Appliance overview


The dotted lines show optional features which may or may not be included with your dishwasher.
The numbers stated below refer to the overview images on the previous page of this manual.
Operating pane
1 On/Off button
2 Wash cycles**
3 Digital display
4 Delay start button
5 Wash cycle options**
6 Start button
Dishwasher interior components
20 Upper rack
21 Upper spray arm
22 Detergent tab tray
23 Vent hole
24 Lower spray arm
25 Filters
26 Silverware basket
27 Lower rack
28 Rinse aid dispenser
29 Detergent dispenser
30 Lock for detergent dispenser
31 Rating plate
Display indicators
Menu overview
The dishwasher has been preset with certain settings for your convenience. You can change these factory settings.
Use the function keys A , B and C to change the settings.

To achieve proper drying, always use a liquid rinse aid, even if your detergent contains a rinse aid or drying additive.
Note: The dishwasher indicates low rinse aid by turning on the Rinse Aid indicator. If this indicator lights up, you need to refill the rinse aid dispenser 28 by following the directions below.
Adding rinse aid
NOTICE
To avoid oversudsing or clogging, do not overfill the rinse aid dispenser 28 Wipe up any spills with a damp cloth.
1. Open the rinse aid dispenser 28 by pressing on the latch of the lid and pull it open.
2. Add liquid rinse aid to the dispenser 28 until it is full. Do not overfill. Avoid spilling into air vent hole.
3. Close the lid. Lid must be fully closed until it clicks in order to seal.
4. Wipe up any excess rinse aid that may have puddled when the dispenser reservoir is full.
The indicator light will go out a few moments after the dishwasher door is shut.
Tip: For easier pouring, remove lid from the rinse aid bottle.
Setting the amount of rinse aid used
The amount of rinse aid dispensed can be set from
to
The factory setting is
You should only change the setting if streaks remain on the dishes (lower the amount), or if dishes are not getting dry enough (increase the amount).
( x can be any number). Release both buttons.
Turning off rinse aid indicator
Proceed as described in the section"Setting the amount of rinse aid used” and set value to
. The rinse aid indicator is now turned off
Dishware material
Note: Before using your dishwasher for the first time, check the information in this section. Some items are not dishwasher-safe and should be hand washed; others require special loading.
Recommended
Aluminum:
China, Crystal, Stoneware
Glass
Non-stick Coatings
Plastics
Stainless Steel, Sterling Silver and Silver Plates
Not Recommended
Acrylic
Adhesive Joined Pieces
Bone-Handled Utensils
Iron Iron will rust.
Non-Dishware Items
Pewter, Brass, Bronze
Tin
Wood
Loading the racks
For best dishwashing results, observe the following when loading the dishwasher:
Loading the upper rack
Ensure items do not protrude through the bottom of the racks and block the spray arms.
Note: When pushing the upper rack 20 into the dishwasher, push it until it stops against the back of the tub so the upper rack spray arm 21 connects to the water supply at the back of the tub. Do not push racks in using the door.
Loading the lower rack
Place large items in the lower rack 27. Load pots, pans and bowls upside down. Do not block the vent hole 23 with tall baking sheets.
Load these items on the right side of the dishwasher.
Suggested loading pattern
10 place setting
Note: Folding the cup shelves down will allow the cups to sit at an increased angle and reduce water pooling on cup bottoms.
Additional loading pattern
12 place setting
Loading the silverware basket
Place knives and sharp utensils with their handles up and forks and spoons with their handles down. If large or oddly-shaped items are loaded in the silverware basket, be sure they do not nest together.
Long silverware basket
Note: The silverware basket lid may also be folded downward in order to leave the basket open.
Suggested loading patterns

Unloading the dishwasher
Note: Dishes are more likely to chip when unloading before cooling.
When unloading the dishwasher, to prevent water from dripping onto dry dishes, unload the lower rack 27 first. Next, unload the silverware basket 26 followed by the upper rack 20 , and then the third rack (if equipped).
Adjustable Upper Rack
If desired, the height of the upper rack can be adjusted to accommodate larger items in the lower rack.
1 Pull the empty upper rack 20 out, tilt it up, and pull it all the way out until it is free of the roller guides.
2. Re-insert the rack with the other set of roller guides as shown below.
Rack accessories
Flip tines*
The upper and lower rack are fitted with flip tines that can be folded down depending on what you may need to load in the rack.
Lower rack flip tines: To fold down, pull flip tine gently forward and release it from the notch. Push the flip tine downward. To fold up, push flip tines into an upright position until the holder engages in the notch.
Upper rack flip tines: To fold down, push flip tines downward with gentle pressure. To fold up, push flip tines into an upright position until the holder engages in the notch.
Cup shelves*
The cup shelves and the space underneath them can be used for small cups or for larger serving utensils.
Utility rack *
Long knives and other utensils can be placed on the utility rack.
* optional feature which may or may not be included with your dishwasher.
Use only detergent specifically designed for dishwashers. For best results, use fresh powdered dishwashing detergent or detergent tabs.
NOTICE
To avoid damage to dishwasher or dishware:
This dishwasher uses less water than most, therefore, less detergent is required. With soft water, tablespoon (15 ml) of detergent will clean most loads. The detergent dispenser cup has lines that measure detergent to 1 tablespoon (15 ml) and 1.75 tablespoons (25 ml). tablespoons (45 ml) of detergent will completely fill the detergent dispenser.
Note: If you do not know the hardness of your water supply, use ml of detergent. Increase the amount if necessary to the least amount required to get your kitchenware clean.
Use the measuring lines in the detergent dispenser cup as a guide to measure the amount of detergent recommended in the following table

