Kenmore ULTRA WASH® Dishwasher
Use & Care Guide
Models: 665.15752, 665.15754, 665.15759, 665.17752, 665.17754, 665.17759
We Service What We Sell
Your purchase has added value because you can depend on Sears HomeCentral® for service. With over 12,000 trained repair specialists and access to over 4.2 million parts and accessories, Sears has the tools, parts, knowledge, and skills to ensure their pledge: We Service What We Sell.
Sears Maintenance Agreements
Your Kenmore appliance is designed, manufactured, and tested to provide years of dependable operation. Yet, any major appliance may require service from time to time. The Sears Maintenance Agreement offers an outstanding service program, affordably priced.
- Is your way to buy tomorrow's service at today's price.
- Eliminates repair bills resulting from normal wear and tear.
- Provides for non-technical and instructional assistance.
- Even if you don't need repairs, provides an annual Preventive Maintenance Check, at your request, to ensure that your appliance is in proper running condition.
Some limitations apply. For more information, call 1-800-827-6655.
Warranty
Full One-Year Warranty on Kenmore ULTRA WASH® Dishwashers
For one year from the date of purchase, when this dishwasher is installed and operated according to instructions provided in the Installation Instructions and Use & Care Guide, Sears will repair this dishwasher, free of charge, if defective in material or workmanship.
Full Two-Year Warranty on Electronic Control and Power Supply Board
For two years from the date of purchase, when this dishwasher is installed and operated according to instructions provided in the Installation Instructions and Use & Care Guide, Sears will repair, free of charge, the electronic module and power supply board if defective in material or workmanship.
Full Warranty for the Life of the Dishwasher, on ULTRA LIFETM Tub Models, Against Leaks in the Tub and Inner Door Panel
For the life of the dishwasher, if a leak should occur as a result of failure of the polypropylene tub or inner door panel due to cracking, chipping, or peeling, Sears will replace, free of charge, the tub or inner door panel.
Limited Two-Year Warranty on the ULTRA WASH® Wash System
After the first year and until two years from the date of purchase, when the dishwasher is installed and operated in accordance with the instructions provided in the Installation Instructions and Use & Care Guide, Sears will replace any part of the ULTRA WASH wash system (motor, pump, spray arms, ULTRA FLOW™ water feed tube, motor seals, and pump gasket) due to defective materials or workmanship. Customer assumes any labor costs associated with replacement of these parts.
Warranty Restriction
If the dishwasher is subject to other than private family use, the above warranty coverage is effective for only 90 days.
Warranty Service
Warranty service is available by contacting the nearest Sears Service Center in the United States or Canada. This warranty applies only while the product is in use in the United States or Canada. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state or province to province. Warranty terms may vary in Canada.
For Sears Warranty information in the United States or Canada, call 1-800-469-4663.
Sears, Roebuck and Co. D/817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Sears Canada, Inc. Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5B 2B8
Record your complete model number, serial number, and purchase date. Have this information available to help you quickly obtain assistance or service when you contact Sears concerning your appliance.
Model number: 665.
Serial number: __________
Purchase date: __________
Save these instructions and your sales receipt for future reference.
Dishwasher Safety
Your safety and the safety of others are very important. Read and obey all safety messages.
⚠️ This is the safety alert symbol. This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others.
? DANGER: You can be killed or seriously injured if you don't immediately follow instructions.
⚠️ WARNING: You can be killed or seriously injured if you don't follow instructions.
All safety messages will tell you what the potential hazard is, how to reduce the chance of injury, and what can happen if instructions are not followed.
Important Safety Instructions
WARNING: When using the dishwasher, follow basic precautions:
- Read all instructions before using.
- Use only for its intended function.
- Use only recommended detergents or rinse agents and keep them out of reach of children.
- When loading items: 1) Locate sharp items to avoid damaging the door seal; 2) Load sharp knives with handles up to reduce cut risk.
- Do not wash plastic items unless marked "dishwasher safe" or equivalent. Check manufacturer recommendations for others.
- Do not touch the heating element during or immediately after use.
- Do not operate unless all enclosure panels are properly in place.
- Do not tamper with controls.
- Do not abuse, sit on, or stand on the door or dish racks.
- To reduce injury risk, do not allow children to play in or on the dishwasher.
