Kenmore Dishwasher Use & Care Guide

Master Protection Agreements

Congratulations on your Kenmore appliance purchase. A Master Protection Agreement can save you money and aggravation by providing preventive maintenance and repair services.

Benefits include:

• ✔️ Expert service by 12,000 professional repair specialists.
• ✔️ Unlimited service with no charge for parts and labor on covered repairs.
• ✔️ "No-lemon" guarantee: product replacement if more than three failures occur within twelve months.
• ✔️ Product replacement if the covered product cannot be fixed.
• ✔️ Annual Preventive Maintenance Check at your request.
• ✔️ Fast help by phone for non-technical assistance and repair scheduling.
• ✔️ Power surge protection against electrical damage.
• ✔️ Rental reimbursement if repair takes longer than promised.

To schedule service, call anytime day or night or visit the website. Sears has over 12,000 repair specialists and millions of parts.

For prices and information, call 1-800-827-6655.

For Sears installation service in the U.S.A., call 1-800-4-MY-HOME.

Warranty

Full One-Year Warranty on Kenmore Dishwashers: For one year from the date of purchase, Sears will repair this dishwasher free of charge if defective in material or workmanship, provided it is installed and operated according to instructions.

Full Ten-Year Warranty Against Leaks in the Tub and Inner Door Panel: For ten years from the date of purchase, Sears will replace the polypropylene tub or inner door panel free of charge if a leak occurs due to failure (cracking, chipping, or peeling).

Warranty Restriction: For non-private family use, warranty coverage is limited to 90 days.

Warranty Service: In the U.S.A., contact Sears at 1-800-4-MY-HOME. This warranty applies only while the product is in use in the United States. You may have other rights that vary by state.

For warranty information, reference service numbers on the back page. Record your model number, serial number, and purchase date below. This information is located on the model and serial number label.

Model Number: 587. [space for input]

Serial Number: [space for input]

Purchase Date: [space for input]

Save these instructions and your sales receipt for future reference.

Dishwasher Safety

Your safety and the safety of others are very important. Always read and obey all safety messages.

⚠️ This is the safety alert symbol. It alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others.

All safety messages will follow the safety alert symbol and either the word "DANGER" or "WARNING."

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, including the following:

• Read all instructions before using the dishwasher.
• Use your dishwasher only as instructed in this Use and Care Guide.
• Use only detergents or rinse agents recommended for use in a dishwasher, and keep them out of the reach of children.
• When loading items to be washed:
  • Locate sharp items and knives so that they are not likely to damage the door seal or tub.
  • Load sharp items and knives with the handles up to reduce the risk of cut-type injuries.
  • Do not wash plastic items unless marked "dishwasher safe" or the equivalent. Check with manufacturer for recommendations. Items that are not dishwasher safe may melt and create a potential fire hazard.
  • Do not touch the heating element during or immediately after use.
  • Do not operate your dishwasher unless all enclosure panels are properly in place.
• If the dishwasher drains into a food disposer, make sure disposer is completely empty before running dishwasher.
• Disconnect electrical power to dishwasher before servicing.
• Do not tamper with controls.
• Do not let children abuse, sit, stand or play on door or racks of a dishwasher.
• Keep young children and infants away from dishwasher when it is operating.
• Under certain conditions, hydrogen gas may be produced in a hot water system that has not been used for two weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXPLOSIVE. If the hot water system has not been used for such a period, before using the dishwasher turn on all hot water faucets and let the water flow from each for several minutes. This will release any accumulated hydrogen gas. As the gas is flammable, do not smoke or use an open flame during this time.
• To avoid entrapment and/or suffocation, remove door or door latch mechanism from any dishwasher that is discarded or not in use.

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 nut in terminal box.
• Do not use an extension cord. Failure to do so can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

For a grounded, cord-connected dishwasher: The dishwasher must be grounded to reduce the risk of electric shock. It is equipped with a cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. Plug into an appropriate outlet installed and grounded according to 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 if unsure. Do not modify the plug. If it does not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed.

For a permanently connected dishwasher: Connect to a grounded metal, permanent wiring system, or run an equipment-grounding conductor with circuit conductors and connect to the equipment-grounding terminal.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Dishwasher Features

Diagram of the dishwasher interior showing components such as the tub gasket, funnel, upper and middle spray arms, lower spray arm, overfill protector, prewash detergent cup, detergent dispenser, rinse aid dispenser, vent, top rack, serial label, bottom rack, silverware basket, glass trap, self-cleaning filter, and heating element.

