GE VISR309JT Owner’s Manual

Page 1
Model: VISR309JT
Washer
Owner’s Manual
Important Safety Information
Operating Instructions
The Controls on Your Washer Other Washer Features Preparing to Wash Care of Product
Specialized Fabric Guide
If Something Goes Wrong
2
3
10
11
General Electric Company, Appliance Park, Louisville, KY 40225 USA
175D1807P163 39-9350
7-96 CG
C Printed in the United States
Page 2

Important Safety Information

Read all safety information before using
Water Heater Safety
Under certain conditions hydrogen gas may be produced in a water heater that has not been used for two weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS CAN BE EXPLOSIVE UNDER THESE CIRCUMSTANCES.
If the hot water has not been used for two weeks or more, prevent the possibility of damage or injury by turning on all hot water taps and allow them to run for several minutes before using any electri­cal appliance which is connected to the hot water system. This will allow any hydrogen gas to escape. Since the gas is flammable, do not smoke or use an open flame or appliance during this process.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
2
Page 3
Warning
To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons when using your appliance, follow basic precautions, including the following sections.
Safety Precautions
Use this appliance only for its
intended purpose as described in this Owner’s Manual.
— Properly ground to conform
with all governing codes and ordinances. Follow details in Installation Instructions.
— Install or store where it will not be
exposed to temperatures below freezing or exposed to the weather.
Do not repair or replace any
part of the appliance or attempt any servicing unless specifically recommended in this Owner’s Manual or in published user­repair instructions that you understand and have the skills to carry out.
Do not tamper with the controls.
Never reach into the washer
while it is moving.
Do not wash or dry articles that
have been cleaned in, washed in, soaked in, or spotted with combustible or explosive substances (such as wax, oil, paint, gasoline, degreasers, dry-cleaning solvents, kerosene, etc.) which may ignite or explode. Do not add these substances to the wash water. Do not use these substances around your washer and/or dryer during operation.
To minimize the possibility
of electric shock, unplug this appliance from the power supply or disconnect the washer at the household distribution panel by removing the fuse or switching off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.
Close supervision is necessary
if this appliance is used by or near children or infirm persons. Do not allow children to play inside, on or with this appliance or any discarded appliance. Dispose of discarded appliances and shipping/packing materials properly. Before discarding a washer, or removing from service, remove the washer lid.
NOTE: Turning the Cycle
Selector knob to an off position does NOT disconnect the appliance from the power supply.
3
Page 4
Operating Instructions
Cycle Descriptions
The
controls
on your
washer
REGULAR
For heavily to lightly soiled cottons, linens, work and play clothes.
PERM PRESS
For synthetics and blends with normal soil.
KNITS
Specially designed for normally soiled knits.
DELICATES
For lingerie and special­care fabrics with light to normal soil.
AUTO SOAK
For heavily soiled clothes. Begins with a brief agitation, soaks for a specified period of time, then moves through the rest of the cycle automatically.
1 2 3
Load Size Wash/Spin Speed
By selecting load size, you are setting the water level. For the best results, select a size appropriate for the load you are washing.
4
21
This refers to the speed of the agitator during the wash and the basket during the spin.
With the Normal wash speed the agitator moves faster. Use for cottons, denims and play clothes. With the slower. Use for delicate and knit items.
The Fast spin speed is for durable items. The Slow spin speed is for delicate items like sweaters and lingerie. Clothes will be less dry than when using a fast spin speed.
Gentle wash speed the agitator moves
4
Wash/Rinse Temp
Always follow Fabric Manufacturer’s Care Label or instructions when laundering. Use this chart as a general guide.
Wash/Rinse Temperature Guide
wash
temperature
COTTONS WHITE
COTTONS COLORS
PERMANENT PRESS
DELICATES
WASHABLES WOOLENS
*Warm water is approximately 32°C. to 43°C. (90°F. to 110°F.) (hand comfortable).
For information on fabric care for specialty items see the Specialty Care Guide.
hot warm* warm*
cold
warm*
rinse
temperature
cold cold cold cold
warm*
43
Selecting Cycle/Starting Washer
Push in the Cycle knob to select the desired
cycle. See the above Cycle Descriptions.
Add detergent.
Add clothes and close lid.
Pull out the Cycle knob to start washer.
See next page for other washer features
5
Page 5
Operating Instructions
Other washer features your model may have
Extra Rinse
OFF
SET
Liquid Bleach Dispenser
Pour liquid bleach into bleach dispenser
When you use extra detergent or bleach to clean heavily soiled clothes, you may want to use the Extra Rinse option. This option provides a second deep cold rinse in the Cottons Regular cycle. Turn the Extra Rinse knob to SET.
This dispenser dilutes liquid chlorine bleach before it reaches into your wash load. To use, follow these steps:
1
Check clothing care labels for special instructions.
2
Measure liquid bleach carefully, following instructions on bottle.
3
Before starting the washer, pour measured amount of bleach directly into bleach dispenser. Avoid dispenser.
splashing or over-filling
The washer will pause for a few minutes before the Extra Rinse option begins.
NOTE:
Never pour undiluted liquid chlorine bleach directly onto clothes or into the wash basket.
Do not pour powdered bleach into bleach dispenser. If you prefer to use powdered bleach, pour it into the wash basket with your detergent.
Agitator Cap
6
This cap fits into the top of the agita­tor. If it accidentally comes off, sim­ply put it back on.
Do not pour anything into the agitator if the top is removed
Page 6
Fabric Softener Dispenser
Pour liquid fabric softener and water into fabric softener dispenser
This dispenser automatically releas­es liquid fabric softener at the prop­er time during the cycle. To use, follow these steps:
1
Make sure dispenser is securely attached to agitator.
2
Pour liquid fabric softener into dispenser, using amount recommended on package.
3
Add water to dispenser until it reaches the maximum fill line.
NOTE:
Do not stop the washer during the first spin. This will cause the dispenser to empty too soon.
Do not use the Fabric Softener Dispenser with the Auto Soak.
Never pour fabric softener directly on clothes. It will leave spots on clothes.
Only use dispenser for liquid fabric softeners. If dispenser gets clogged, see Cleaning section below.
Cleaning Fabric Softener Dispenser
Separate for cleaning
Lint Filter
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 dispenser, soak both the dispenser cup and the dispenser cover in a solution of warm water and liquid detergent.
The lint filter is located under the agitator. It is self-cleaning and requires no maintenance.
Do not pour anything into the agitator if the top is removed
4
If necessary, loosen build-up 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.
7
Page 7
Operating Instructions