- Under certain conditions, hydrogen gas may be produced in a hot water system not used for two weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXPLOSIVE. Before use, turn on all hot water faucets and let water flow for several minutes to release accumulated gas. Do not smoke or use an open flame during this time.
- Remove the door to the washing compartment when removing an old dishwasher from service or discarding it.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Before Using Your Dishwasher
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.
Electrical Shock Hazard
⚠️ Electrically ground dishwasher. Connect ground wire to green ground connector in terminal box. Do not use an extension cord. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.
Grounding Instructions
For a grounded, cord-connected dishwasher:
The dishwasher must be grounded. In the event of a malfunction or breakdown, grounding reduces the risk of electric shock by providing a path of least resistance for electric current. The dishwasher is equipped with a cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug must be plugged into an appropriate outlet that is installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.
WARNING: Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a risk of electric shock. Check with a qualified electrician or service representative if you are in doubt whether the dishwasher is properly grounded. Do not modify the plug provided with the dishwasher; if it will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
For a permanently connected dishwasher:
The dishwasher must be connected to a grounded metal, permanent wiring system, or an equipment-grounding conductor must be run with the circuit conductors and connected to the equipment-grounding terminal or lead on the dishwasher.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Install where dishwasher is protected from the elements. Protect against freezing to avoid possible rupture of fill valve. Such ruptures are not covered by the warranty. See "Storing Your Dishwasher" in the "Dishwasher Care" section for winter storage information.
Install and level dishwasher on a floor that will hold the weight, and in an area suitable for its size and use.
Remove all shipping plugs from hoses and connectors (such as the cap on the drain outlet) before installing. See Installation Instructions for complete information.
Parts and Features
Diagram Description: The diagram shows a front view of the dishwasher interior with numbered components.
- 1. Upper level wash
- 2. Top rack
- 3. Utensil basket
- 4. Bottom rack
- 5. Fold-down tines
- 6. Lower spray arm
- 7. Water inlet opening [in tub wall]
- 8. Rack bumper
- 9. Heating element
- 10. Vent
- 11. Fold-down tines
- 12. Top spray arm
- 13. Combo cup shelf
- 14. ULTRA FLOW™ water feed tube
- 15. Silverware basket
- 16. Model and serial number label
- 17. ULTRA WASH® module
- 18. Overfill protection float
- 19. Detergent dispenser
- 20. Rinse aid dispenser
Other features your dishwasher may have: NO-FLIP™ clips
Control Panel
Diagram Description: The control panel features buttons for Cycles (Pots/Pans, Normal, China, Gentle, Time Saver, Quick Rinse), Options (Hi Temp, Sani Rinse, Air Dry, Delay Hours, Lock On), and Cycle Status Indicators (Washing, Heating, Drying, Sanitized, Clean).
ULTRA WASH® Soil Removal System
The ULTRA WASH soil removal system provides sparkling clean dishes using less energy and time. It includes:
- A heavy-duty grinder that acts as a food disposer for large food particles.
- An ULTRA WASH sensor to monitor soil level and adjust cycles.
- An Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) to ensure proper water temperature for the selected cycle and soil level.
How the ULTRA WASH Soil Removal System Works
- Load dishwasher. Scrape large food soil and hard items (toothpicks, bones). No rinsing is necessary; remaining food soil is ground and disposed down the drain.
- Hot water fills the dishwasher to a level near the overfill protection float.
- The HEATING indicator glows, and the dishwasher pauses for water heating.
- When water reaches proper temperature, HEATING indicator turns off, and the cycle resumes.
- Detergent is dispensed, and hot water sprays through the ULTRA WASH pump.
- Hot water and detergent spray soiled surfaces, removing food particles.
- Food soil is held in an accumulating chamber.
- Food soil is disposed down the drain with wash water.
- Fresh, hot water enters and sprays dishes. Rinse water is pumped through the ULTRA WASH soil removal system to remove remaining soil.
- The food soil in the system is disposed down the drain with rinse water.
- Final rinse water is heated, and rinse aid is added for drying preparation.
How the ULTRA WASH Sensor and the Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) Work
- The ULTRA WASH Sensor measures soil level.
- Unnecessary cycle portions are skipped based on soil level.
