UseAndCare
DISHWASHER MODEL SERIES 920
PART NO. 3373752 Rev. A
A Note to You ........................ 2
Dishwasher Safety ................ 3
Parts and Features ................ 4
Starting Your Dishwasher ..... 5
Loading Your Dishwasher ..... 6
Using the Dispensers .......... 10
Setting the Controls ............. 12
Selecting a wash cycle ..... 12
Using CANCEL/DRAIN ..... 13
Selecting cycle options .... 13
Changing a cycle or
option setting ................... 14
Adding a dish during a
cycle ................................. 14
Understanding the status
indicators ......................... 15
Washing Special Items ........ 16
Connecting a Portable
Dishwasher ........................... 17
Caring for Your
Dishwasher ........................... 19
Saving Energy ...................... 21
Solving Common
Dishwashlng Problems ........ 22
Troubleshooting ................... 25
Requesting Assistance
or Service .............................. 26
Index ...................................... 30
Warranty ............................... 32
1-800-253-1301
Call our Consumer Assistance Center
with questions or comments.
_/qS
A Note to You
Thank you for buying a Whirlpool e appliance.
Because your life is getting busier and more complicated, Whirlpool dishwashers are easy
to use, save time, and help you manage your home better. To ensure you enjoy years of
trouble-free operation, we developed this Use and Care Guide. It contains valuable
information about how to operate and maintain your appliance properly and safely. Please
read it carefully.
Also, please complete and mail the Ownership Registration Card provided with your
appliance. This card helps us notify you about any new information on your appliance.
Please record your model's information.
Whenever you call to request service for
your appliance, you need to know your
complete model number and serial number.
You can find this information on the model
and serial number label (see diagram on
page 4 for location of label).
Please also record the purchase date of
your appliance and your dealer's name,
address, and telephone number.
Model Number
Serial Number
Purchase Date
Dealer Name
Dealer Address
Dealer Phone
Keep this book and the sales slip together in a safe place for future reference.
I Our Consumer Assistance Centernumber is toll-free 24 hours a day.
Help us help you
Please:
• Have your dishwasher installed by a •
qualified installer.
• Install where dishwasher is protected from
the elements. •
• Install and level dishwasher on a floor that
will hold the weight, and in an area suitable
for its size and use.
• Properly connect dishwasher to electricity,
water, and drain.*
* See Installation Instructions for complete
information.
1-800-253-1301
Remove all shipping plugs from hoses
and connectors (such as the cap on the
drain outlet) before installing.*
Remove all hang tags and temporary
labels.
• Make sure dishwasher is not used by
anyone unable to operate it properly.
• Properly maintain dishwasher. See
pages 19-20.
I
Dishwasher Safety
Your safety is important to us.
This guide contains safety statements under
warning symbols. Please pay special
attention to these symbols and follow any
instructions given. Here is a brief explana-
tion of the use of the warning symbol.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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
the dishwasher.
• Use your dishwasher only for the
uses described in this manual.
• DISHWASHER MUST BE ELECTRI-
CALLY GROUNDED. Read the
Installation Instructions for details.
*When discarding an old dishwasher,
always remove the door to prevent
accidental entrapment or suffocation.
• Use ONLY detergents and rinse
agents recommended for use in a
dishwasher.
• Store dishwasher detergent in a cool,
dry place WHERE CHILDREN CAN'T
REACH IT.
• When loading items to be washed:
- Load sharp items and knives with
the handles up to reduce risk of cut-
type injuries.
- Locate sharp items and knives so
that they are not likely to damage
the door or tub.
• DO NOT let children play in or on
the dishwasher.
• DO NOT reach into the area below
the bottom rack until the heating
element has cooled for at least
20 minutes.
• DO NOT wash plastic items unless
marked "Dishwasher Safe" or the equiva-
lent. If not marked, check manufacturer's
recommendations.
• DO NOT use your dishwasher unless all
enclosure panels are properly in place.
• DO NOT sit on, stand on, or abuse the
dishwasher door or dishracks.
• DO NOT tamper with controls.
• If hot water has not been used recently
(usually two weeks or longer), hydrogen
gases may build up in the water heater
and the hot water pipes. HYDROGEN
GAS IS EXPLOSIVE. To prevent injury
or damage, before using your dish-
washer, turn on all hot water faucets and
allow water to run for several minutes.
This will allow gases to escape. Do not
smoke or use any open flame near the
faucet while it is open.
• DO NOT store or use gasoline or other
flammable vapors and liquids in the
vicinity of this or any other appliance.
The fumes can create a fire hazard
or explosion.
• Disconnect electrical power to the
dishwasher before attempting to service.
- SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS -
3
Parts and Features
Your dishwasher is illustrated below with the parts and features called out. To help you find
information on specific parts or features quickly, page references are included.
Third level wash
(p. 8)
Adjustable top rack
(p. 9)
rack adjuster
(p. 9)
Upper spray arm
(p.8)
Water inlet opening Spray tower
(p.8) (p.8)
Model and
Rack bumper .serial number label
(p. 8) (on right side)
Bottom rack POWER CLEAN TM
module
(p. 8) (p. 31)
Heating element
I
Lower spray arm
(p.8)
Silverware Overfill protector
basket (p. 20)
(p. 7)
Detergent
dispensers
(p.10)
Door latc
Rinse agent
dispenser
(p. 11)
Access paneP
Door color paner
*See Installation Instructions
for more information.
Control panel
Your dishwasher has a row of push pads to select cycles and options. You must select a
cycle to start your dishwasher. You may select one or more options.
Status
Indicators
Starting Your Dishwasher
This section tells you how to start or stop your dishwasher. Refer to it for quick reference.
