GENERAL ELECTRIC PDWT580RSS, PDWT500RBB, PDWT400R, PDW8900NWW, PDW8680NSS User Manual

GEAppliances.com

Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . 2–5

Operating Instructions

Care and Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Control Panel and Settings . . . . . . . . 6–9

Display Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Loading Place Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Loading the Racks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14–16

Recommended Dishwasher

Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Using the Dishwasher . . . . . . . . . .10–13

Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . 18–20

Consumer Support

Consumer Support .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Owner’s Manual

Stainless Steel

Tub Dishwashers

Write the model and serial
numbers here:

Model # __________________
Serial # __________________

You can find them on the tub wall
just inside the door.

Dishwashers

165D4700P389 49-55065 07-09 JR

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING—
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING!

For your safety, the information in this manual must be followed to minimize the risk of fire,
explosion, electric shock, and to prevent property damage, personal injury, or death.

WARNING!

Under certain conditions, hydrogen gas may be produced in a water heater that has not been used for two
or more weeks. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXPLOSIVE.

If the hot water has not been used for two or more weeks, prevent the possibility of damage or injury
by turning on all hot water faucets and allow them to run for several minutes. Do this before using any
electrical appliance connected to the hot water system. This simple procedure will allow any built-up
hydrogen gas to escape. Since the gas is flammable, do not smoke, use an open flame, or use the appliance
during this process.

WATER HEATER SAFETY

PROPER INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE

This dishwasher must be properly installed and located in accordance with the Installation Instructions
before it is used. If you did not receive an Installation Instructions sheet with your dishwasher, you can
receive one by visiting our website at GEAppliances.com.

■ Connect the dishwasher/appliance to a grounded

Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsConsumer Support Troubleshooting Tips

metal, permanent wiring system; or run an
equipment-grounding conductor with the circuit
conductors and connect to the equipment­grounding terminal or leadof the appliance.

■ Improper connection of the equipment-grounding
conductor can result in a risk of electric shock.
Check with a qualified electrician or service
representative if you are in doubt whether the
appliance is properly grounded.

■ Dispose of discarded appliances and shipping
or packing materialproperly.

■ Do not attempt to repair or replace any part
of your dishwasher unless it is specifically
recommended in this manual. All other servicing
should be referred to a qualified technician.

■ To minimize the possibility of electric shock,
disconnect this appliance from the power supply
before attempting any maintenance.

NOTE: Turning the dishwasher off doesnot
disconnect the appliance fromthe power supply.
We recommend having a qualified technician
service your appliance.

CAUTION: To prevent minor injury and property damage

■ Contents washed in Anti-bacterial mode, if
available, may be hot to the touch. Use care
before handling.

■ Using a detergent that is not
specifically designed for
dishwashers will cause the
dishwasher to fill with suds.

■ If your dishwasher is connected to a wall
switch, ensure that the switch is on prior
to use.

■ On dishwashers with electronic controls,
if you choose to turn the wall switch
off between wash cycles, allow 5-10 seconds after
turning the switch on before touching START/RESET
to allow the control to initialize.

2

■ Non-Dishware Items: Do not wash items such
as electronic air cleaner filters, furnace filters
and paint brushes in your dishwasher. Damage
to the dishwasher and discoloration or staining
of the dishwasher may result.

■ Close supervision is necessary if this appliance
is used by or near children.

■ Load light, plastic items so they do not become
dislodged and drop to the bottom of the
dishwasher—they might come into contact with
the heating element and be damaged.

INFORMACIÓN IMPORTANTE DE SEGURIDAD
LEA TODAS LAS INSTRUCCIONES ANTES DE USAR—
GUARDE ESTAS INSTRUCCIONES GEAppliances.com

¡ADVERTENCIA!

Para su seguridad, debe cumplirse con la información de este manual a fin de minimizar
el riesgo de incendio o explosión, descarga eléctrica o para prevenir daños a la propiedad,
lesiones personales o la muerte.

¡ADVERTENCIA!

Bajo ciertas condiciones, puede producirse gas de hidrógeno en un calentador de agua que no se ha usado
durante dos semanas o más. EL GAS DE HIDRÓGENO ES EXPLOSIVO.

Si el agua caliente no se ha utilizado por dos semanas o más, evite la posibilidad de daños o lesiones
abriendo todos los grifos de agua caliente y dejándolas correr durante varios minutos. Haga esto antes
de utilizar cualquier aparato eléctrico que se encuentre conectado al sistema de agua caliente. Este simple
procedimiento permitirá que se libere cualquier clase de acumulación de gas de hidrógeno. Ya que el gas
es inflamable, no fume o utilice una llama abierta o un aparato durante este proceso.

SEGURIDAD DEL CALENTADOR DE AGUA

INSTALACIÓN Y MANTENIMIENTO ADECUADOS

Este lavaplatos debe instalarse de manera adecuada y ubicarse de acuerdo con las Instrucciones de
Instalación antes de comenzar el uso. Si usted no ha recibido una página de Instrucciones de instalación
con su lavaplatos, puede obtener una visitando nuestro sitio Web en GEAppliances.com.

