Asko D3121 User Manual

ASKO

USE AND CARE GUIDE

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D3121

CONTENTS

BEFORE USING YOUR NEW DISHWASHER 2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 2
CHILD SAFETY TIPS 2
DISHWASHER FEATURES 3
LOADING THE BASKETS 4
DETERGENT DISPENSER 5
DISHWASHING DETERGENT 5
RINSE AID DISPENSER 6
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 7
CARE AND CLEANING 8
OVERFILL PROTECTION 9
ENERGY SAVING TIPS 9
SOLUTIONS TO COMMON DISHWASHING PROBLEMS 10
TROUBLESHOOTING 11
WASHING SPECIAL ITEMS 13
INDEX 14
ASKO PRODUCT WARRANTY 15

Page 1

BEFORE USING BEFORE USING

BEFORE USING

BEFORE USING BEFORE USING

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OUR NEW DISHWOUR NEW DISHW

Y

OUR NEW DISHW

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OUR NEW DISHWOUR NEW DISHW

ASHERASHER

ASHER

ASHERASHER

♦ Read through this guide before attempting to use

your new dishwasher.

♦ Read the “Washing Special Items” section before

washing any porcelain or china that has “on-glaze”
decoration, crystal glassware, or items of wood or
plastic.

IMPORIMPOR

IMPOR

IMPORIMPOR

This manual does not cover all possible conditions and
situations that may occur. Common sense and caution
should always be used when installing, operating, and
maintaining any appliance.

♦ Read all instructions before using the dishwasher.
♦ Dishwashers must be electrically grounded. Read

the Installation Instructions for details.

♦ Use the dishwasher only for its intended purpose.
♦ Do not run the dishwasher while you are out of the

home.

♦ Use only automatic dishwasher detergents and rinse

agents.

♦ To reduce the risk of injury, keep detergents and rinse

aids out of the reach of children.

♦ Do not load sharp items near the door; you could

damage the door seal.

♦ Place sharp knives in the silverware basket with the

sharp ends down to avoid the risk of cut-type injuries.

♦ Do not wash plastic items unless they are marked

“dishwasher safe” or the equivalent. For items not
marked, check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Items not dishwasher safe could become deformed or
melt and create a potential fire hazard.

♦ Do not touch the heating element during or imediately

after use.

♦ Do not operate the dishwasher unless all enclosure

TT

ANT SAFETY INSTRANT SAFETY INSTR

T

ANT SAFETY INSTR

TT

ANT SAFETY INSTRANT SAFETY INSTR

UCTIONSUCTIONS

UCTIONS

UCTIONSUCTIONS

♦ Make sure the door is properly balanced. To do this,

open it a little and release it. It should stay where
you released it. If it doesn’t, consult the Installation
Instructions or contact your installer.

♦ Call your local water company to learn the water

hardness in your area. You’ll need to know this to
determine how much detergent and rinse aid to use.

panels are properly in place (i.e., guard plate, access
panel, toe kick, etc.)

♦ Do not tamper with controls by removing or changing.
♦ Do not abuse, sit on, or stand on the dishwasher

door or baskets .

♦ To reduce the risk of injury, do not allow children to

play in or on a dishwasher.

♦ Under certain conditions, hydrogen gas may be

produced in a hot water system that has not been
used for two weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS IS
EXPLOSIVE. If the hot water system has not been
used for two weeks, before using the dishwasher turn
on all hot water faucets and let the water flow from
each for several minutes. This will release any
accumulated hydrogen gas. As the gas is flammable,
do not smoke or use an open flame during this time.

♦ When removing an old dishwasher from service or

discarding it, remove the door to the washing
compartment.

♦ Do not store or use combustible materials, gasoline,

or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity
of this or any other appliance.

♦ Disconnect electrical power to dishwasher before

servicing.

♦ Repairs should be done by a qualified technician.

CHILD SAFETY TIPSCHILD SAFETY TIPS

CHILD SAFETY TIPS

CHILD SAFETY TIPSCHILD SAFETY TIPS

♦ Dishwasher detergents and rinse aids are corrosive,

so always keep them out of reach of children.

♦ Should a child swallow dishwasher detergent or rinse

aid, give plenty to drink immediately, i.e., one or two
glasses of milk or water. Do not try to induce vomiting.
Seek medical advice immediately: 1-800-POISON1

♦ Always close the door and start the dishwasher as

soon as you put in the detergent.

♦ Always keep small children away from the machine

when it is open. There may be some detergent residue
left inside the machine.

ENGAENGA

ENGA

ENGAENGA

This model has a child safety lock on the left of the door
handle. To activate the lock, press in the door handle
and use a screwdriver to turn the screw slot to a vertical
position. Reset it by turning the slot to its horizontal
position.

To open the door when the safety lock is engaged, press
the white plastic tab located to the left of the door handle
toward the left and hold it as you lift the door handle.
(See illustration at right.)

Page 2

GING GING

GING

GING GING

THE CHILD SAFETY LOCKTHE CHILD SAFETY LOCK

THE CHILD SAFETY LOCK

THE CHILD SAFETY LOCKTHE CHILD SAFETY LOCK

♦ If dishwasher detergent gets in someone’s eyes, rinse

them with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.

♦ Do not allow children to use or play in or on the

dishwasher.