- The ATC adjusts water temperature throughout the cycle based on soil level for improved cleaning with heavier loads.
Start-Up Guide
Before using your dishwasher, remove all packaging materials. Read this entire Use and Care Guide for important safety information and operating tips.
Using Your New Dishwasher
- Scrape large food soil and hard items (toothpicks or bones) from dishes.
- Properly load the dishwasher. Ensure spray arms can spin freely. (See "Dishwasher Loading.")
- Add detergent and check the rinse aid dispenser. Add rinse aid if needed. (See "Dishwasher Use.")
- Push door firmly closed. Run hot water at the nearest sink until hot, then turn off water.
- Press desired cycle and option selections. Press START. Or press START to repeat the same cycle and options as the previous cycle.
Dishwasher Loading
Loading Suggestions
- Remove leftover food, bones, toothpicks, and other hard items. Rinsing is not necessary.
- If hard items (fruit seeds, nuts, egg shells) enter the wash module, you may hear chopping or grinding sounds; this is normal. Do not let metallic items (like pot handle screws) enter the wash module, as damage can occur.
- Ensure water spray reaches all soiled surfaces. Load dishes so they are not stacked or overlapping. For best drying, water must drain from all surfaces.
- Make sure pot lids, handles, pizza pans, and cookie sheets do not interfere with spray arm rotation.
- Run a rinse cycle to keep dishes moist if you won't wash them soon. Foods like eggs, rice, pasta, and spinach can be hard to remove if left to dry.
Quiet Operating Tips
- Secure lightweight items in racks to avoid thumping/clattering.
- Ensure pot lids, handles, etc., do not touch interior walls or interfere with spray arm rotation.
- Load dishes so they do not touch one another.
- For built-in models, keep sink drain plugs closed during operation to prevent noise transfer through drains.
Loading the Top Rack
The top rack is designed for cups, glasses, and smaller items.
- Place items so open ends face down for cleaning and draining.
- Load glasses in the top rack only.
- Place cups and glasses in rows between tines, not over them, to prevent breakage and water spots.
- China, crystal, and delicate items must not touch each other.
- Load plastic items in the top rack only, if marked "dishwasher safe."
- Load plastic items so spray force doesn't move them.
- To avoid chipping, do not let stemware touch other items.
- Small bowls, pans, and utensils can be placed in the top rack. Load bowls in the center for stability.
Utensil Basket
Use this basket on the top rack for spatulas, wooden spoons, and similar items.
Combo Cup Shelves
Fold down the extra shelves on the right side of the top rack to hold various items, including additional cups and stemware.
Hold lightweight plastic lids in place in the Lid Holders. Place long items like utensils and spatulas on the Combo Cup shelf.
Loading the Bottom Rack
The bottom rack is designed for plates, pans, casseroles, and utensils. Load items with soiled surfaces facing inward to the spray.
- Place knives, sharp-edge down, in the Knife Holder. (Note: Always point knives to the rear with blades down.)
- Fold down tines in the top rack to accommodate larger items.
- The no-flip clips (on some models) hold lightweight plastic items like cups or lids in place. Clips can be moved anywhere in the rack.
- Do not load glasses, cups, or plastic items in the bottom rack. Load small items only if secured.
- Load plates, soup bowls, etc., between tines, facing inward.
- Overlap plate edges for large loads.
- Load bowls securely between tines; do not nest them, as spray may not reach all surfaces.
- Load cookie sheets, cake pans, and other large items at the sides and back. Loading in front can block the water spray to the dispenser.
- Secure heavily soiled cookware face down.
- Ensure pot handles and other items do not stop spray arm rotation.
- Do not load items between the bottom rack and the dishwasher tub side, as this can block the water inlet opening.
- If the bottom rack was removed for unloading or cleaning, replace it with the bumpers in front.
Loading the Silverware Basket
Load the silverware basket in the bottom rack or on a counter/table. Unload or remove the basket before unloading racks to avoid dripping water.
- Place small items (like jar lids) in a covered section.
- Load silverware with some items pointing up and some down to avoid nesting, which prevents spray contact.
- IMPORTANT: Always load sharp items (knives, skewers) pointing down.
- To remove a small basket: Hold the center and one small basket, slide the small basket forward to release tabs, then pull baskets apart.
