Kenmore Dishwasher Use & Care Guide

Master Protection Agreements

Congratulations on making a smart purchase. Your new Kenmore® product is designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation. But like all products, it may require preventive maintenance or repair from time to time. That's when having a Master Protection Agreement can save you money and aggravation.

The Master Protection Agreement also helps extend the life of your new appliance. Here's what the Agreement* includes:

• Parts and labor needed to help keep products operating properly under normal use, not just defects. Our coverages goes well beyond the product warranty. No deductibles, no functional failure excluded from coverage - real protection.
• Expert service by a force of more than 10,000 authorized Sears service technicians, which means someone you can trust will be working on your product.
• Unlimited service and nationwide service, as often as you want us, whenever you want us.
• "No-lemon" guarantee – replacement of your covered product if Four or more product failures occur within twelve months
• Product replacement if your covered product can't be fixed
• Annual Preventive Maintenance Check at your request - no extra charge
• Fast help by phone – we call it Rapid Resolution - phone support from a Sears representative on all products. Think of us as a "talking owner's manual"
• Power surge protection against electrical damage due to power fluctuations
• $250 Food Loss Protection annually for any food spoilage that is the result of mechanical failure of any covered refrigerator or freezer.
• Rental reimbursement if repair of your covered product takes longer than promised
• 10% discount off the regular price of any non-covered repair service and related installed parts.

Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all that it takes for you to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service appointment online.

The Master Protection Agreement is a risk free purchase. If you cancel for any reason during the product warranty period, we will provide a full refund. Or, a prorated refund anytime after the product warranty period expires. Purchase your Master Protection Agreement today!

Some limitations and exclusions apply. For prices and additional information call 1-800-827-6655.

*Coverage in Canada varies on some items. For full details call Sears Canada at 1-800-361-6665.

Sears Installation Service
For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water heaters, and major home items, in the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

Kenmore Appliance Warranty

One Year Limited Warranty

When installed, operated and maintained according to all instructions supplied with the product, if this appliance fails due to a defect in material or workmanship within one year from the date of purchase, call 1-800-4-MY-HOME® to arrange for free repair. If this appliance is used for other than private family purposes, this warranty applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.

This warranty covers only defects in material and workmanship. Sears will NOT pay for:

• Expendable items that can wear out from normal use, including but not limited to filters, belts, light bulbs, and bags.
• A service technician to instruct the user in correct product installation, operation or maintenance.
• A service technician to clean or maintain this product.
• Damage to or failure of this product if it is not installed, operated or maintained according to all instructions supplied with the product.
• Damage to or failure of this product resulting from accident, abuse, misuse or use for other than its intended purpose.
• Damage to or failure of this product caused by the use of detergents, cleaners, chemicals or utensils other than those recommended in all instructions supplied with the product.
• Damage to or failure of parts or systems resulting from unauthorized modifications made to this product.

Disclaimer of implied warranties; limitations of remedies

Customer's sole and exclusive remedy under this limited warranty shall be product repair as provided herein. Implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to one year or the shortest period allowed by law. Sears shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages. Some states and provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, or limitations on the duration of implied warranties of merchantability or fitness, so these exclusions or limitations may not apply to you.

This warranty applies only while this appliance is used in the United States and Canada.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co.,
Dept. 817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Sears Canada Inc.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5B 2B8

In the space below, record your complete model number, serial number and purchase date. You can find this information on the model and serial number label, located as shown in the Dishwasher Features section of this book. Have this information available to help you quickly obtain assistance or service when you contact Sears concerning your appliance.

Model Number: 587.

Serial Number:

Purchase Date:

Save these instructions and your sales receipt for future reference.

Important Safety Instructions

WARNING This symbol will help alert you to such dangers as personal injury, burns, fire, and electrical shock.