Starting a wash cycle
1. Load the dishwasher. See pages 6-9.
2. Spin the spray arms. They should
turn freely.
3. Add detergent. See page 10.
4. Add rinse agent, if needed. See page 11.
5. Close door firmly until it latches.
6. Run hot water at the sink nearest the
dishwasher until water is hot.
Turn water off. (See page 21 .)
7. Press a Cycle pad. If desired, press one
I_ °r m°re Opti°n pads" (See
pages 12-13.) The dishwasher
starts filling once you press a
cycle pad unless you select
the delay wash cycle. You
may press Option pads as the machine
is filling.
The pad indicator glows red when a cycle
or an option is selected.
Stopping the dishwasher
You can stop your dishwasher anytime
during a cycle. All you have to do is:
• Open the door slightly. Wait for any filling
or spraying action to stop before opening
the door all the way. Close door to con-
tinue cycle.
OR
• Press CANCEL/DRAIN. Once pressed, a
2-minute drain starts. (See page 13.)
5
Loading Your Dishwasher
This section tells how to properly load your dishwasher for best washing and rinsing results.
Preparing to load the dishwasher
• To save water and energy, do not rinse
dishes before putting them into the
dishwasher.
• Remove large pieces of food, bones, and
other hard items. The POWER CLEAN TM
module removes food particles from the
water. The module contains a chopping
device which reduces the size of food items.
NOTE: If hard items such as fruit seeds,
nuts, and egg shells enter the POWER
CLEAN module, you might hear chopping,
grinding, crunching, or buzzing sounds.
Those sounds are normal when hard items
enter the module. Do not let metallic items
(such as pot handle screws) get into the
POWER CLEAN module. Damage can
occur.
• Foods like eggs, rice, pasta, and cooked
cereals may be hard to remove if left to dry
over a period of time. Run a RINSE/WASH
LATER cycle to keep dishes moist if you
do not plan to wash them soon.
• Load dishes so soiled surfaces face the
rotating spray arm.
• Load dishes so they are not stacked or
overlapping. It is important for the water
spray to reach all soiled surfaces for best
washing. For best drying, water must be
able to drain from all surfaces.
Loading for quiet operation
• Secure lightweight load items in the racks.
• Pot lids and handles, pizza pans, cookie
sheets, etc., should not touch interior
walls, interfere with the spray arm's
rotation, or cover the spray tower.
• Load dishes so they do not touch one
another.
NOTE: Keep sink drain plugs inserted
during dishwasher operation to prevent
noise transfer through drains.
6
Loading the silverware basket
Personal Injury Hazard
Load sharp items (knives, forks,
skewers, etc.) with the point down.
Failure to do so could cause personal
injury.
• Load the silverware basket while it is in the
door or take the basket out for loading on
a counter or table.
• Mix items in each section of the basket
with some pointing up and some down to
avoid nesting. Spray cannot reach nested
items. However, always load sharp items
(knives, skewers, forks, etc.) pointing
down.
• Put small items (baby bottle caps, jar lids,
etc.) in any section.
• You can also remove the basket for easy
unloading. Always unload or remove the
basket before unloading the racks to avoid
spillingwater on the silverware.
To remove the basket:
1. Grab the basket by the handle and slide it
toward the top of the door.
2. Liftthe basket off the holding buttons.
To replace the basket:
1. Set the basket on the holding buttons.
2. Slide the basket towards the bottom of
the door until it locks in place.
To open the basket:
• Unhook the latch as shown.
NOTE: Be sure the cover is completely
latched before pulling out the bottom rack
and before closingthe dishwasher door.
Loading the bottom rack
Load items with cooked-on or dried-on food
in the bottom rack, with soiled surfaces
facing inward to the spray.
Mixed load
• Load plates, soup bowls, etc., between
prongs and facing inward to the spray.
• Make sure pot handles and other items do
not stop rotation of the spray arms. Spray
arms must move freely.
• Load items so they do not block or cover
the spray tower.
• Load heavily-soiled cookware face down
in the rack.
• Do not stack or overlap dishes. Water
spray must reach all soiled surfaces for
best results.
Mixed load
Do not cover spray tower
Utensil load
• Load cookie sheets, cake pans, and other
large items at sides and back. Loading
such items in front may keep water spray
from reaching detergent dispenser and
silverware basket.
NOTE:
• Do not load glasses, cups, or plastic items
in the bottom rack.
• Do not load items between the bottom rack
and the side of the dishwasher tub. This
can block the water inlet opening.
• If you have removed the bottom rack for
unloading or cleaning, replace it with
bumpers in front.
Utensil load
Bumpers must
face dishwasher door
Loading the top rack
Load the top rack with cups, glasses, and
smaller items. Do not cover the third level
wash when loading the top rack.
Cup and
glass load
Cup and glass load
• Load so open ends face down for cleaning
and draining.
• Load glasses in top rack only - bottom
rack is not designed for glasses. Damage
can occur.
8
Do not cover third level wash
• Place items in the rows between prongs.
Placing them over the prongs may lead
to breakage.
• Secure lightweight items.
• China, crystal, and other delicate items
must not touch each other during dish-
washer operation. Damage may occur.
Mixed load
• Small bowls, pans, and other utensils can
be placed in the top rack.
• Load plastic items in the top rack only.
Plastic items may melt in the bottom rack.
• Wash only plastic items marked "dish-
washer safe".
• Load plastic items so the force of the spray
does not move them during the cycle.
Mixed load
Do not cover third level wash
Infinite adjustable top rack
(on some models)
Raise or lower the rack to fit tall items in
either the top or bottom rack. The top rack
does not have to be level.
