Manuals+

Whirlpool Undercounter Dishwasher

Model DU9500XR Series

Use & Care Guide

Contents

Before you use your dishwasher

It is your personal responsibility and obligation to be sure your dishwasher:

See installation instructions for complete information.

Important safety instructions

WARNING - When using your dishwasher, follow basic precautions, including the following:

  1. Read all instructions before using the dishwasher.
  2. DO NOT let children play with or operate your dishwasher.
  3. DO NOT reach into the area below the bottom rack until the Heating Element has cooled for at least 20 minutes.
  4. DO NOT wash plastic items unless marked "Dishwasher Safe" or the equivalent. If not marked check manufacturer's recommendations.
  5. Store dishwasher detergent in a cool, dry place WHERE CHILDREN CAN'T REACH IT.
  6. Use ONLY detergents and rinse aids recommended for use in a dishwasher.
  7. REMEMBER, use your dishwasher only for the job it was designed to do.
  8. Locate sharp items and knives so that they are not likely to damage door seal or cut the user.
  9. Properly connect to electricity and water.
  10. DISHWASHER MUST BE ELECTRICALLY GROUNDED. Read the Installation Instructions for details.
  11. DO NOT use your dishwasher unless all enclosure panels are properly in place.
  12. Be sure your dishwasher is installed on a level floor that will hold the weight, and in an area suitable for its size and use.
  13. DO NOT sit or stand on or abuse the dishwasher door or dish racks.
  14. DO NOT tamper with controls.
  15. When discarding an old dishwasher, always remove the door to prevent accidental entrapment.
  16. CAUTION: If hot water has not been used recently (usually two weeks or longer), explosive hydrogen gases may build up in the water heater and the hot water pipes. To prevent injury or damage, before using your dishwasher, turn on all hot water faucets and allow water to run for several minutes. This will allow gases to escape. Do not smoke or use any open flame near the faucet while it is open.
  17. Always disconnect electrical power to the dishwasher before attempting to service.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Parts and features

Model DU9500XR Series

The dishwasher features the following components:

THE OVERFLOW PROTECTOR is designed to prevent too much water from entering the dishwasher. It is not removable.

THE POWER CLEAN* MODULE is designed to keep the wash and rinse water clean. It also grinds up and removes food particles. During grinding, some sound will be heard.

Copy your Model and Serial Numbers here...

When you need service or call with a question, have this information ready:

  1. Complete Model and Serial Numbers (from the plate located as shown).
  2. Purchase date from sales slip.

Copy this information in these spaces. Keep this book, your warranty and sales slip together in a handy place.

Model Number: _________________________

Serial Number: _________________________

Purchase Date: _________________________

Service Company and Telephone Number: _________________________

POWER CLEAN* Washing System

Your dishwasher cleans by spraying a mixture of hot, clean water and detergent against soiled surfaces of dishes. When a program is started, the dishwasher fills with water to about the level of the heating element. This water is pumped through the rotating spray arms, through the POWER CLEAN Module which removes food particles, and back through the rotating spray arms. Soiled water is pumped out and replaced with clean water during a program - the number of times depends on the program being used.

The POWER CLEAN Module removes food particles from the water, stores them, then washes them down the drain.

Diagram Description: An illustration shows dishes loaded into the dishwasher racks, with text indicating that soiled surfaces should face the powerful spray from rotating arms.

Step-saving preparation for washing

It is not necessary to rinse dishes before putting them into the dishwasher. Just remove large pieces, bones, and other hard items. The POWER CLEAN* Module will remove food particles from the water. It contains a chopping device which will reduce the size of food items. If hard items such as fruit seeds, nuts and egg shells enter the POWER CLEAN* Module, you might hear chopping, grinding, crunching or buzzing sounds. Those sounds are normal when hard items enter the module. DO NOT LET METALLIC ITEMS (I.E. POT HANDLE SCREWS) GET INTO THE POWER CLEAN* MODULE. THIS COULD RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE POWER CLEAN* MODULE.