■ Conecte el lavaplatos/aparato a un sistema
de cableado permanente con conexión a tierra
o debe utilizarse un conductor de conexión a tierra
del equipamiento con los conductores de circuito,
y debe conectarse a la terminal de conexión
a tierra o conductor del aparato.

■ Una conexión inadecuada del conductor de
conexión a tierra de equipo puede provocar
un riesgo de descarga eléctrica. Consulte a un
electricista calificado o representante de servicio
técnico si tiene dudas sobre la correcta conexión
a tierra del aparato.

■ Elimine los aparatos que no va a utilizar más y el
material de empaque o envío como corresponde.

■ No intente reparar o cambiar ninguna pieza de
su lavaplatos a menos que esté específicamente
recomendado en este manual. Cualquier otro
servicio debe realizarlo un técnico calificado.

■ Para minimizar la posibilidadde una descarga
eléctrica, desconecte este aparato de la fuente
de energía antes de realizar cualquier clase de
mantenimiento.

NOTA:Apagar el lavaplatos no desconecta el
aparato del suministro de energía. Recomendamos
queun técnico calificado realice el servicio técnico
de su aparato.

PRECAUCIÓN: Para evitar lesiones menores y daños a la propiedad

■ Los elementos lavados en el modo anti-bacterial,
si se encuentra disponible, pueden quedar
calientes al tacto. Tenga cuidado antes de
tocarlos.

■ Utilizar un detergente no
diseñado específicamente
para lavaplatos provocará
que el aparato se llene
de espuma.

■ Si su lavaplatos se encuentra conectado
a un interruptor de pared, verifique que
el interruptor se encuentre encendido
antes del uso.

■ En lavaplatos con controles electrónicos, si usted
elije apagar el interruptor de pared entre ciclos
de lavado, deje pasar 5-10 segundos después de
encender el interruptor antes de presionar
START/RESET para permitir que el control se inicie.

■ Elementos no aptos para lavaplatos: No lave
elementos como filtros de limpiadores de aire
electrónicos, filtros de hornos y pinceles de pintura
en su lavaplatos. Pueden producirse daños en el
lavaplatos y decoloración o manchas en el
aparato.

■ Se requiere una supervisión estricta cuando
cualquier aparato es utilizado por niños o en
su cercanía.

■ Cargue elementos livianos y plásticos de modo
que no se desplacen y caigan al fondo del
lavaplatos, ya que pueden entrar en contacto con
el elemento calentador y dañarse.

Consumer SupportTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions

3

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING—
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING! RISK OF CHILD ENTRAPMENT

PROPER DISPOSAL OF THE DISHWASHER

Junked or abandoned dishwashers are
dangerous…even if they will sit for “just a few
days.” If you are getting rid of your old
dishwasher, please follow the instructions below
to help prevent accidents.

Screw

(on some
models)

Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsConsumer Support Troubleshooting Tips

WARNING!

■ Use this appliance only for its intended purpose
as described in this Owner’s Manual.

■ Use only powder, tabs, liquid detergents or rinse
agents recommended for use in a dishwasher
and keep them out of the reach of children.

Cascade
Dishwashing Detergents, and Cascade Crystal
Clear

in all GE dishwashers.

■ On models with the SmartDispense™ system,
do not mix any chlorine bleach-based automatic
dishwashing detergent with any dishwashing
detergent containing enzymes as this could
cause the detergents to congeal and lead to
blockage of the SmartDispenseTMsystem.

■ Locate sharp items so that they are not likely
to damage the door seal.

■ Load sharp knives with the handles up to reduce
the risk of cut-type injuries.

■ Do not wash plastic items unless marked
dishwasher safe or the equivalent. For plastic

®

and Cascade®Complete Automatic

®

rinse agents have been approved for use

When using your dishwasher, follow basic precautions,
including the following:

Before You Throw Away Your Old
Dishwasher:

■ Take off the door of the washing compartment
or remove the door latch (as shown).

NOTE: All top control models also have a latch screw
which must be removed (Step 1) as shown.

items not so marked, check the manufacturer’s
recommendations.

■ Do not touch the heating element during or
immediately after use.

■ Do not operate your dishwasher unless all enclosure
panels are properly in place.

■ Do not tamper with controls.

■ Do not abuse, sit on or stand on the door or dish

rack of the dishwasher.

■ Do not allow children to play around the dishwasher
when opening or closing the door due to the
possibility of small fingers being pinched in the door.

■ Do not discard a dishwasher without first removing
the door of the washing compartment or the door
latch.

■ Do not store or use combustible materials, gasoline
or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity
of this or any other appliance.

■ Do not allow children to play with, on or inside this
or any discarded appliance.