♦ Load all long and sharp items in the knife/utensil

basket. If this is not possible, load sharp objects with
the pointed end facing the back of the dishwasher.
Sharp items loaded in the silverware basket should
be loaded with pointed ends down.

♦ Engage the child safety lock. (See below.)

DISHWDISHW

DISHW

DISHWDISHW

NOTE: Deviations in features may occur, depending on the model.

ASHER FEAASHER FEA

ASHER FEA

ASHER FEAASHER FEA

Upper Basket

Spray Arms

Cutlery Basket

Lower Basket

TURESTURES

TURES

TURESTURES

There is no need to rinse items

before you load the machine,

although larger food particles

should be removed.

Detergent Dispenser

Rinse Aid Dispenser

BB

ASKETSASKETS

B

ASKETS

BB

ASKETSASKETS

Filter

Upper Basket Lower Basket

Cup shelf

Stemware rack

Knife stop

Easy pull-out
handle

Cutlery Basket

Collapsible handle

Cutlery

compartments

Small items

containment lid

Page 3

LL

OO

ADING ADING

L

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ADING

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ADING ADING

THE BTHE B

THE B

THE BTHE B

ASKETSASKETS

ASKETS

ASKETSASKETS

Your new dishwasher features ASKO’s Super Cleaning
System™. This means that after prewash, mainwash
and intermediate rinse the water is drained out and the
cycle continues with clean water.

LOADING THE UPPER BASKET

After you have scraped off the large food particles, place
glasses, cups, saucers, bowls and small plates in the upper
basket, as illustrated.

The fold-down cup shelf on the left side of the basket gives
you an additional place to stack cups and small bowls.

NOTE: When loading sharp items, always be careful not to
cut the rack coating.

LL

OO

ADING ADING

L

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ADING

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ADING ADING

Load larger items in the lower basket, such as, dinner plates,
pots and pans, serving dishes, and casseroles. Be sure to load
dishware facing downward or toward the center of the
dishwasher.

THE LTHE L

THE L

THE LTHE L

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WER BWER B

O

WER B

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WER BWER B

ASKETASKET

ASKET

ASKETASKET

If you plan to start your dishwasher right away, it’s not
necessary to rinse the dishes. You do, however, need
to scrape off the large particles of food before loading.

LL

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ADING ADING

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ADING

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ADING ADING

The silverware basket is designed with eight compartments to
help keep the silverware separated. Load silverware with the
handles downwards and spread it out as much as possible to
avoid nesting. For safety, load sharp knives with the handles
up.

Avoid placing silverware made of different materials (e.g., silver
and stainless) in the same compartment because of the risk
of discoloration. (See page 13.)

Small Items Containment Lid

The silverware basket has a lid in the middle that snaps down
over the compartments to its left or right to contain small,
lightweight items that might slip through the rack tines or get
washed out of the basket. The small items lid is slotted, so
you also could use it to keep silverware separated, such as
teaspoons.

THE SILTHE SIL

THE SIL

THE SILTHE SIL

VERVER

VER

VERVER

WW

ARE BARE B

W

ARE B

WW

ARE BARE B

ASKETASKET

ASKET

ASKETASKET

Small items

containment

lid

When loading silverware, try to avoid
nesting the spoons and forks.

Page 4

DETERDETER

DETER

DETERDETER

GENT DISPENSERGENT DISPENSER

GENT DISPENSER

GENT DISPENSERGENT DISPENSER

ASKO dishwashers are designed to be energy efficient.
Because the machine uses less water than conventional
dishwashers, you also use less detergent and rinse aid.
Generally, only one tablespoon of detergent is needed
for a normal wash load. The amount of detergent needed
for your dishes, however, could be more, depending on
the hardness of the water in your area. (See below.) Also,
more heavily soiled items need more detergent.

Measure and place detergent for the main wash into the
large detergent compartment. The detergent for prewash
goes into the small compartment to the right of the main
wash compartment. You should use one-half the amount
of detergent for the prewash that you use for the main
wash. The amount of detergent used for the main

wash and prewash combined should never be over
three tablespoons.

Always add the detergent just before starting the
dishwasher, otherwise it could get damp and won’t
dissolve properly.

DISHWDISHW

DISHW

DISHWDISHW

We recommend that you use only unscented, granular
automatic dishwashing detergent. Using the wrong
detergent could cause flooding and/or damage your
dishwasher. Do not use detergent that has been wet and
is clumped. Also, check the expiration date on the
container.

The amount of detergent needed can vary due to
differences in water hardness. To determine the water
hardness in your area, contact your local water utility or
area water softening company. The harder the water,
the more detergent you may need. Refer to the chart

ASHING DETERASHING DETER

ASHING DETER

ASHING DETERASHING DETER

GENTGENT

GENT

GENTGENT

Prewash Detergent

Compartment

Dispenser Lid
Lever

Main Wash
Detergent
Compartment

WARNING!

Dishwasher detergent is corrosive! Take care to
keep it out of reach of children.

NOTE: We recommend that you do not add

prewash detergent for the Quick wash
program.

below for the recommended detergent amounts based
on water hardness. Remember, you should adjust the
amount of detergent you use by small amounts until you
find the correct amount.

NOTE: We recommend that you do not add

prewash detergent for the Quick wash
program.

NOTE: If you use a dishwashing detergent with a

rinse aid additive, you should not fill the
rinse aid dispenser. This could cause a
film on your dishes.