Hot water is a must

Hot water dissolves and activates the dishwashing detergent. Hot water dissolves grease on dishes and helps dry glasses spot-free. Make certain loads are washed in hot water (at least 140°F - 60°C). Two ways to have a reliable hot water supply:

  1. Maintain 140°F water supply at central water heater. To check water temperature, turn on hot water faucet nearest the dishwasher. Let water run until it is as hot as possible, then check with a candy or meat thermometer. If the temperature is too low, have a qualified person raise the water heater thermostat setting.
  2. Use HI-TEMP WASHING Option. If water heating is needed, a thermostat will delay the cycle until temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If water is hot enough, the cycle will proceed with no delay. This lets you turn down your water heater, if you choose, without cutting back on hot water needed for good dishwashing.

Quiet operating tips

To avoid thumping and clattering noises during operation:

NOTE: Keep sink drain plugs inserted during dishwasher operation to prevent noise transfer through drains.

Proper loading

Always load dishes so soiled surfaces are reached by spray from rotating spray arms. Water must be able to drain off completely for best drying results. Be careful to separate items so spray can reach all surfaces.

Top rack loading

The top rack is designed for cups, glasses and smaller items.

Diagram Description: An illustration shows a top rack loaded with cups and glasses. Text indicates to place items between prongs, ensure lightweight items are secure, and delicate items do not touch each other.

MIXED LOAD (Top Rack)

ADJUSTABLE TOP RACK

The top rack does not have to be level.

Diagram Description: An illustration shows how to adjust the top rack height. Text indicates to turn a knob clockwise to raise a side and counterclockwise to lower a side.

Items with cooked-on or dried-on foods should be loaded in the bottom rack with soiled surfaces facing the spray.

Bottom rack loading

MIXED LOAD (Bottom Rack)

NOTE:

UTENSIL LOAD (Bottom Rack)

Loading silverware basket

Diagram Description: Illustrations show how to load the silverware basket and how to open/remove it.

Load forks and spoons so they don't nest together. Spray can't reach nested items.

The silverware basket can be loaded while it's in place on the door, or it can be taken out for loading on the counter or table. It can also be removed for easy unloading. Always unload or remove the basket before unloading the racks to avoid spilling water droplets on the silverware.

To remove the basket: Slide it toward the top of the door by the handle. Lift it off the holding buttons. Replace it in reverse order.

To open the basket: Unhook the latch as shown. Be sure the cover is completely latched before pulling out the bottom rack and before closing the dishwasher door.

Adding detergent

The kind and amount of dishwasher detergent you use is an important part of getting your dishes clean. Read this section carefully.

Do not add detergent until you are ready to wash. When using Delay Wash, make sure the detergent dispensers are clean and dry before adding the detergent. Fresh automatic dishwasher detergent is necessary for best washing results. Store detergent tightly in a cool dry place.

The detergent dispenser

The detergent dispenser has one section with a cover and one without.

The cover opens automatically when the main wash starts. Detergent in the open section falls into the dishwasher when the door is closed.

Diagram Description: Illustrations show the detergent dispenser with its cover, indicating which section to use for different programs (NORMAL/LOW ENERGY vs. POTS & PANS/HEAVY).

How much detergent to use

The amount of detergent to use depends on the hardness of your water. If too little is used, dishes won't be clean. However, if too much is used in soft water, glassware will begin to etch.

Find out your water's hardness by asking your local water department, water softener company or county extension agent.

RINSE AID DISPENSER

A rinse aid helps keep water from forming droplets and drying as spots. Keep the dispenser filled with a rinse aid such as Jet-Dry®. A small amount is released automatically during the final rinse of each program. Check the dispenser periodically to see if it needs refilling.

Keep the dispenser fill cap tightly closed.

Diagram Description: An illustration shows the rinse aid dispenser being filled.

STARTING YOUR DISHWASHER

The controls are built into the control panel on the dishwasher door. Five program pads and the electronic display allow you to program and monitor the dishwasher's operation.

When first installed, "PF" will show on the display. Press CANCEL Pad twice to clear the display. To start the dishwasher, press the SELECT PROGRAM Pad. The dishwasher is pre-programmed for the NORMAL Program with the AIR DRY Option. If you want this program, touch START. To select a different program and/or option, just touch the SELECT PROGRAM Pad and/or SELECT OPTION Pad until the program and/or option you desire appears in the display. The display will show the next program or option each time the pad is touched. After each use, the dishwasher remembers the program and options used.