READ AND FOLLOW THIS SAFETY INFORMATION CAREFULLY.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

4

INFORMACIÓN IMPORTANTE DE SEGURIDAD
LEA TODAS LAS INSTRUCCIONES ANTES DE USAR—
GUARDE ESTAS INSTRUCCIONES GEAppliances.com

¡ADVERTENCIA! RIESGO DE ENCIERRO PARA NIÑOS

ELIMINACIÓN CORRECTA DEL LAVAPLATOS

Un lavaplatos desechado o abandonado resulta
peligroso…aún si quedará en un lugar por “sólo
unos días”. Si va a desechar su viejo lavaplatos,
siga las siguientes instrucciones para prevenir
accidentes.

Tornillo

(en algunos
modelos)

¡ADVERTENCIA!

■ Use este aparato sólo con el objetivo para el que
fue creado, como se describe en este Manual del
Propietario.

■ Utilice sólo detergentes en polvo, líquido o tabletas
o agentes de enjuague recomendados para uso
en lavaplatos y manténgalos alejados del alcance
de los niños. Los detergentes para lavaplatos
automáticos Cascade
y los agentes de enjuague Cascade CrystalClear
han sido aprobados para el uso en todos los
lavaplatos GE.

■ En modelos con el sistema SmartDispense™,
no mezcle detergentes para lavaplatos
automáticos con blanqueador con detergentes
para lavaplatos que contengan enzimas porque
los detergentes pueden solidificarse y provocar
bloqueos en el sistema SmartDispense™.

■ Ubique los elementos filosos de modo que no dañen
el sellado de la puerta.

■ Cargue cuchillos filosos con los mangos hacia arriba
para reducir el riesgo de una lesión personal.

■ No lave elementos plásticos a menos que estén
marcados como aptos para lavaplatos o

®

y Cascade®Complete,

Cuando use su lavaplatos, siga precauciones básicas
de seguridad, incluyendo las siguientes:

Antes de desechar su viejo lavaplatos:

■ Quite la puerta del compartimento de lavado
o saque la traba de la puerta (como puede
verse).

NOTA: Todos los modelos con control superior
también cuentancon un tornillo de la traba que
debe quitarse (Paso 1) como se ilustra.

equivalente. En el caso de elementos plásticos
que no estén marcados así, verifique las
recomendaciones del fabricante.

■ No toque el elemento calentador durante el uso
o inmediatamente después de finalizar el uso.

■ No haga funcionar el lavaplatos a menos que todos
los paneles del recinto se encuentren en su lugar.

■ No altere o modifique los controles.

®

■ No maltrate, ni se siente o se pare sobre la puerta
o bandejas de los platos del lavaplatos.

■ No permita que los niños jueguen alrededor del
lavaplatos cuando abra o cierre la puerta debido
a la posibilidad de pellizcar sus dedos con la puerta.

■ No deseche el lavaplatos sin antes quitar la puerta
del compartimento de lavado o la traba de la
puerta.

■ No almacene o use materiales combustibles,
gasolina u otros vapores o líquidos inflamables
cerca de este o cualquier otro aparato.

■ No permita que los niños jueguen sobre, con
o dentro de este o cualquier otro aparato
desechado.

Consumer SupportTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions

LEA Y SIGA ESTA INFORMACIÓN DE SEGURIDAD
CUIDADOSAMENTE.

GUARDE ESTAS INSTRUCCIONES

5

About the dishwasher control panel.

You can locateyour model number on thetub wall just inside the door. Throughout thismanual, features and appearance may varyfrom your model.

Front-Control Dishwashers

Top-Control Dishwashers

Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsConsumer Support Troubleshooting Tips

1

6

2

3 45

1

Control Settings

Status IndicatorLights (Indicators vary by models)

1

The Status display tells youwhatis happening while thedishwasher is in operation and may flash,
indicating a malfunction. The lights will come ON indicating the sequence of thedishwasher operation.

LOW DETERGENT Displayed whenthe SmartDispenseTMneeds to be refilled with liquid or gel automatic

dishwasherdetergent.
NOTE: If youare not using SmartDispenseTMand you want to turn the LOW DETERGENT

LED light off,press the ADDED HEAT pad 5 times within 3 seconds. You will hear 3
beeps; then the light will go off. Youcan turn the light back on by pressingthe ADDED
HEAT pad 5 times within 3 seconds.

SENSING Displayed while the Clean SensorTMis measuring the amount of soil and temperature

of water. The dishwasher will adjust the selected cycle to achieve optimalperformance.

WASHING Displayed during prewash, main wash and rinse periods.

DRYING Displayed during HEATED DRY.

SANITIZED Displayed when cycle has met sanitization conditions.

CLEAN Displayed whena wash cycle is complete.

5

62 43

Time Remaining Display (on some models)

2

During operation, the display shows theminutes remaining until the cycle is complete. The display may
adjust the remaining timewhile the Sensing light is on.The time displayed at thestart of each cycle may
change fromthe factorysetting as theunitcustomizes itself to homeuse.During a delay start, the display
will show hours of time remaining until the cycle starts.

NOTE: This dishwasher is equipped with CleanSensorTMwith automatic temperature control; therefore,
cycle length and time may vary depending on soil and water temperature conditions.