- NOTES: Do not load silver or silver-plated silverware with stainless steel, as damage can occur. Some foods (salt, vinegar, milk products, fruit juices) can pit or corrode silverware. Run a rinse cycle if you do not have a full load to wash immediately.
- Use suggested loading patterns to increase washability.
Dishwasher Use
Detergent Dispenser
The dispenser has two sections: Pre-Wash and Main Wash. The Main Wash section automatically dispenses detergent during the main wash. The Pre-Wash section empties during the pre-wash cycle.
Where to fill:
- Top of 3rd step (3 tbs or 45 g)
- Top of 2nd step (2 tbs or 30 g)
- Top of 1st step (1 tb or 15 g)
- Use automatic dishwashing detergent only. Other detergents can cause excessive suds.
- Add detergent just before starting a cycle. Store detergent in a cool, dry place.
- Filling the dispenser: Open the cover by pushing the cover latch. Fill the Main Wash section. Close the cover. Fill the Pre-Wash section if needed. It's normal for the cover to open partially. Use both sections for cycles with 2 washes; use only the covered section for cycles with 1 wash.
How Much Detergent to Use
Amount depends on water hardness and detergent type. Too little detergent leaves dishes unclean; too much in soft water can etch glassware.
Water Hardness | Amount of Detergent |
---|---|
Soft to Medium Hard Water (0 to 6 grains per gallon) | For normally soiled loads: Fill Main Wash to top of 2nd step (2 tbs or 30 g). Fill Pre-Wash to top of 2nd step (2 tbs or 30 g) if needed. NOTE: Add only 1 tb or 15 g to both sections if dishes are pre-rinsed or water is very soft (0-2 grains/gallon). |
Medium to Hard Water (7 to 12 grains per gallon) | For heavily soiled loads: Fill Main Wash to top of 3rd step (3 tbs or 45 g). Fill Pre-Wash to top of 2nd step (2 tbs or 30 g) if needed. For normally soiled and heavily soiled loads: Fill Main Wash to top of 3rd step (3 tbs or 45 g). Fill Pre-Wash to top of 2nd step (2 tbs or 30 g) if needed. |
NOTE: Fill amounts are for standard powdered detergent. Amounts may vary for liquid or concentrated powdered detergent.
Rinse Aid Dispenser
Rinse aids prevent water spots and streaks and improve drying by helping water drain off dishes.
- Check the Fill Indicator cap. Clear means it needs filling. If "E" is visible after removing the cap, it's empty.
- The dispenser holds 6 oz (175 mL) and typically lasts about three months.
- Filling: Open the door completely. Remove the Fill Indicator cap. Add rinse aid to the smallest opening in the lower part of the dispenser. Do not overfill. Clean up spills with a damp cloth. Replace the cap tightly.
Dishwasher Efficiency Tips
- Hot water dissolves detergent and grease, and helps glasses dry spot-free. Water should be at least 120°F (49°C) entering the dishwasher.
- To check water temperature: Run hot water at the nearest faucet for at least 1 minute. Place a thermometer in a glass measuring cup and check the temperature. If below 120°F (49°C), have a qualified person raise the water heater's thermostat setting.
- To save water, energy, and time, do not rinse dishes before loading.
- Use short or quick cycles when possible.
- Use the delay feature to run the dishwasher during off-peak hours.
- During summer, run the dishwasher at night to reduce daytime heat buildup.
- Use the energy-saving dry option whenever possible, allowing longer drying times. Use rinse aid to improve drying.
- Use cycles or options that add extra heat only when needed.
- Run with full loads. Run a rinse cycle after meals until the dishwasher is full.
Control Panel and Cycles
Control Panel
The control panel includes buttons for selecting Cycles (Pots/Pans, Normal, China, Gentle, Time Saver, Quick Rinse) and Options (Hi Temp, Sani Rinse, Air Dry, Delay Hours, Lock On). It also features Cycle Status Indicators (Washing, Heating, Drying, Sanitized, Clean).
Cycle Selection Chart
Select wash cycle and options. Press START to begin, or press START to repeat the last cycle used (unless it was a rinse cycle).
A "O" indicates a step in the cycle. Temperatures show where extra heat is added. Water usage is in gallons/liters. Cycle time includes dry time. Asterisks (*) indicate cycle time may be longer if incoming water is cooler.