Preparing to Wash

Sort
Always follow Fabric Manufacturer’s Care Label when laundering.
Sort by color
(Separate colorfast from non-colorfast fabrics*)
Whites
Lights
Darks
Separate by fabric type
Cottons and linens
Permanent press cottons and
blends
Synthetic and poly knits
Delicates
Separate lint producers from lint collectors
Lint producers: terry cloth and
chenille
Lint collectors: velveteen and
corduroy
Sort by soil
Light
Medium
Heavy
* Non-colorfast fabrics may bleed or fade. Sort by
individual color.
Detergent
Always add detergent before adding clothes so that the deter­gent can work effectively.
Using the correct amount of detergent is one of the most important things you can do to make sure your wash comes out clean. Always follow the detergent package directions.
Using too little detergent is a common cause of laundry problems. Use more detergent if you have hard water, large loads, greasy or oily soils or lower water temperature.
8
Page 8
Load
Load dry items loosely, spacing evenly around agitator, and close the lid.
A typical wash load: two twin sheets, two tablecloths, four collared shirts, three pillow cases, three small bath and three pairs of shorts
Place large items in bottom, small items in the middle and medium items on top.
towels, three t-shirts,
.
Wash bulky items like blankets separately.
To add items after washer has started, push in Cycle knob and submerge additional items next to the agitator. Close the lid and pull Cycle knob out to restart.
To reduce wrinkling, give permanent press items, synthetics and poly knits room to move freely in the washer.
When loading wet items make sure you set the load/water level high enough to allow the items to move freely.
Care & Cleaning
The Washer
Leave the lid open after washing to allow moisture to evaporate. The wash basket is practically care free.
If you want to clean the washer use a clean soft cloth dampened with liquid detergent, then rinse. (Do not use harsh or gritty cleaners.)
Fill Hoses—
washer to faucet should be replaced every five years.
Hoses connecting
NOTE:
Do not wrap large items like sheets around the agitator.
Do not wash fabrics containing flammable materials (waxes, clean­ing fluids, etc.) in your washer.
Moving and Storage—
technician to remove water from drain pump and hoses. Contact your local distributor for informa­tion on how to keep the tub station­ary when moving the washer.
Long Vacations—
supply is shut off at taps. Drain all water from hoses if weather will be below freezing.
Ask the service
Be sure water
9
Page 9