Wash Programs (Selections)

3

Front-Control Dishwashers: Close andlatch door. Press thepad forthe desiredwash cycle.
Top-Control Dishwashers: Use thearrow pads to scroll through thewash cycles while dooris open.

NOTE: Allcycle times and water usage information contained in thefollowing section areapproximate
values. Actual results will depend on severalfactors,including but not limited to inlet temperature
and amount of soil in the wash water.

The light above or next to the selected pad will be ON to indicate which WASH CYCLEhas been selected.

6

Wash Programs (Selections) (continued)

3

ANTI-BACTERIAL/ 7.5–8.75 gal., 50–135 min.

SANI WASH

This cycle raises thewater temperature in thefinal rinse to sanitize your dishware.
The cycle length will vary depending on the temperature of yourinlet water.

OTE: The Anti-Bacterial cycle is monitored for sanitization requirements. If the cycle is

N

interrupted during or after the main wash portion or if the incoming water temperature
is so low that adequate water heating cannot be achieved, thesanitizing conditions may
not be met. In these cases, the sanitized light will not illuminate at the end of the cycle.
When using theAnti-Bacterial cycle, do not open the dishwasher door in the final rinse.

NOTE: NSF-certified residential dishwashers arenot intended for licensed food
establishments
NOTE: Only the Anti-Bacterial cycle has been designed to meet the requirements
of Section 6, NSF 184 for soil removal and sanitization efficacy.

DEEP CLEAN 10 gal., 115–135 min.

(on some models)

COOKWARE/ 8.75–10 gal., 75–140 min.

POTS & PANS

(on some models)

NORMAL WASH 5.2 gal., 60–90 min.

SPEED CYCLE 7.5 gal., 35–70 min.

(on some models)

CHINA/CRYSTAL 7.5 gal., 40–60 min.

LIGHT WASH

(on some models)

GLASSES 7.5 gal., 40–75 min.

(on some models)

PLASTICS 6.25–7.5 gal., 85–145 min.

(on some models)

TOP RACK ONLY 5–8.75 gal., 50–110 min.

(on some models)

RINSE AND HOLD 2.5 gal., 11 min.

(RINSE ONLY)

This cycle is meant for heavily soiled dishes or cookware with dried-on or baked-on soils.
This cycle may not remove burned-on foods. Everyday dishes are safe to be used in this
cycle.

NOTE: On some models, the STEAM enhancement will be automatically selected when
the DEEP CLEAN cycle is chosen, and cannot be de-selected.

This cycle is meant for heavily soiled dishes or cookware with dried-on or baked-on soils.
This cycle may not remove burned-on foods. Everyday dishes are safe to be used in
this cycle.

This cycle is for medium/heavily soiled dishes and glassware.
Cycle time and water usage are approximate values. Results will depend on
several factors, including but not limited to inlet temperature, household water
pressure and amount of soil in the wash water.

This cycle is for everyday dishes and glassware.

This cycle is for lightly soiled china and crystal.

NOTE: On some models, this cycle and PLASTICS selector is a toggle pad; push pad
to switch between this cycle and PLASTICS.

This cycle is specifically designed for glasses.

The longer time for this cycle includes a built-in drying portion that is specifically
designed to reduce the risk of melting plastic items and improve plastic drying.

This cycle washes lightly soiled dishes on the upper rack only.

For rinsing partial loads that will be washed later. Do not use detergent with this cycle.

.

GEAppliances.com

Consumer SupportTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions

7

About the dishwasher control panel.

Enhancements

4

The light above the selected pad will be ON to indicate which ENHANCEMENT has been selected.

DELAY HOURS You can delay the start of a wash cycle for up to 24 hours (depending on model).

ress the DELAY START pad to choose the number of hours you want to delay the start

P
of the cycle; then press START/RESET.

Front-Control Dishwashers: The machine will count down and start automatically
at the correct time.

Top-Control Dishwashers: After closing the door, the machine will count down
and automatically start at the correct time.

NOTE: To cancel the DELAY START selection before the cycle begins, repeatedly press
the DELAY START pad until the display is blank.

TEMP BOOST/ When selected, the cycle will run longer with heating element on to improve both wash
ADDED HEAT/ and dry performance.

EXTRA HOT WASH

STEAM For use with heavily soiled and/or dried-on, baked-on soils. This option MUST be

(on some models) selected PRIOR to starting the cycle. The STEAMoption adds 26 minutes to the

HEATED DRY When HEATED DRY is off, dishes will air dry. Top-control models have a fan that assists

Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsConsumer Support Troubleshooting Tips

RESET To change a cycle after washing starts…

Start

5

Front-Control Dishwashers

Close and latch the dishwasher door and select the cycle and desired enhancements. Touch the
START/RESET pad one time to begin the cycle. Water fill begins immediately, and approximately
60 seconds later the wash action begins.

When the dishwasher door is fully closed and latched, the control panel lights will display the last settings
you selected. If you don’t want to change any of the settings, simply touch the START/RESETpad to
begin the cycle.