• Turn the knob clockwise to raise a side of
the rack.
• Turn the knob counterclockwise to lower a
side of the rack.
Adjustable 3-position top rack
(on some models)
You can raise or lower the rack to fit tall
items in either the top or bottom rack. The
high and low positions are marked on the
adjuster on the side facing the center of the
dishwasher.
1. Hold top rack with one hand near adjuster.
2. Pull top of adjuster lever out with other
hand.
3. Lift or lower rack to one of the preset
positions.
4. Release adjuster lever.
5. Repeat Steps 1-4 for the three remaining
adjusters as needed. The four adjusters
can be raised or lowered separately or
together, as desired. The top rack does
not have to be level.
Lower
Raise
11first
Then adjust
Using the Dispensers
For best washing results, review the information below. It is important to use detergents and
rinse agents properly.
Using the detergent dispenser
• Use automatic dishwashing detergent
only. Other detergents are too mild and
much too sudsy.
• Add detergent just before starting cycle.
• Store tightly-closed detergent in a cool, dry
place. Fresh automatic dishwasher
detergent results in better cleaning.
Filling the detergent dispenser
The detergent dispenser has one section
with a cover and one without. Push cover
down firmly until it latches. Detergent in the
open section falls into the dishwasher when
closing the door. The covered section opens
automatically for the main wash.
NOTE: It is normal for the cover to open
partially when dispensing detergent.
Cover Cover Latch
Usebothse_ionsfor:
-NORMAL
-POTS-N-PANS
Useonlycovered
se_ionfor:
-LOW ENERG_
CHINA
How much detergent to use
• The amount of detergent to use depends
on the hardness of your water and the type
of detergent. If you use too little, dishes
won't be clean. If you use too much in soft
water, glassware will etch.
• Different brands of dishwasher detergent
have different amounts of phosphorus for
softening water. If you have hard water
and use low phosphorus content detergent
(6.0% or less), you may need to use more
detergent or use a detergent with a higher
phosphorus content (8.7%).
• Find out your water's hardness by asking
your local water department, water soft-
ener company, or county extension agent.
WATER TYPE WHERE TO FILL
Hard Top of
8+ grains per gallon 3rd step
136+parts per million (3 tbs)
Medium Top of
5-7 grainspergallon 2nd step
85-119 partspermillion (2 tbs)
Soft Top of
0-4 grains per gallon 1st step
0-68 parts per million (1 tbs)
Fill amounts shown are for standard
powdered detergent. Amounts may vary if
you use liquid or concentrated powdered
detergent. Follow manufacturer's directions
when using liquid dishwasher detergent or
concentrated powdered detergent.
10
Using the rinse agent dispenser
Keep the rinse agent dispenser filled with a
liquid rinse agent. A rinse agent greatly
improves dish drying by helping water
flow off them during the last rinse, A rinse
agent also keeps water from forming
droplets and drying as spots or streaks,
A small amount of rinse agent automati-
cally releases intothe rinse water during the
final rinse of each cycle, For best drying
results, check dispenser periodically to
see if it needs filling.
To check dispenser:
• Check center of Fill Indicator Cap. Clear
means it needs filling.
OR
• Remove Fill Indicator Cap. An "E" is visible
when dispenser is empty.
OR
Cap center clear "E" visible
when empty when empty
To fill dispenser:
The rinse agent dispenser holds 6 ounces
(175 mL). Under normal conditions, this
lasts about three months.
1. Open dishwasher door completely.
2. Remove Fill Indicator Cap.
3. Add rinse agent. Fill to smallest opening
in lower part of dispenser only. Overfilling
may cause rinse agent to leak out. This
will not harm the dishwasher, but could
cause oversudsing.
4. Clean up any spilled rinse agent with a
damp cloth.
5. Replace Fill Indicator Cap. Keep it closed
tightly.
NOTE: You do not have to wait until the
dispenser is empty before refilling, but do
not overfill it. Your dishwasher is designed
to use a liquid rinse agent. You do not need
to use a solid or bar-type rinse agent.
Do not fill past
smallest opening
Keep dispenser filled for best drying results
11
Setting the Controls
Operating your dishwasher's controls properly helps you obtain the best possible washing
results. This section tells you how to select wash cycles and options.
Selecting a wash cycle
Press a Cycle pad. The dishwasher starts filling once you press a Cycle pad unless you
select the delay wash cycle. You may press Option pads as the machine is filling.
CYCLE
RINSE/WASH LATER
For rinsing a few items to
be washed one or more
days later.
• Do not use detergent.
• Water is not heated
during RINSE/WASH LATER.
• AIR DRY is automatically selected.
LOW ENERGY/CHINA
I_ ingle wash for prerinsed
or lightlysoiled loads.
• Select HIGH TEMP
WASH to heat water in
the main wash (marked t).
• The water heatsto 140°F (60°C) in
the final rinse (marked tt).
NORMAL
Double wash for normal,
everyday soiled loads.
(The Energy Guide label is
based on this cycle.)
• Select HIGH TEMP
WASH to heat water in the main
wash (marked t).
• The water heats to 140°F (60°C) in
the final rinse (marked tt).
POTS-N-PANS
I_ ouble wash for maximum
cleaning of cooked-on or
baked-on foods.
• The water heats to 140°F
(60°C) in both washes
(marked t).
• The water heats to 140°F (60°C) in
the final rinse (marked tt).
A "•" shows what each cycle includes
MAIN FINAL
WASHIRINSE
I
WASH iRINSE
I
•t I
ot
ot
RINSE
ott
ott
ott
DR_
* Cycle time includes dry time and may be longer depending on the temperature of water entering the
CYCLE
TIME
(Minutes)
12
60*
66*
76*
12 dishwasher. The cooler the water, the longer the cycle time. If the water is already hot enough, the cycle
times will be as shown.
