness. A water softener may be necessary for extremely hard water.
- Use fresh detergent.
- Ensure items are not blocking spray arms.
- Do not overload the dishwasher.
- Check that the glass trap is maintained and installed properly.
Dishes not Dry
- Select heat or MaxBoost Dry™ option.
- Ensure rinse aid dispenser is filled.
- Increase rinse aid discharge setting.
- Check incoming water temperature (at least 120°F / 49°C).
- Check for proper loading to avoid nesting items.
- Load cups with concave bottoms tilted in the upper rack.
- Place containers, bowls, pots/pans facing or angled down for drainage.
- Plastic items may need towel drying.
Glassware/Flatware Spotted or Cloudy
- Check water hardness. A water softener may be necessary for extremely hard water.
- Water temperature may be low. Avoid extremely low or high temperatures.
- Avoid overloading and improper loading.
- Use fresh detergent. Old detergent is ineffective.
- Ensure rinse aid dispenser is filled.
- Check that the proper amount of detergent is used for the selected cycle.
- Home water pressure may be too low (20-120 psi).
Dishware Chipped
- Load with care and do not overload.
- Place delicate items in the top rack.
- Place glasses securely against pins.
- Load items securely so they don't jar loose when moving racks. Move racks slowly.
- Ensure tall glasses and stemware clear the top of the tub when the rack is pushed in.
- Fine antique china and crystal should be hand-washed.
Vapor at Vent
Spilled rinse aid can cause foam and overflowing. Wipe up spills with a damp cloth.
Dishware Stained or Discolored
- Tea and coffee stains can be removed by hand washing in a solution of 1/2 cup bleach and 1 quart warm water. Rinse thoroughly.
- Iron deposits in water can cause a yellow/brown film. A special filter in the water supply line can correct this.
- Aluminum utensils can leave gray/black marks. Load properly.
- Certain high acid foods can discolor stainless steel and plastics. Use the Rinse Only cycle or rinse by hand if not operating the dishwasher immediately.
- Mixing stainless steel and silver utensils can cause pitting. Avoid mixing them.
Water in Bottom of Tub
Water left in the tub bottom after the cycle is complete is not normal. The dishwasher may not be draining properly. Refer to "Dishwasher Does not Drain Properly".
Cycle Takes a Long Time
- The cycle may have automatically lengthened due to factors like cool water supply or a large load.
- Delay Start option may have been selected.
- Choose lower temperature options to shorten the cycle.
- Soil-sensing cycles adjust automatically; heavier soils will elicit a longer cycle response.
Etching
- Using too much detergent, especially in soft water, causes damage that looks like a film but cannot be removed.
- Adjust detergent amount based on water hardness.
- Lower water temperature by selecting lower temperature options.
Detergent Left in Cups
- Detergent may be old. Discard and use fresh detergent.
- Ensure the dish load does not block spray from entering the detergent cup.
- Check if the cycle has been completed.
- Ensure items do not prevent the detergent dispenser from opening.
Dishwasher Leaks
- Check that the door gasket is properly seated and reaches the bottom of the tub without extending beyond the end rib.
- Spilled rinse aid can cause foam and lead to overflowing. Wipe up spills with a damp cloth.
- Check that the dishwasher is level.
- Avoid oversudsing by using the correct amount of detergent.
Normal Sounds You Will Hear
- Normal sounds include water fill, spray, draining, and motor sounds.
- A change in sound occurs when the wash action switches between spray arms.
- The dishwasher may pause (no sound) when switching between spray arms.
Dishwasher Won't Run
- Check circuit breaker or fuse.
- Ensure water supply is turned on.
- Check if the cycle is set correctly.
- Check if Delay Start Option is set.
- Ensure START/Cancel button is pressed after cycle selection.
- Ensure door is closed and latched immediately after pressing START/Cancel.
Dishwasher Won't Fill
- Ensure water supply is turned on.
- Check that the overfill protector moves up and down freely.
Dishwasher Does Not Drain Properly
- If connected to a food waste disposer, ensure it is empty.
- Ensure the knockout plug has been removed from the disposer inlet.
- Ensure the drain hose is not kinked.
- Ensure the cycle is complete, not paused.
- Ensure the glass trap is maintained and installed properly.
Dishwasher has an Odor
- Soiled dishes left too long can create an odor. Use Rinse Only cycle.
- A "new" smell upon installation is normal.
- Check if the unit is draining properly.
Stains on Tub Interior
Washing dishes with tomato-based soil can cause a pink/orange appearance. This will not affect performance and will fade over time. Pre-rinsing or using the Rinse Only cycle can reduce staining. Using no heat dry option may lessen staining.
Opening the door during cycle
If the door is opened while the unit is running, press START/Cancel and close the door immediately to return to the selected cycle and option. This must happen within 10 minutes for the cycle to continue.
Removing Spots and Film
Hard water can cause lime deposit buildup. Spots and film on dishes can occur for various reasons. To remove buildup:
- Load clean dishes and glasses. Do not load metal utensils or silverware.
- Do not add detergent.
- Select NORMAL WASH cycle. Press START/Cancel button. Close the door.
- Allow dishwasher to run until it starts the second water fill (approx. 8 minutes).
- Open the door, pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher.
- Press START/Cancel button. Close the door and allow the cycle to finish.
Limited Warranty
Your appliance is covered by a one-year limited warranty from the original date of purchase. Electrolux will pay for repairs or replacement of parts defective in materials or workmanship when the appliance is installed, used, and maintained according to instructions.
Exclusions
This warranty does not cover:
- Products with altered or missing serial numbers.
- Products transferred to another party or removed from the USA or Canada.
- Rust on the interior or exterior.
- Products purchased "as-is".
- Food loss due to refrigerator or freezer failures.
- Products used in a commercial setting.
- Service calls not involving malfunction or defects, or for appliances not in ordinary household use.
- Service calls to correct installation or instruct on use.
- Expenses for making the appliance accessible for servicing (e.g., removing trim, cupboards).
- Service calls to repair or replace consumables like light bulbs, filters, knobs, or handles.
- Surcharges for after-hour, weekend, or holiday service calls, tolls, ferry charges, or mileage expenses for calls to remote areas.
- Damages to appliance finish or home incurred during installation.
- Damages caused by unauthorized service, non-genuine parts, external causes like abuse, misuse, inadequate power supply, accidents, fires, or acts of God.
Disclaimer of Implied Warranties; Limitation of Remedies
The sole and exclusive remedy under this limited warranty is product repair or replacement. Implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose are limited to one year or the shortest period allowed by law, but not less than one year. Electrolux is not liable for consequential or incidental damages.
If You Need Service
Keep your receipt or delivery slip to establish the warranty period. Obtain and keep all receipts for service performed. Contact Electrolux at the addresses or phone numbers below for warranty service.
USA: Frigidaire, 1-800-374-4432, 10200 David Taylor Drive, Charlotte, NC 28262
Canada: Electrolux Canada Corp., 1.800.265.8352, 5855 Terry Fox Way, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada L5V 3E4
This warranty applies only in the USA and Canada. Product features or specifications are subject to change without notice.