Adding detergent
1. If the detergent dispenser 29 is still closed, push the button 30 to open it.
Note: Make sure the detergent dispenser is dry and clear of detergent residue.
2. When using detergent tabs, lay them such that they do not come in contact with the cover, insert a detergent tab flat, not on its side.
Note: Do not place detergent tabs or utensils in the detergent tab tray 22. Place tabs or other detergent forms directly in the detergent dispenser 29.

Pour detergent into the dry detergent dispenser 29 only. Add detergent. Do not overfill the detergent dispenser.
Dosage: see manufacturer’s instructions on the packaging.
3. Close the lid by placing the finger on the lid as shown. Slide the lid closed until it clicks.
The detergent dispenser will open automatically at the ideal time for the set cycle. The powder or liquid detergent is distributed in the appliance and is dissolved, detergent tabs will fall into the detergent tab tray 22 where it dissolves during the cycle.
Tip: If the dishware is only lightly soiled, slightly less than the indicated amount of detergent is usually adequate.

Delay
Allows you to delay the start time of your dishwasher up to 24 hours.
Sanitize *
Increases the temperatures and retains them for an extra long time to obtain a defined disinfecting performance. Continuous use of this function increases the hygiene status. This additional option is ideal for cleaning items such as chopping boards and baby bottles.
Using the Sanitize option may also improve drying. The cycle time and energy usage may be increased.
SpeedPerfect™*
SpeedPerfect™ is an option that allows saving time without sacrificing wash and dry performance. Selecting this option ensures the same final temperatures as the underlying cycle by starting the heat period at an earlier phase in the program.
Selecting this option also increases energy consumption while reducing cycle time.
Half Load*
Can reduce water consumption when washing small, lightly soiled loads that fill approximately half of the dishwasher’s capacity.
Extra Dry *
An increased temperature during the final rinse and an extended drying phase ensure that plastic parts dry better. There is a slight increase in the energy consumption.
* Not on all models. See fascia panel for corresponding programs.
Wash Cycle Information
To save energy, this dishwasher has EcoSense where the sensors in the dishwasher automatically adjust the cycle length, temperature and water changes based on the amount of food soil and the incoming water temperature. The “Smart Control” makes decisions that can cause the cycle time and water usage to adjust intermittently. Wash cycle times are based on 120°F (49° C) water supply. If your household water supply is different than 120°F(49°C), your dishwasher’s cycle times may be impacted.


Protection against unintentional operation
Your dishwasher is equipped with a function that helps to prevent unintentional operation (e.g. by children).
After setting the dishwasher, the dishwasher door has to be closed within 4 seconds, otherwise the operation will be paused. There will be a signal on the control panel advising you to press the Start button again and close the door.
This function will be activated when:
Note: This function cannot be deactivated.
AquaSensor
The AquaSensor is an optical measuring device which measures the cleanliness of the rinse water.
The AquaSensor is used according to the wash cycle. If the AquaSensor is active, “clean” rinse water can be transferred to the next rinse and water consumption can be reduced by 0.8–1-5 gal (3–6 liters). If the rinse water is not yet clear, the water is drained and is replaced with fresh water. In the automatic wash cycles the temperature and running time can also be adjusted to the degree of soiling.
Switching the appliance on
Note: Your dishwasher is protected against unintentional operation. If the appliance door remains open for more than 4 seconds after pressing the Start button, the operation will be paused. Close the appliance door and press the Start button 6 again.
Time display
When a wash cycle is selected the remaining wash cycle time is shown on the display 3.
The wash cycle time is determined during the wash cycle by the water temperature, the amount of dishes, as well as the degree of soiling and may vary (depending on the selected wash cycle).
Delay start
You can delay the start of the cycle in one hour increments up to 24 hours.

To set Delay start:
To cancel Delay start:
is indicated on the digital display 3.Wash cycle end
The wash cycle has ended when the display 3 reads 
Auto power off
This setting determines the length of time the control panel stays illuminated after the cycle is complete. To save energy the recommended setting is 
This setting can be adjusted from
to


