Whirlpool W8I HP42 L MaxiSpace Dishwasher Daily Reference Guide
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing a Whirlpool product. Register your appliance at www.whirlpool.eu/register for more complete assistance. Please read the Safety and Installation Instructions carefully before using the appliance. More information is available at docs.whirlpool.eu. After installation, remove all transport protection parts.
Control Panel
The control panel features various buttons and indicators for operating the dishwasher:
- 1. ON-OFF/Reset button: Powers the appliance on/off and resets programs. Includes an indicator light.
- 2. PREVIOUS program button: Navigates to previous programs.
- 3. NEXT program button: Navigates to next programs.
- 4. FAVOURITE program button: Selects or saves favourite programs. Includes an indicator light.
- 5. Salt reservoir empty indicator light: Illuminates when the salt reservoir needs refilling.
- 6. Rinse Aid reservoir empty indicator light: Illuminates when the rinse aid reservoir needs refilling.
- 7. DESCALE indicator light: Alerts to limescale accumulation.
- 8. Closed Water Tap indicator light: Indicates no water supply or a closed tap.
- 9. Display: Shows program number, remaining time, and error codes.
- 10. Program number and remaining time indicator: Displays current program and time left.
- 11. Power Clean® option button: Activates intensive washing in the lower rack. Includes an indicator light.
- 12. Half Load option button: Optimizes water/energy usage for partial loads. Also used for accessing the Settings Menu (press for 3 seconds). Includes an indicator light.
- 13. Extra Dry option button: Enhances drying performance. Includes an indicator light.
- 14. Delay option button: Sets a delayed start for programs. Includes an indicator light.
- 15. START/Pause button: Starts or pauses the current wash cycle. Includes an indicator light.
First Time Use & Settings
Setting Menu
Configure appliance settings to match your needs:
- Switch on the appliance using the ON-OFF button.
- Press and hold the Settings (Half Load) button for 3 seconds until "SEt" appears on the display.
- The first setting (e.g., "h" for water hardness) will be displayed.
- Use PREVIOUS/NEXT buttons to scroll through settings.
- Press START/Pause to view and change the value of the selected setting.
- Use PREVIOUS/NEXT to change the value, then START/Pause to save and return to the main menu.
- Repeat steps 4-5 for other settings.
- Press ON-OFF or wait 30 seconds to exit the menu.
Available Settings:
LETTER | SETTING | VALUES (Default) |
---|---|---|
Water Hardness Level | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 (Default: 3) | |
Rinse Aid Level | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 (Default: 4) | |
NaturalDry | 1 (On) | 0 (Off) (Default: 1) | |
Light on the floor | 1 (On) | 0 (Off) (Default: 1) | |
Sound | 1 (On) | 0 (Off) (Default: 1) | |
Factory Settings | Press START/Pause to restore all settings to default. |
Water Hardness
Setting the correct water hardness ensures optimal performance of the water softener. Consult your local water supplier for details. The factory setting is "3".
Water Hardness Table:
Level | dH (German degrees) | fH (French degrees) | Clark (English degrees) |
---|---|---|---|
1 (soft) | 0 - 6 | 0 - 10 | 0 - 7 |
2 (medium) | 7 - 11 | 11 - 20 | 8 - 14 |
3 (average) | 12 - 16 | 21 - 29 | 15 - 20 |
4 (hard) | 17 - 34 | 30 - 60 | 21 - 42 |
5 (very hard) | 35 - 50 | 61 - 90 | 43 - 62 |
Use only salt specifically designed for dishwashers. Filling the salt reservoir prevents limescale and damage to the heating element. Run a program after refilling salt to prevent corrosion.
Filling the Salt Reservoir
The salt reservoir, located under the lower rack on the left, prevents limescale formation. It is mandatory that it is never empty.
- Remove the lower rack.
- Unscrew the reservoir cap counter-clockwise.
- Position the funnel and fill the salt reservoir to the brim (approx. 0.5 kg). Some water may leak out, which is normal.
- For the first use, fill the salt reservoir with water.
- Remove the funnel and wipe away any salt residue from the opening. Ensure the cap is tightly screwed on to prevent detergent from entering the salt container, which could damage the water softener.
- Run a program immediately after refilling the salt reservoir to avoid corrosion.
The SALT REFILL indicator light will switch off after refilling.