Diagram of the control panel with labels for Vent, Latch, and various options like Plate Warmer, Heated Dry, Heated Wash, Heated Rinse, Rinse Hold, Wash Delay, Pots Pans, Normal Wash, Light Wash, and Water Miser.

Wash System

Your Kenmore dishwasher filters 100% of the water for optimum cleaning. The wash system uses alternating arms to save water and energy and includes a heavy-duty stainless steel food disposer that grinds up large food particles.

How the wash system works:

1. Load the dishwasher (See Preparing and Loading Dishes).
2. Hot water enters the dishwasher and covers the filter.
3. Detergent is dispensed and mixed with hot water, then pumped through the lower spray arm to spray soiled surfaces.
4. Water passes through a fine mesh primary filter, removing food soil, and is recirculated.
5. Ports under the lower wash arm direct food soil through a secondary filter into a collection chamber.
6. Food soil is held in the collection chamber until flushed during the drain cycle.
7. Clean, hot water enters, and the sequence repeats.
8. Beginning with the third water fill, wash action switches between the lower and middle spray arms in 90-second intervals. A change in sound may be noticed.
9. The dishwasher may pause during the cycle while water is being heated. Wash action continues.
10. Rinse aid is automatically dispensed in the final rinse to aid in drying.

Operating Instructions

Getting Started

1. Load dishwasher (See Preparing and Loading Dishes).
2. Add detergent (See Dishwasher Dispenser & Detergents).
3. Add rinse aid, if needed (See Rinse Aid).
4. Turn dial clockwise to select cycle (See Cycle Chart) or number of hours for wash delay.
5. Select desired OPTIONS. The indicator will show red when selected.
6. If using WASH DELAY, go to step 8.
7. Run hot water faucet nearest dishwasher until water is hot. Turn water off.
8. To start, close door to latch.

Wash Delay

Allows you to delay starting the POTS PANS cycle. Turn dial to select number of hours. Select HEATED WASH ON option and other desired options. Close door to latch.

Plate Warmer

For warming dishes and serving plates before serving hot foods:

• Load clean plates and dishes to be warmed.
• Turn dial to PLATE WARMER.
• Select HEATED DRY ON option.

Cycle Chart

* Includes dry time.

Option Selections

Heated Wash Option

When HEATED WASH ON is selected, the dishwasher heats water in the main wash to approximately 140°F (60°C). Wash action continues, but the timer does not advance until the proper temperature is reached. This option helps activate detergent to clean food grease and soil. It can be used with any cycle except RINSE HOLD.

To turn off, select HEATED WASH OFF.

Heated Rinse Option

When HEATED RINSE ON is selected, the dishwasher heats water in the final rinse to approximately 140°F (60°C). This speeds drying and reduces spotting. It can be used with any cycle except RINSE HOLD.

To turn off, select HEATED RINSE OFF.

Heated Dry Option

HEATED DRY ON provides faster drying as the heating element is on during the drying portion. HEATED DRY OFF saves electricity as the heating element is off. To speed drying, open the door slightly after the cycle. Some water droplets may remain.

Water vapor may be seen coming from the vent during drying. The vent closes during washing and opens for drying.

The drying option can be changed at any time during the cycle and affects only the drying period.

Preparing and Loading Dishes

Dish Preparation

Scrape away large pieces of food, bones, pits, toothpicks, etc. The filtered wash system removes remaining food particles. Loosen burned-on foods before loading. Empty liquids from glasses and cups.

Foods like mustard, mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, and tomato-based products may cause discoloration of stainless steel and plastics if left for a long period. Rinse off these soils if the dishwasher is not to be operated immediately.

• Load racks so large items do not prevent the detergent dispenser from opening.
• Check manufacturer's recommendations before washing questionable items.
• If the dishwasher drains into a food disposer, ensure the disposer is completely empty before starting.

Loading the Top Rack

Features and appearance of racks may vary. Do not cover the funnel when loading.

The top rack is designed for flexibility with items like cups, glasses, stemware, small plates, and bowls. Load glasses here; damage may occur if placed in the bottom rack. Load plastic items here only; melting may occur if placed in the bottom rack. Load items with open ends facing down for better cleaning and draining. Ensure delicate items do not touch each other. Long-handled knives and utensils can be placed here.

Diagram illustrating proper loading of the top rack with items like cups, glasses, and small plates, ensuring open ends face down and items do not block spray arm rotation.