Rinse Aid
Level Indicator

Rinse Aid
Compartment

Detergent
Compartment Lid

RECOMMENDED DETERGENT AMOUNTS

BASED ON WATER HARDNESS

WATER HARDNESS

Soft

(0-3 grains per gallon)

Medium

(4-8 grains per gallon)

Hard

(9+ grains*)

* 12 grains and higher is extremely hard water. See below for more details.

Twelve grains and higher is extremely hard water and
detergent alone may not be enough. You may need to
use a water softener to maximize the performance of
your dishwasher. Also, in areas with extremely hard water
(9+) you may need to wash at lower temperatures to
prevent hard water deposits from forming in tank and
wash system.

In hard water areas, both the dishes and the machine
can develop a white or gray film after a while. This can

Prewash
Main wash
Prewash
Main wash
Prewash
Main wash

DETERGENT AMOUNTS

1 teaspoon
1 to 1-1/2 tablespoons
1 teaspoon
1 to 2 tablespoons
1 teaspoons
2 to 3 tablespoons

be removed by replacing the prewash detergent with two
tablespoons of citric acid. If the water is very hard, use a
rinse aid that contains citric acid.

Different brands of dishwasher detergent have different
amounts of phosphorous for softening water. If you have
hard water and use a detergent with less than 8.7%
phosphorous content, you may need to use more
detergent or use a detergent with more than 8.7%
phosphorous content.

Page 5

RINSE AID DISPENSERRINSE AID DISPENSER

RINSE AID DISPENSER

RINSE AID DISPENSERRINSE AID DISPENSER

The rinse aid is released during the final rinse to prevent
water from forming droplets on your dishes that can leave
spots and streaks. It also improves drying by allowing
water to “sheet” off the dishes.

ASKO dishwashers are designed to use liquid rinse aids.
The rinse aid dispenser is located inside the door next
to the detergent dispenser. (See illustration on page 3.)
To fill the dispenser, open the cap and pour the rinse aid
into the dispenser until the level indicator turns completely
black. The dispenser holds about four ounces of liquid
rinse aid.

Be careful not to overfill the dispenser, because this could
cause oversudsing. Wipe away any spills with a damp
cloth. Don’t forget to replace the cap before you close
the dishwasher door.

If you have soft water, rinse aid may cause a white film
to develop on your dishes. You may not need rinse aid.

NOTE: If you use a dishwashing detergent with a

rinse aid additive, you should not fill the
rinse aid dispenser. This could cause a
film on your dishes.

ADJUSTING THE AMOUNT OF RINSE AID DISPENSEDADJUSTING THE AMOUNT OF RINSE AID DISPENSED

ADJUSTING THE AMOUNT OF RINSE AID DISPENSED

ADJUSTING THE AMOUNT OF RINSE AID DISPENSEDADJUSTING THE AMOUNT OF RINSE AID DISPENSED

A measured amount of rinse aid is released during the
final rinse. As with detergent, the amount of rinse aid
needed for your dishes depends on the hardness of the
water in your area. (See page 5.) Too much rinse aid
can result in lather or foaming and cause cloudiness or
streaks on your dishes. If the water in your area is very
soft, you may not need rinse aid. If you do, you can
dilute the rinse aid with an equal amount of water.

To open the dispenser, turn the cap to the “open” (left)

1.
arrow and lift it out.

Pour the rinse aid into the dispenser, being careful not to

2.
overfill.

Replace the cap by inserting it aligned with “open” arrow

3.
and turning it to the closed (right) arrow.

The rinse aid dispenser has six settings. Always start
with the dispenser set on “1.” If spots and poor drying
are problems, increase the amount of rinse aid dispensed
by removing the dispenser lid and rotating the dial to
”2.” If the dishes still aren’t drying properly or are spotted,
adjust the dial to the next higher number until your dishes
are spot-free.

Open

Closed

Dispenser
Cap

Rinse aid
adjustment dial

WHEN WHEN

WHEN

WHEN WHEN

The black dot on the rinse aid dispenser indicates the
amount of rinse aid in the dispenser. As the rinse aid
diminishes, the size of the black dot decreases. You
should never let the rinse aid get below 1/4 full.

TT

O REFILL O REFILL

T

O REFILL

TT

O REFILL O REFILL

THE RINSE THE RINSE

THE RINSE

THE RINSE THE RINSE

Rinse Aid Level Indicator

AID DISPENSERAID DISPENSER

AID DISPENSER

AID DISPENSERAID DISPENSER

To increase the amount of rinse aid released in the
final rinse, turn the adjustment dial to the next
higher number.

::

Only adjust the dial one number at a time.

:

NOTE

::

As the rinse aid diminishes, the size of the black dot
on the rinse aid level indicator changes, as
illustrated below.

Full

3/4 full

1/2 full

1/4 full - Should refill to eliminate spotting

Empty

Page 6

S TA R T

S TO P

OPERAOPERA

OPERA

OPERAOPERA

TING INSTRTING INSTR

TING INSTR

TING INSTRTING INSTR

UCTIONSUCTIONS

UCTIONS

UCTIONSUCTIONS

THE CONTRTHE CONTR

THE CONTR

THE CONTRTHE CONTR

Your ASKO dishwasher has a button-operated control panel, as illustrated below. To select a wash program or option,
simply press the appropriate button. After you have selected the desired wash program and options, press Start/

PRPR

OGRAMSOGRAMS

PR

OGRAMS

PRPR

OGRAMSOGRAMS

To select a program, simply press the Program button until the indicator light behind the desired program glows. The
programs are described below:

OL POL P

ANELANEL

OL P

ANEL

OL POL P

ANELANEL

Program button

PROGRAMPROGRAM

Program indicator

Heavy Wash (160° F or 130° F)

For the heaviest soiled loads, such as pots, pans, casseroles, etc.