Using CANCEL/DRAIN
Press CANCEL/DRAIN to cancel a cycle or
to clear the indicators.
To clear the indicators:
Press CANCEL/DRAIN before starting the
dishwasher to clear all cycle and option
selections.
To cancel a cycle:
• Press CANCEL!DRAIN while the dish-
washer is running to start a 2-minute
drain. It will take a few seconds for the
drain to start. If desired, select a new
cycle. (See "Changing a cycle or option
setting" page 14.)
• You can press CANCEL/DRAIN again to
stop the drain immediately. Remember to
drain the dishwasher again before starting
a new cycle.
NOTE: A small amount of water remaining
in the dishwasher is normal.
Selecting cycle options
You can press an Option pad after the
dishwasher starts as long as the cycle is not
past the point that the option is used.
For example, you can press AIR DRY any
time before the DRYING indicator glows.
After a wash cycle, the dishwasher
remembers the options used and uses the
same options in the next wash cycle unless
new options are selected or the CANCEL/
DRAIN pad is pressed.
AIR DRY
When AIR DRY is selected, the air in the
r_ ishwasher is not heated during
the "dry" portion of a cycle.
Using AIR DRY helps save
energy, but dishes take longer to
dry and some spotting can occur.
Some items (such as plastics) may need
towel drying. For best drying, use a liquid
rinse agent.
HIGH TEMP WASH
When HIGH TEMP WASH is selected, the
I_ ishwasher heats the water
during the main wash of the LOW
ENERGY/CHINA and NORMAL
cycles. Heating the water helps
improve washing results. The
POTS-N-PANS cycle automatically uses
HIGH TEMP WASH.
NOTE: The dishwasher automatically
heats the air in the dishwasher during the
"dry" portion of the cycle unless you select
AIR DRY.
13
Changing a cycle or option setting
During the first minute
of a cycle
1. Press new Cycle and/or Option pads.
2. Check the detergent dispensers. They
must be filled properly for the new cycle.
After the first minute
of a cycle
1. Press CANCEL/DRAIN. A 2-minute drain
cycle starts. Wait for drain cycle to finish.
2. Press a new Cycle pad.
3. If desired, press one or more Option
pad(s).
4. Check the detergent dispensers. They
must be filled properly for the new cycle.
Adding a dish during a cycle
You can add an additional item to the
dishwasher anytime before the main wash
portion of a cycle. See chart on page 12.
1. Lift up the door latch to stop the cycle.
Wait for spraying action to stop before
opening the door.
2. Open the door and add the item.
3. Close the door, but do not latch it. Wait
30 seconds for the air in the dishwasher
to warm up. Doing so reduces the
amount of moisture in the vent when
restarting a cycle.
4. Close the door firmly until it latches. The
dishwasher resumes the cycle.
14
Understanding the status
LOCK OUT
The LOCK OUT feature lets you lock out the
function of the control
pads. When using LOCK
OUT, you cannot start
the dishwasher,
indicators
RINSING
The RINSING indicator glows during the last
two rinses of all cycles.
To use LOCK OUT:
• Press and hold AIR DRY (about 5 seconds)
until the LOCK OUT indicator
glows.
To turn off LOCK OUT:
• Press and hold AIR DRY (about
5 seconds) until the LOCK OUT
indicator turns off.
WASHING
The WASHING indicator glows at the start
of the first fill of any cycle
(except RINSE/WASH
LATER) and remains on
until the end of the main
wash.
WATER HEATING
The WATER HEATING indicator glows
whenever water is heated
during a cycle.
DRYING
The DRYING indicator glows during the
drying portion of each
cycle - even if you select
AIR DRY. It turns off at
the end of the cycle. If
dishes are not as dry as you expected when
using AIR DRY, either allow longer drying
times (overnight) or do not use AIR DRY.
CLEAN
The CLEAN indicator glows at the end of a
cycle to show that the
load is clean. All other
indicators turn off. The
CLEAN indicator glows
until you press CANCEL/DRAIN or any other
control pad.
15
Washing Special Items
If you have any doubts about washing a particular piece of dishware, check with the
manufacturer to see if it is dishwasher safe.
MATERIAL DISHWASHER SAFE? EXCEPTIONS/SPECIAL INFORMATION
Aluminum Yes High water temperature and detergents can pit
finish of anodized aluminum.
Bottles No Wash bottlesand cans by hand. Labels attached
and Cans with glue can loosen in your dishwasher. Loose
labels and glue can clog spray arms or the pump
and will reduce washing performance.
Cast Iron No Seasoning will be removed and iron will rust.
China/ Yes Always check manufacturer's recommendations
Stoneware before washing. Antique, hand-painted, or over-
the-glaze patterns may fade. Gold leaf can
discolor or fade.
Crystal Yes Always check manufacturer's recommendations
before washing. Some types of leaded crystal
can etch with repeated washings.
Gold No Gold-colored flatware will discolor.
Glass Yes Milk glass will yellow with repeated dishwasher
washing.
Hollow- No Handles of some knives are attached to the
Handle blade with adhesives which may loosen if
Knives washed in the dishwasher.
Pewter No High water temperatures and detergent can
discolor or pit finish.
Disposable No Cannot withstand high water temperatures and
Plastics detergents.
Plastics Yes Always check manufacturer's recommendations
before washing. Plastics vary in their capacity to
withstand high water temperatures and deter-
gents. Load plastics in top rack only.
Stainless Yes Run the RINSE/WASH LATER cycle if not
Steel washing immediately. Prolonged contact with
food containing salt, vinegar, milk products, or
fruit juice can damage finish.