Loading the Bottom Rack

Features and appearance of racks may vary. The bottom rack is best for plates, saucers, bowls, and cookware. Place large items along the edge to avoid blocking spray arm rotation. For best results, place bowls, casseroles, and sauce pans with soiled surfaces facing down or toward the center. Tilt slightly for better drainage. Ensure tall items and pan handles do not block spray arm rotation.

Diagram illustrating proper loading of the bottom rack with plates, bowls, and cookware, placing large items along the edge and tilting for drainage, ensuring they do not block spray arm rotation.

Loading the Silverware Basket

CAUTION Cut Injury

Load sharp items (knives, skewers, etc.) pointing down. Failure to do so may result in injury.

Load the silverware basket while it is in the bottom rack or take it out for loading on a counter or table. Place small items like baby bottle caps, jar lids, and corn cob holders in a covered section. Close the cover to hold small items in place.

When covers are up, mix items in each section pointing up and down to avoid nesting, as water spray cannot reach nested items.

To remove small basket:

1. Hold the center basket and one small basket. Slide the small basket back to release the tabs from the corresponding slots.
2. Pull the baskets apart.

Use suggested loading patterns to increase washability of silverware. Ensure nothing protrudes through the basket or rack to block the spray arm. Do not mix silver and stainless to avoid damaging the silver finish. The silverware basket can be separated and placed in several locations in the bottom rack.

Adding a Dish

To add or remove items after the wash cycle starts:

• Unlatch the door and wait a few seconds until wash action stops before opening.
• Add the item and wait a few seconds to allow cold air to slowly expand inside the dishwasher.
• Close door firmly to latch and resume cycle.

Dishwasher Dispenser & Detergents

Filling the Detergent Dispenser

The dispenser has one covered and one uncovered cup. Detergent in the uncovered cup falls into the dishwasher when the door is closed. The covered cup opens automatically.

• Use only fresh automatic dishwashing detergent. Other detergents may cause oversudsing.
• When using automatic dishwashing detergent tabs, place one tab in the main wash cup and close.
• Add detergent just before starting the cycle.
• Store detergent in a cool, dry location. Moist or caked detergent will not dissolve properly.

Diagram of the detergent dispenser showing the pre-wash cup, main wash cup, and cover latch.

How much Detergent to use

The amount of detergent depends on water hardness (measured in grains per gallon). Too little detergent results in poor cleaning and filming/spotting. Too much in soft water can cause etching. Contact your local water company for water hardness information.

Detergent Usage Guide

*Note: For very hard water, a water softener is recommended. Add 1 teaspoon of detergent for each grain above 12. Unlatch the door, open slowly, add detergent to the bottom of the tub, then close and latch.

Rinse Aid

Rinse aid improves drying and reduces water spots and filming. Water "sheets" off dishes rather than forming droplets.

A dispenser, located next to the detergent cup, automatically releases rinse aid during the last rinse. If spotting or poor drying occurs, increase rinse aid by rotating the dial to a higher number. The indicator will be dark when full and clear when it's time to refill.

To add rinse aid, turn dispenser cap 1/4 turn counterclockwise and lift. Pour until liquid touches the fill level. Replace cap. Do not overfill, as this can cause oversudsing. Wipe up spills with a damp cloth. The dispenser holds enough for 35 to 140 washes.

Diagram of the rinse aid dispenser showing the dispenser opening, indicator, adjustable setting, and dispenser cap.

Factors Affecting Performance

Water Pressure

The hot water line must provide water pressure between 20 and 120 psi. Low water pressure may occur during laundry or shower use; wait until water use is reduced before starting the dishwasher.

Water Temperature

Hot water is needed for best dishwashing and drying. Water entering the dishwasher should be 120°F (49°C).

To check water temperature:

• Turn on the hot water faucet nearest the dishwasher for several minutes to clear cool water from pipes.
• Hold a thermometer in the stream of water.
• If the temperature is below 120°F (49°C), have a qualified person raise the hot water heater thermostat setting.

Important: Before starting a cycle, run hot water to clear cool water from the pipe.

Care and Cleaning

⚠️ Burn Hazard

Allow heating element to cool before cleaning the interior. Failure to do so can result in burns.

Outside

Occasionally wipe with a mild nonabrasive detergent and water. Rinse and dry.