Filling the Rinse Aid Dispenser
Rinse aid aids in dish drying. Fill the dispenser (A) when the RINSE AID REFILL indicator light is on.
- Open the dispenser lid (B) by pressing and pulling up the tab.
- Pour in rinse aid (max. 110 ml), avoiding overflow. If overflow occurs, clean immediately with a dry cloth.
- Press the lid down until it clicks shut.
Never pour rinse aid directly into the appliance tub. Adjusting the dosage can be done via the "SETTING MENU". A setting of ZERO means no rinse aid is supplied. Low rinse aid levels may result in bluish streaks on dishes (set lower numbers 0-3), while insufficient rinse aid may cause water drops or limescale marks (set mid-range numbers 4-5).
Filling the Detergent Dispenser
Use the opening device (C) to open the detergent dispenser. Add detergent into the dry dispenser (D) only. Place detergent for pre-washing directly into the tub.
- Measure detergent according to program requirements; dosing indications are provided inside dispenser D.
- Remove any detergent residue from the dispenser edges and close the cover until it clicks.
- Close the dispenser lid securely. The dispenser opens automatically during the wash cycle.
Using detergent not designed for dishwashers may cause malfunction or damage.
Daily Use
- Check Water Connection: Ensure the dishwasher is connected to the water supply and the tap is open.
- Switch On: Open the door and press the ON/OFF button.
- Load Racks: Arrange dishes as per the "LOADING THE RACKS" section.
- Fill Detergent Dispenser: Add detergent.
- Choose Program & Customize: Select the most appropriate program using PREVIOUS/NEXT buttons and choose desired options. Note that not all options are compatible with all programs.
- Start: Press the START/Pause button (indicator lights up) and close the door within 4 seconds. A beep confirms the start. If the door is not closed within 4 seconds, an alarm sounds; repeat the process.
- End of Wash Cycle: The cycle ends with a sound and "END" on the display. Open the door, press ON/OFF to switch off. Wait a few minutes before unloading to avoid burns. Unload starting with the lower rack.
Modifying or Interrupting a Cycle
Modifying a Running Program
If a program was started incorrectly and has just begun:
- Reset the machine by pressing and holding the ON/OFF button for over 3 seconds. The display will show "0:01".
- Close the door and wait for the drain cycle to end (approx. 1 minute).
- Open the door, switch the machine back on with the ON/OFF button, select the new wash cycle and options.
- Start the new cycle by pressing START/Pause and closing the door within 4 seconds.
Adding Extra Crockery
Without switching off the machine:
- Open the door slightly to avoid water splashing (START/Pause LED blinks). Be cautious of hot steam.
- Place additional crockery inside.
- Press START/Pause and close the door within 4 seconds. The cycle will resume.
Accidental Interruptions
If the door is opened during a cycle or there is a power cut, the cycle stops. To resume:
- Press the START/Pause button and close the door within 4 seconds. The cycle will resume from where it was interrupted.
Advice and Tips
General Tips
- Before loading, remove large food residues and empty glasses. Pre-rinsing is not necessary.
- Arrange crockery firmly so it does not tip over. Position openings downwards and concave/convex parts obliquely for optimal water reach.
- Ensure lids, handles, and trays do not obstruct the sprayer arms' rotation.
- Place small items in the cutlery basket.
- Position very soiled dishes and pans in the lower basket for stronger water sprays.
- After loading, check that the sprayer arms can rotate freely.
Unsuitable Crockery
- Wooden crockery and cutlery.
- Delicately decorated glasses, artistic handicrafts, and antique crockery (decorations may not be resistant).
- Parts made of synthetic material that cannot withstand high temperatures.
- Copper and tin crockery.
- Crockery soiled with ash, wax, lubricating grease, or ink.
Colors of glass decorations and aluminum/silver pieces can change. Some glass types (e.g., crystal) can become opaque after several wash cycles.
Damage to Glass and Crockery
- Only use glasses and porcelain guaranteed as dishwasher-safe by the manufacturer.
- Use a delicate detergent suitable for crockery.
- Unload glasses and cutlery as soon as the wash cycle is over.
Energy Saving Tips
- Dishwasher use typically consumes less energy and water than hand washing when used according to instructions.
- To maximize efficiency, initiate the wash cycle only when the dishwasher is fully loaded.
