Whirlpool WDF320PADB0, WDF320PADB1, WDF320PADB2, WDF320PADD0, WDF320PADD2 Owner’s Manual

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User Guide

Dishwasher

You can be killed or seriously injured if you don’t immediately follow instructions.

You can be killed or seriously injured if you don’t follow instructions.

All safety messages will tell you what the potential hazard is, tell you how to reduce the chance of injury, and tell you what can happen if the
instructions are not followed.

Your safety and the safety of others are very important.

We have provided many important safety messages in this manual and on your appliance. Always read and obey all safety messages.

This is the safety alert symbol.
This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others.
All safety messages will follow the safety a

lert symbol and either the word “DANGER” or “WARNING.”

These words mean:

DANGER

WARNING

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

■ Read all instructions before using the dishwasher.

■ Use the dishwasher only for its intended function.

■ Use only detergents or rinse agents recommended for use in a

dishwasher, and keep them out of the reach of children.

■ When loading items to be washed:

1) Locate sharp items so that they are not likely to damage the
door seal; and

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

■ Do not wash plastic items unless they are marked

“dishwasher safe” or the equivalent. For plastic items not so
marked, check the manufacturer's recommendations.

■ Do not touch the heating element during or immediately after

use.

■ Do not operate the dishwasher unless all enclosure panels are

properly in place.

■ Do not tamper with controls.

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

the dishwasher.

■ To reduce the risk of injury, do not allow children to play in or

on the 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 such a period, 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.

■ Remove the door or lid to the washing compartment

when removing an old dishwasher from service or
discarding it.

State of California Proposition 65 Warnings:
WARNING: This product contains one or more chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer.
WARNING: This product contains one or more chemicals known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.

In an effort to conserve natural resources, this dishwasher includes a condensed User Guide. A complete User
Instructions manual for your model can be downloaded at www.whirlpool.com/manuals.

For future reference; please make a note of your product model and serial numbers. You can find them on the label located
near the door on the right-hand or left-hand side of the dishwasher interior.

Model Number ___________________________ Serial Number _______________________________________
Register your dishwasher at www.whirlpool.com. In Canada, register your dishwasher at www.whirlpool.ca.

Para una version de estas instrucciones en español, visite www.whirlpool.com.

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W10644344B

Tip Over Hazard

Do not use dishwasher until completely installed.
Do not push down on open door.
Doing so can result in serious injury or cuts.

WARNING

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

■

For a grounded, cord-connected dishwasher:

The dishwasher must be grounded. In the event of a
malfunction or breakdown, grounding will reduce the risk of
electric shock by providing a path of least resistance for
electric current. The dishwasher is equipped with a cord
having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding
plug. The plug must be plugged into an appropriate outlet
that is installed and grounded in accordance with all local
codes and ordinances.

WARNING:

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 dishwasher is properly

grounded. Do not modify the plug provided with the

dishwasher; if it will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet

installed by a qualified electrician.

■

For a permanently connected dishwasher:

The dishwasher must be connected to a grounded metal,

permanent wiring system, or an equipment-grounding

conductor must be run with the circuit conductors and

connected to the equipment-grounding terminal or lead on

the dishwasher.

KEY USAGE TIPS

Filtration system

Upper Filter
Assembly

Lower Filter

P

U

S

H

D

O

W

N

&

T

U

R

N

L

O

C

K

U

N

L

O

C

K

Your dishwasher has latest
technology in dishwasher filtration.
This filtration system minimizes
sound and optimizes water and
energy conservation while providing
superior cleaning.

The filter system consists of two
parts, an upper filter assembly
and lower filter.

IMPORTANT: To avoid damage to dishwasher, do not operate your
dishwasher without filters properly installed. Be sure lower filter is
securely in place and upper filter assembly is locked into place.
If the upper assembly turns freely, it is not locked into place.

Filter maintenance

The filters may need to be cleaned when:

■ Visible objects or soils are on upper

filter assembly.

■ Dishes feel gritty to the touch.

See “Filtration System” in full User
Instructions for complete removal and
maintenance schedule.

IMPORTANT: Do not use wire brush,
scouring pad, etc., as they may damage
the filters.

Rinse filter under running water until soils are
removed. If you have hard to remove soils or
calcium deposits from hard water, a soft
brush may be required.

Drying – Rinse aid is essential.

You must use a drying agent such
as a rinse aid for good drying
performance. Rinse aid along with
the Heat Dry option will provide best
drying and avoid excessive moisture
in dishwasher interior.

Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency is gained by extending cycle time and reducing the
amount of wattage and water used during your dishwasher’s cycle. For
exceptional cleaning, cycles are longer due to the soak and pauses.

Efficient dishwashers run longer to save water and energy, just as
driving a car slower saves on gas.

Press Start/Resume every time
youaddadish.

IMPORTANT: If anyone opens the door (such as, for
adding a dish, even during the Delay Hours option),
Start/Resume must be pressed each time.

If Start/Resume is located on top of door:
Push door firmly closed within 4 seconds of
pressing Start/Resume. If door is not closed
within 4 seconds, the Start/Resume button LED
will flash, an audible tone will be heard, and cycle
will not start.

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Recommended detergent

OPERATING YOUR DISHWASHER

The United States and Canada have passed a restriction limiting the amount of phosphorus (phosphates)
in household dishwasher detergents. Major manufacturers have reformulated their dishwasher detergent
for this change in detergents as another step in eco-conscious awareness. With these recent changes,
it is recommended to use high quality tablets or packs for convenience and improved performance.

1.Prepare and Load the Dishwasher

Upper rack Lower rack

IMPORTANT: Remove leftover food, bones, toothpicks, and other hard
items from dishes. Remove labels from containers before washing.

■ Make sure when dishwasher door is closed, no items are blocking

detergent dispenser.

■ Items should be loaded with soiled surfaces facing down and

inward to the spray as shown in the graphics above. This will
improve cleaning and drying results. Angle dirtiest dish surface
downward, allowing space for water to flow up through rack and
between dishes.

■ Avoid overlapping items like bowls or plates that may trap food.

■ Place plastics, small plates, and glasses in upper rack.

■ Wash only items marked “dishwasher safe.”

■ To avoid thumping/clattering noises during operation: Load dishes

so they do not touch one another. Make sure lightweight load items
are secured in racks.

■ When loading silverware, always place sharp

items pointing down and avoid “nesting” as
shown. If your silverware does not fit into the
designated slots, flip covers up and mix
silverware types to keep them separated.

2.Check That All Arms Spin Freely

3.Add Detergent

■ Use automatic dishwasher detergent only. Add powder, liquid,

or tablet detergent just before starting a cycle.

■ Fresh automatic dishwasher

detergent results in better
cleaning. Store tightly closed
detergent container in a cool,
dry place.

Premeasured Detergents

Many detergents now come in
premeasured forms (gel packs,
tablets, or powder packs). These forms are suitable for all hardness and
soil levels. Always place premeasured detergents in main compartment
and close lid.

Dishwasher detergent tablets and packs have been proven better than
powder, liquid, or gel detergents at reducing filming on dishes. Using
tablets or packs will start to reduce or eliminate white film over time.
Also, by using a rinse aid, you can minimize repeat buildup of white film.

■ Use slots in the covers (if provided) and suggested loading patterns

to keep your silverware separated for optimum wash.

NOTE: Silverware basket may vary by model.

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Powder and Gels

Full

Add

CYCLE GUIDE

■ The amount of detergent to use depends on:

How much soil remains on the items – Heavily soiled loads require
more detergent.

The hardness of the water – If you use too little detergent in hard
water, dishes won't be clean. If you use too much in soft water,
glassware will etch.

Soft to Medium Water (0-6 grains per U.S. gallon) [typical water
softener water and some city water]

Medium to Hard Water (7-12 grains per U.S. gallon) [well water
and some city water]

■ Depending on your water hardness, fill the Main Wash section

of the dispenser as shown. Fill the Pre-Wash section to the level
shown, if needed.

NOTE: Follow instructions on the package when using other
dishwasher detergent types.

4.Add Rinse Aid

■ Your dishwasher is designed to use rinse aid for good drying

performance. Without rinse aid, your dishes and dishwasher interior
will have excessive moisture. The Heat Dry option will not perform
as well without rinse aid.

■ Rinse aid keeps water from forming droplets that can dry

as spots or streaks. It also improves drying by allowing
water to drain off of dishes after final rinse.

■ To add rinse aid, turn the

dispenser cap 1/4 turn to the left
and lift off. Pour rinse aid into the
opening until indicator level is at
“Full.” Replace dispenser cap and
turn to “Lock.” Make sure cap is
fully locked.

NOTE: For most water conditions, the factory setting will give
good results.

■ Check water hardness level to ensure no rings or

spots on your dishware before adding rinse aid or
adjusting the factory setting.

■ If you are experiencing poor drying performance,

you may want to try a higher setting.

Turn the arrow adjuster inside the dispenser to change rinse aid setting.