China/Crystal Cycle
For china and crystal. Uses light wash and gentle dry. Heating element cycles on/off during heated dry. Initial display time: 68 min. Uses covered detergent dispenser section.
Soil Level Sensed | Wash | Rinse | Main Wash or Heated Purge Rinse | Final Rinse | Dry | Cycle Time (min) | Water Usage (gal/L) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Heavy | O | O | O 130°F (54°C) | O cycled | O | 72* | 8.6/32.7 |
Light | O | O | O 130°F (54°C) | O cycled | O | 58* | 4.8/18.2 |
Pots/Pans Cycle
For hard-to-clean, heavily-soiled pots, pans, casseroles, and regular tableware. Uses both detergent dispenser sections. Initial display time: 80 min.
Soil Level Sensed | Wash | Rinse | Main Wash or Heated Purge Rinse | Final Rinse | Dry | Cycle Time (min) | Water Usage (gal/L) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Heavy | O | O | O 135°F (57°C) | O 140°F (60°C) | O | 97* | 10.8/40.9 |
Light | O | O | O 135°F (57°C) | O 140°F (60°C) | O | 87* | 8.6/32.7 |
Time Saver Cycle
For pre-rinsed or lightly-soiled loads. Sensor adjusts water and time as needed. No drying options available. Initial display time: 26 min. Uses covered detergent dispenser section.
Soil Level Sensed | Wash | Rinse | Main Wash or Heated Purge Rinse | Final Rinse | Dry | Cycle Time (min) | Water Usage (gal/L) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Heavy | O | O | O | O | O | 30* | 6.9/26.1 |
Light | O | O | O | O | O | 26* | 4.8/18.2 |
Normal Wash Cycle
For loads with normal amounts of food soil. Uses both detergent dispenser sections. Initial display time: 78 min.
Soil Level Sensed | Wash | Rinse | Main Wash or Heated Purge Rinse | Final Rinse | Dry | Cycle Time (min) | Water Usage (gal/L) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Heavy | O | O | O 140°F (60°C) | O 140°F (60°C) | O | 90* | 10.8/40.9 |
Medium | O | O | O 140°F (60°C) | O 140°F (60°C) | O | 86* | 8.6/32.7 |
Light | O | O | O 140°F (60°C) | O 140°F (60°C) | O | 71* | 6.9/26.1 |
Quick Rinse Cycle
For rinsing dishes, glasses, and silverware that will not be washed right away. Do not use detergent. Initial display time: 10 min.
Soil Level Sensed | Wash | Rinse | Main Wash | Final Rinse | Dry | Cycle Time (min) | Water Usage (gal/L) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Heavy | 14 | 4.3/16.4 | |||||
Light | 10 | 2.2/8.2 |
NOTE: The sensor monitors soil level, so cycle time and water usage may vary.
Operations
Canceling a Cycle
Anytime during a cycle, press CANCEL/DRAIN. The dishwasher pauses for about 5 seconds and starts a 2-minute drain (if needed). The light goes off when draining finishes.
To stop the drain: Press CANCEL/DRAIN again. Remember to drain before starting a new cycle. A small amount of water may remain, which is normal.
To clear indicators: Press CANCEL/DRAIN before starting to clear all options and cycles.
Changing a Cycle or Setting
- During the first minute of a cycle: Press a new cycle and/or options.
- After the first minute: Press CANCEL/DRAIN. The dishwasher pauses and drains. Check detergent dispensers; refill if needed. Close the door, select a new cycle/options, and press START.
Adding Items During a Cycle
You can add an item anytime before the main wash starts, provided the main wash detergent dispenser is still closed.
- Lift the door latch to stop the cycle. Wait for spraying to stop.
- Open the door. Add the item if the main wash dispenser is closed.
- Close the door, but do not latch it. Wait 30 seconds for air to warm up, reducing moisture escape.
- Close the door firmly until latched. The dishwasher resumes after a 5-second pause.
Option Selections
Customize cycles by pressing an option button. Press again to turn off. You can change options anytime before they begin.
- Press START to use the same cycle and options as the previous wash cycle.
