KitchenAid KUDS01VM manual Troubleshooting, Drain Air Gap, Storing

Drain Air Gap

Check the drain air gap anytime your dishwasher isn’t draining well.

Some state or local plumbing codes require the addition of a drain air gap between a built-in dishwasher and the home drain system. If a drain is clogged, the drain air gap protects your dishwasher from water backing up into it.

The drain air gap is usually located on top of the sink or countertop near the dishwasher. To order a drain air gap call your local dealer, or in the U.S.A., call the Customer Interaction Center and ask for Part Number 300096.

NOTE: The drain air gap is an external plumbing device that is not part of your dishwasher. The warranty provided with your dishwasher does not cover service costs directly associated with the cleaning or repair of the external drain air gap.

To clean the drain air gap

Clean the drain air gap periodically to ensure proper drainage of your dishwasher. Follow the cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer. With most types, you lift off the chrome cover.

Unscrew the plastic cap. Then check for any soil buildup. Clean if necessary.

Storing

Storing for the summer

Protect your dishwasher during the summer months by turning off the water supply and power supply to the dishwasher.

Winterizing your dishwasher

Protect your dishwasher and home against water damage due to freezing water lines. If your dishwasher is left in a seasonal dwelling or could be exposed to near freezing temperatures, have your dishwasher winterized by authorized service personnel.

TROUBLESHOOTING

First try the solutions suggested here and possibly avoid

the cost of a service call...

Dishwasher is not operating properly

■Dishwasher does not run or stops during a cycle Is the door closed tightly and latched?

Is the right cycle selected? Refer to the “Cycle Selection Charts.”

Is there power to the dishwasher? Has a household fuse blown or circuit breaker tripped?

Has the motor stopped due to an overload? The motor automatically resets itself within a few minutes. If it does not restart, call for service.

Is the water shutoff valve (if installed) turned on?

It is normal for certain cycles to repeatedly pause for several seconds during the main wash.

■Dishwasher will not fill

Is the overfill protection float able to move up and down freely? Press down to release.

■Dishwasher seems to run too long

Is the water supplied to the dishwasher hot enough? The dishwasher runs longer while heating water. Refer to the “Dishwasher Performance Tips” section.

A delay automatically occurs in some wash and rinse cycles until the water reaches the proper temperature.

■Water remains in the dishwasher Is the cycle complete?

■Detergent remains in the covered section of the dispenser

Is the cycle complete?

Is the detergent lump-free? Replace detergent if necessary.

■White residue on the front of the access panel

Was too much detergent used? Refer to the “Detergent Dispenser” section.

Is the brand of detergent making excess foam? Try a different brand to reduce foaming and eliminate buildup.

■Odor in the dishwasher

Are dishes washed only every 2 or 3 days? Run a rinse cycle once or twice a day until you have a full load.

Does the dishwasher have a new plastic smell? Run a vinegar rinse as described in “Spotting and filming on dishes” later in this Troubleshooting guide.

■Condensation on the kitchen counter (built-in models)

Is the dishwasher aligned with the countertop? Moisture from the vent in the dishwasher console can form on the counter. Refer to the Installation Instructions for more information.

Dishes are not completely clean

■Food soil left on the dishes

Is the dishwasher loaded correctly? Refer to the “Dishwasher Loading” section.

Did you choose the cycle that describes the most difficult soil in your dishwasher? If you have some items with heavier soils, use a heavier cycle.

Is the water temperature too low? For best dishwashing results, water should be 120°F (49°C) as it enters the dishwasher. Refer to the “Dishwasher Performance Tips” section.

Did you use the correct amount of fresh detergent? Use recommended dishwasher detergents only. Refer to the “Detergent Dispenser” section. Never use less than 1 tb (15 g) per load. Detergent must be fresh to be effective. Store detergent in a cool, dry area. Heavy soil and/or hard water generally require extra detergent.

Is detergent caked in dispenser? Use fresh detergent only. Do not allow detergent to sit for several hours in a wet dispenser. Clean dispenser when caked detergent is present.

Is the pump or spray arm clogged by labels from bottles and cans? If you wash bottles and cans in your dishwasher, check for labels clogging the pump or spray arm.

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