5.Select a Cycle (cycles vary by model)

Efficient dishwashers run longer to save water and energy, just as
driving a car slower saves on gas. Typical cycle time is approximately
2¹⁄₂ hours, but can take less or more time to complete depending
on selections.

6.Select Options (options vary by model)

You can customize your cycles by pressing the options desired. If you
change your mind, press the option again to turn off the option. Not all
options are available for every cycle. If an invalid option is selected for
a given cycle, the lights will flash.

7.Start or Resume a Cycle

NOTE: Run hot water at the sink nearest your dishwasher until the
water is hot. Turn off water.

■ If the Start/Resume button is located on top of door, push door

firmly closed within 4 seconds of pressing Start/Resume. If door
is not closed within 4 seconds, the Start/Resume button LED will
flash, an audible tone will be heard, and cycle will not start.

IMPORTANT: If anyone opens the door (such as, for adding a dish,
even during the Delay Hours option), the Start/Resume button must
be pressed each time.

■ If your Start/Resume button is located on front of door: push door

firmly closed. The door latches automatically. Select the wash
cycle, options, and press START/RESUME or press START/
RESUME to repeat the same cycle and options as in previous
wash cycle.

This information covers several different models. Your dishwasher may not have all of the cycles and options described.

CYCLES SOIL LEVEL WASH TIME (MINS.)

Use for hard-to-clean, heavily soiled pots, pans, casseroles,
and tableware.

This cycle with only the Heat Dry option selected, and without
other options selected, is recommended to completely wash
and dry a full load of normally soiled dishes. The energy usage
label is based on this cycle and option combination.

For fast results, 1 Hr Wash will clean dishes using slightly more
water and energy. Select the Heat Dry option to provide best
drying performance.

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All soil levels 150 210 7.5 (28.3)

Light to Medium 120 180 3.0 (11.4)

Heavy 150 210 7.5 (28.1)

All soil levels 60 65 5.8 (21.9)

W/O OPTIONS

TYPICAL MAX

WATER
USAGE

GALLONS

(LITERS)

Control

Lock

OPTIONS CAN BE

Raises main wash temperature to improve
cleaning for loads containing tough,
baked-on food.

Dries dishes with heat. This option, with the
use of rinse aid, will provide the best drying
performance. Plastic items are less likely to
deform when loaded in the top rack. Use
Heat Dry for optimum drying performance
or turn the Heat Dry option off for air dry.

Runs dishwasher at a later time. Select a
wash cycle and options. Press 4 HR DELAY.
Press START/RESUME. Close door firmly.

NOTE: Anytime door is opened (such as, to
add a dish), Start/Resume must be pressed
again to resume delay countdown.

Avoids unintended use of dishwasher between cycles, or cycle and option changes during a cycle.
To turn on Control Lock, press and hold 4 HR DELAY for 3 seconds. The Control Lock light will stay on for a short time, indicating

that it is activated, and all buttons are disabled. If you press any button while your dishwasher is locked, the light flashes 3 times.
The dishwasher door can still be opened/closed while the controls are locked.

To turn off Control Lock, press and hold 4 HR DELAY for 3 seconds. The light turns off.
NOTE: If your model requires you to press and hold 4 HR DELAY to lock controls, the control locked LED will be on or off to indicate

whether the Control Lock is active or not.

SELECTED

WITH

Heavy

Normal

Available with

any cycle

Available with

any cycle

WHAT IT DOES ADDED TIME TO CYCLE ADDED

TYPICAL MAX

Raises main wash
temperature from
105°F (41°C) to
135°F (54°C).

Uses heating
element and vents
to speed drying
times. Heat Dry
option defaults to On
when any cycle is
selected, except for
1 Hr Wash.

Delays start of a
cycle up to 4 hours

.

35 45 0 to 3.7

52 52 0

240 240 0

WATER

GALLONS

(LITERS)

(0 to 14.0)

Control Purpose Comments

Press to start or
resume a wash
cycle.

Press to cancel
wash cycle.

To follow progress
of your dishwasher
cycle.
NOTE: Indicators
shown are not
available on all
models.

If the door is opened during a cycle or the power is interrupted, the Start/Resume button LED flashes. Cycle
will not resume until door is closed and Start/Resume is pressed.

NOTE: If Start/Resume button is located on top of door, push door firmly closed within 4 seconds of pressing
Start/Resume. If door is not closed within 4 seconds, the Start/Resume button LED will flash, an audible tone
will be heard (on some top control models), and the cycle will not start.

Close the door firmly. The dishwasher starts a 2-minute drain (if needed). Let dishwasher drain completely.

The Clean indicator glows when a cycle is finished.

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