- For partial loads, use dedicated options like Half Load or Zone Wash if available, filling only selected racks.
- Incorrect loading or overloading increases resource usage (water, energy, time) and noise, while reducing cleaning and drying performance.
- Manual pre-rinsing increases water and energy consumption and is not recommended.
Hygiene
To prevent odors and sediment buildup, run a high-temperature program at least once a month. Use a teaspoon of detergent and run the appliance empty for cleaning.
Resistance to Frost
If the appliance is in an environment exposed to frost risk:
- Turn off the water tap, remove inlet and outlet hoses, and drain all water.
- Ensure the water softener is full of dissolved regeneration salt to protect the appliance down to -20°C.
- If stored in frost conditions, the appliance must remain at an ambient temperature of at least 5°C for at least 24 hours before the first use.
Programs Table
Details on available wash programs:
Program | Programs Description | Available Options *) | Duration (h:min)**) | Water consumption (litres/cycle) | Energy consumption (kWh/cycle) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
P1 Eco 50° | Most efficient program for normally soiled tableware regarding energy and water consumption. Used for EU Ecodesign compliance. | - | 3:30 | 9.5 | 0.75 |
P2 Auto Intensive 65° | Automatic program for heavily soiled dishes and pans. Senses soil level and adjusts program. Animation appears on display when soil level is detected, and cycle duration is updated. | NaturalDry | 2:25-3:10 | 15.5-24.5 | 1.30-1.70 |
P3 Auto Mixed 55° | Automatic program for normally soiled dishes with dried food residues. | NaturalDry | 1:20-3:00 | 7.5-19.5 | 0.75-1.20 |
P4 Auto Fast 50° | Automatic program for normally and lightly soiled dishes. Ensures optimal cleaning and drying in a shorter time. | NaturalDry | 1:00-1:50 | 7.5-15.5 | 0.70-1.10 |
P5 Rapid 45° | Recommended for limited amounts of lightly-soiled dishes with no dried food residues. Does not include the drying phase. | - | 0:30-0:40 | 10-12 | 0.55-0.65 |
P6 Crystals 45° | Program for delicate items sensitive to high temperatures, like glasses and cups. | - | 1:40-1:50 | 12.5-16.5 | 0.95-1.20 |
P7 Silent 55° | Suitable for night-time operation, ensuring optimal cleaning and drying with lowest noise emission. | - | 3:50-4:10 | 10.5-14.5 | 0.80-1.15 |
P8 Sanitizing 65° | Normally or heavily soiled crockery with additional antibacterial wash. Can be used for dishwasher maintenance. | - | 1:55-2:10 | 12-19 | 1.40-1.80 |
P9 Prewash | Refreshes crockery planned for later washing. No detergent is used. | - | 0:12 | 4.5 | 0.10 |
P10 Self Clean 65° | Program for dishwasher maintenance, to be used only when the dishwasher is EMPTY with specific detergents. | - | 1:15 | 11.0 | 1.10 |
ECO program data is measured under laboratory conditions according to European Standard EN 60436:2020. Pre-treatment of dishes is not needed.
*) Not all options can be used simultaneously.
**) Actual program times may vary based on water temperature/pressure, room temperature, detergent amount, load type/quantity, load balancing, selected options, and sensor calibration (which can increase duration by up to 20 min).
For comparative EN testing conditions, contact dw_test_support@whirlpool.com.
Options and Functions
Options can be selected/deselected by pressing the corresponding button on the control panel. If an option is incompatible with a program, its indicator light flashes rapidly 3 times with beeps.
- POWER CLEAN®: Provides intensive washing in the lower rack using additional power jets. Recommended for pots and casseroles.
- LIGHT ON THE FLOOR: A projected LED light indicates the dishwasher is working. It turns off when the door is opened or the cycle ends. This feature can be deactivated in the "SETTINGS MENU".
- HALF LOAD: Saves water, electricity, or time when washing fewer dishes. Reduce detergent accordingly.
- EXTRA DRY: Increases drying performance through higher temperatures during the final rinse and an extended drying phase. Lengthens the wash cycle.
- DELAY: Allows program start to be delayed by 0:30 to 24 hours. Select program/options, press DELAY repeatedly to set time. Press DELAY again to deactivate. Press START/Pause and close door within 4 seconds to start countdown. Cannot be set after program start.