Sterling Yes Run the RINSE/WASH LATER cycle ifnot
Silver or washing immediately. Prolonged contact with
Silver Plate food containing salt, acid, or sulfide (eggs,
mayonnaise, and seafood) can damage finish.
Tin No Can rust.
Wooden No Always check manufacturer's recommendations
Ware before washing. Untreated wood can warp,
crack, or lose itsfinish.
16
Connecting a Portable
Dishwasher
NOTE: A special adapter must be installed
on the faucet before the dishwasher can be
connected. Complete instructions and the
adapter are packed with your dishwasher.
When moving your dishwasher make sure
the door is latched. Hold the dishwasher at
the top front corners.
Connecting the dishwasher
1. Run water at faucet until it is hot. Turn
water off.
2. Pull hoses out of their storage compart-
ment on the back of the dishwasher.
NOTE: Make sure the hoses are not
kinked or twisted. Kinked hoses reduce
washing performance.
3. Pull down on the locking collar while
lifting the hose connector onto the faucet
adapter.
4. When the connector snaps into place,
release the locking collar.
5. Turn the hot water on slowly until it is all
the way on.
6. Plug in power supply cord.
7. See page 5 for instructions on how to
start the dishwasher.
Locking collar
Hose connection
m
Drawing water when dishwasher ,s
connected
You can draw water from the faucet while
the dishwasher is connected. Do not draw
water while the dishwasher is filling or while
water is being pumped out. (This helps
prevent a low fill when dishwasher is filling
or mixing drain water with fresh water.)
• Press the red button on the hose connec-
tor to draw water from faucet. (The faucet
is set on hot. Adjust faucet for the water
temperature you want.)
NOTE: Turn hot water back on after you
draw water from faucet. Turn off cold water.
17
Disconnecting the dishwasher
1. Turn hot water off. (This can be done
after the last rinse.)
2. Press the red button on the connector to
release the water pressure.
3. Lift slightly on the hose connector while
pulling down the locking collar. Pull down
on the connector.
4. Empty any remaining water from the
connector by turning the connector
upside down.
5. Unplug power supply cord and return to
storage compartment.
6. Return hoses to storage compartment.
Locking collar
Hose connection
Electrical connection
A power supply of 120 volts, 60Hz AC, 15 or
20 amps, is required. For your personal
safety, this appliance must be grounded.
This appliance is equipped with a power
supply cord having a 3-prong grounding
plug. To minimize possible shock hazard it
must be plugged into a mating 3-prong
grounding type wall receptacle, grounded in
accordance with the National Electrical
Code and local codes and ordinances. If a
mating wall receptacle is not available, it is
the responsibility and obligation of the
customer to have a properly grounded
3-prong wall receptacle installed by a
qualified electrician.
3-prong ground-
Power supply
cord
3-prong
grounding
type wall
receptacle
Fire Hazard
An extension cord should not be used
with this appliance.
Do not, under any circumstances, remove
the power supply cord ground prong.
Such use may result in a fire, electrical
shock, or other personal injury.
Converting a portable dishwasher
to a built-in
Your Whirlpool Portable Dishwasher can be
converted to a built-in (undercounter) model
by using conversion kit No. 4317856. The kit
18
is available at your Whirlpool dealer or
authorized Whirlpool service company.
Instructions are included with the kit.
Caring for Your Dishwasher
Your new dishwasher is designed to give
you many years of dependable service.
There are a few things you can do to main-
tain your dishwasher properly. This section
tells you how to clean and care for your
dishwasher. Refer to "Solution chart" on
pages 22-24 for special cleaning
problems. See Installation Instructions for
information on storing your dishwasher and
for cleaning the drain air gap.
Personal Injury Hazard
Before cleaning interior, wait at least
20 minutes after a cycle for the heating
element to cool down.
Failure to do so could result in burns.
Caring for simulated wood top
(on portable models)
The simulated wood top can be used as a
utility work surface for most kitchen jobs. It
is stronger and more easily cleaned than
genuine wood.
The top can be used as a cutting board.
Knife marks will be visible, but will not
seriously damage top. Hot items from the
oven can be placed on the top.
Clean top with warm, soapy water. For
dried-on foods, use a scouring pad.
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 nice looking and clean.
19
Cleaning the interior
Hard water minerals may cause a white film
to build up on the inside surfaces, especially
just beneath the door area. To clean interior:
• Apply powdered dishwasher detergent to a
damp sponge to make a paste.
OR
• Use liquid automatic dishwasher detergent
and clean with damp sponge.
Wear rubber gloves. Do not use any type of
cleanser other than dishwasher detergent
because it can cause foaming or sudsing.
NOTE: Follow the "Removing spots and film"
procedure on page 24 to clean your dish-
washer with white vinegar. Remember, this
procedure is intended for occasional use
only. Vinegar is an acid. Excessive use can
damage your dishwasher.
I
Overfill Protector
The Overfill Protector (in the front right
corner of the dishwasher tub) keeps the
dishwasher from overfilling. It must be in
place for the dishwasher to operate.
Check under the float for objects that may
keep the protector from moving up or down.
20
Saving Energy
Saving energy is important and helps you save money. This section gives you tips on the
best ways to save energy with your dishwasher.
Loading tips
• Wash full loads. Running a half-filled
dishwasher uses the same amount of
electricity and hot water as a fully-loaded
machine.
• Load correctly for best washing results.
Incorrect loading may cause poor washing
and the need to rewash all or part of load.
• Do not prerinse normally-soiled dishes.
Select the correct cycle for the load and
use the recommended amount of
detergent.