Normal Wash (130° F or 140° F)

For normally soiled loads, such as plates, glasses, bowls, and lightly
soiled pans.

Quick (85° F or 120° F)

For lightly soiled loads that are washed immediately after use. This
program is good for delicate items, such as fine china and crystal,
but you should set the temperature to low and dry the dishes without
heat.

lights

Temperature

button

Drying
button

STARTSTART

Stop.

Start/Stop button

STOPSTOP

Program progression
indicator lights

“The Normal Wash program is
used for the energy label and
based upon AHAM standard.
When testing with more heavy
soil use higher temperature
alternative the Heavy Wash
program.”

Rinse and hold

To rinse dishes that you plan to wash later that day.

Program Times

The program times may not always be the same because of variations in the household hot water temperature. The
dishwasher heats the water to the proper temperature for the program selected; so if the temperature of the water
entering the dishwasher is too low, the dishwasher will run longer because it takes longer to heat the water. Raising
your water heater setting could help to shorten the cycle times.

OPTIONSOPTIONS

OPTIONS

OPTIONSOPTIONS

To select an option, simply press the appropriate option button. The options are described below.

Temperature

The dishwasher has two temperature options for each wash program, as shown above. When this button
is set on the high temperature, the main wash is heated to the higher temperature for the selected
program. If it is set to low, the main wash is heated to the lower temperature. The indicator light will glow
only when the high temperature is selected.

Drying

This option speeds up the drying process by raising the temperature in the final rinse to 160° F to heat
the dishes and tank before the drying cycle begins. The indicator light will glow only when this option is
activated.

STST

ARAR

T/STT/ST

ST

AR

STST

ARAR

Once you have selected the wash program and temperature and drying options, press this button to start the dishwasher.
(Make sure the door is securely closed.) The indicator light around the button will glow progressively as the program
goes through each cycle. When the program is complete, the lights will glow all the way around the button.

T/ST

T/STT/ST

OP BUTTOP BUTT

OP BUTT

OP BUTTOP BUTT

ONON

ON

ONON

Page 7

INTERRINTERR

INTERR

INTERRINTERR
ADD AN ITEMADD AN ITEM

ADD AN ITEM

ADD AN ITEMADD AN ITEM

If you want to interrupt a program to add an item, open
the door slightly until the spray arms stop turning. You
can then open the door fully and place the item into the
dishwasher. Close the door securely. The program will
continue from where it was interrupted.

WARNING! Be extremely careful when opening the
door during a program. The water is hot and you
could get scalded.

CARE AND CLEANINGCARE AND CLEANING

CARE AND CLEANING

CARE AND CLEANINGCARE AND CLEANING

UPTING UPTING

UPTING

UPTING UPTING

A PRA PR

A PR

A PRA PR

OGRAM OGRAM

OGRAM

OGRAM OGRAM

TT

T

TT

OO

O

OO

CHANGING OR STCHANGING OR ST

CHANGING OR ST

CHANGING OR STCHANGING OR ST
PRPR

OGRAMOGRAM

PR

OGRAM

PRPR

OGRAMOGRAM

If you decide to change the program after you have started
the machine, press the Start/
seconds. You will have to select the program and options
again when you are ready to restart the program. (Note:
If the program has already gone through the wash cycle,
you will have to add detergent.)

OPPING OPPING

OPPING

OPPING OPPING

Stop button for three

AA

A

AA

The interior of your ASKO dishwasher is made of
surgical quality stainless steel that has been electro­polished to make it the smoothest surface available.
The smooth surface prohibits the accumulation of dirt
and bacteria inside the unit. If the water in your area is
especially hard, however, lime deposits could form

CLEANING CLEANING

CLEANING

CLEANING CLEANING

For your convenience, we have placed the drain pump
and filtering system within easy reach inside the tub.
There are three components of the filtering system: the
main filter, the coarse filter, and the fine filter.

In hard water areas, it may be necessary to clean
chemical buildup from the filters every 12 to 18 months.

Main filter

Food and soil particles trapped by this filter are
pulverized by a special jet on the lower spray arm
and washed down the drain.

Fine filter

This filter holds soil and food residue in the sump
area and prevents it from being redeposited on the
dishes during a cycle.

THE FILTHE FIL

THE FIL

THE FILTHE FIL

TERSTERS

TERS

TERSTERS

inside the machine. If this happens, you can remove
them by putting two tablespoons of citric acid in the
detergent compartment and running a Normal program.
In extremely hard water areas you may need to repeat
this process a few times to remove hard water deposits.

To do this, remove the coarse filter by squeezing the
tabs and lifting it out. Next, unscrew the fine filter and lift
it and the main filter out. Wash all three filters gently in
hot, soapy water and rinse them thoroughly.

WARNING!

Never run the dishwasher without the filters in
place.

Coarse filter

Larger items, such as pieces of bone or glass, that
could clog the drain are trapped in the coarse filter. To
remove an item caught in this filter, gently squeeze
the tabs on top of this filter and lift it out.