- SENSING: Automatically adjusts cycle duration based on dish soiling level (approx. 20 min). Present in all cycles except Eco.
- FAVOURITE PROGRAM: Save and easily access your preferred program by pressing the FAVOURITE button for 3 seconds after selecting it.
- NaturalDry: A convection drying system that automatically opens the door during/after the drying phase for exceptional drying. A steam protection foil is included for mounting (refer to INSTALLATION GUIDE). This feature is active by default but can be deactivated in the "SETTINGS MENU".
Alarms
- DESCALE (Indicator lit/blinking, "dES" alarm): Limescale accumulation detected. Check Water Hardness Setting and salt presence. Use the Self-Clean program with a descaling product (WPro recommended). If ignored, the appliance may block, allowing only the Self-Clean program. Performing a full descaling will unblock it.
- WATER TAP CLOSED (Indicator flashes): No inlet water or water tap is closed.
Loading the Racks
Proper loading ensures optimal cleaning and drying. The dishwasher has a capacity of 14 standard place settings.
Top Rack
Suitable for bowls, mugs, glasses, cups, saucers, and cutlery. Arrange cutlery separately for easier collection and better washing/drying. Knives and utensils with sharp edges should be placed with blades facing downwards.
Lower Rack
Designed for pots, lids, plates, salad bowls, and cutlery. Large plates and lids should be placed at the sides to avoid interfering with the spray arm. The rack features tip-up supports that can be used vertically for plates or horizontally for pans and salad bowls.
Adjusting the Height of the Upper Rack
The upper rack height can be adjusted:
- High Position: Lift the rack by holding its sides (without pressing levers) until stable, creating space for bulky items in the lower basket.
- Low Position: Press the levers (A) on the sides of the rack and move the basket downwards.
It is strongly recommended not to adjust the rack height when it is loaded. Never raise or lower the basket on one side only.
Foldable Flaps
Side foldable flaps can be folded or unfolded to optimize crockery arrangement. Wine glasses can be placed securely by inserting their stems into the slots.
POWER CLEAN® Zone
The POWER CLEAN® zone is located at the rear of the lower rack. It uses special water jets for intensive washing of heavily soiled items like pots and casseroles. The Space Zone is a pull-out support within this area for upright placement of pans, saving space.
To use POWER CLEAN®:
- Fold down the rear plate holders to create space in the POWER CLEAN® area (G).
- Load pots and casseroles inclined vertically towards the powerful water jets.
- Activate the POWER CLEAN® option on the control panel.
Cutlery Basket
The cutlery basket is fitted with top grids for improved arrangement. It should be placed at the front of the lower rack. Knives and sharp utensils should have points facing downwards or be placed horizontally in the upper rack's tip-up compartments.
Care and Maintenance
Cleaning the Filter Assembly
Regularly clean the filter assembly to prevent clogging and ensure proper wastewater flow. Clogged filters can lead to malfunction, reduced performance, noise, or increased resource usage.
The filter assembly consists of three parts: a cylindrical filter (A), a cup filter (B), and a stainless-steel plate filter (C).
Clean at least once a month or after every 30 cycles:
- Turn the cylindrical filter (A) counter-clockwise and pull it out. Ensure the triangles meet upon reinstallation.
- Remove the cup filter (B) by pressing the side flaps.
- Slide out the stainless-steel plate filter (C).
- Carefully remove any foreign objects (e.g., broken glass, bones, seeds).
- Inspect and clean the trap for food residues. Never remove the wash-cycle pump protection (indicated by an arrow).
- Replace the filter assembly correctly after cleaning; this is essential for efficient operation.
Use a non-metallic brush for cleaning.
Cleaning the Spray Arms
Food residue can block the spray arm holes. Check and clean the arms periodically with a small non-metallic brush.
- Lower Spray Arm: Remove by pulling upwards and rotating counter-clockwise. Reinstall by pulling down and rotating clockwise.
- Upper Spray Arm: Remove by pressing upwards and rotating counter-clockwise. Reinstall by pulling upwards and rotating clockwise.
- The top rack has a fixed wash tube with upward-facing nozzles. Slide the rack out and use tweezers to remove items lodged in the nozzles.
Troubleshooting
If your dishwasher is not working properly, consult this guide. For other issues, contact authorized After-sales Service.