WARNING To reduce the risk of fire, electrical shock, or injury when using your dishwasher, follow basic precautions including the following:

• Read all instructions before using your dishwasher.
• Use your dishwasher only as instructed in this Use and Care Guide.
• Instructions appearing in this Use and Care Guide are not meant to cover every possible condition and situation that may occur. Practice common sense and caution when installing, operating and maintaining any appliance.
• DISHWASHER MUST BE ELECTRICALLY GROUNDED. Read the Installation Instructions for details.
• This dishwasher is designed to operate on regular house current (120 V, 60 Hz). Use a circuit equipped with a 15 ampere fuse or circuit breaker. Use a 20 ampere fuse if dishwasher is connected with a food waste disposer.
• Do not operate dishwasher unless all enclosure panels are in their proper place.
• To avoid entrapment and/or suffocation, remove door or door latch mechanism from any dishwasher that is discarded or not in use.
• Keep young children and infants away from dishwasher when it is operating.
• Do not let children abuse, sit, stand or play on door or racks of a dishwasher.
• Use only detergents and rinse agents recommended for use in a dishwasher.
• Store dishwasher detergent and rinse agents out of the reach of children.
• Do not wash plastic items unless marked "dishwasher safe" or the equivalent. Check with manufacturer for recommendations, if not marked. Items that are not dishwasher safe may melt and create a potential fire hazard.
• If the dishwasher drains into a food disposer, make sure disposer is completely empty before running dishwasher.
• Disconnect electrical power to dishwasher before servicing.
• Repairs should be done by a qualified technician.
• Do not tamper with controls.
• Do not touch the heating element during or immediately after use.
• 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.
• Under certain conditions, hydrogen gas may be produced in a hot water system that has not been used for 2 weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXPLOSIVE. If hot water system has not been used for such a period, before using dishwasher, turn on all hot water faucets and let water flow from each for several minutes. This will release any accumulated hydrogen gas. HYDROGEN GAS IS FLAMMABLE. Do not smoke or use an open flame during this time.
• Do not store or use combustible materials, gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other appliance.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

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. Select desired energy OPTIONS (See Energy Options).
5. Turn dial clockwise to select cycle (See Cycle Chart).
6. Run hot water faucet nearest dishwasher until water is hot. Turn water off.
7. To start, close door to latch.

Cycle Chart

* Includes dry time.

Water Heating Delay

This dishwasher is equipped with a thermostat to ensure that the water is heated to the proper temperature to deliver optional cleaning and drying results. The knob/timer on the dishwasher may pause at approximately the 7pm position.

The dishwasher is not "stuck" here, but is simply heating the water to the proper temperature before advancing. If the dishwasher holds this position on every cycle, then the incoming (house) water temperature may be low. A minimum water temperature of 120F is recommended to avoid this water heating delay.

Preparing and Loading Dishes

Energy Options

Heated Dry Option

The Heated Dry option in combination with rinse aid will give you excellent drying results. The energy to use Heated Dry cost pennies per cycle. You may turn off the Heated Dry option, however you will have items in your dishload that will not by dry at the end of the cycle.

With either option, you may see water vapor coming from vent during drying portion of cycle. The drying option may be changed at any time during the cycle and affects only the drying period.

High Temp Wash Option

When HIGH TEMP WASH ON option is selected, the dishwasher heats the water in the main wash to approximately 140°F (60°C). Wash action will continue but timer will not advance until proper temperature is reached. The hotter water provided by this option helps activate dishwasher detergent to clean food grease and soil from dishes. HIGH TEMP WASH ON option can be used with any cycle except QUICK RINSE.

To turn off option, select HIGH TEMP WASH OFF.

Dish Preparation

Scrape away large pieces of food, bones, pits, toothpicks, etc. The continuous filtered wash system will remove remaining food particles. Burned-on foods should be loosened before loading. Empty liquids from glasses and cups.

Foods such as mustard, mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice and tomato based products may cause discoloration of stainless steel and plastics if allowed to sit for a long period of time. Unless the dishwasher is to be operated at once, it is best to rinse off these food soils.

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

[Diagram illustrating scraping food off a plate.]

Preparing and Loading Dishes (continued)

Loading the Top Rack

The top rack is designed for cups, glasses, small plates, saucers and bowls.

• Load glasses in top rack. Damage may occur if placed in bottom rack.
• Load plastic items in top rack only. Melting may occur if placed in bottom rack.
• Load items with open ends facing down for better cleaning and draining.
• Damage may occur if delicate items touch each other during dishwasher operation.
• Long-handled knives and utensils can be placed in top rack.