If the door is closed, the indicator lights will turn off if the START/RESET pad is not selected within 5 minutes.

8

To activate the display, open and close the door or press any pad.

NOTE: Cannot be selected with RINSE AND HOLD cycle.

cycle time.
NOTE: Cannot be selected with RINSE AND HOLD cycle.

the drying process. The fan will run up to 4 hours after the CLEANlight illuminates. If
desired, pressing any keypad will turn off the fan.

Light Off: Shuts off the drying heat option. Dishes will air dry naturally (front-control
dishwashers) or fan dry (top-control dishwashers) to save energy.

Light On: Turns the heater on for faster drying. This will extend the total cycle time
between 8 and 38 minutes depending on the cycle selected. On top-control models,
a fan will continue to run up to 2 hours after the CLEAN light illuminates to assist the
drying process. If desired, pressing any keypad will turn off the fan.

NOTE: Cannot be selected with RINSE AND HOLD cycle.

LOCK You can lock the controls to prevent any selections from being made. Or you can lock

the controls after you have started a cycle.

Children cannot accidentally start dishwasher by touching pads with this option
selected.

To unlock the dishwasher controls, press and hold the HEATED DRY pad for 3 seconds.
The light above the lock pad will turn off. To lock the dishwasher, press and hold the
HEATED DRY pad for 3 seconds. The light above the LOCK pad will turn on.

Front-Control Dishwashers: Touch the START/RESET pad to cancel the cycle.
The START/RESET light will flash while the water is pumped out if needed. This takes
approximately 2 minutes.

Top-Control Dishwashers:Open the door slowly to prevent splash-out.
Touch the START/RESET pad to cancel the cycle. If the START/RESET light is flashing,
close the door until the water pumps out (this takes approximately 2 minutes)
and the light stops flashing.

When the light stops flashing, the dishwasher can be reprogrammed and restarted.

GEAppliances.com

Start (continued)

5

Top-Control Dishwashers

After selecting the cycle and desired enhancements, touch the START/RESET pad to ready the
dishwasher to begin the cycle. Close the door to start the cycle or begin the DELAY START countdown.
When the cycle starts, the water fill begins and approximately 60 seconds later the wash action begins.

The dishwasher will always display your last selection and enhancements. If you don’t want to change
the settings, simply touch the START/RESET pad to ready the dishwasher and close the door to begin
the cycle.

ALL MODELS: If a power failure occurs NORMAL and HEATED DRY will automatically be programmed.
Make any new selections and touch the START/RESET pad to begin the new cycle.

When the door is opened, the indicator lights will turn off if the START/RESET pad is not selected within
5 minutes. To activate the display, open and close the door or touch any pad.

Clean

6

Front-Control Dishwasher

The CLEAN light will illuminate and a double beep will sound when a wash cycle is complete. On some
models, the CLEAN light will turn off when the door is opened. On other models, the CLEAN light will
remain on until the door is opened and then relatched or until any keypad is pressed while the door
is latched shut.

Top-Control Dishwasher

The CLEAN light will illuminate and a double beep will sound when a wash cycle is complete. The CLEAN
light will remain on until the door is opened and then relatched or until any key is pressed.

ALL MODELS: To turn off the audible end-of-cycle signal (or re-activate it if it was previously turned off),
press the HEATED DRY pad 5 times within 3 seconds. A triple beep will sound to indicate the end-of-cycle
beep option has been toggled.

Flashing display lights.

Status Indicator Lights What It Means

START/RESET Cycle has been interrupted by pressing the START/RESET pad, or there

has been a power failure. Light will stop flashing after the dishwasher
automatically drains out the water. The dishwasher will restart with NORMAL
and HEATED DRY if the interruption was the result of a power failure.

Recommended dishwasher products.

GErecommends the following products for use in its
dishwashers:

■ For your manual detergent dispenser, Cascade

powder, liquid or gel automatic dishwasher
detergents are approved.

■ For your SmartDispenseTMDetergent Dispenser, use
only the recommended liquid automatic detergents
listed on page 12 of this manual.

■ Cascade Crystal Clear®rinse agents to remove

spots and prevent new film buildup on your dishes,
glasses, flatware, cookware and plastic. Using rinse
agent also improves dry performance.

®

■ Cerama Bryte®Stainless Steel Appliance Cleaner

to clean the exterior stainless steel panel of GE and
ProfileTMdishwashers (for stainless steel exterior
models only).

Consumer SupportTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions

9

Using the dishwasher.

Check the Water Temperature

The entering water should be at least 120°F and not more than 150°F for effective cleaning and to
prevent dish damage. Check the water temperature with a candy or meat thermometer. Turn on the
hot water faucet nearest the dishwasher, place the thermometer in a glass and let the water run
continuously into the glass until the temperature stops rising.

Use Cascade Crystal Clear®Rinse Agent

Cascade Crystal Clear®rinse agent improves drying, removes spots and prevents new film buildup on

your dishes, glasses, flatware, cookware and plastic.