Cycle and option tips
• Use the LOW ENERGY/CHINA cycle
whenever possible. The cycle uses less
hot water and energy than the NORMAL
cycle.
• Run your dishwasher during off-peak
hours. Local utilities recommend avoiding
heavy usage of energy at certain times of
day.
• Do not use the HIGH TEMP WASH option
if it is not needed. When this option is off,
if water entering the dishwasher is lower
than 140°F (60°C), the cycle does not take
additional time to heat water during the
main wash. In some cases, loads may not
dry as well when using the HIGH TEMP
WASH option.
NOTE: Loads may not wash or dry as well
if the water temperature is too low. For
best dishwashing results, water must
be at least 120°F (49°C) as it enters the
dishwasher.
To check water temperature:
1. Run the hot water at the faucet closest
to your dishwasher, Let
the water run for at least
1 minute.
• Use the AIR DRY option whenever pos-
sible. Allow longer drying times (overnight).
Use a rinse agent to improve drying.
2. Hold a candy or meat thermometer in
the running stream of water.
If water temperature at the
faucet is below 120°F (49°C),
have a qualified person raise
the water heater's thermostat
setting.
21
Solving Common
Dishwashing Problems
A convenient checklist for handling minor performance problems. Go over this list before
calling for service. Ifyou are unable to solve your dishwasher's problem, turn to page 26 for
service information.
Solution chart
PROBLEM CAUSE
Food soil left Improper loading
on dishes Water temperature
too low
Use of incorrect, too
little, or ineffective
detergent
Spotting
and filming
Detergent cakes in
dispenser
Insufficient fill due to
low water pressure
Slowdown of wash
arm due to high suds
Hard water or high
mineral content in
water
Water temperature
too low
Use of incorrect
detergents
SOLUTION
Follow loading instructions on pages 6-9.
Use the HIGH TEMP WASH option. If
needed, turn home water heater up to ensure
water entering dishwasher is 120°F (49°C)
minimum. See "To check water temperature"
on page 21. NOTE: In some cases, loads may
not dry as well when using the HIGH TEMP
WASH option.
Use recommended dishwasher detergents
only. Follow recommendations on page
10 for amounts. Never use less than one
tablespoon per load. Detergent must be
fresh to be effective. Always store detergent
tightly closed in a cool, dry place.
Use fresh detergent only. Do not allow deter-
gent to sit for several hours in a wet dis-
penser. Check dispenser for caked detergent.
Clean dispenser when caked detergent is
present.
Home water pressure should be 20 to 120
pounds per square inch (psi) for proper
dishwasher fill. A booster pump on the water
supply may be necessary if pressure is
too low.
Never use soap or laundry detergents. Use
recommended dishwasher detergents only.
Use rinse agent to help prevent spotting
and filming. See page 11. To remove hard
water film, see "Removing spots and film"
on page 24.
Use the HIGH TEMP WASH option. If needed,
turn home water heater up to ensure water
entering dishwasher is 120°F (49°C) minimum.
See '3-0 check water temperature" on page 21.
NOTE: In some cases, loads may not dry as
well when using the HIGH TEMP WASH
option.
Use recommended dishwasher detergents
only.
22
PROBLEM CAUSE SOLUTION
Spotting Incorrect amount
and filming of detergent
(continued)
Use of ineffective
detergents
Insufficient fill due to
low water pressure
Cycle takes Water temperature
extremely is too low
long time
Follow recommendations on page 10 for
amount. Heavy soil and/or hard water
generally require extra detergent.
Use fresh detergent. Store detergent tightly
closed in a cool, dry place. Discard lumpy
detergent.
Home water pressure should be 20 to 120
psi for proper dishwasher fill. A booster
pump on the water supply may be neces-
sary if pressure is too low.
Dishwasher is not
installed properly
If needed, turn home water heater up to
ensure water entering dishwasher is 120°F
(49°C) minimum. See "To check water
temperature" on page 21.
Undercounter dishwashers require ad-
equate enclosure for proper operation. See
Installation Instructions for complete
information.
Dishes do not
dry completely
Dishes do not drain
properly
Plastics
Dishes must have proper water drainage.
Do not overload. Follow instructionsfor
loading dishwasher on pages 6-9. Use a
liquid rinse agent to speed draining.
Some plastics, due to material, may
need to be towel dried.
Silica film or
etching
(silicafilm is a
white iridescent
deposit; etching
is a cloudy film)
Water chemical
reaction with certain
types of glassware -
usually caused by
some combination of
soft or softened water,
alkaline washing
solutions, insufficient
rinsing, overloading
the dishwasher, and
heat of drying.
Black or gray
marks on dishes
White spots on
cookware with
non-stick finish
Aluminum items
touching dishes
It may not be possible to prevent problem,
except by hand washing. To slow this
process, use a minimum amount of deter-
gent but not less than one tablespoon per
load. Use a liquid rinse agent and
underload the dishwasher to allow thorough
rinsing. Silica film and etching are perma-
nent and cannot be removed. Use the AIR
DRY option.
Seasoning removed by
dishwasher detergents
Load aluminum items so that they will not
rub against dishes during washing. Do not
wash throwaway aluminum items in the
dishwasher because they may break down
and cause marking. Remove aluminum
markings by using a mild abrasive cleanser.
Reseason cookware after dishwasher
washing.
continued on next page
23
PROBLEM CAUSE SOLUTION
Brown stains
on dishes and
dishwasher
interior
Orange stains
on dishwasher
interior
Odor in the
dishwasher
Chipping of
dishes
High iron content
in water supply
Large amounts of
tomato-based foods
on dishes placed in
the dishwasher
Dishes only washed
every two to three
days
Improper loading
Remove by washing dishes (after food soil
has been removed) with 1 teaspoon to
1 tablespoon of citric acid crystals added to
covered section of detergent dispenser. Do
not use detergent. Follow with a LOW
ENERGY/CHINA cycle and detergent. If
treatment is needed more often than every
other month, we recommend installation of
an iron removal unit.