[Diagram showing how to load the top rack of a dishwasher with cups, glasses, and small plates.]

Loading the Silverware Basket

Mix spoons, forks and knives to prevent nesting. Mixing items gives better cleaning and drying.

• For safety, load sharp knives and forks with handles up.
• Be sure nothing protrudes through bottom of basket or rack to block the spray arm.
• Do not mix silver and stainless to avoid damaging the silver finish.

[Diagram showing how to load the silverware basket with mixed utensils.]

Loading the Bottom Rack

Place plates and platters so that they do not touch.

Place bowls, casseroles and sauce pans with the soiled surface facing down or toward the center. Tilt slightly for better drainage.

Be sure pan handles do not protrude through the bottom of the rack and block the spray arm rotation.

[Diagram showing how to load the bottom rack of a dishwasher with plates and platters.]

[Text indicating "Do not block tower protector."]

Dishwasher Dispenser & Detergents

Filling the Detergent Dispenser

The detergent 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 to release detergent.

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

CAUTION The use of industrial grade detergent can damage the heating coil and other parts of the dishwasher leading to damage to the unit and surrounding property. Use only household grade automatic dishwasher detergents.

How much Detergent to use

The amount of detergent to use depends on the water hardness. Water hardness is measured in grains per gallon. Using too little detergent can result in poor cleaning and hard water filming or spotting. Using too much detergent in soft water can cause a permanent film called etching. Your local water company, water softener company or county extension agent can tell you the water hardness in your area.

[Diagram of the detergent dispenser with labels for Pre Wash Cup, Main Wash Cup, Cover, and Cover Latch.]

Detergent Usage Guide

*Note: For very hard water, detergent alone may not be enough. A water softener is recommended to improve water quality and dishwashing performance. Try adding more detergent at the beginning of the main wash portion of the cycle. As a rule, use 1 teaspoon for each grain above 12. Unlatch the door, open slowly and add detergent to the bottom of the tub. Close the door to latch and the dishwasher will continue through the cycle.

Dishwasher Dispenser & Detergents (continued)

Rinse Aid

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

A dispenser, located next to the detergent cup, automatically releases a measured amount of rinse aid during the last rinse. If spotting and poor drying are problems, increase the amount of rinse aid dispensed by rotating the dial to a higher number. The dial is located under the dispenser cap. The indicator will be dark when full and will show clear when it is time to refill.

To add liquid rinse aid, turn dispenser cap 1/4 turn counterclockwise and lift out. Pour in rinse aid until liquid touches the indicated fill level. Replace cap. Do not overfill since this can cause oversudsing. Wipe up any spills with a damp cloth.

The dispenser holds enough for 35 to 140 washes, depending on setting.

[Diagram of the rinse aid dispenser with labels for Dispenser Opening, Indicator, Fill Level (1-4), Less, More, Adjustable setting, and Dispenser Cap.]

Factors Affecting Performance

Water Pressure

The hot water line to the dishwasher must provide water pressure between 20 and 120 psi.

Low water pressure may occur when laundry or showers are in operation. Wait until water use is reduced before starting dishwasher.

Water Temperature

Hot water is needed for best dishwashing and drying results. Water entering dishwasher should be at least 120°F (49°C) to give satisfactory results.

To check water temperature entering dishwasher:

• Turn on hot water faucet nearest dishwasher for several minutes to clear cool water from pipes.
• Hold a candy or meat thermometer in stream of water to check the temperature.
• If 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 through faucet to clear cool water from pipe.

Care and Cleaning

WARNING 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 especially for cleaning stainless steel.

Inside

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

[Diagram of the dishwasher interior showing heating element, filter, and spray arm/tower assembly.]

Note: Hard water may cause lime deposit buildup on the interior of the dishwasher. For cleaning instructions see "Removing Spots and Film" section.

Overfill Protector

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

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

[Diagram of the overfill protector.]

Care of Drain Air Gap

If a drain air gap was installed for your built-in dishwasher, check to make sure it is clean so the dishwasher will drain properly. A drain air gap is usually mounted on 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. Be sure all supply lines to and circulating lines within 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 do the following:

To Disconnect Service:

1. Turn off electrical power to the dishwasher at the supply source by removing fuses or tripping 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 Installations Instructions for more details.