CLEANING THE DOORCLEANING THE DOOR

CLEANING THE DOOR

CLEANING THE DOORCLEANING THE DOOR

To clean the edge around the door, use only a soft warm,
damp rag. To prevent penetration of water into the door
lock and electrical components, do not use a spray
cleaner of any kind.

Also, never use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on
the outer surfaces because they will scratch the finish.
Some papers towels can also scratch or leave marks on
the surface.

Page 8

WARNING!

Never use a spray cleaner of any kind
on the door panel. You could damage
the door lock and electrical
components. And never use abrasive
cleaners or scouring pads on the
outer surfaces because they
will scratch the finish.
Also, some paper towels
can scratch or leave
marks on the stainless
steel surface.

CLEANING THE DRAIN PUMPCLEANING THE DRAIN PUMP

CLEANING THE DRAIN PUMP

CLEANING THE DRAIN PUMPCLEANING THE DRAIN PUMP

On occasion something may get through the filters and
into the drain pump. The drain pumps on ASKO
dishwashers are designed to automatically reverse if
anything should get caught in the propellers, thus ejecting
the item back into the sump area or down the drain.
Should you need to remove an obstacle from the drain,
first turn the power off then remove the filters (as
explained on page 8). Next, lift out the adaptor piece on
the left side of the sump area. (You might want to remove
any standing water first.) You can then look into the sump
area for the item causing the obstruction. You may need
to use your finger to move the pump blade and loosen
the object. Should you find something, simply scoop it
out then replace the adaptor piece and the filters.

To reach an item caught in the drain pump, remove the
filters then the small black insert in the sump area.

WARNING!

Never run the dishwasher without the filters in
place.

OO

VERFILL PRVERFILL PR

O

VERFILL PR

OO

VERFILL PRVERFILL PR

Your ASKO dishwasher has an overfill protection device
that automatically shuts off the inlet valve and circulation
pump and starts the drain pump if the water level in the
unit should rise above the normal level.

When an overfill is detected, the Normal wash light will
flash. If this happens, turn the water off at the main
supply and call for service.

ENERENER

ENER

ENERENER

GY SAGY SA

GY SA

GY SAGY SA

OO

TECTIONTECTION

O

TECTION

OO

TECTIONTECTION

VING VING

VING

VING VING

TIPSTIPS

TIPS

TIPSTIPS

♦ If you plan to wash the dishes right away, there’s no

need to pre-rinse. Simply scrape off large particles
and load the dishes.

♦ Wash only full loads.
♦ Use the Heavy wash program only for heavily soiled

dishes.

WARNING!

Be sure to replace the adaptor piece before you
put the filters back in.

If there is water in the base pan due to an overfill or
small leak, the water must be removed before the
dishwasher will start.

♦ Don’t use the high temperature for lightly soiled

dishes.

♦ Avoid using the heat dry option. (You can speed up

the drying process by opening the door slightly to
release the moist air.)

Page 9

SOLSOL

SOL

SOLSOL

UTIONS UTIONS

UTIONS

UTIONS UTIONS

TT

O COMMON DISHWO COMMON DISHW

T

O COMMON DISHW

TT

O COMMON DISHWO COMMON DISHW

ASHING PRASHING PR

ASHING PR

ASHING PRASHING PR

OBLEMSOBLEMS

OBLEMS

OBLEMSOBLEMS

As with any new appliance, it sometimes takes using it a
few times to learn to operate it properly. If you are having
minor performance problems with your dishwasher, read
this section before calling for service. It may save you
time and unnecessary expense.

Poor washing performance

♦ The dishes may not be loaded properly. Make sure

that soiled surfaces are facing downward or toward
the center of the dishwasher. Also, make sure that
the bowls, pots, etc., are not stacked so closely that
water can’t reach the soiled surfaces.

♦ Make sure you are using the appropriate program

settings for the dirtiness of your dishes.

♦ An item may be obstructing the spray arm rotation.

With the baskets loaded and in place, manually turn
the spray arms to make sure they move freely.

♦ Your dishwasher detergent should be fresh and stored

tightly closed in a cool, dry place. Old or caked
detergent will not dissolve properly. Wait until you
are ready to start the dishwasher to add the
detergent.

♦ Your dishwasher detergent may be inferior. Try a

different brand.

♦ Make sure the rinse aid dispenser is filled. (See page

6.)

♦ If you have hard water in your area, try adding more

detergent and increasing the amount of rinse aid
dispensed. (See page 5.)

♦ Check that the spray arm jets are not clogged.
♦ Do not overload the dishes and be careful to avoid

nesting.

Poor drying performance

♦ Select the Heat Dry option.
♦ If you don’t want to use Heat Dry, you can decrease

the drying time by opening the door slightly to let out
the warm, humid air.

♦ Make sure the rinse aid dispenser is filled. (See page

6.)

♦ Make sure you use the proper amount of rinse aid.

(See page 6.)

♦ Load items with concave bottoms tilted so as much

water as possible will run off.

♦ Unload the bottom basket first to avoid spilling water

onto the dishes when unloading the top basket.

♦ Certain plastics may need to be towel dried.

Plastic items

♦ Always check the manufacturer’s suggested care

instructions before washing plastic in your
dishwasher.

♦ Some high-acid foods can discolor plastic. You

should rinse these items if you do not plan to run the
dishwasher right away.

