GE GTW540ASPWS 4.6 cu. ft. Capacity Washer with Stainless Steel Basket

USING THE WASHER

Getting started

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons, read the IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION before operating this appliance.

Throughout this manual, features and appearance may vary from your model.

Controls

Step 1

• Add fabric softener to the fabric softener dispenser (on some models)
• If using detergent packets, add to the bottom of the wash basket before adding clothes

Step 2

• Loosely add items around agitator or Infusor. Overloading may negatively impact wash performance. See page 15 for suggested loading examples.
• Add the manufacturer’s recommended amount of detergent to the top of the load after adding clothes. We recommend the use of High Efficiency detergents such as in your energy efficient washer

Step 3

• Close lid. NOTE: Unit will not start with lid open if Precise Fill/ Auto is selected except on Bulky Items cycle.
• Select wash cycle
• Select wash options, including Deep Rinse/Extra Rinse option (on some models) when using fabric softener.
• Select options
• Select load size (on some models).

Step 4

• Press Start

A. Start/Pause

• Press Start to begin the cycle. NOTE: If the lid is closed, the lid will lock only during the load sensing portion of the cycle (when the Precise Fill/Auto selection is made or models which do not have a load size selection) and during spin portions of the cycle. Lid will unlock after load sensing and spin.
• Pressing Pause will unlock the lid (if locked at that time), pause the cycle and the Pause indicator light will blink.
• To continue the cycle, press Start again. If water remains in the machine, select the Drain & Spin cycle to drain basket and spin water out of the washer basket. NOTE: Machine will automatically cancel and drain when water is present and the lid is left open for 15 minutes or the unit is left in a paused state for 24 hours with the lid closed. Select cycle and press Start to begin new cycle.

B. Cycle Status Lights

• Shows whether the washer is in the Fill, Soak, Wash, Rinse or Spin portion of the cycle. If an out-of-balance condition is detected by the washer, the Spin light will blink during the remaining portion of the cycle and will stay illuminated for a short time after cycle completion. When this occurs, the washer is taking actions to correct the out-of-balance condition and complete the cycle normally. In some cases, the washer may not be able to balance the load and spin up to full speed.
• If you notice the load is more wet than normal at the end of the cycle, redistribute the load evenly in the wash basket and run a Drain & Spin cycle.

C. Load Size/Water Level (on some models)

• Add detergent to the bottom of the basket and fabric softener to the dispenser (on some models) prior to loading clothes.
• Loosely load items in the washer basket. Overloading may negatively impact wash performance. Adjust the load size accordingly.
• Make the load selection:

Precise Fill/Auto (on some models)

• For convenience, best performance and optimal efficiency, select Precise Fill/Auto for models so equipped. This selection automatically provides the correct amount of water suited to the size and type of load placed in the unit. Lid will be locked for the duration of the load sensing process, which includes a brief spin period and a portion of the water fill.
• If you prefer to manually select the water level, select Low/Small through Max/Super (or Large on some models). While Precise Fill/ Auto is best for most loads and general washing, you may want to manually select the load size for specialty items such as bulky, lightweight comforters or pillows, where you want to ensure a larger water level is applied. Manual load size selections should be made for wet items placed in the washer, such as soaked towels or garments.
• The washer will not fill with water when Precise Fill/Auto is selected if the lid is opened. When the lid is closed the machine is able to begin filling with water in order to sense the load size.

NOTE: This is a high-efficiency washing machine. This system requires less water while providing effective cleaning action. You may notice that the water level is lower than on your previous washer. This is normal.

D. Wash Cycles-Cycle Selector Knob - For models GTW540, GTW525, GTW500, GTW490, GTW485, GTW480, GTW465, GTW460, GTW340, GTW335, GTW330, GTW220 & HTW240 only.

• The wash cycle controls the type of washing process. The cycle selector knob can be turned in either direction. Turning the knob after starting a cycle will stop the washer and change the cycle/options to the new selection. Press Start to begin the new cycle selection.
• The chart below will help you match the items to be washed with the best wash cycle settings. For optimal performance, select the cycle that most closely matches the items being washed. Selections and options shown in bold are the recommended settings for that cycle.
• Some cycles and options may not be available on some models.