- Hi Temp Scrub: Heats water to 145°F (63°C) in the main wash for improved results. Adds heat, water, and wash time. Available with Pots/Pans and Normal Wash.
- Sani Rinse: Raises final rinse water temperature to approximately 155°F (68°C) for 10 minutes, sanitizing dishes. Adds heat and time. Available with Pots/Pans, Normal Wash, and Time Saver.
- Air Dry: Energy-saving option for drying without heat. Useful for plastics sensitive to high temperatures. Dishes may take longer to dry and may have spotting. Use rinse aid for best results. Some items may need towel drying. Quick Rinse automatically uses this option. Air Dry is an option with all other cycles.
Indicators and Systems
Lock On
Use the Lock to prevent unintended use or option changes. When LOCK ON is lit, all buttons are disabled. The door can still be opened. To turn on, press and hold AIR DRY for 4 seconds (LOCK ON glows). If any pad is pressed while locked, the light flashes 3 times. To turn off, press and hold AIR DRY for 4 seconds.
Delay Hours
Select this option to run the dishwasher at a later time or during off-peak hours. To delay the start: Close the door, select a cycle/options, press DELAY HOURS 1, 2, or 3 times for a 2, 4, or 6-hour delay, then press START. The corresponding light glows. To cancel the delay, press CANCEL/DRAIN until all Delay Hours lights are off.
IMPORTANT: Operate dishwasher only when at home. If you have a water softener, do not start the dishwasher during its regeneration cycle.
Cycle Status Indicators
Follow cycle progress:
- WASHING: Indicates washing phase.
- HEATING: HEATING glows when water is heated. Cycle pauses, but wash/rinse action may continue.
- DRYING: Indicates drying phase.
- SANITIZED: SANITIZED glows when Sani Rinse cycle is finished. If dishes were not properly sanitized, the light flashes. Light goes off when door is opened.
- CLEAN: CLEAN glows when a cycle is finished. Light turns off when the door is opened or CANCEL/DRAIN is pressed.
Drying System
Steam may escape through the vent at the upper left corner of the door during drying; this is normal. IMPORTANT: The vapor is hot. Do not touch the vent during drying.
Overfill Protection Float
Located in the front right corner of the tub, this float prevents overfilling. It must be in place for the dishwasher to operate. Check under the float for objects that may prevent it from moving up or down.
Washing Special Items
If unsure about washing an item, check the manufacturer's recommendations.
Material | Dishwasher Safe?/Comments |
---|---|
Aluminum | Yes. High water temperature and detergents can affect anodized aluminum finish. |
Disposable Aluminum | No. May shift during washing and transfer black marks. |
Bottles and Cans | No. Wash by hand. Labels can loosen and clog spray arms or pump. |
Cast Iron | No. Seasoning will be removed, and iron will rust. |
China/Stoneware | Yes. Check manufacturer's recommendations. Antique, hand-painted, or over-the-glaze patterns may fade. Gold leaf can discolor or fade. |
Crystal | Yes. Check manufacturer's recommendations. Some leaded crystal may etch with repeated washing. |
Gold | No. Gold-colored flatware will discolor. |
Glass | Yes. Milk glass yellows with repeated washing. |
Hollow-Handle Knives | No. Adhesives holding handles may loosen. |
Pewter, Brass, Bronze | No. High water temperatures and detergent can discolor or pit the finish. |
Disposable Plastics | No. Cannot withstand high water temperatures and detergents. |
Plastics | Yes. Check manufacturer's recommendations. Load plastics in top rack only. |
Stainless Steel | Yes. Run a rinse cycle if not washing immediately. Prolonged contact with certain foods can damage finish. |
Sterling Silver or Silver Plate | Yes. Run a rinse cycle if not washing immediately. Prolonged contact with certain foods can damage finish. |
Tin | No. Can rust. |
Wooden Ware | No. Wash by hand. Check manufacturer's instructions. Untreated wood can warp, crack, or lose its finish. |
Dishwasher Care
Cleaning Your Dishwasher
Cleaning the Exterior
Use a soft, damp cloth or sponge and mild detergent.
Cleaning the Interior
Hard water minerals can cause a white film. Wear rubber gloves. Use only dishwasher detergent.
- Make a paste with powdered dishwasher detergent and a damp sponge.
- Alternatively, use liquid automatic dishwasher detergent with a damp sponge.