Helpful Information

Specialty Care Guide
Always follow Fabric Manufacturer’s Care Label or instructions when laundering. Otherwise use the information below as a general guide.
Item Suggested Care
Down-Filled Garments Always wash down-filled garments separately from other types
of garments. Wet down gives off an odor that will disappear when the down is dried. Wash down items frequently to fluff up the down and to retain down’s warmth. When washing make sure the load is balanced. Add towels if necessary. Always tumble-dry down garments.
Pillows Pillows are made from a variety of materials. Wash only if
recommended on the Pillow Manufacturer’s Care Label. Before washing check pillows for weak seams or holes, and mend. Let the washer fill with water and add detergent. Let the washer agitate for several minutes and then add pillows in pairs. This will keep the load balanced. Use the largest load/water level available.
Blankets Let the washer fill with water, add detergent, allow detergent to
dissolve, then add blanket. Wash only one blanket at a time.
Permanent Press Clothes Select a larger load/water level than normal. This will provide that are Line Dried more water to help reduce wrinkling and to allow clothes enough
room to move around. Remove clothes as soon as the wash cycle is complete and hang them up immediately.
10
Page 10
If Something Goes Wrong
Problem Possible Causes What to Do
Washer Won’t Operate
Water Temperature is Incorrect
Washer is unplugged • Make sure cord is plugged securely into a
working outlet.
Water supply is turned off Turn both hot and cold taps fully on. Controls are not set properly Check controls and make sure Cycle knob
is pulled out to ON position.
Lid is open • Close lid and pull Cycle knob out to ON
position.
Circuit breaker/fuse is Check house circuit breakers/fuses. Replace tripped/blown fuses or reset breaker. Washer should have
separate outlet.
Control is not set properly Check water temperature control and adjust. Water supply is turned off Turn both hot and cold taps fully on and
or improperly connected make sure hoses are connected to correct
taps.
Water valve screens are Turn off the water source and remove the stopped up
water connection hoses from the upper back of the washer. Use a brush or toothpick to clean the screens in the machine. Reconnect the hoses and turn the water source back on.
Water Won’t Drain
House water heater is not set Make sure house water heater is delivering properly water at 48°C.–65°C. (120°F.–150°F.).
Drain hose is kinked or Straighten drain hose and make sure improperly connected washer is not sitting on it.
Top of drain outlet should be less than
1m (3 ft.) above floor.
11
Page 11