To change the setting:
(x can be any number).Switching off the appliance
Short time after the end of the wash cycle:
Interrupting the wash cycle
CAUTION
Expansion (overpressure) may cause the appliance door to open and/or water to escape! If the door was opened on an appliance which has a hot water connection or is heated, always leave the door ajar for several minutes and then close.
Note: Your dishwasher is protected against unintentional operation. If the appliance door remains open for more than 4 seconds after pressing the Start button, the operation will be paused. Close the appliance door and press the Start button 6 again.
Terminating the wash cycle (Reset)
You may now power the dishwasher back on and begin a new cycle if desired.
Changing the wash cycle
When the Start button 1 has been pressed, the wash cycle cannot be changed. The only way a wash cycle can be changed is by terminating the wash cycle (Reset).
Child Lock (panel lock)
The child lock feature will lock the panel while the dishwasher is in operation to prevent a wash cycle from being interrupted unintentionally e.g. by children).
To set the panel lock:
symbol or the words ‘Child Lock’ for approximately 3 seconds until the display reads 
will show in the display if any button is pressed and the program will not be reset.
To deactivate the panel lock, hold down the button again for approximately 3 seconds until the display no longer reads
The panel lock is deactivated automatically when the wash cycle ends. In the case of a power outage, the panel lock will remain active. The panel lock has to be activated with each new wash cycle.
Intensive drying
The final rinse uses a higher temperature which improves the drying result. The cycle time and energy usage may be increased. (Caution if utensils are delicate!)
This feature has two settings:

(x can be any number).
or
A regular inspection and maintenance of your machine will help to prevent faults. This saves time and prevents future problems.
Cleaning the dishwasher
Filters
The Bosch® filter system 25 is designed to prevent the need to pre-rinse normally attached food soils from your dishes. Simply scrape leftover food soils off of dishware before loading. This process will conserve time, water and the energy require to heat your household water supply.
Your dishwasher filter system is designed to filter 100% of the water entering the spray arms to provide a continuous supply of clean water to remove food soils from your dishware.
Filter components
The filter system 25 consists of three parts.

A Large Object Trap
Prevents objects that should not be placed in your dishwasher from damaging the dishwasher pump system or clogging your household drain.
B Flat Fine Filter
Prevents food particles from entering the wash chamber and directs particles toward the micro filter.
C Micro Filter
Directs the smallest of particles to the household plumbing drain.
Cleaning intervals
The filter system 25 is designed to minimize maintenance while providing premium cleaning performance and minimum energy consumption.
Depending on use habits and water hardness, the filter system will require some maintenance to sustain premium cleaning performance.
Your filter system may need to be cleaned when:
When washing normally attached food soils that have been scraped before loading, in a household that runs the dishwasher every other day, your filter should be cleaned:

To check or clean the filter system:
1. Unscrew the Large Object Trap as illustrated and remove the entire filter system.

2. Remove the microfilter from the fine filter for easier cleaning.

3. Rinse the filters under running water and use a soft brush to clean.
Note: do not use abrasive brushes or steel wool, etc., as they may damage the filter.
4. Reinstall the filter system in reverse sequence and lock into place by screwing the Large Object Trap until the marking arrows align.
Spray arms
Check spray arms 21, 24 for grease and limescale deposits. If you find such deposits:

Drain pump
Large food remnants in the rinsing water not retained by the filters may block the waste water pump. In this case:

Preparing your unit for vacation
NOTICE
Before leaving for vacation during warmer weather, besides turning off the main valve, also turn off water supply at the nearest point to the dishwasher. Do not leave soiled dishware in unit and leave door slightly open. During colder weather, please follow the instructions for winterizing your unit below.
Winterizing your unit
NOTICE
If your dishwasher will be unused for a period of time in a location that experiences freezing temperatures holiday home or through a vacation period), have your dishwasher winterized by a professional service.
Dishwashers may occasionally exhibit problems that are unrelated to a malfunction of the dishwasher itself.
The following information may help you with a dishwasher problem without involving a repair professional.
Error code
is lit.
Cause
Action
Error code
is lit.
Cause
Action
Error code
is lit.
Cause
Action
Error code
is lit.
Cause
Action
Error code
is lit.
Cause
Action
A different error code is indicated on the digital display. (
to
)
Cause
Action
Dishwasher does not start.
Cause
Action
Wash cycle won’t resume after door was opened and closed.
Cause
Action
Display does not illuminate.
Casue
Action
Dishwasher runs a long time.
Cause
Action
Dishes aren’t clean enough
Cause
Action
Removable spots or streaks on glasses and silverware.
Cause
Action
Dishes not dry.
Cuase
Action
Odor
Note: Water testing is done in the factory. Occasionally water may still appear in dishwasher at purchase which may create an odor.
Cause
Action
Note: If odor still persists, run the Normal/ Regular cycle until it flushes and interrupt the cycle and place an 8 oz. cup of distilled white vinegar solution on the upper rack and then finish the cycle.
Dishwasher isn’t filling with water (or "Check water supply” display occurs)
Cause
Action
Fascia panel is discolored or scratched.
Cause
Action
Noise from dishes rattling or water striking tub walls.
Cause
Action
Water leaks from tub or from around door.
Cause
Action
White limescale on dishes, tub, racks or door.
Cause
Action
Detergent dispenser cover will not shut
Cause
Action
Unable to select desired cycle
Cause
Action
Reference file: Bosch SHEM3AY55N 100 Series Dishwasher 6+2 S/S
Series: 100 Series
Additionally, the document applies to other Bosch models: SHEM3AY5*N, SHE84AWG5N