♦ Plastic items dry poorly and may need to be towel

dried.

NOTE: ASKO has no control over what is put in our
appliances once installed in a customer’s home. You are

solely responsible for what you wash in your ASKO
dishwasher.

Chipped or Broken Dishes

♦ When you load the dishes, be sure they’re securely

in place and will not fall over or strike against each
other during the wash.

♦ Load glasses between the tines, not straddling them.
♦ Move the baskets in and out slowly to avoid slamming

the dishes together.

♦ Make sure not to load dishes so high that the spray

arms could strike them.

♦ Make sure tall glasses and stemware will clear the

top of the tub when you push the basket in.

♦ Always load delicate items in the top basket.
♦ Do not overload the dishwasher.
♦ Do not jam the glasses together when loading.

Stains and discolorations

Stains or discoloration on dishes could be caused by a
number of things. Listed below are some of the most
common causes. See also “Washing Special Items” on
page 13.

♦ Too much iron or manganese in the water can cause

yellow or brown marks on your dishes. As a
temporary solution, in place of the prewash detergent,
use one teaspoon to one tablespoon of citric acid
crystals. You should consider installing a water
filtering system.

♦ Coffee and tea stains usually have to be removed by

handwashing in a solution of 1/2 cup bleach and one
quart of water. (Do not use on sterling silver or silver
plate.) Be sure to rinse these items thoroughly before
putting them in the dishwasher so there is no bleach
residue on the dishware.

Etching

If you have a cloudy film on your dishes that can’t be
removed, it could be etching. To prevent etching, try the
following:

♦ Use less detergent. You may be using too much for

the water hardness in your area. (See page 5.)

♦ Use a good quality dishwasher detergent.
♦ Do not overload the machine. Water should circulate

freely to ensure adequate rinsing and draining.

♦ Fill the rinse aid dispenser (unless you have soft water

in your area; in which case you may not need a rinse
aid.) (See page 6.)

♦ Use a lower water temperature setting.
♦ Do not use the Heat Dry option.
♦ Do not pre-rinse the dishes; just scrape off large food

particles and bones.

Page 10

8

REMOREMO

REMO

REMOREMO

To remove hard water spots, try the following:

1. Run dishes through a normal wash program.

2. Remove all metal dishware, such as cutlery, pans,

3. Do not add detergent.

TRTR

TR

TRTR

If you should experience a problem with your dishwasher,
you should review the list of frequently encountered
situations below. It could save you the cost and
inconvenience of a service call.

Even though the product is under warranty, if the problem
is not caused by defective product workmanship or
materials, you will be charged for a service call. Refer to
page 15 to determine what is and is not covered under
your warranty. If you’re still not sure, contact the ASKO
Advisory Center before you call a service technician.

VING HARD VING HARD

VING HARD

VING HARD VING HARD

etc., from the dishwasher.

OUBLESHOOOUBLESHOO

OUBLESHOO

OUBLESHOOOUBLESHOO

WAWA

TER SPOTER SPO

WA

TER SPO

WAWA

TER SPOTER SPO

TINGTING

TING

TINGTING

TS FRTS FR

TS FR

TS FRTS FR

OM DISHESOM DISHES

OM DISHES

OM DISHESOM DISHES

4. Pour two cups of vinegar into a bowl and set the
bowl face up on the bottom rack of the dishwasher.

5. Run the dishes through a Normal wash program.

If this doesn’t work, try the same process with 1/4 cup of
citric acid crystals (available at most drug stores) instead
of vinegar.

Type plate

(see below)

BEFORE BEFORE

BEFORE

BEFORE BEFORE

Before calling for service or contacting ASKO regarding
a warranty issue, make a note of the model name, type
number and serial number. The model is on the front of
the dishwasher. The type plate with the type name and
serial number is located on the inside edge of the door.
(See illustration at right.)

ASKO Advisory Center Phone Number:
972-238-0794 or 800-898-1879

YY

OU CALLOU CALL

Y

OU CALL

YY

OU CALLOU CALL

Detergent left in compartment

♦ Be careful not to load items so close to the dispenser

that the cover will not open to release the detergent.

♦ The dispenser is not supposed to open when you

use the Rinse program.

♦ Your dishwasher detergent should be fresh and stored

tightly closed in a cool, dry place. Old or caked
detergent should be thrown away because it will not
dissolve properly and will leave a gritty residue on
the dishware.

♦ Wait until you are ready to start the dishwasher to

add the detergent.

♦ The detergent compartment only opens in the main

wash programs, not the Rinse program.

Dishwasher makes unusual noises

♦ This usually means that something is not loaded

properly. Make sure the dishes are securely in place
and that nothing has fallen between the basket tines.
Also, place small items in the small items
compartment and close the lid. (See page 4.)

Type Name

Type: DW20.x

2345678901234567

000000000000

12-digit
Serial
Number

Dishwasher leaks

♦ Use only unscented, granular automatic dishwasher

detergent. Using a liquid detergent could cause
oversudsing and leakage.

♦ You should always use fresh detergent.
♦ The amount of detergent needed for your dishes

depends on the hardness of the water in your area.
Contact your local utility company to learn the water
hardness in your area then refer to the chart on page
5 to determine the amount of detergent you should
use.

♦ Be careful not to overfill the rinse aid dispenser.