Wash Cycles-Cycle Selector Knob - Continued - For models GTW540, GTW525, GTW500, GTW490, GTW485, GTW480, GTW465, GTW460, GTW340, GTW335, GTW330, GTW220 & HTW240 only.

*Sanitize with Oxi: The Sanitize With Oxi cycle, when using an Oxi additive along with your detergent, is designed to remove 99.9% of bacteria found in home laundry. Measure the detergent and the Oxi products carefully. Using the amounts appropriate for a large heavily soiled load in a top load washer, follow the detergent and the Oxi product label instructions. For the Sanitize With Oxi cycle only, add the clothes first and then place the detergent and Oxi product directly on top of the load. The washer hot water supply connection must provide a minimum of 120°F to ensure the effectiveness of this cycle.

NOTE: The Sanitize with Oxi cycle will use the HOT water and Extra Heavy soil setting regardless of the actual settings on the Temperature and Soil Level knobs. The lid will be locked during the wash cycle. Pause can be pressed to unlock the lid. The Stain PreTreat option is not available.

Wash Cycles-Cycle Selector Knob - Continued - For models GTW540, GTW525, GTW500, GTW490, GTW485, GTW480, GTW465, GTW460, GTW340, GTW335, GTW330, GTW220 & HTW240 only.

• Failure to closely follow these instructions may result in an abnormal vibrating and out-of-balance condition that could result in physical injury, property damage, and/or appliance damage.
• For Waterproof, Water-Resistant, or Bulky:
  • Only use the Bulky (or Delicates) cycle.
  • Using other cycles can cause excessive vibration and may result in injury or damage to the washer, walls, or floor.
  • Do not mix waterproof and non-waterproof items.
  • Read the Owner’s Manual for wash cycle details

Wash Cycles-Cycle Selector Knob - For model HTW200 only.

• The wash cycle controls the type of washing process. The cycle selector knob can be turned in either direction. Turning the knob after starting a cycle will stop the washer and change the cycle options to the new selection. Press Start to begin the new cycle selection.
• The chart below will help you match the items to be washed with the best wash cycle settings. For optimal performance, select the cycle that most closely matches the items being washed.

NOTE: Water temperature selections are embedded within the wash cycles. For the Colors Cycle Normal, there are multiple temperature selections available. For other cycles, such as Whites, there is only one temperature available but there are multiple soil levels embedded. Select the cycle, temperature and soil level that best matches items being washed.

E. Settings Select settings for agitation (Soil) and water temperature (Temp). NOTE: Longer Spin times typically reduce dryer time/energy usage (i.e. reduces total energy when using both a washer and a dryer).

F. Cycle Options (on some models)

Stain PreTreat

• The Stain PreTreat feature allows you to indicate what stains are on the garments in your load. An initial water fill is performed at a temperature tailored to the stain type selected and to an amount which enables a concentrated cleaning step. A stain scrubbing period, followed by an active soak, is conducted to effectively treat the stain. Then additional water is added to the selected temperature and the wash phase is conducted for the cycle selected. For washing normally soiled cotton clothing the Stain PreTreat option should be in the Off position.
• This feature can be applied to most wash cycles as described in the cycle guide.

To use Stain PreTreat:

1. Select the desired wash cycle.
2. Select the stain to be treated under the Stain PreTreat options

Recommended temperatures are optimal for stain removal performance; adjust temperature selection to suit load being washed.

Ensure stain is completely removed after wash cycle and before placing in dryer; very tough stains may require a second treatment.

Cycle Options - Continued

• Deep Fill
  • Select the Deep Fill feature for loads where extra water is needed. The Deep Fill feature is recommended for special case loads only, not for typical use.
  • Press the Deep Fill button once before starting the cycle to add an incremental amount of water to the wash load. Holding the Deep Fill button for 3 seconds will provide the deepest fill level possible; this will increase cycle time due to the additional time it takes to fill the washer. To cancel the option if desired, press the Deep Fill button again.
  • NOTE: The Deep Fill button can also be pressed after the washer has completed filling and is in the wash phase if additional water is desired. To stop the extra fill, press the Deep Fill button again and the water will stop.
• Auto Soak: This option begins with a brief agitation, soaks for a specified period of time, then moves through the rest of the cycle automatically.
• 2nd Rinse: When you use extra detergent or bleach to clean heavily soiled clothes, use the 2nd Rinse option to better remove additional residues.
• Extra Spin: Select to provide additional spin time, increasing energy efficiency through reducing drying times.
• 2nd Rinse + Extra Spin: Provides both a second rinse and an extra spin.
• Deep Rinse/Extra Rinse
  • Set this option to provide a deep rinse or when using fabric softener. This option may change other settings (e.g. Spin may go to a higher setting) to maximize performance.
  • NOTE: For models GTW340, GTW490 and GTW500 only. If liquid fabric softener is desired, wait until the Rinse cycle status light is lit and the final rinse fill is complete before adding the recommended amount of liquid fabric softener directly to the rinse bath. When adding liquid fabric softener, pour into deeper areas of rinse water while avoiding direct contact with fabric.

