Whirlpool Dishwasher Quick Start Guide

Essential instructions for setting up and operating your Whirlpool dishwasher.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING

Tip Over Hazard

  • Do not use dishwasher until completely installed.
  • Do not push down on open door. Doing so can result in serious injury or cuts.

To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons, read the IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS, located in your appliance’s Owner’s Manual, before operating this appliance.

Getting Started:

  1. Step 1: Prepare and Load the Dishwasher

    Refer to Key Usage Tips for detailed loading information.

  2. Step 2: Add Detergent and Rinse Aid

    Refer to Key Usage Tips for detailed information on adding detergent and rinse aid.

  3. Step 3: Check that All Arms Spin Freely

    Ensure items in the rack do not block the spray arms.

  4. Step 4: Select a Cycle and Options

    Efficient dishwashers may run longer to save water and energy. Typical cycle time is approximately 2.5 hours, but can vary. Customize cycles by selecting options. If you change your mind, select the option again to turn it off. Not all options are available for every cycle. Invalid selections will cause lights to flash. Adding options may increase cycle time.

    Note: Cycles and options vary by model. See the online Cycle and Options Guide for more information.

  5. Step 5: Start or Resume a Cycle

    IMPORTANT: If the door is opened (e.g., to add a dish, even during a delay), the Start/Resume button must be selected again each time.

    • If the Start/Resume button is on the top of the door: Push the door firmly closed within 4 seconds of selecting Start/Resume. If not closed within 4 seconds, the button's LED will flash, an audible tone will sound, and the cycle will not start.
    • If the Start/Resume button is on the front of the door: Push the door firmly closed. The door latches automatically. Select the wash cycle, options, and then Start/Resume.

    Note: Run hot water at the sink nearest your dishwasher until the water is hot. Turn off water.

    Note: Select Start/Resume every time you add a dish.

Water Hardness and Salt Reservoir

The dishwasher has a water softener, but the setting defaults to OFF. No action is needed if not used. Refer to the Owner's Manual for instructions on activating the water softener if desired.

Key Usage Tips

Note: Racks vary by model.

Loading the Dishwasher

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

  • Ensure no items block the detergent dispenser when the door is closed.
  • Load items with soiled surfaces facing down and inward toward the spray for better cleaning and drying. Angle dirtiest surfaces downward, allowing 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 avoid thumping/clattering noises, load dishes so they do not touch. Secure lightweight items.
  • Use slots in covers (if provided) and suggested loading patterns to separate silverware for optimal washing.
  • If silverware doesn't fit 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 may vary by model.

Visual Description: Diagrams illustrate loading for the Lower Rack, Middle Rack, and Third Level Utensil Rack, showing optimal placement of dishes and cutlery. A separate diagram shows the Silverware Basket with tips on separating items.

Online Ordering Information

For detailed installation, maintenance, winter storage, and transportation tips, see the Owner's Manual.

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

This may save you the cost of a service call.

Services:

  • ? Register Product
  • ⚙️ Schedule Service
  • How To’s & FAQ
  • ⬇️ Manuals & Downloads
  • Add Service Plan
  • ? Parts
  • ? Accessories

Contact Information:

  • United States: 1-866-698-2538, Whirlpool Brand Home Appliances, Customer eXperience Center, 553 Benson Road, Benton Harbor, MI 49022-2692
  • Canada: 1-800-807-6777, Whirlpool Brand Home Appliances, Customer eXperience Centre, 200-6750 Century Ave., Mississauga, Ontario L5N 0B7

ADD DETERGENT

Premeasured Detergents

High-quality premeasured tablets and packs are recommended for improved performance. They are proven to be better than powder, liquid, or gel detergents at reducing filming on dishes and can help 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. Always place premeasured detergents in the main compartment and close the lid.

Note: Follow package instructions for other detergent types. See the Owner's Manual for more details on powders, liquids, and gels.

  • Use automatic dishwasher detergent only. Add detergent just before starting a cycle.
  • Fresh detergent yields better cleaning. Store detergent containers tightly closed in a cool, dry place.

FILTRATION SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: Do not operate the dishwasher without filters properly installed to avoid 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 that minimizes sound and optimizes water usage and cleaning performance. The system has two parts: an upper filter assembly and a lower filter.

Visual Description: Diagram labels parts A (Upper Filter Assembly) and B (Lower Filter).

When using the Sanitized Rinse cycle, the final rinse water is heated to 155°F (68.3°C), eliminating 99.999% of food soil bacteria, meeting national household sanitization requirements.

ADD RINSE AID

Your dishwasher is designed to use rinse aid for good drying performance. Without it, dishes and the interior may have excessive moisture, and heated drying will not perform as well.

Rinse aid prevents water from forming droplets that cause spots or streaks. It improves 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 with the door down (varies by model).
  • The control panel light will indicate when the dispenser is low after rinse aid has been added.
  • To add rinse aid to a sliding lid dispenser: Open the lid by gently pushing the center with your thumb and pulling up the edge. Pour rinse aid into the opening until full. Close the dispenser by pushing down gently on the lid.

If drying performance is poor, try a higher setting. The factory setting usually provides good results for most water conditions. Refer to the Dishwasher Owner's Manual to increase the rinse aid setting.

FOLLOW THE PROGRESS OF YOUR DISHWASHER

The "Clean" indicator glows when a cycle is finished.

RECOMMENDED DETERGENT

Restrictions on phosphorus (phosphates) in household dishwasher detergents have been enacted in the United States and Canada. Manufacturers have reformulated detergents to be more eco-conscious. Due to these changes, using tablets and packs is recommended for convenience and improved performance.

Note: Not all cycles, settings, or options are available with all models.

Models: WDT550SAPW Built In Dishwasher, WDT550SAPW, Built In Dishwasher, In Dishwasher, Dishwasher

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