When dishes are loaded and ready to be washed:

  1. Spin the Upper Spray Arm to make sure nothing will stop it from turning.
  2. Close and latch the door.
  3. Run hot water at the sink nearest the dishwasher until it is hot.
  4. Select a desired Program by touching the SELECT PROGRAM Pad.
  5. Select an Option by touching the SELECT OPTION Pad.
  6. Touch START Pad.

Selecting a program

Diagram Description: Illustrations show the electronic display and program indicators (WASH, RINSE, CLEAN, DRY, OFF, HEAT WATER) for different programs.

Selecting an option

Options can be selected by touching the SELECT OPTION Pad. Each touch of the Pad advances the display to the next option. There are three options available: AIR DRY, HEAT DRY, HI TEMP. All options can be changed any time when the display is on, including during a program. If the RINSE Program is selected, Options are not available. If the POTS & PANS Program is selected, only HEAT DRY and AIR DRY Options are available.

A Dry Option will show in the display with HI TEMP. Be sure to select the desired Dry Option (HEAT DRY or AIR DRY) in combination with HI TEMP.

DELAY Pad: The DELAY Pad allows you to delay the start of a program from 1 up to 9 hours. Each touch of this pad adds another hour of delay to the digital display. After 9 hours, touching the DELAY Pad will change the display back to 1 hour. The DELAY HRS Indicator will show on the display during a programmed delay. Touch START at any time during the delay if you want the dishwasher to start immediately.

CANCEL Pad: The CANCEL Pad allows you to cancel a program or to clear the display. If the dishwasher is washing, it will go into a 2 minute drain automatically before shutting off. If the dishwasher had not been started, it will clear the display.

Diagram Description: An illustration shows the control panel with the electronic display and program control pads (SELECT PROGRAM, SELECT OPTION, DELAY, CANCEL, START).

Changing or cancelling a program

After a program has started, touch CANCEL Pad once. The dishwasher will automatically go into a 2 minute drain period, then shut off. Check detergent dispensers to make sure they are filled properly for the new program. To restart the dishwasher, touch SELECT PROGRAM and SELECT OPTION Pads, then touch START.

To cancel a program:

Electronic display and status indicators

The electronic display shows:

The display also points out operating problems:

Status Indicators let you know what your dishwasher is doing during a program:

To add a dish after starting

  1. To be sure the added item is washed, make sure the WASH Indicator is still on. The display flashes when the door is left ajar.
  2. To stop the program, unlatch the door by pushing in the latch handle under the control panel. Do not open the door until the spray arms stop spinning. The display will flash.
  3. Open the door and add the dish.
  4. Close the door. Do not latch it. Wait 30 seconds for air in the dishwasher to warm up. This helps reduce the amount of moisture that can come from the vent when restarting the program.
  5. Push in on door until it latches. The dishwasher will restart and continue the program.

Energy saving tips

You can help save energy if you:

  1. Wash full loads. Running a half-filled dishwasher uses the same amount of electricity and hot water as a fully loaded machine.
  2. Use LOW ENERGY Program whenever possible. It uses less hot water and energy than other programs.
  3. Air dry dishes when you don't need a rapid drying program. Allow longer drying times (overnight).
  4. Load correctly for best washing results. Incorrect loading may cause poor washing and the need to rewash all or part of the load.
  5. Don't pre-rinse normally soiled dishes. Select the correct program for the load and use the recommended amount of detergent for good washing results without hand rinsing.
  6. Use your dishwasher during off-peak hours. Local utilities recommend this to avoid heavy usage of energy at certain times of day.
  7. Kitchen cleanup can be done quickly and efficiently through the use of your dishwasher. Most appliance parts that can fit in the dishwasher can be cleaned by it. Burned-on soil, however, should be cleaned by hand.