If Something Goes Wrong

Problem Possible Causes What to Do
Water Leaks
Washer is Noisy
Fill hoses or drain hose is Make sure hose connections are tight at taps improperly connected and make sure end of drain hose is correctly
inserted in and secured to drain facility.
Household drain may be clogged to call a plumber.
Constant water pressure to the Tighten hoses at the taps and turn the water fill hoses at the water source off after each use.
Washer is uneven Make sure washer is level and firm
Washer load is unbalanced Push the Cycle knob in to stop the
Shipping rod has not been Remove the shipping rod on the bottom removed right side of the washer just before sliding
Check household plumbing. You may need
Check condition of the fill hoses; they may need replacement after 5 years.
to the floor.
washer, open the lid and redistribute the load evenly. Close the lid and restart.
the washer in place. Do not use the washer with the shipping rod in place.
Washer Pauses in Cycle
Clothes too Wet
12
Water is draining • There will be a gurgling “sucking” sound
prior to the spin cycle. This is normal and will stop as soon as the machine goes into the spin cycle.
The washer normally pauses between washing steps
Incorrect cycle Make sure the cycle selected matches the selected load you are washing.
This is normal for some fabrics
Page 12
Problem Possible Causes What to Do
Lint or Residue on Clothes
Wrinkling
Incorrect sorting • Separate lint producers from
lint collectors.
Washing too long • Wash small loads for a shorter time than
larger loads.
Detergent not dissolving
Overloading Make sure load/water level setting matches
Too much bleach Check bleach package for correct amount. Not enough detergent Try using more detergent. Incorrect use of fabric softener Check fabric softener package for
Improper loads Avoid mixing heavy items (like work
For best performance always add detergent before adding clothes. If you use powdered detergent, pre-dissolve before adding to washer.
Try a liquid detergent.
Use warmer water temperature.
load size.
instructions (see Fabric Softener Dispenser section).
clothes) with light items (like blouses).
detergent in hot water
Separate permanent press from
other laundry.
Try a fabric softener.
Overloading or incorrect Load your washer so clothes have enough water level room to move freely.
Incorrect wash and dry cycles Match Cycle selection to the type of fabric
you are washing (especially for permanent press loads).
Repeated washing in water Wash in warm or cold water with plenty that is too hot of detergent.
13
Page 13
If Something Goes Wrong
Problem Possible Causes What to Do
Snags, Holes, Tears, Rips, or Excessive Wear
Pins, snaps, hooks, sharp Fasten snaps, hooks, buttons, and zippers. buttons, belt buckles, zippers, and sharp objects left in pockets
Undiluted chlorine bleach Check bleach package instructions for
Small tears or holes Repair tears and holes before washing. present before wash
Chemicals like hair bleach, Rinse items that may have chemicals hair dye, permanent wave on them before washing. solution and toilet bowl cleaners
Permanent press items While this is not caused by the washer, naturally fray (especially you can slow the fraying process by collars and cuffs) washing small permanent press loads with
Remove loose items like pins, objects in
pockets and sharp buttons.
Turn knits (which snag easily) inside out.
proper amount.
Never add undiluted bleach to wash or
allow clothes to come in contact with undiluted bleach.
a higher load/water level setting.
Avoid washing heavy items (like towels)
with permanent press items.
Shrinkage
14
Some fabrics will naturally Hot water is more likely to cause shrinkage shrink in the wash than cold water.
Follow directions on fabric care label.
Page 14
Problem Possible Causes What to Do
Grayed Clothes
Not enough detergent Try using more detergent (especially with (larger loads, heavy soil, larger loads). and hard water might require more detergent)
Water is not hot enough Make sure water heater is delivering water
Washer is overloaded Make sure load/water level setting matches
Soak time is too short Soak at least 30 minutes. Soaking with too little detergent Use more detergent (especially with
Detergent is not dissolving Add detergent as wash basket fills with
To restore grayed clothes, Put clothes through a wash cycle using hot try one of the following water. (Check the garment’s manufacturing
If you live in a hard water area try using
a water conditioner or install a water softener.
at 48°C.–65°C. (120°F.–150°F.).
Do not use the washer when hot water is
used for other needs (dishes, baths, etc.).
load size.
heavy soil).
water before you load clothes.
care label to see if hot water can be used.) Add a non-precipitating water softener. Use 2 1⁄2 times more than is recommended for normal water softening. Do not use detergent or soap. Allow clothes to go through a complete cycle. Repeat if necessary.
Soak your clothes using a water softener
instead of a soaking agent. Allow clothes to soak for about 20 minutes.
15
Page 15
If Something Goes Wrong
Problem Possible Causes What to Do
Yellowed Clothes
Blue or Gray Spots
Not enough detergent Always use recommended amount of on a consistent basis detergent.
Chlorine bleach may yellow Use non-chlorine bleach. some fabrics
Iron or manganese in water may cause yellowing or yellow spots water softener dissolved in water and
Incorrect use of fabric softener Check fabric softener package
Use extra detergent plus a non-precipitating
non-chlorine bleach.
Run hot water for 2 minutes to help the
pipes clean out iron buildup.
Drain your house water heater occasionally.
To remove spots spread stain area over a pan
of boiling water and squeeze lemon juice through the stain.
for instructions (see Fabric Softener Dispenser section).
To remove spots dampen the spots
and rub with undiluted liquid detergent. Rewash, using chlorine bleach if it is safe for the fabric.
Too Many Suds
Pilling
16
Type of detergent • Switch to a lower sudsing detergent brand
and follow instructions on package.
Very soft water Try less detergent.
Result of normal wear on While this is not caused by the washer, poly-cotton blends you can slow the pilling process by washing
poly-cotton blends inside out.
Loading...