Whirlpool DU9700XT Series Undercounter Dishwasher

Welcome

This guide provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your Whirlpool Undercounter Dishwasher, Model DU9700XT Series. It covers installation requirements, operating instructions, maintenance tips, and warranty details.

Illustration of the Whirlpool Undercounter Dishwasher.

Important Safety Instructions

When using your dishwasher, always follow basic precautions, including:

• Read all instructions before use.
• DO NOT let children play in or on the dishwasher.
• DO NOT reach into the heating element area until it has cooled for at least 20 minutes.
• DO NOT wash plastic items unless marked "Dishwasher Safe" or equivalent.
• Store detergent in a cool, dry place out of reach of children.
• Use only recommended detergents and rinse aids.
• Use the dishwasher only for its intended purpose.
• Locate sharp items to prevent damage to seals or injury.
• Ensure proper electrical grounding and water connection as per installation instructions.
• DO NOT operate the dishwasher unless all enclosure panels are properly in place.
• Ensure the dishwasher is installed on a level floor suitable for its use.
• DO NOT sit, stand on, or abuse the dishwasher door or racks.
• DO NOT tamper with controls.
• When discarding an old dishwasher, remove the door to prevent entrapment.
• WARNING: Hydrogen gas can build up in water heaters and pipes if hot water has not been used recently. To prevent explosion risk, run hot water faucets for several minutes before using the dishwasher. Do not smoke or use open flames near faucets during this process.
• WARNING: Disconnect electrical power before servicing.

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Parts and Features

Illustration showing the various components of the dishwasher:

• Adjustable Top Rack
• Upper Spray Arm
• Silverware Basket
• Detergent Dispensers
• Rinse Aid Dispenser
• User Guide (Permanent Label)
• Cutlery Basket
• Extra Capacity Fold Down Shelves
• Spray Tower
• Lower Spray Arm
• Model and Serial Number Plate (not shown)
• Bottom Rack
• Door and Access Panel - Color Panel Pack
• Overflow Protector: Designed to prevent excess water from entering the dishwasher; it is not removable.
• Power Clean Module: Designed to keep wash and rinse water clean, and grinds food particles. Some grinding sounds are normal.

Copy your Model and Serial Numbers here:

Record your Model Number, Serial Number, and Purchase Date in the spaces provided for easy reference when calling for service or asking questions. Keep this manual and your sales slip together.

Power Clean Washing System

Your dishwasher cleans by spraying a mixture of hot, clean water and detergent against soiled dishes. The water is pumped through rotating spray arms and the Power Clean Module, which removes food particles. Soiled water is then pumped out and replaced with clean water during the cycle.

Illustration showing the Power Clean Module's function: water enters, food particles are removed and stored, then washed down the drain.

Step-Saving Preparation for Washing:

• Rinsing dishes before loading is not necessary. Remove only large pieces, bones, and other hard items.
• The Power Clean Module will reduce the size of food items. You may hear grinding or crunching sounds if hard items like fruit seeds, nuts, or egg shells enter the module.
• DO NOT LET METALLIC ITEMS (e.g., pot handle screws) GET INTO THE POWER CLEAN MODULE, AS THIS COULD RESULT IN DAMAGE.

Hot Water is a Must:

• Hot water (at least 140°F / 60°C) dissolves detergent and grease, and helps glasses dry spot-free.
• Ensure a 140°F water supply at your central water heater. Check temperature by running hot water at the nearest faucet until it is as hot as possible, then measure with a thermometer. If too low, have a qualified person adjust the thermostat.
• Alternatively, use the HI-TEMP WASHING Option. This option will delay the cycle until the water reaches 145°F (63°C), ensuring proper washing temperature.

Quiet Operating Tips:

• Secure lightweight items in racks to prevent thumping.
• Ensure pot lids, pizza pans, and cookie sheets do not touch interior walls or interfere with spray arm rotation.
• Load dishes so they do not touch each other.
• Keep sink drain plugs inserted during operation to prevent noise transfer through drains.

Proper Loading

Load dishes so soiled surfaces face the spray from rotating spray arms. Water must drain off completely for best drying. Separate items to allow spray to reach all surfaces.

Top Rack Loading

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

• Place items with open ends facing down for cleaning and draining.
• Load glasses in the top rack only; the bottom rack is not designed for glasses and may cause damage.
• Place items in the rows between prongs to avoid breakage.
• Ensure lightweight items are held firmly in place.
• China, crystal, and delicate items should not touch each other during the cycle to prevent damage.

Illustration of top rack loading for cups and glasses, and a mixed load.

Adjustable Top Rack

The top rack height can be adjusted:

• Raise or lower one or both sides to fit tall items.
• Turn the knob clockwise to raise a side.
• Turn the knob counterclockwise to lower a side.