Spilled rinse aid could cause oversudsing and lead
to overflowing. Wipe away any spills with a damp
cloth.

♦ Make sure the dishwasher is level. (See the

installation instructions.)

Dishwasher runs too long

♦ If the temperature of the water entering your dishwasher

is below 120°, the dishwasher runs longer because it
heats the water to the proper temperature for the
program selected. Raising your water heater setting
may help to shorten the cycle times. If this doesn’t
resolve the problem, call the ASKO Advisory Center.

Continued on next page.

Page 11

TROUBLESHOOTING, continued

Dishwasher does not drain properly

♦ Make sure that the cycle was complete before you

opened the dishwasher. If not, allow it to complete
and check again.

♦ Some water left in the sump area near the drain is

normal.

♦ If the plumbing code in your area requires an air

gap, make sure that the air gap isn’t blocked or
plugged.

♦ If the unit is connected to a garbage disposer, make

sure the disposer is empty.

♦ If water backs up into the sink, check the garbage

disposer and trap for blockage.

♦ Check the dishwasher filters and drain area for

blockage. (See page 8.)

♦ Check for a kink in the drain hose.

Dishwasher does not fill properly

♦ Make sure the water supply is turned on.
♦ Make sure the dishwasher is turned on and the door

is closed securely.

♦ Check for crimps in the water feed line.
♦ The system is designed to detect an overflow. When

it does, it shuts off the inlet valve and circulation
pump and turns on the drain pump. (See “Overfill
Protection” on page 9.)

Dishwasher will not start

♦ Make sure the dishwasher is turned on and the door

is closed securely.

♦ Check that the water supply is connected properly

and the water is turned on.

♦ Make sure the power cord is properly plugged into

the wall socket.

♦ Check your fuse box for a blown fuse or tripped circuit

breaker.

Page 12

WASHING SPECIAL ITEMSWASHING SPECIAL ITEMS

WASHING SPECIAL ITEMS

WASHING SPECIAL ITEMSWASHING SPECIAL ITEMS

Most common dishware items can be safely washed in
an automatic dishwasher. If you have any doubts about
a particular item, check with the manufacturer to see if it
is dishwasher safe. If that isn’t possible, you might wash
one item of a set a few times and compare it to the rest
of the set to determine if washing it in the dishwasher

Dishwasher

Material Safe Information and Recommendations

Aluminum Yes, with Anodized aluminum may fade or darken. Patches and discoloration may appear,

caution but they can be removed with steel wool. Load aluminum utensils (such as a pie

tin or roasting pan) where they do not touch other dishes because this can cause
gray or black marks. You can remove these spots with a nonabrasive cleaner.

Cast Iron No The seasoning is lost and the iron rusts. Hand wash and dry immediately.

China Yes, with China without decoration or with decoration protected by glaze is dishwasher

caution safe. However, you should arrange the objects so they do not touch each other or

they could be damaged.

China with a pattern on top of the glaze or with gold leaf decoration may fade. If
possible, check with the manufacturer. If that isn’t possible, wash one item over
an extended period then compare it with the colors and patterns of the rest of the
set. Wash in the Quick program on a low temperature setting.

Copper Yes, with Do not wash copper in the same load as silver or silver plate. It could discolor the

caution silver items. Do not let copper items come in contact with stainless steel.

Crystal No Antiques and very delicate china should not be washed in the dishwasher. Certain

types of lead crystal may etch if machine washed. Check with the manufacturer.

Yes Wash at a low temperature setting. Be sure to load crystal dishware so that it is

secure and will not fall over or knock against other dishware while being washed.

Dirilyte No Gold-colored flatware can become discolored.

Disposable No Cannot withstand machine washing.
plastic items

Flatware with No Certain types of adhesives may loosen when machine washed.
bonded handles

Glass Yes Exception: Milk glass may turn yellow.

Knives No Sharp kitchen knives may become dull if washed in very hot water and allowed to

contact other items during the wash. Wood handles may also warp, crack, or
loosen. Plastic handles may discolor. Check manufacturer’s washing instructions.

Lead crystal No Certain types of lead crystal may etch if machine washed.

Non-dishware No Never wash items such as electronic air cleaners, air filters of any kind, paint
items brushes, etc. You could damage the dishwasher.

Non-stick Yes If marked “Dishwasher Safe.” After washing, wipe the non-stick coating area with
coatings vegetable oil to maintain its non-stick quality.

Pewter No Pewter will tarnish when machine washed.

Plastic Yes If the item is labeled “Dishwasher Safe.” Do not use Extra dry. Do not wash

disposable plastic items.

Silver and Yes, with Rinse these items if you’re not going to wash them immediately; salty or acidic
Silver plate caution foods can stain if left on. Dry dishwasher detergent can produce black marks

which are difficult to remove. Do not put silver and silver plate in the same silverware
basket with stainless steel. Contact between these metals can damage silver.
Do not wash copper utensils in the same load. This could cause a brown film on
the silver. Also, adhesives used to attach some hollow-handled knives can loosen.

Stainless Yes, with Rinse these items if you’re not going to wash them immediately; salty or acidic
Steel caution foods can stain if left on. Dry dishwasher detergent can produce black marks

which are difficult to remove. Do not mix different types of stainless steel in the
same load.

Tin No Tin will rust.

Wood No Unless marked “Dishwasher Safe” by the manufacturer. Wood can warp, crack or

lose shape with any kind of washing.

had any affect on it.