- For stubborn spots/film, see the vinegar rinse procedure in "Troubleshooting."
NOTE: Run a Normal cycle with detergent after cleaning the interior.
Drain Air Gap
Check the drain air gap if the dishwasher isn't draining well. Some codes require a drain air gap between the dishwasher and the home drain system.
- The drain air gap is usually on top of the sink or countertop. To order one, call 1-800-366-7278 and ask for Part Number 300096.
- The drain air gap is an external plumbing device; warranty does not cover its service costs.
- To clean: Periodically lift off the chrome cover, unscrew the plastic cap, and clean any soil buildup.
Storing Your Dishwasher
- Summer Storage: Turn off water supply and power supply.
- Winterizing: To protect against freezing, have your dishwasher winterized by authorized service personnel if exposed to near-freezing temperatures.
Troubleshooting
Try these solutions to avoid service calls.
Dishwasher is Not Operating Properly
- Does not run or stops during a cycle: Check if the door is closed and latched. Verify the correct cycle is selected. Check power supply (fuse/breaker). The motor may have stopped due to overload and will reset within minutes. Ensure the water shut-off valve is on.
- Will not fill: Check if the overfill protection float can move freely.
- Seems to run too long: Ensure water supplied is hot enough (at least 120°F/49°C). The dishwasher runs longer while heating water.
- Water remains in the dishwasher: Check if the cycle is complete.
- Detergent remains in the covered section of the dispenser: Check if the cycle is complete. Ensure detergent is lump-free. Check bottom rack installation.
- White residue on the front of the access panel: Too much detergent may have been used. Try a different detergent brand if excess foam is an issue.
- Odor in the dishwasher: If dishes are washed only every 2-3 days, run a rinse cycle daily. A new plastic smell may require a vinegar rinse.
- Condensation on the kitchen counter (built-in models): Ensure the dishwasher is aligned with the countertop.
Dishes Are Not Completely Clean
- Food soil left on the dishes: Check loading. Ensure water temperature is adequate. Use the correct amount of fresh detergent (never less than 1 tb/15g). Heavy soil or hard water may require extra detergent. Ensure detergent is not caked in the dispenser.
- Spots and stains on dishes:
- Spotting and filming: Use a liquid rinse aid. Ensure water temperature is adequate. Use correct detergent amount. Check water pressure (20-120 psi). For occasional removal, try a white vinegar rinse (2 cups vinegar in a glass on bottom rack, run a complete cycle with air-dry/energy-saving dry, no detergent).
- Silica film or etching: This is a water/chemical reaction, often caused by soft water, alkaline solutions, insufficient rinsing, overloading, or drying heat. It may be permanent. Use minimum detergent (not less than 1 tb/15g), liquid rinse aid, and underload for thorough rinsing. Do not use heated drying.
- White spots on cookware with non-stick finish: Dishwasher detergent may have removed seasoning; re-season cookware.
- Brown stains on dishes and dishwasher interior: If water has high iron content, rewash using 1-3 tsp citric acid crystals (no detergent), followed by a Normal wash cycle with detergent. Consider an iron removal unit if needed frequently.
- Black or gray marks on dishes: Aluminum items rubbing dishes can cause marking. Hand wash these items. Remove markings with a mild abrasive cleaner.
- Orange stains on plastic dishes or dishwasher interior: Caused by tomato-based foods. Stains gradually fade. Heated drying slows fading. Regular rinse cycles and air-dry/energy-saving dry options reduce likelihood.
Dishes Do Not Dry Completely
- Ensure dishes are loaded for proper water drainage.
- Use a liquid rinse aid.
- Check if plastics are wet (may need towel drying).
- Ensure the rinse aid dispenser is not empty.
- If an air-dry or energy-saving dry option was used, dishes will be less dry. Use a heated drying option for better drying.
Dishes Are Damaged During a Cycle
- Chipping of dishes: Load dishes and glasses so they are stable and do not strike each other. Minimize chipping by moving racks slowly. Antiques, feather-edged crystal, and similar items may be too delicate for automatic dishwashing; wash by hand.
Noises
- Grinding, grating, crunching, or buzzing sounds: A hard object may have entered the wash module (on some models). The sound should stop when the object is ground up.