Filling the Dispenser

The rinse agent dispenser holds 3.5 oz. of rinse agent.
Under normal conditions, this will last approximately
one month. Try to keep it full, but do not overfill.

Make sure the dishwasher door is fully open.

1

Turn the dispenser

2

cap to the left and
lift it out.

Add rinse agent until

Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsConsumer Support Troubleshooting Tips

3

the indicator window
looks full.

Clean up any spilled

4

rinse agent with a
damp cloth.

Replace the dispenser cap.

5

Indicator
window

Dispenser cap

Rinse Aid Setting

The amount of rinse agent released into the final
wash can be adjusted. The factory setting is at the
midpoint. If there are rings of calcium (hard water)
spots on dishes, try a higher setting. If there is
foaming, use a lower setting.

To adjust the setting:

Remove the dispenser cap;
then turn the adjuster
counterclockwise to
increase the amount
of rinse agent or
clockwise to reduce
the amount of rinse agent dispensed.

Rinse agent
adjuster

Dish Preparation Prior to Loading

■ No prerinsing of normal food soil is required.

■ Remove large quantities of any remaining food.

10

■ Scrape off hard soils, bones, toothpicks, skins and
seeds.

Forget to Add a Dish?

A forgotten dish can be added any time before
the main wash.

Squeeze the door latch to release the door.

1

Do not open the door until the water spray

2

action stops. Steam may rise out of the
dishwasher.

■ Remove leafy vegetables, meat trimmings and
excessive amounts of grease or oil.

Add forgotten dishes.

3

Close the door and dishwasher will start

4

in 5 seconds.

Manual Detergent Dispenser

GEAppliances.com

Some models come equipped with an automatic liquid

M

dishwasher detergent dispenser (SmartDispense

T

) and

a manual dispenser. You can use either of these dispensers

ut don’t use both at the same time.

b

M

SmartDispense

Manual Detergent
Dispenser

T

The cover of the manual dispenser will open during the

TM

wash cycle. If you are using SmartDispense

, leave the
cover of the manual dispenser open before starting the
cycle.

For the manual dispenser, Cascade®Automatic
Dishwashing Detergents have been approved. You may use
powder, liquid, gel packets or tablets in this dispenser. It is
important to keep powdered detergents and tablets fresh
and dry so they don’t lose effectiveness. Therefore, do not
put detergent into the manual dispenser until you are ready
to wash dishes.

Filling Manual Detergent Dispenser

The amount of detergent to use depends on whether your
water is hard or soft. With hard water, you need extra
detergent. With soft water, you need less detergent.

Protect your dishes and dishwasher by contacting your
water department and asking how hard your water is.
Twelve or more grains is extremely hard water. A water
softener is recommended. Without it, lime can build up in
the water valve, which could stick while open and cause
flooding. Too much detergent with soft water can cause
a permanent cloudiness of glassware, called etching.

Use the information in the table below as a guide to
determine the amount of automatic dishwasher detergent
to place in the dispenser.

When using automatic dishwashing detergent packets
or tablets, simply place one in the main wash section and
close the cover.

For heavily soiled loads, use a bit more detergent. For water
temperatures above 140°F, use a bit less detergent.

Medium

Soft

For heavily soiled loads, use the Deep Clean or Cookware cycle.

Soft

Medium

Hard

Extremely

Hard

DO NOT USE HAND DISH DETERGENT

NOTE: Using a detergent that is not specifically designed

for dishwashers will cause the dishwasher to fill with suds.
During operation, these suds will spill out of the dishwasher
vents, covering the kitchen floor and making the floor wet.

Because so many detergent containers look alike, store
the dishwasher detergent in a separate space from all
other cleaners. Show anyone who may use the dishwasher
the correct detergent and where it is stored.

While there will be no lasting damage to the dishwasher,
your dishes will not get clean using a dishwashing
detergent that is not formulated to work with dishwashers.

Consumer SupportTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions

Number

of Grains

Less than 4

4 to 8

8 to 12

Greater

than 12

Detergent Cups to Fill

Fill cup to soft line (1/3 full)

Fill cup to medium soft line (2/3 full)

Fill cup to medium hard line

(completely full)

Fill both main wash cup

and pre wash cup

11

Using the dishwasher.

LOW DETERGENT

SmartDispense

SENSING
WASHING

DRYING
SANITIZED
CLEAN

SmartDispense

TM

Detergent Dispenser (some models)

This dishwasher may have SmartDispenseTM, a feature
which automatically dispenses liquid automatic
dishwasher detergent into each cycle based on soil level
and water hardness. To utilize the SmartDispense
Detergent Dispenser, it must first be filled. Although any
liquid or gel automatic dishwashing detergent can be
used in the SmartDispenseTMsystem, all liquid or gel
automatic dishwashing detergents are not the same.
Most automatic dishwashing detergents are chlorine
bleach-based (such as Cascade®) while others contain
enzymes (such as Cascade Complete®).

