DISHWASHER CARE
Cleaning
Cleaning the exterior
In most cases, regular use of a soft, damp cloth or sponge and a mild detergent is all that is necessary to keep the outside of your dishwasher looking nice and clean. If your dishwasher has a stainless steel exterior, a stainless steel cleaner is recommended.
Cleaning the interior
Hard water minerals can cause a white film to build up on the inside surfaces, especially just beneath the door area.
Do not clean the dishwasher interior until it has cooled. Wear rubber gloves. Do not use any type of cleanser other than dishwasher detergent because it may cause foaming or sudsing.
To clean interior
Make a paste with powdered dishwasher detergent on a damp sponge and clean.
OR
Use liquid automatic dishwasher detergent and clean with a damp sponge.
OR
See the vinegar rinse procedure in “Spotting and filming on dishes” in “Troubleshooting.”
NOTE: Run a normal cycle with detergent after cleaning the interior.
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
The drain air gap is usually located on top of the sink or countertop near the dishwasher. To order a drain air gap, contact 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?
■Dishwasher will not fill
Is the overfill protection float able to move up and down freely? Press down to release.
■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
Is the bottom rack installed properly with the bumpers in the front? Refer to the “Parts and Features” section. Reinstall the rack 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.
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