Models with Stainless Steel Door

Clean stainless steel with hot, soapy water and a dishcloth. Rinse with clean water and a cloth. Do not use harsh scrubbing cleaners. Use only kitchen cleaners made for stainless steel.

Inside

The inside is self-cleaning with normal use. If needed, clean around the tub gasket area with a damp cloth.

The filter is self-cleaning. A glass trap in the center collects pieces of broken glass, straws, bones, and pits. To remove items, grasp the handle, lift out, empty, and replace.

Note: Hard water may cause lime deposit buildup. See "Removing Spots and Film" section for cleaning.

Overfill Protector

Keeps dishwasher from overfilling; located in the left front corner of the tub.

• Clean occasionally with household cleaner containing vinegar or bleach to dissolve buildup.
• The Overfill Protector should move up and down freely about one inch. If it does not move, lift and clean underneath.

Care of Drain Air Gap

If a drain air gap was installed, check that it is clean for proper draining. It is usually mounted on the countertop and can be inspected by removing the cover. This is not part of your dishwasher and is not covered by warranty.

CAUTION Property Damage Hazard

Freezing temperatures may cause water lines to rupture. Ensure all supply and circulating lines within the dishwasher are protected. Failure to do so could result in property damage.

Winterizing

A dishwasher left in an unheated place should be protected from freezing. Have a qualified person perform the following:

To Disconnect Service:

1. Turn off electrical power at the supply source (remove fuses or trip circuit breaker).
2. Shut off water supply.
3. Place a pan under the inlet valve. Disconnect water line from inlet valve and drain into pan.
4. Disconnect drain line from pump and drain water into pan.

Note: See Installation Instructions for more details.

To Restore Service:

1. Reconnect water, drain, and electrical power supply.
2. Turn on water and electrical power supply.
3. Fill both detergent cups and run dishwasher through a NORMAL cycle.
4. Check connections to ensure they do not leak.

Note: See Installation Instructions for more details.

Solutions to Common Dishwashing Problems

Before calling for service, review this list. It may save you time and expense. These are common experiences not resulting from defective workmanship or material.

Food Soils Left on Dishes

• Choose another cycle for longer washing time.
• Check rack loading section for proper loading; avoid nesting items.
• Home water pressure may be too low (should be 20 to 120 psi).
• Check incoming water temperature (should be 120°F / 49°C). (See Factors Affecting Performance.)
• Check water hardness. For extremely hard water, a water softener may be necessary. (See Detergent Chart.)
• Use fresh detergent.
• Check that the funnel in the top rack is not blocked.
• Ensure items are not blocking the spray arms.

Dishes not Dry

• Select heat dry option.
• Ensure rinse aid dispenser is filled.
• Increase rinse aid amount. (See Rinse Aid.)
• Check incoming water temperature (should be 120°F / 49°C).
• Check for proper loading; avoid nesting items.
• Plastic items may need to be towel dried.
• Cups with a concave bottom will collect water.

Glassware/Flatware Spotted or Cloudy

• Check water hardness. For extremely hard water, a water softener may be necessary. (See Dishwasher Dispenser & Detergents.)
• Water temperature may be low. Avoid extremely low or high temperatures. (See Factors Affecting Performance.)
• Avoid overloading and improper loading. (See Preparing and Loading Dishes.)
• Use fresh detergent; old detergent is ineffective.
• Ensure rinse aid dispenser is filled.
• Check that the proper amount of detergent is used for the selected cycle and phosphate level. (See Detergent Usage Guide.)
• Home water pressure may be too low (should be 20 to 120 psi).

Dishware Chipped

• Load with care and do not overload. (See Preparing and Loading Dishes.)
• Place delicate items in the top rack.
• Place glasses securely against pins, not over pins.
• Load items so they are secure and don't jar loose when moving racks. Move racks slowly.
• Ensure tall glasses and stemware clear the top of the tub when the rack is pushed in.
• Fine antique china and crystal should be hand-washed.

Dishware Stained or Discolored

• Tea and coffee can stain cups. Remove stains by hand washing in a solution of 1/2 cup (120 ml) bleach and one quart (1 L) of warm water. Rinse thoroughly.
• Iron deposits in water can cause a yellow or brown film. A special filter installed in the water supply line can correct this. (See Removing Spots and Film.)
• Aluminum utensils can leave gray/black marks when rubbing against other items. Load properly.
• Certain high-acid foods can cause discoloration of stainless steel and plastics if allowed to sit. Use the RINSE HOLD cycle or rinse by hand if not operating immediately.
• Mixing stainless steel and silver utensils can cause pitting of stainless steel blades. Avoid mixing them.