Do not mix any chlorine bleach-based automatic
dishwashing detergent with any dishwashing
detergent containing enzymes as this could cause
the detergents to congeal and lead to blockage of
the SmartDispenseTMsystem.

Check the detergent label to determine if the detergent
is chlorine bleach-based or one that contains enzymes.
It is recommended that the same type of detergent be
used when refilling your SmartDispense

M

T

TM

system.

Aim the detergent bottle at the opening in the door and
begin to fill.

The dispenser will hold 45 oz of liquid dishwasher
detergent (standard size bottle).

CAUTION! Absolutely do not add

powder detergent, tablets or any liquid soap
or detergent normally used for washing hands

Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsConsumer Support Troubleshooting Tips

or dishes in a sink. Only use liquid or gel
detergent specifically designed for use in
an automatic dishwasher.

¡PRECAUCIÓN! Bajo ninguna

circunstancia agregue detergente en polvo,
tabletas o jabón o detergente líquido
normalmente utilizado para lavar manos o
platos en un fregadero. Sólo utilice detergente
líquido o en gel específicamente diseñado para
utilizar en lavaplatos automáticos.

Turn clockwise.

When full, replace the cap and turn clockwise until tight
to ensure no water enters the SmartDispense
If residue is left on the door, it will be washed off in the
next cycle.

An indicator light will turn on to notify you when the
dispenser needs to be filled again. After filling, the light
will not turn off until the door is closed. A full dispenser
will last approximately 1 month for the average user.

M

T

dispenser.

12

To open the dispenser for filling, push down and turn
the blue cap counterclockwise until the cap is loose.
Lift cap off.

Set the door at a comfortable angle to fill the dispenser.

Light Will
Turn On
When
Time to
Refill

NOTE: If you are not using SmartDispenseTMand you
want to turn the LOW DETERGENT LED light off, press
the ADDED HEAT pad 5 times within 3 seconds. You will
hear 3 beeps; then the light will go off. You can turn the
light back on by pressing the ADDED HEAT pad 5 times
within 3 seconds.

(appearance may vary)

M

SmartDispense

T

Detergent Dispenser

Water Hardness Calibration

GEAppliances.com

Prior to the first use, the dishwasher needs
to be calibrated for water hardness. Please follow
the directions below to calibrate the dishwasher
to the hardness of your tap water.

Determine the Hardness of Your Tap Water

In the bag that contained these instructions, you
should find a water hardness test strip package.
Read the instructions on the package, remove the
test strip and follow the instructions to determine
the hardness level of your tap water. You will use
this information to calibrate your dishwasher to
dispense the optimal amount of detergent.

Water hardness test strip indication.

SOFT

HARD

RED

0

1 RED

RED

2

3 RED

4 RED

alue to Enter

V

nto Dishwasher

i

1

2

3

4

5

Calibration of 12-Button Front-Control
Models With 3-Digit Display

Press at the same time.

Close and latch the door (lights on, dishwasher

1

not running).
Press the

2

HOURS pads at thesametimefor 3 seconds.
The display will show a number from 1 to 5. This
is the water hardnessvalue currently set.

Press the SANI WASH/ANTI-BACTERIAL pad to

3

raise the value or the NORMAL pad to lower
the value. Set the water hardness value to the
number determined with the test strip and table
above.

Once the water hardness is set, press the

4

START/RESET pad to save the setting and return

the dishwasher to normal operation.

SANIWASH/ANTI-BACTERIAL

Display

and DELAY

Calibration of 7-Button Top-Control Models
With 3-Digit Display

Display

Open the door and touch a pad (other than

1

START) to turn lights on.
Press the “Up” arrow pad and DELAY HOURS

2

pad at the same time for 3 seconds. The display
will show a number from 1 to 5. This is the water

hardness value currently set.

Press at the same time.

Press the “Up” arrow pad to raise the value

3

or the “Down” arrow pad to lower the value.
Set the water hardness value to the number
determined with the test strip and table at the left.

Once the water hardness is set, press the

4

START/RESET pad to save the setting and return
the dishwasher to normal operation.

Calibration ofModelsWithouta3-DigitDisplay

Front controls

Close and latch the door (lights on, dishwasher

1

not running).

Press the

2

HOURS pads at thesametimefor 3 seconds. All
lights will light up and you will hear 1 to 5 beeps.
The number of beeps indicates the current
hardness value.

To change the setting, press the DELAY HOURS

3

pad the number of times that corresponds to the
water hardness value determined at the left. The
control will beep each time you press the pad.

Once finished pressing the pad, you will hear a

4

confirmation with beeps for the number of times
you pressed the pad.

If the number of beeps is not what you desire,

5

start pressing the DELAY HOURS pad again to
reenter a new water hardness level.

Once the water hardness is set, press the

6

START/RESET pad to save the setting and return
the dishwasher to normal operation.

Top controls

Open the door and touch a pad to turn lights on.

1

Press the “Up” arrow pad and DELAY HOURS

2

pad at the same time for 3 seconds. All lights
will light up and you will hear 1 to 5 beeps. The
number of beeps indicates the current hardness
value.