Stains will not affect dishwasher perfor-
mance and can gradually fade over time.
Regular use of RINSE/WASH LATER
reduces the chance of staining. If air in the
dishwasher is heated during the "dry"
portion of the cycle, stains may fade slower
than if the AIR DRY option is selected.
Run a RINSE/WASH LATER cycle at least
once or twice a day until a full load is
accumulated.
Load dishes and glasses so they are stable
and do not strike together from washing
action. Moving racks in and out slowly will
also minimize chipping.
NOTE: Some types of china and glassware
are too delicate for automatic dishwashing
and should be hand washed; for example:
antiques, feather-edged crystal, and similar
items.
Removing spots and film
Keep the rinse agent dispenser filled with a
liquid rinse agent. A rinse
agent prevents water from
forming droplets and drying as
spots or streaks.
To remove spots and film on
dishes and glasses, or hard water film/lime
buildup on the interior of the dishwasher, you
may use white vinegar with the following
procedure:
1. Load clean dishes and glasses in dish-
washer (see pages 6-9). Do not load
silverware or other metals in the dish-
washer.
2. Put 2 cups of household vinegar (in a
glass or dishwasher safe measuring cup)
standing upright in the bottom rack.
3. Close and latch the door.
4. Select the NORMAL cycle and AIR DRY
option. Do not use detergent. Allow the
dishwasher to complete the entire cycle.
NOTE: This cleaning procedure is intended
for occasional use only. Vinegar is an acid.
Excessive use may damage your dish-
washer.
24
Troubleshooting
Before calling for assistance please check the chart below for problems you can fix. It could
save you the cost of a service call.
Dishwasher problems
PROBLEM CHECK THE FOLLOWING
Dishwasher does
not run or stops
during a cycle
Is the door tightly closed and securely latched?
Has the cycle been set correctly? See pages 5 and 12.
Has a household fuse or circuit breaker blown or tripped?
If the motor stopped because of an overload, it will automatically
reset itself within a few minutes. If it does not start, call for service.
Is the water supply turned on?
Is the dishwasher wired into a live circuit with the proper voltage?
Dishwasher
runs too long
Cycle times depend on the temperature of the water entering the
dishwasher. Cooler water results in longer cycle times.
Undercounter dishwashers require adequate enclosure for proper
operation. See Installation Instructions for complete information.
Dishwasher
will not fill
Is Overfill Protector stuck in "up" position? Overfill Protector should
move up and down freely. Press down to release. See page 20.
Water remains
in dishwasher
Allow cycle to finish. A small amount of water remaining is normal.
Check the drain air gap (if installed). If it is clogged, follow the
manufacturer's cleaning instructions.
Detergent remains
in covered section
of dispenser
Has the cycle completed?
Is the detergent fresh and dry without lumps? See page 10.
Is the bottom rack in backwards? The rack bumpers must face the
dishwasher door.
Dishes not as dry
as you expected
Grinding, grating,
crunching, or
buzzing sounds
White residue
appears on front
of access panel
Control panel does
not respond when
pads are pressed
Is the rinse agent dispenser empty? Using a rinse agent greatly
improves drying. See page 11.
Do not use AIR DRY option on the next load. See page 13.
Has a hard object entered the POWER CLEAN TM module?
The sound should stop when the object is ground up.
Is too much detergent being used? See page 10 for recommended
amounts of detergent.
Some liquid detergents develop excess foam and residue on panel.
Try a different brand to reduce foaming and eliminate buildup.
Is the control panel LOCK OUT feature on? See page 15.
Is the door tightly closed and securely latched?
Dishwasher drains Did you accidentally press the CANCEL/DRAIN pad twice? Press
after turning off CANCEL!DRAIN pad again to stop draining.
indicators
Dishwasher will Is the bottom rack in backwards? The rack bumpers must face the
not close dishwasher door,
25
Requesting Assistance or
Service
Before calling for assistance or service, please check "Troubleshooting" on page 25. It may
save you the cost of a service call. If you still need help, follow the instructions below.
1. If you need assistance* ...
Call the Whirlpool Consumer Assistance
Center telephone number.
Dial toll-free from anywhere
in the U.S.A.:
1-800-253-1301
and talk with one of our trained
consultants. The consultant can instruct you
in how to obtain satisfactory operation from
your appliance or, if service is necessary,
recommend a qualified service company in
your area.
If you prefer, write to:
Mr. William Clark
Consumer Assistance Representative
Whirlpool Corporation
2000 North M-63
Benton Harbor, MI 49022-2692
Please include a daytime phone number in
your correspondence.
2. If you need service* ...
Whirlpool has a nationwide network of
I_ uthorized service companies.
Whirlpool service technicians
are trained to fulfill the product
warranty and provide after-
I warranty service, anywhere in
the United States. To locate the authorized
Whirlpool service company in your area, call
our Consumer Assistance Center telephone
number (see Step 1) or look in your tele-
phone directory Yellow Pages under:
•APPLIANCE-HOUSEHOLD-
MAJOR, SERVICE & REPAIR
- See: Whirlpool Appliances or
Authorized Whirlpool Service
(Example: XYZ Service Co.)
• WASHING MACHINES &
DRYERS, SERVICE & REPAIR
- See: Whirlpool Appliances or
Authorized Whirlpool Service
(Example: XYZ Service Co.)
3. If you need FSP ®
replacement parts ...