Illustration showing how to adjust the top rack height.

Extra Capacity Fold Down Shelf

Fold down shelves on the sides of the top rack can hold extra items like cups or cereal bowls. Adjust rack height if necessary.

Bottom Rack Loading

For plates, soup bowls, and heavily soiled cookware.

• Place plates and bowls between prongs, facing the spray.
• Securely place heavily soiled cookware face down.
• NOTE: Do not load glasses, cups, or plastic items in the bottom rack.
• When the lower rack is removed, ensure bumpers are in front.
• Load cookie sheets, cake pans, and other items at the sides or back to avoid blocking the detergent dispenser or silverware basket.
• Ensure items do not obstruct the spray arms or spray tower rotation.

Illustration of bottom rack loading for a mixed load and utensils.

Loading Silverware and Cutlery Baskets

• Load forks and spoons so they do not nest together, allowing spray to reach all surfaces.
• Mix items in each section of the basket.
• Place sharp items (knives, forks, skewers) point down.
• The silverware basket can be loaded while in the door or removed for loading on a counter.
• Always unload or remove the basket before unloading racks to avoid spilling water droplets.
• To remove the basket, slide it toward the top of the door by the handle and lift it off. Replace in reverse order.
• To open the basket, unhook the latch. Ensure the cover is latched before pulling out the rack or closing the door.
• The cutlery basket can be used for long items. Remove and tip contents onto a cutting board for unloading.

Adding Detergent

Use only automatic dishwasher detergent. Other detergents may be too mild or too sudsy.

• Phosphorus content in detergent helps soften water and prevent spots. If your water is hard and phosphorus content is low (≤6.0%), you may need more detergent or a brand with higher content (≥8.7%).
• Add detergent just before washing. If using Delay Wash, ensure dispensers are clean and dry before adding detergent.
• Store detergent in a cool, dry place.

The Detergent Dispenser:

It has one section with a cover and one without. Use both sections for cycles with two washes (POTS & PANS, HEAVY). Use only the covered section for cycles with one wash (NORMAL, LOW ENERGY, CHINA). Push the cover down until latched. It opens automatically during the main wash.

Illustration of the detergent dispenser, showing the two sections and how to fill them based on water hardness (HARD, MEDIUM, SOFT).

Rinse Aid Dispenser

Rinse aid helps water sheet off dishes, preventing spots and aiding drying. Keep the dispenser filled with a rinse aid like Jet-Dry.

A small amount is released automatically during the final rinse. Check the dispenser periodically. The fill indicator cap shows when the level is low.

Illustration of the rinse aid dispenser.

Starting Your Dishwasher

The dishwasher features six program pads, a hidden LOCK-OUT pad, and an electronic display for programming and monitoring.

Initial Setup:

• When first installed, the display shows "PF". Press CANCEL twice to clear.
• The dishwasher is pre-programmed for NORMAL with AIR DRY. Touch START to begin.

Selecting a Program:

Touch the SELECT PROGRAM pad to cycle through available programs:

• POTS & PANS: For heavily soiled or baked-on foods. Includes automatic water heating to 145°F (63°C) for washes and final rinse. Program time approx. 77 minutes plus heating time.
• HEAVY: A double wash for heavily soiled loads. Program time approx. 73 minutes.
• NORMAL: For normal, everyday soiled loads. Program time approx. 72 minutes.
• LOW ENERGY: For pre-rinsed or lightly soiled loads. Program time approx. 56 minutes.
• CHINA: A light wash and gentle dry for china and crystal. Program time approx. 53 minutes.
• RINSE: For rinsing items to be washed later. Program time approx. 12 minutes.

Diagrams illustrating the cycle stages (WASHING, RINSING, DRYING, CLEAN) for each program.

Selecting an Option:

Touch the SELECT OPTION pad to choose:

• AIR DRY: Helps save energy; dishes take longer to dry. May result in water spotting.
• HEAT DRY: Heats the air in the dishwasher during the dry portion (except for RINSE cycles).
• HI TEMP: Heats water to 145°F (63°C) for the main wash and final rinse. Available with POTS & PANS, HEAVY, NORMAL, and LOW ENERGY programs. Cannot be selected with RINSE or CHINA programs.

Note: Dry Options (HEAT DRY or AIR DRY) can be selected with HI TEMP. Options are not available for the RINSE program.

Illustration showing option selections.

Using PROGRAM MEMORY:

Store your most frequently used program:

• To Set: Touch PROGRAM MEMORY, select Program/Options/Delay Hours, then touch PROGRAM MEMORY again. Steps must be completed within 15 seconds.
• To Start: Touch START.
• To Change: Touch PROGRAM MEMORY, make new selections, then touch PROGRAM MEMORY again.
• In case of power interruption, PROGRAM MEMORY will be erased and needs to be reset.