PROBLEM | POSSIBLE CAUSES | SOLUTIONS |
---|---|---|
The salt indicator is lit | Salt reservoir is almost empty. | Refill reservoir with salt. Check water hardness setting if necessary. |
The salt indicator is blinking | Salt reservoir is empty. | Refill reservoir with salt immediately. Using without salt can damage internal components. |
The rinse aid indicator is lit or blinking | Rinse aid dispenser is empty. | Refill dispenser with rinse aid. The indicator may remain lit briefly after refilling. |
Descale indicator is lit or blinking; "dES" alarm is displayed. | Limescale is accumulating on internal components. | Descale the appliance using the Self Clean program and a descaling product. Refill salt reservoir and check water hardness setting. Failure to descale will cause the appliance to stop functioning. |
The dishwasher won't start or does not respond to commands. | Appliance not plugged in properly. Power outage. Door not closed. NaturalDry pin not retracted. Cycle interrupted by door opening for >4 sec. | Insert plug securely. For power outage, open door, press START/Pause, close door within 4 sec. Push door firmly until it clicks. Press START/Pause and close door within 4 sec. |
Control panel does not respond or F6 E1 is displayed. | Internal error. | Switch off appliance for ~1 minute, then switch back on. If problem persists, unplug for 1 minute, then plug back in. |
The dishwasher won't drain. Display shows: F7 E3 or F9 E1 | Filter clogged. Drain hose kinked. Sink drain pipe blocked. | Clean filter and descale appliance. Check drain hose. Clean sink drain pipe. |
Dishes are rattling against each other. | Crockery not arranged properly. | Position crockery correctly. |
An excessive amount of foam is present. The dishwasher makes excessive noise. | Detergent not measured correctly or unsuitable for dishwashers. | Restart cycle: switch off, wait, switch on, select new program, press START/Pause, close door within 4 sec. Do not add detergent. |
The dishes are not clean. | Crockery not arranged properly. Spray arms cannot rotate freely. Wash cycle too gentle. Excessive foam. Rinse aid compartment cap not closed correctly. Filter clogged. Salt reservoir empty. | Arrange crockery correctly. Ensure spray arms rotate freely. Select appropriate wash cycle. Check detergent dosage/type. Ensure rinse aid cap is closed. Clean filter and descale. Refill salt reservoir. |
The dishes are not dried well. | Rinse aid not present or dosage too low. Dishes unloaded before cycle end. Dishes loaded too flat. Selected cycle lacks drying phase. Dishes made of non-stick or plastic. | Refill rinse aid dispenser and check dosage. Ensure cycle has ended before unloading. Load dishes with more inclination. Select a cycle with a drying phase. Some water drops on plastic/non-stick are normal. |
Dishes and glasses have blue streaks or bluish tinges. | Rinse aid dosage is excessive. | Adjust rinse aid dosage to a lower setting. |
Dishes and glasses are covered with limescale or a whitish film. | Water hardness setting too low. Salt reservoir empty. Cap on salt reservoir not properly closed. Rinse aid reservoir empty or dosage insufficient. | Increase water hardness setting. Refill salt reservoir. Ensure salt reservoir cap is closed. Refill rinse aid dispenser and check dosage. |
The dishwasher shows F8 E5 | Valve is blocked or faulty. | Close the water tap. Do not switch off power. Call service. |
The dishwasher does not fill the water. The display shows: H2O and is lit; acoustic alarm sounds. | No water supply or tap closed. Water inlet hose kinked. Screen in water inlet hose clogged. | Ensure water supply and tap are open. Check inlet hose. Clean screen in water inlet hose. Open door, press START/Pause, close door within 4 sec. |
The dishwasher finishes the cycle prematurely. The display shows: F8 E3 | Filter clogged. Drain hose positioned too low or siphoning. Excessive foam. Air in water supply. | Clean filter and descale. Check drain hose height and siphoning. Check detergent. Check water supply for air. |
Additional Information
For policies, standard documentation, ordering spare parts, and additional product information:
- Use the QR code to visit our website: docs.whirlpool.eu
- Visit our website: parts-selfservice.whirlpool.com
- Contact our After-sales Service (refer to the warranty booklet for phone numbers). When contacting, state the codes from your product's identification plate.
Model information can be retrieved using the QR-Code on the energy label. This label also includes the model identifier for consulting the portal at https://eprel.ec.europa.eu.