FSP is a registered trademark of Whirlpool
Corporation for quality parts. Look for this
symbol of quality whenever you need a
replacement part for your Whirlpool ®appli-
ance. FSP replacement parts will fit right
and work right, because they are made to
the same exacting specifications used to
build every new Whirlpool appliance.
To locate FSP replacement parts in your
area, refer to Step 2 or call the Whirlpool
Consumer Assistance Center number in
Step 1.
4. If you are not satisfied
with how the problem
was solved ...
• Contact the Major Appliance Consumer
Action Program (MACAP). MACAP is a
group of independent consumer experts
that voices consumer views at the highest
levels of the major appliance industry.
• Contact MACAP only when the dealer,
authorized servicer, and Whirlpool have
failed to resolve your problem.
Major Appliance Consumer Action Program
20 North Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60606
• MACAP will in turn inform us of your
action.
*When asking for help or service:
Please provide a detailed description of the problem, your appliance's complete model
and serial numbers, and the purchase date. (See page 2.) This informationwill help us
respond properly to your request.
26
Index
This index is alphabetical. Look for the word or phrase you are interested in, then Hookfor the
page number.
TOPIC PAGE TOPIC PAGE
BOTTOM RACK ......................................... 8
CLEANING
Exterior .................................................. 19
Interior ................................................... 20
COMMON WASHING PROBLEMS
Solving ............................................. 22-24
CONNECTING A PORTABLE
DISHWASHER ......................................... 17
CONVERTING TO BUILT-IN .................... 18
CYCLE
Canceling .............................................. 13
Selecting ............................................... 12
DETERGENT
Tips ....................................................... 10
Use chart ............................................... 10
DISHWASHER OPERATION
Adding items during cycle ..................... 14
Changing cycle ...................................... 14
Starting .................................................... 5
Stopping .................................................. 5
DISPENSER
Detergent .............................................. 10
Rinse Agent .......................................... 11
ENERGY
Saving ................................................... 21
FEATURES/PARTS ................................... 4
FILM/SPOTS
Removing .............................................. 24
LOADING
Bottom rack ............................................. 8
Preparing to load ..................................... 6
Silverware basket .................................... 7
Top rack ............................................... 8-9
OPTIONS ................................................. 13
OVERFILL PROTECTOR ........................ 20
PARTS/FEATURES ................................... 4
RESPONSIBILITIES
Owner ..................................................... 2
RINSE AGENT
Using ..................................................... 11
SAFETY ..................................................... 3
SERVICE
Parts ...................................................... 26
Requesting ............................................ 26
SILVERWARE BASKET ............................. 7
SPECIAL ITEMS
Washing ................................................ 16
SPOTS/FILM
Removing .............................................. 24
STATUS INDICATORS ............................ 15
TOP RACK
Adjusting ................................................. 9
Loading ................................................ 8-9
TROUBLESHOOTING ............................. 25
WARRANTY ............................................. 32
WATER
Checking temperature ........................... 21
Heating indicator ................................... 15
POWER CLEAN TM washing system parts
covered by your warranty
level wash tower
I
Upper spray arm
)ray tower
cap
Lower spray arm
POWER CLEAN
module and motor
SOUND-LOCK TM
tuned absorber
WHIRLPOOIJ
Dishwasher Warranty
LENGTH OF WARRANTY
FULL ONE-YEAR
WARRANTY
From Date of Purchase
LIMITED ONE-YEAR
WARRANTY
Second Year From Date of
Purchase
LIMITED FOUR-YEAR
WARRANTY
Second Through Fifth Year
From Date of Purchase
FULL TWENTY-YEAR
WARRANTY
From Date of Purchase
WHIRLPOOL WILL PAY FOR
FSP_ replacement parts and repair labor to correct defects
in materials or workmanship. Service must be provided by
an authorized Whirlpool service company.
FSP replacement parts for any part of the POWER CLEAN TM
washing system if defective in materials or workmanship.
These parts are shown on page 31 of this book.
FSP replacement parts for Electronic Control System if
defective in materials or workmanship.
For models with dishracks that are oyster-colored, FSP
replacement parts for the top and/or bottom dishracks if
they rust due to defective materials or workmanship.
FSP replacement parts and repair labor for the
DURAPERM TM tub and/or inner door should they fail to
contain water due to defective materials or workmanship.
Service must be provided by an authorized Whirlpool
service company.
WHIRLPOOL WILL NOT PAY FOR
A. Service calls to:
1. Correct the installation of the dishwasher.
2. Instruct you how to use the dishwasher.
3. Replace house fuses or correct house wiring or plumbing.
B. Repairs when dishwasher is used in other than normal, single-family household use.
C. Pickup and delivery. This product is designed to be repaired in the home.
D. Damage to dishwasher caused by accident, misuse, fire, flood, acts of God, or use of
products not approved by Whirlpool.
E. Any labor costs during limited warranties.
F. Repairs to parts or systems caused by unauthorized modifications made to the
appliance.
8/94
WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
incidental or consequential damages, so this exclusion or limitation may not apply to you. This
warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state.
Outside the United States, a different warranty may apply. For details, please contact your
authorized Whirlpool dealer.
If you need service, first see the "Requesting Assistance or Service" section of this book.
After checking "Requesting Assistance or Service," additional help can be found by calling
our Consumer Assistance Center telephone number, 1-800-253-1301, from anywhere in
the U.SA.
_) rinted on recycled paper -
10% post-consumer waste
50% recovered matenaJs
PART NO. 3373752 Rev. A 4/_
© 1995 Whirlpool Corporation ® Registered Trademark iTM Trademark of Whirlpool, U.S.A. Printed in U.S.A.