Delay Pad:

Allows delaying the start of the dishwasher from 1 to 9 hours. Touch DELAY pad to add hours. Touch CANCEL to start immediately.

CANCEL Pad:

Cancels a program or clears the display. If washing, it will drain for 2 minutes before shutting off. If not started, it clears the display.

Electronic Display and Status Indicators

The electronic display shows remaining minutes, delay hours, and error codes (e.g., "PF" for power interruption, "E4" for control panel malfunction).

Status indicators show the current cycle stage:

• WASHING: Indicates the wash portion of the program.
• RINSING: Indicates the final rinses before drying.
• DRYING: Indicates the dry portion (with HEAT DRY option).
• CLEAN: Indicates the program is complete.
• DOOR OPEN: Flashes if the door is unlatched during operation or programming. A tone will beep.

Illustration of the electronic display and status indicators.

Adding a Dish After Starting

1. Ensure the WASHING indicator is on.
2. Unlatch the door by pushing the handle. Wait for spray arms to stop spinning. The DOOR OPEN indicator will flash and a tone will beep.
3. Open the door and add the dish.
4. Close the door but do not latch it. Wait 30 seconds for air to warm up, reducing moisture release.
5. Push the door until it latches. The dishwasher will restart the program.

Illustration showing the steps to add a dish after starting.

Energy Saving Tips

• Wash full loads to maximize efficiency.
• Use the LOW ENERGY or CHINA programs when possible.
• Air dry dishes when rapid drying is not needed; allow longer drying times.
• Load correctly to ensure proper washing and avoid rewashing.
• Do not pre-rinse normally soiled dishes; select the correct program and use the recommended detergent.
• Use the dishwasher during off-peak hours if recommended by local utilities.
• Utilize the dishwasher for efficient kitchen cleanup of appliance parts. Burned-on soil may require hand cleaning.

Illustrations related to energy saving tips.

Special Tips on Dishwasher Use

Use your dishwasher only for its intended purpose. Some items require special care:

• Aluminum: May lose its bright appearance and darken. Follow manufacturer's cleaning instructions. Avoid placing directly in front of the detergent dispenser.
• China: Hand-painted, metal-trimmed, or antique china may fade due to high water temperatures and alkaline detergent. Delicate or antique items should not be washed. Test one piece by washing it daily for several weeks.
• Crystal and Decorative Glasses: Crystal can break from sudden temperature changes. Metal trim and decorations may fade. Load carefully in the top rack only. Use the shortest cycle.
• Flatware: Salty/acidic foods can tarnish silver. A film may form on sterling silver due to reaction with chlorine in detergent. Gold flatware is not dishwasher safe. Rinse flatware promptly. Tarnish/film can be removed with silver polish.
• Cast Iron Utensils: The seasoned finish will be removed, leading to rust. Wash by hand.
• Plastics: Many are "Dishwasher Safe," but some are heat-sensitive and may melt or warp. If unsure, try one piece in the upper rack. AIR DRY option offers additional protection.
• Non-stick Finish Utensils: Most are dishwasher safe; follow manufacturer's suggestions.
• Wood: Wooden items may crack, warp, or lose their finish. Do not wash cutting boards, salad bowls, or knives with wooden handles.
• Pewter: May streak, discolor, and pit. Hand wash with mild detergent for best results.

Dishwasher Care & Cleaning:

• Exterior: Clean with a soft damp cloth and mild detergent.
• Interior: Hard water minerals can cause a white film. Wear rubber gloves. Use only dishwasher detergent inside; other cleansers may cause foaming.

Common Dishwashing Problems

This section outlines common issues, their causes, and solutions.

Spotting and Filming (Hard Water Film)

• Caused by: Hard water.
• Solutions: Fill detergent dispensers fully; use detergent with highest phosphorus content; consider a water softener. To remove spots, try a vinegar rinse: wash/rinse load, remove metal items, place 2 cups white vinegar in a container on the bottom rack, run a complete wash cycle. Ensure water temperature is at least 140°F (60°C) or use HI-TEMP WASH Option.

Small Particles Deposited on Items

• Caused by: Not enough/improper/old detergent; improper loading; no rinse aid; AIR DRY setting.
• Solutions: Use more/fresh detergent; load items so spray reaches all surfaces and items drain properly; do not overload or nest items; ensure spray arms turn freely; fill rinse aid dispenser; allow more drying time with AIR DRY or use HEAT DRY.