Special tips on dishwasher use

Remember, use your dishwasher only for the job it was designed to do. Some items are not dishwasher safe or may require special care. Read these special tips for the following items:

Dishwasher care & cleaning:

Exterior - Regular use of a soft damp cloth or sponge and a mild detergent is all that is necessary, in most cases, to keep the outside of your dishwasher nice looking and clean. Interior - Hard water minerals may cause a white film to build-up on the inside surfaces, especially just beneath the door area. Wear rubber gloves when cleaning the dishwasher interior. Do not use any type of cleanser other than dishwasher detergent because it may cause foaming or sudsing.

Common dishwashing problems

PROBLEM CAUSED BY SOLUTION
Spotting and filming (hard water film) Hard water Fill detergent dispensers to capacity. Use dishwasher detergent with highest available phosphorus content. May be necessary to install water softener.
To remove spots and film, try a vinegar rinse...
  1. Wash and rinse load as usual. Use AIR DRY.
  2. Remove all metal items.
  3. Put 2 cups (500 mL) white vinegar in a container on the bottom rack.
  4. Run dishwasher through a complete washing cycle.
Water is not hot enough Water temperature should be at least 140°F (60°C). Set water heater thermostat to a higher setting. Run water at sink until hot before starting and/or use HI-TEMP WASH Option.
Not enough detergent, or improper detergent Use more dishwasher detergent. Use detergent with highest available phosphorus content...especially with hard water.
"Old" detergent Use only fresh dishwasher detergent. Store tightly closed container, in cool, dry place. Discard old detergent. Do not fill dispensers until ready to start dishwasher.
Small particles deposited on Items Improper loading Make sure dishes and glassware are loaded so spray reaches all surfaces and items drain properly. Do not overload. Do not nest items.
Make sure large items do not block spray from reaching detergent dispensers.
No rinse aid Does the rinse aid dispenser need filling? See instructions on page 7.
Dishes not dry AIR DRY Setting used Drying without heat may result in some spotting of glasses and silver.
Spray arm or arms not rotating freely Check spray arms to make sure they turn freely after loading. Be sure a utensil has not prevented their turning.
"Old" detergent Use only fresh dishwasher detergent. Store tightly closed container, in cool, dry place. Discard old detergent. Do not fill dispensers until ready to start dishwasher.
Not enough detergent, or improper detergent Use more dishwasher detergent. Use detergent with highest available phosphorus content...especially with hard water.
Water is not hot enough Water temperature should be at least 140°F (60°C). Set water heater thermostat to a higher setting. Run water at sink until hot before starting and/or use HI-TEMP WASH Option.
Water pressure may be low, dishwasher is not filling properly If water pressure is low, do not use water for other purposes while dishwasher is running (to assure correct fills).
Water is not hot enough Water temperature should be at least 140°F (60°C). Set water heater thermostat to a higher setting. Run water at sink until hot before starting and/or use HI-TEMP WASH Option.
Improper loading Make sure dishes and glassware are loaded so spray reaches all surfaces and items drain properly. Do not overload. Do not nest items.
No rinse aid Fill rinse aid dispenser.
AIR DRY Setting used Allow more time when using AIR DRY Option, or use HEAT DRY. Plastic items may need towel drying.
Black marks on dishes Aluminum utensils rubbing against items during washing Use care in loading aluminum utensils, especially a lightweight foil container. Place so they do not touch dishes. Remove black marks with plastic scouring pad and a mild abrasive cleanser.
Chipping or breaking glassware Improper loading Do not overload. Load glasses in the top rack only. Load between prongs, not over them. Glasses loaded over prongs will not be supported and may chip or break.
Dishes not washing clean Water is not hot enough Water temperature should be at least 140°F (60°C). Set water heater thermostat to a higher setting. Run water at sink until hot before starting and/or use HI-TEMP WASH Option.
Improper loading Make sure dishes and glassware are loaded so spray reaches all surfaces and items drain properly. Do not overload. Do not nest items. Make sure large items do not block spray from reaching detergent dispensers.
Spray arm or arms not rotating freely Check spray arms to make sure they turn freely after loading. Be sure a utensil has not prevented their turning.
Not enough detergent or improper detergent Use more dishwasher detergent. Use detergent with highest available phosphorus content...especially with hard water.
"Old" detergent. Use only fresh dishwasher detergent. Store tightly closed container, in cool, dry place. Discard old detergent. Do not fill dispensers until ready to start dishwasher.
Cloudy film on glassware, etching - permanent corrosion Water pressure may be low, dishwasher is not filling properly If water pressure is low, do not use water for other purposes while dishwasher is running (to assure correct fills).
Too much detergent in soft water Check for rainbow hue on glasses. A rainbow hue is the first sign of etching (corrosion of glass). Reduce the amount of dishwasher detergent. Use a detergent with a lower phosphorus content.
Dishes & interior of dishwasher yellow or brown Inadequate rinsing Make sure dishes and glassware are loaded properly to assure adequate rinsing and draining. Do not overload.
Iron or manganese in water Temporary remedy:
  1. Set empty dishwasher for a "one wash" cycle.
  2. Start dishwasher and unlatch door to stop it when it has filled for the wash part of the cycle.
  3. Add 1 to 1½ cup (120 to 240 mL) of citric acid crystals (usually available in drugstores).
  4. Close and latch door to complete cycle.
Permanent solution: Install an iron or manganese filter to home water supply.
Rust spots on stainless steel -OR- Dark spots on flatware stainless steel, silver plate, or sterling Allowing salty or acidic foods such as mayonnaise, vinegar, fruit juices, salad dressings, milk products to remain on flatware. Undissolved detergent coming in contact with flatware Rinse flatware that is to stand for several hours before washing (use Rinse & Hold). Clean stained items with silver polish and re-wash. Do not put stainless steel and silver flatware in the same silverware basket compartment. Direct contact between these metals can cause permanent damage to the silver.
Remove spots with silver polish. Avoid spilling concentrated detergent on wet flatware.
Bronze tarnish on silverplate Silverplate is worn off. Exposed base metal takes on a bronzed hue. Remove tarnish with silver polish. Have silver replated.
Water left in bottom of dishwasher Dishwasher cycle not completed Allow dishwasher to complete cycle.
Clogged drain air gap Some plumbing codes require use of a drain air gap between an undercounter dishwasher and the drain system of the house. The air gap is usually located above the sink or on the top of the counter near the dishwasher to prevent the possibility of water backing up from the drain into the dishwasher due to a plugged drain. The drain air gap is NOT a part of the dishwasher and is NOT covered by the dishwasher warranty. The drain air gap should be kept clean to insure proper draining of the dishwasher.