To Restore Service:

1. Reconnect the 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 make sure they do not leak.

Note: See Installations Instructions for more details.

Solutions to Common Dishwashing Problems

Before calling for service, review this list. It may save you both time and expense. This list includes common experiences that are not the result of defective workmanship or material in your dishwasher.

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 pounds per square inch (psi).
• Check incoming water temperature. It should be at least 120°F (49°C). (See Factors Affecting Performance.)
• Check water hardness. For extremely hard water, it may be necessary to install a water softener. (See Detergent Chart.)
• Use fresh detergent.
• Check to make sure tower in lower rack is not blocked.
• Make sure items are not blocking the spray arm, preventing it from rotating.

Dishes not Dry

• Select HEAT DRY ON option.
• Make sure the rinse aid dispenser is filled.
• Increase the amount of rinse aid. (See Rinse Aid.)
• Check the incoming water temperature. Be sure it is at least 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.

Dishware Chipped

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

Glassware/Flatware Spotted or Cloudy

• Check water hardness. For extremely hard water, it may be necessary to install a water softener. (See Detergent Chart.)
• 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.
• Check to see that proper amount of detergent is being used. Also, check phosphate level. (See Filling the Detergent Dispenser.)
• Home water pressure may be too low--it should be 20 to 120 pounds per square inch (psi).

Dishware Stained or Discolored

• Tea and coffee can stain cups. Remove the 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 will correct this problem. (See Removing Spots and Film.)
• Aluminum utensils can leave gray/black marks when they rub against other items. Load properly.
• Certain high acid foods can cause discoloration of stainless steel and plastics if allowed to sit for a long period. Rinse by hand if not operating dishwasher at once.
• Mixing stainless steel and silver utensils in silverware basket can cause pitting of the stainless steel blades. Avoid mixing stainless steel and silver.

Etching

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

Dishwasher Won't Fill

• Is water supply turned on?
• Does overfill protector move up and down freely? (See Overfill Protector section.)
• The normal full water level of the dishwasher will only reach the bottom of the heater clips.

Solutions to Common Dishwashing Problems (continued)

Dishwasher Leaks

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

Normal Sounds You Will Hear

• Normal sounds include water fill, water circulation and motor sounds.

Water in Bottom of Tub

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

Vapor at Vent

• Water vapor escapes from the vent when the dishwasher is operating. This is normal.

Dishwasher Won't Run

• Check to see if circuit breaker is tripped or if a fuse is blown.
• Make sure water supply is turned on.
• Check to see if cycle is set correctly. (See Operating Instructions.)
• Make sure door is closed and latched.

Dishwasher Does Not Drain Properly

• If unit is hooked up to a food waste disposer, make sure the disposer is empty.
• Check to see if the knockout plug has been removed from inside the food waste disposer inlet.
• Check to see if drain hose is kinked.
• Make sure cycle is complete, not in a pause.

Detergent Left in Cups

• Detergent may be old. Discard and use fresh detergent.
• Be sure water action can reach the dispenser.
• Check to see if cycle has been completed.
• Make sure items do not prevent the detergent dispenser from opening.

Dishwasher Has an Odor

• Soiled dishes left in dishwasher too long can create an odor. Rinse dishes if not running dishwasher at once.
• There will be a "new" smell when first installed. This is normal.
• Check to see if 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 over time. Pre-rinsing will reduce the chance of staining. Using HEAT DRY OFF option will lessen staining.

Removing Spots and Film

Hard water can cause lime deposit buildup on the interior of the dishwasher. Dishes and glasses may also get spots and film for a number of reasons. (See Glassware/Flatware Spotted or Cloudy section.) To remove buildup, spots and film, clean using the following instructions:

1. Load clean dishes and glasses in normal manner. Do not load any metal utensils or silverware.
2. Do not add detergent.
3. Turn dial to NORMAL WASH. Close and latch door to start.
4. Allow dishwasher to run for 40 minutes to reach the main wash portion of cycle.
5. Unlatch and open door and pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the bottom of dishwasher.
6. Close and latch door and allow the cycle to finish.

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

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