Dishwasher Use, DetergentDispenser | Whirlpool DU1248, DU1200

DISHWASHER USE

DetergentDispenser

The detergent dispenser has two sections. The smaller Pre-Wash section empties detergent into the dishwasher when you close the door. The larger Main Wash section automatically empties detergent into the dishwasher during the wash. (See the “Cycle Selection Charts.”)

	Hard Water	Hard Water
	Soft Water
		Soft Water

PRE-

MAIN WASH

WASH

A. Cover latch

B. Main Wash section

C.Pre-Wash section

■Use automatic dishwashing detergent only. Other detergents can produce excessive suds that can overflow out of the dishwasher and reduce washing performance.

■Add detergent just before starting cycle.

■Store tightly closed detergent in a cool, dry place. Fresh automatic dishwasher detergent results in better cleaning.

NOTE: Do not use detergent with a rinse cycle.

Filling the dispenser

1.If the dispenser cover is closed, open the cover by moving the cover latch to the right.

	Hard Water	Hard Water
	Soft Water	Hard Water
	Soft Water	Soft Water
		Soft Water
		PRE-
	MAIN WASH	WASH

2.Add the correct amount of detergent to the Main Wash section of the dispenser according to the chart below. If you are using a tablet detergent, it must be placed in the Main Wash section. (See “How much detergent to use.”)

3.Add the correct amount of detergent to the Pre-Wash section of the dispenser, if needed, according to the chart below.

4.Close the dispenser cover.

It is normal for the cover to open partially when dispensing detergent.

NOTE: See the “Cycle Selection Charts” for which section to fill depending on the cycle selected.

How much detergent to use

■The amount of detergent to use depends on the soil level of your dishes, hardness of your water, and the type of detergent. If you use too little, dishes will not be clean. If you use too much in soft water, glassware will etch.

■Water hardness can change over a period of time. Find out your water’s hardness by asking your local water department, water softener company, or county extension agent.

Detergent Dispenser fill recommendations per dish load soil level and water hardness

Water Hardness	Light Soil or Prerinsed		Normal Soil		Heavy Soil

	Main Wash	Pre-Wash	Main Wash	Pre-Wash	Main Wash	Pre-Wash
	Main Wash	Pre-Wash	Main Wash	Pre-Wash	Main Wash	Pre-Wash
	section	section	section	section	section	section

Soft	4 tsp (20 mL)	Empty	6 tsp (30 mL)	2 tsp (10 mL)	9 tsp (45 mL)	7 tsp (35 mL)
(0-2 grains per	Fill to Soft Water		Fill above the	Fill to Soft Water	Fill cup	Fill cup
U.S. gallon)	line		Soft Water line	line	completely	completely

Medium	6 tsp (30 mL)	2 tsp (10 mL)	6 tsp (30 mL)	4 tsp (20 mL)	9 tsp (45 mL)	7 tsp (35 mL)
(2-6 grains per	Fill above the	Fill to Soft Water	Fill above the	Fill to Hard Water	Fill cup	Fill cup
U.S. gallon)	Soft Water line	line	Soft Water line	line	completely	completely

Hard	8 tsp (40 mL)	4 tsp (20 mL)	9 tsp (45 mL)	7 tsp (35 mL)	9 tsp (45 mL)	7 tsp (35 mL)
(7 grains per U.S.	Fill to Hard Water	Fill to Hard Water	Fill cup	Fill cup	Fill cup	Fill cup
gallon and above)	line	line	completely	completely	completely	completely

NOTE: Fill amounts shown are for standard powdered detergent. Amounts may vary if you use liquid or concentrated powdered detergent. Tablet detergents should be placed in the main wash section of the detergent dispenser with the cover closed. Follow instructions on the package when using liquid dishwasher detergent, concentrated powdered detergent or tablet detergent.