Consumer Help Indicator: Your washer is equipped with Consumer Help Indicator (CHI). CHI is our way to communicate a simple remedy for some situations that you can perform without the need to call for service. The chart below describes the helpful lights you may notice flashing on the display.

• Spin light blinking: If an out-of-balance condition is detected by the washer, the Spin light will blink during the remaining portion of the cycle and will stay illuminated for a short time after cycle completion. When this occurs, the washer is taking actions to correct the out-of-balance condition and complete the cycle normally. In some cases, the washer may not be able to balance the load and spin up to full speed. If you notice the load is more wet than normal at the end of the cycle, redistribute the load evenly in the wash basket and run a Drain & Spin cycle.
• Fill light (Water not entering washer): Check your house water supply. Did you forget to turn on one or both supply valves after installation or coming back from vacation? As soon as the light starts to flash, the washer will initiate a 4 minute lockout period. The washer controls won’t respond/change during this time. After the 4 minutes, you can begin your cycle again. If you try to bypass the lock-out period by unplugging the washer, the 4 minute timer will start over again.
• Lid Locked light: Lid Locked light will flash if 3 cycles have been started without opening the lid. The washer will not start another cycle until the lid is opened. Try opening, then closing the lid and starting a new cycle. If the problem persists, call GE Appliances at 800.GE.CARES (800.432.2737) for service.

Automatic Load Sensing

• This determines the correct agitate profile, agitate duration and amount of water suited to the size and type of load placed in the washer. The washer will not start the wash cycle or fill with water if the lid is open. When the lid is closed the machine is able to begin filling with water in order to sense the load size.
• NOTE: Automatic Load Sensing initiates a spin at the beginning of the cycle and will take as much as 3 minutes to complete (significantly shorter for smaller loads); this is normal operation.
• NOTE: This is a high efficiency washing machine. This system requires less water while providing effective cleaning action. You may notice that the water level is lower than on your previous washer. This is normal.

Liquid Fabric Softener Dispenser (on some models)

• The agitator cap fits into the top of the agitator. If it accidentally comes off, simply put it back on.
• The fabric softener dispenser automatically releases liquid fabric softener at the proper time during the cycle.
• Do not stop the washer or raise the lid during the first spin. This will cause the dispenser to empty too soon.

To use, follow these steps:

1 Make sure dispenser is securely attached to agitator.

2 Use only liquid diluted fabric softener. Pour into dispenser, using amount recommended on package

Never pour fabric softener directly on clothes. It may stain them.

3 Add water to dispenser until it reaches the maximum fill line. Do not pour anything into the agitator if the agitator cap or dispenser is removed.

4 Select Deep Rinse/Extra Rinse option.

NOTE: Fabric softener may not dispense properly if the Deep Rinse/Extra Rinse option is not selected.

Liquid Bleach

• Liquid chlorine bleach should be added through the bleach dispenser in the front left corner. Follow bleach manufacturer’s recommendations for the correct amount of liquid chlorine bleach based on load size, taking care to not apply or spill it directly on clothing.
• NOTE: Do not use liquid chlorine bleach and laundry pretreatments such as an Oxi product in the same wash load

Pretreatment

• Place laundry pretreatments, such as an Oxi product, directly in the bottom of the wash basket before loading clothes.
• NOTE: Do not use liquid chlorine bleach and laundry pretreatments such as an Oxi product in the same wash load.

Loading

Always follow fabric manufacturer’s care label when laundering.