To change the setting, press the DELAY HOURS

3

pad the number of times that corresponds to the
water hardness value determined at the left. The
control will beep each time you press the pad.

Once finished pressing the pad, you will hear a

4

confirmation with beeps for the number of times
you pressed the pad.

If the number of beeps is not what you desire,

5

start pressing the DELAY HOURS pad again to
reenter a new water hardness level.

Once the water hardness is set, press the

6

START/RESET pad to save the setting and return
the dishwasher to normal operation.

NOTE: You should recalibrate the dishwasher control
if water conditions change; for example, if a water
softener system is added or removed from your
home.

SANIWASH/ANTI-BACTERIAL

and DELAY

13

Consumer SupportTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions

Loading the dishwasher racks.

For best dishwashing results, follow these loading guidelines. Features and appearance of racks and silverware

askets may vary from your model.

b

Upper Rack

Although the upper rack is primarily for

lasses, cups and saucers, pots and pans can

g
be placed in this rack for effective cleaning.
Cups and glasses fit best along the sides. This
is also a secure place for dishwasher plastics.

The utility shelf (some models) may be placed
in the up or down position to add flexibility. A
wine glass holder (some models) secures wine
glasses for best washability.

Some models have contoured metal cup
shelves that can secure up to 12 wine glasses
(as shown).

Because wine glasses come in various sizes,
after loading, slowly push in the rack to make
sure they will clear the top of the dishwasher.

Some models have an Angled Rack System,
which allows you to angle your dishes, such
as coffee mugs, for better cleaning and
quicker drying. To position the tines, pull the

Operating Instructions Safety InstructionsConsumer Support Troubleshooting Tips

lever forward then drop the tines into
position, then release the lever.

The upper rack is good for all kinds of

dd-shaped utensils. Saucepans, mixing

o
bowls and other items should be placed face
down. Fold-down tines (on some models)
provide flexibility for extra-large and hard­to-fit items.

Secure larger dishwasher-safe plastics over
2 tines when possible.

Make sure small plastic items are secure so
they can’t fall onto the heater.

Be sure that items do not protrude through
the bottom of the rack and block rotation of
the middle spray arm. This could result in
poor wash performance for items in the
upper rack.

Check to make sure that no items will block
rotation of the wash arm.

NOTE:

The Single Rack Wash selection, on
models with this feature, washes the upper
rack only. If you use this feature, do not load
items in the lower rack.

Adjustable Upper Rack (on some models)

The standard position of your adjustable rack
is “up” which allows for maximum clearance
for your taller items in the lower rack. If you
have taller wine glasses, tumblers or other
items to place in the upper rack, you may
want to adjust the rack to the lower position.

To lower the rack, support the weight of the
rack with your hands as shown and press
both finger pads about 1/4″ toward the inside
of the rack as indicated and guide the rack
down to its lower position.

To raise the rack to the “up” position, pull up
on the center of the rack side frame until the
rack locks into place.

14

Lower Rack

GEAppliances.com

One-piece basket (on some models)

Three-piece basket (on some models)

Don’t let any
item extend through
bottom.

The lower rack is best used for plates, saucers
and cookware. Large items such as broiler
pans and baking racks should go along the
left-hand side. Load platters, pots and bowls

long the sides, in corners or in the back. The

a
soiled side of items should face the center of
the rack. If necessary, oversized glasses and
mugs can be placed in the lower rack to
maximize loading flexibility.

Also, be careful not to let a portion of an item
such as a pot or dish handle extend through
the bottom rack. This could block the wash
arm and cause poor washing results.

Silverware Basket

To load flatware, simply push the adjustable
handle to either side (on some models). Put
flatware in the removable basket with fork
and knife handles up to protect your hands.
Place spoons in the basket with handles
down. Mix knives, forks and spoons so they
don’t nest together. Distribute evenly. Small
plastic items, such as measuring spoons and
lids from small containers should go in the
bottom of the silverware basket with the
silverware on top.

The one-piece silverware basket (on some
models) can be placed in the front, right side
or back of the lower rack.

Fold-down tines (on some models) provide
flexibility for extra-large and hard-to-fit items.
The tines may be left in the up position or
folded down to customize the lower rack. Do

ot load large bowls or pots facedown in the

n
front left-hand corner. Items loaded in this
manner could prevent proper operation of
the manual detergent cup.

A variety of options is available regarding
the three-piece silverware basket (on some
models) in your dishwasher. The complete
basket is designed to fit on the right side of
the lower rack. Additionally, each end of
the basket is removable to add loading
flexibility to accommodate flatware and
lower rack capacity needs.

The lids of both end and middle baskets (on
some models) can be closed to contain small
items. Long items can be placed on the utility
shelf in the upper rack. Load flatware through
the slots in the silverware basket covers.

To remove end baskets, grasp the basket at
opposite corners and slide apart.

Consumer SupportTroubleshooting TipsOperating InstructionsSafety Instructions

15