NOTE: ASKO has no control over what is put in our
dishwashers once installed in a customer’s home. You

are solely responsible for what you wash in your
ASKO dishwasher.

Page 13

INDEXINDEX

INDEX

INDEXINDEX

AA

A

AA

Adding an item 8
Aluminum 13

CC

C

CC

Care and cleaning 8
Cast iron 13
Changing or stopping a program 8
China 13
Coarse filter 8
Common dishwashing problems 10
Control panel 7
Copper 13
Crystal 13

DD

D

DD

Detergent dispenser 3
Detergent left in compartment 11
Dirilyte 13
Dishwasher

does not drain properly 11
does not fill properly 12
features 3
makes unusual noises 11

runs too long 11

Dishwashing problems 10
Disposable plastic 13
Door, cleaning 8
Drain, problems 11
Drain pump, removing an obstacle 9
Drying option button 7

EE

E

EE

Etching 10

FF

F

FF

Fill problems 12
Filtering system 8
Fine filter 8
Flatware with custom handles 13

GG

G

GG

Glass 13

HH

H

HH

Hard water 5

removing spots 11

II

I

II

Interrupting a program to add an item 8

KK

K

KK

Knife stop 4
Knives 13

LL

L

LL

Lead crystal 13
Lower basket 3

MM

M

MM

Main filter 8

Main wash detergent compartment 5

NN

N

NN

Non-dishware items, washing 13
Non-stick pans, washing 13

OO

O

OO

Operating instructions 7
Options 7

PP

P

PP

Pewter 13
Plastic items 10, 13
Pre-wash detergent compartment 5
Program options 7
Programs 7

RR

R

RR

Rinse aid dispenser 6

filling 6
setting amount dispensed 6

SS

S

SS

Serial number location 11
Service 15
Silver 13
Silver plate 13
Silverware basket 4
Small items compartment 4
Solutions to problems 10
Spray arms 3
Stainless steel 13
Stains and discolorations 10
Start/Stop button 7
Stemware rack 3
Stopping a program 8

TT

T

TT

Temperature option button 7
Tin 13
Troubleshooting 11
Type plate location on unit 11

UU

U

UU

Unusual noises 11
Upper basket 3

VV

V

VV

Warranty information 15

WW

W

WW

Wash programs 7
Washing special items 13
Water hardness 5
Wood 13

Page 14

ASKO PRODUCT WARRANTY

MODEL D3121

Be sure to complete the Warranty Registration Card you received with your appliance and mail it to AM

Appliance Group to validate your appliance warranty.

Cosmetic damage must be reported to your dealer within five days from the date of purchase. After unpacking

the dishwasher, thoroughly check the unit for cosmetic damage.

FOR RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATIONS ONLY

AM APPLIANCE GROUP WILL PAY FOR:LENGTH OF WARRANTY

Three-Year Full Warranty

From date of purchase.

ASKO replacement parts and/or repair labor to correct defect in
materials or workmanship. Service must be provided by an
authorized ASKO service agent.

Fourth & Fifth Year Limited
Warranty

Three year full plus fourth and fifth year
limited from date of purchase.

Lifetime Warranty

ASKO replacement parts (not including labor) for any defective solid­state controls, timers, motors, or pumps as well as defective
dishwasher racks – does not include damage due to misuse or
abuse. Service must be provided by an authorized ASKO service
agent.

ASKO replacements parts (not including labor) of the stainless steel
tank or inner door panel if it fails to hold water due to a manufacturing
defect, such as rusting or cracking. Service must be provided by an
authorized ASKO service agent.

FOR NON-RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATIONS

Six-Month Full Warranty

From date of purchase.

ASKO replacement parts and/or repair labor to correct defect in
materials or workmanship. Service must be provided by an
authorized ASKO service agent.

AM APPLIANCE GROUP WILL NOT PAY FOR:

A. Service calls to:

1. Correct the installation of the appliance.

2. Repair damage due to shipment, delivery, installation, misuse or abuse.

3. Instruct how to use the appliance.

4. Replace house fuses or correct house wiring.

5. Correct house plumbing, including drain problems related to improper installation. (High loop, disposer
knockout, disposer not draining, etc.)

6. Clean or service air device in drain line.

B. Repair and/or replacement parts for failure of product if appliance is used for other than home/residential use.

C. Damage resulting from accident, fire, floods, acts of God, alteration, misuse, abuse, improper installation, or

installation not in accordance with local electrical or plumbing codes.
D. Any shipping costs for parts during the limited warranty period.
E. Replacement parts or repair labor costs for units operated outside the Continental United States.
F. Pickup and delivery. ASKO washers are designed to be repaired in the home.

IN NO EVENT SHALL AM APPLIANCE GROUP BE RESPONSIBLE

FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.

Some states will 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.

For warranty service, contact the dealer from whom you purchased the unit or an authorized ASKO service
agent. Service will be provided during normal business hours. Should you have a service problem that cannot be

resolved locally, contact AM Appliance Group at the numbers listed below. Before calling for service or contacting AM
Appliance Group regarding a warranty issue, make a note of the model, type name, and serial number (see page 11).

AM Appliance Group

P. O. Box 851805

Richardson, Texas 75085-1805

ASKO Advisory Center

800-898-1879

or 972-238-0794

Page 15

Page 16

Art no 8076756. Rev 01