Etching

• Using too much detergent in soft or softened water causes a film that cannot be removed.
• Adjust detergent amount based on water hardness. (Check Detergent Usage Guide.)
• Lower the water temperature.
• Use the HEATED DRY OFF option.

Detergent Left in Cups

• Detergent may be old; discard and use fresh.
• Ensure water action can reach the dispenser.
• Check if the cycle has been completed.
• Ensure items do not prevent the detergent dispenser from opening.

Dishwasher Leaks

• Use only fresh detergent designed for automatic dishwashers. Measure carefully. Try a different brand.
• Spilled rinse aid can cause foam and lead to overflowing. Wipe up spills with a damp cloth.
• Check that the dishwasher is level. (See Installation Instructions.)

Normal Sounds You Will Hear

• Normal sounds include water fill, water circulation, and motor sounds.
• A noticeable change in sound occurs when the wash action switches between the lower and middle spray arms; this is normal.
• It is normal for the dishwasher to pause (no sound) when the wash action is switching between the lower and middle spray arms.

Water in Bottom of Tub

Water left in the bottom of the tub after a cycle is complete is not normal. If water remains, the dishwasher may not be draining properly. (See Dishwasher Does Not Drain Properly.)

Vapor at Vent

Water vapor escapes from the vent during the drying part of the cycle. This is normal.

Dishwasher Won't Run

• Check if the circuit breaker is tripped or a fuse is blown.
• Ensure water supply is turned on.
• Check if the cycle is set correctly. (See Operating Instructions.)
• Is the dishwasher set for delay start?
• Ensure the door is closed and latched.

Dishwasher Does Not Drain Properly

• If connected to a food waste disposer, ensure the disposer is empty.
• Check if the knockout plug has been removed from the food waste disposer inlet.
• Check if the drain hose is kinked.
• Ensure the cycle is complete, not paused.

Cycle Takes a Long Time

• Is the cycle in a water heating delay?
• Has the delay start option been selected?

Dishwasher Won't Fill

• Is the water supply turned on?
• Does the overfill protector move up and down freely? (See Overfill Protector section.)

Dishwasher Has an Odor

• Soiled dishes left in the dishwasher too long can create an odor. Use the RINSE HOLD cycle.
• There may be a "new" smell when first installed; this is normal.
• Check if the unit is draining properly. (See Dishwasher Does Not Drain Properly.)

Stains on Tub Interior

Washing large amounts of dishware with tomato-based soil can cause a pink/orange appearance. This will not affect performance and will gradually fade. Pre-rinsing or using the RINSE HOLD cycle will reduce staining. Using the HEATED DRY OFF option will lessen staining.

Removing Spots and Film

Hard water can cause lime deposit buildup. Dishes and glasses may also get spots and film. To remove buildup, spots, and film, clean using the following instructions:

1. Load clean dishes and glasses normally. Do not load metal utensils or silverware.
2. Do not add detergent.
3. Select the POTS PANS cycle. Close and latch the door.
4. Allow the dishwasher to run for 20 minutes to reach the main wash portion of the cycle.
5. Unlatch and open the door, then pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher.
6. Close and latch the door and allow the cycle to finish.

Note: If these conditions persist, a home water softener should be considered.

To customize your dishwasher to match your cabinets:

• You will need a trim kit.
• See Step 10 of Installation Instructions for more information.

Service Information

Your Home

For repair in your home of major brand appliances, lawn and garden equipment, or heating and cooling systems, no matter who made it or sold it. For replacement parts, accessories, and owner's manuals. For Sears professional installation of home appliances and items like garage door openers and water heaters.

Call 1-800-4-MY-HOME (1-800-469-4663) anytime, day or night (U.S.A. and Canada).

Visit www.sears.com or www.sears.ca.

Our Home

For repair of carry-in products like vacuums, lawn equipment, and electronics, call or go online for the location of your nearest Sears Parts & Repair Center.

Call 1-800-488-1222 anytime, day or night (U.S.A. only).

Visit www.sears.com.

To purchase a protection agreement on a product serviced by Sears:

1-800-827-6655 (U.S.A.)

1-800-361-6665 (Canada)

For Spanish service and parts orders: 1-888-SU-HOGAR (1-888-784-6427)

For French service in Canada: 1-800-LE-FOYER (1-800-533-6937)

Visit www.sears.ca.