Proper Use of Detergent

• Using too little or too much detergent is a common cause of laundry problems.
• Use less detergent if you have soft water, a smaller load or a lightly soiled load.
• For spots, apply pre-treatment to items as recommended on the product label. Application should be made in the basket to prevent overspray which may cause the coloring on the lid or graphics to fade.
• Place detergent packets in the bottom of the wash basket before adding clothes.
• GE Appliances recommends the use of High Efficiency detergents such as in your energy efficient washer. HE detergents are formulated to work with low water wash and rinse systems. HE detergents reduce the oversudsing problems commonly associated with regular detergents.
• When using high efficiency or concentrated detergents, consult the product label to determine amount required for optimum performance. Excessive detergent will negatively impact wash performance.

Sorting Wash Loads

• Sort by color (whites, lights, colors), soil level, fabric type (sturdy cottons, easy care, delicates) and whether the fabric produces lint (terry cloth, chenille) or collects lint (velveteen, corduroy). Wash lint producers such as cotton towels and socks separate from lint collectors including synthetic garments and dress pants

Loading the Washer

Load dry items loosely in the washer basket. For best results, load items evenly and loosely around the outside of the basket, filling in towards the center on larger loads. To add items after washer has started, press Start/Pause if the lid is locked; wait until the Lid Lock indicator on the display is no longer illuminated before attempting to open the lid. Lift the lid and submerge additional items around the outside of the basket. Close the lid and press Start to resume. Adjust load size selection and/or use Deep Fill option if necessary.

• On Infusor models, do not place large items such as sheets, blankets and towels across the Infusor. Load them around the outside of the basket.
• Do not put lawn or sofa cushions into the washer as they are too big to move. Remove outer covers and ONLY wash them

Appliance communication

WiFi Connect (For customers in the United States only - on some models)

• Your washer may be GE Appliances WiFi Connect compatible using the optional GE Appliances ConnectPlus module.
• If compatible: To connect this appliance to the internet you will need to purchase a GE Appliances ConnectPlus and attach the module to your appliance through the communication port in the appliance. The GE Appliances ConnectPlus will allow your appliance to communicate with your smartphone for remote appliance monitoring, control and notifications.
• WiFi Connectivity: For assistance with the appliance or the GE Appliances ConnectPlus network connectivity, please call GE Appliances Connected Home Support at 800.220.6899.
• Please visit www.GEAppliances.com/connect to learn more about connected appliance features, to learn what connected appliance apps will work with your smartphone and to learn where you can purchase a ConnectPlus module.
• The ConnectPlus module has the FCC/IC ID located on the back of the module.
  • Part Number: PBX10W00Y0
  • Accessory: WiFi ConnectPlus module

Care and cleaning

Electrical Shock Hazard: Certain internal parts are intentionally not grounded and may present a risk of electric shock only during servicing. Service personnel – DO NOT contact the following parts while the appliance is energized: Drive Motor, Lid Lock, Water Valves, Drain Pump and Recirculation Pump.

Exterior of the Washer

• Immediately wipe off any spills with a damp cloth.

Interior of the Washer

• Leave the lid open after washing to allow moisture to evaporate. If you want to clean the basket, use a clean soft cloth dampened with liquid detergent; then rinse. (Do not use harsh or gritty cleaners.)

Cleaning the Fabric Softener Dispenser (on some models)

1. Remove the dispenser from the top of the agitator.
2. Separate the dispenser cup from the cover by grasping the top and pushing down on the inside of the cup with your fingers. Dispenser cup will pop free from the cover.
3. To clean the dispenser, soak both the dispenser cup and the dispenser cover in the following solution:
   • 1 US gallon (3.8 liters) warm water
   • 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy-duty liquid detergent
   • 1 cup (240 ml) bleach
4. If necessary, loosen buildup with a clean, soft cloth after soaking. Do not use a stiff brush; you may roughen the surface of the dispenser.
5. Rinse and reassemble dispenser. Place dispenser back on the agitator.

Water Supply Hoses

• Hoses connecting washer to faucet should be replaced every 5 years.

Moving and Storage

• Ask the service technician to remove water from drain pump and hoses. Do not store the washer where it will be exposed to the weather.

Long Vacations

• Be sure water supply is shut off at faucets. Drain all water from hoses and water filter pump area if weather will be below freezing.

Troubleshooting Tips

.. Before you call for service

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