If you need service or assistance, we suggest you follow these four steps:

1. Before calling for assistance...

Performance problems often result from little things you can find and fix yourself without tools of any kind.

If your dishwasher won't run, or stops during a program:

If water remains in the dishwasher:

If detergent remains in the covered detergent cup:

If you hear grinding, grating, crunching, buzzing sounds:

2. If you need assistance*...

Call Whirlpool COOL-LINE service assistance telephone number. Dial free from:

And talk with one of our trained Consultants. The Consultant can instruct you in how to obtain satisfactory operation from your appliance or, if service is necessary, recommend a qualified service company in your area.

3. If you need service*...

Whirlpool has a nationwide network of franchised TECH-CARE® Service Companies. TECH-CARE service technicians are trained to fulfill the product warranty and provide after-warranty service, anywhere in the United States. To locate TECH-CARE service in your area, call our COOL-LINE service assistance telephone number (see Step 2) or look in your telephone directory Yellow Pages under:

4. If you have a problem*...

Call our COOL-LINE service assistance telephone number (see Step 2) and talk with one of our Consultants, or if you prefer, write to:

Mr. Robert Stanley
Division Vice President
Whirlpool Corporation
2000 US-33, North
Benton Harbor, MI 49022

*If you must call or write, please provide: model number, serial number, date of purchase, and a complete description of the problem. This information is needed in order to better respond to your request for assistance.

FSP is a registered trademark of Whirlpool Corporation for quality parts. Look for this symbol of quality whenever you need a replacement part for your Whirlpool appliance. FSP replacement parts will fit right and work right, because they are made to the same exacting specifications used to build every new Whirlpool appliance.

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