Dishes Not Dry

• Caused by: Water not hot enough; improper loading; water pressure issues; no rinse aid; AIR DRY setting.
• Solutions: Ensure water temperature is at least 140°F (60°C) or use HI-TEMP WASH Option; load properly; do not use other water-consuming appliances during the cycle if pressure is low; fill rinse aid dispenser; use HEAT DRY or allow more time for AIR DRY. Plastic items may need towel drying.

Black Marks on Dishes

• Caused by: Aluminum utensils rubbing against items.
• Solutions: Load aluminum utensils carefully so they do not touch other dishes. Remove marks with a plastic scouring pad and mild abrasive cleanser.

Chipping or Breaking Glassware

• Caused by: Improper loading.
• Solutions: Do not overload. Load glasses in the top rack only, between prongs, not over them, to ensure proper support.

Cloudy Film on Glassware, Etching - Permanent Corrosion

• Caused by: Too much detergent in soft water; inadequate rinsing.
• Solutions: Reduce detergent amount, especially if it has high phosphorus content. If water pressure is low, do not use other appliances while the dishwasher runs. Ensure proper loading for adequate rinsing. A temporary remedy for etching involves adding citric acid crystals to a wash cycle. A permanent solution may involve installing an iron or manganese filter.

Dishes & Interior of Dishwasher Yellow or Brown

• Caused by: Iron or manganese in water.
• Solutions: Install an iron or manganese filter for your home water supply.

Rust Spots on Stainless Steel or Dark Spots on Flatware

• Caused by: Allowing salty or acidic foods to remain on flatware; undissolved detergent contact.
• Solutions: Rinse flatware promptly. Do not place stainless steel and silver flatware in the same basket compartment, as direct contact can damage silver. Remove spots with silver polish. Avoid spilling concentrated detergent on wet flatware.

Bronze Tarnish on Silverplate

• Caused by: Silverplate worn off, exposing base metal.
• Solutions: Remove tarnish with silver polish. Have silver replated if necessary.

Water Left in Bottom of Dishwasher

• Caused by: Dishwasher cycle not completed; clogged drain air gap.
• Solutions: Ensure the cycle completes. Keep the drain air gap clean to ensure proper draining. The air gap is a plumbing requirement, not part of the dishwasher.

If You Need Service or Assistance

Follow these steps before calling for help:

• If the dishwasher will not run or stops: Check door latch, program setting, water supply, fuses/breakers, and wiring. The motor may reset itself after an overload.
• If water remains: Check if the door was left ajar or if the program has completed. Touching CANCEL will initiate a 2-minute drain.
• If detergent remains: Check if the bottom rack is installed correctly (bumpers forward), if the detergent is fresh, and if the program has completed.
• If grinding/buzzing sounds occur: A hard object may be in the Power Clean Module; the sound should stop as it's ground up.
• If "L" appears in the display or pads are unresponsive: The LOCK-OUT pad is engaged. Touch the LOCK-OUT pad twice within 2 seconds to disable it.
• If the programming tone does not beep: The tone may be turned off via the LOCK-OUT pad. Press and hold the LOCK-OUT pad for 3+ seconds to re-enable it.

For Assistance:

Call the Whirlpool COOL-LINE service assistance number: 1-800-253-1301. Consultants can help with operation or recommend qualified service companies.

For Service:

Whirlpool has a nationwide network of TECH-CARE Service Companies. Locate one in your area by calling COOL-LINE or checking local directories.

For Problems:

Write to: Mr. Robert Stanley, Division Vice President, Whirlpool Corporation, 2000 M-63, Benton Harbor, MI 49022.

For FSP Replacement Parts:

Look for the FSP symbol for quality replacement parts that fit and work correctly.

When calling or writing, provide model number, serial number, date of purchase, and a detailed problem description.

Whirlpool Dishwasher Warranty

Warranty Coverage:

• Full One-Year: FSP® replacement parts and repair labor for defects in materials or workmanship, provided by a franchised TECH-CARE® service company.
• Limited Two-Year: FSP replacement parts for the POWER CLEAN® Washing System if defective.
• Limited Five-Year: FSP replacement parts for the Electronic Control System if defective.
• Limited Ten-Year: FSP replacement of the porcelain tub and/or DURAPERM® inner door if they fail to contain water due to defects.

Whirlpool Will Not Pay For:

• Service calls for installation, user instruction, or correcting house wiring/plumbing.
• Repairs for non-single-family household use.
• Pick-up and delivery (product is designed for in-home repair).
• Damage caused by accident, misuse, fire, flood, acts of God, or unapproved products.
• Any labor costs during the limited warranties.

Whirlpool Corporation is not liable for incidental or consequential damages. Some states may not allow these limitations.

Illustration of the POWER CLEAN Washing System parts covered by warranty.