Kenmore Dishwasher Owners Manual

The Kenmore Dishwasher is a high-efficiency household appliance designed for reliable dish cleaning with multiple wash cycles, energy-saving features, and quiet operation. It includes standard wash cycles, adjustable racks, soil sensors, delay start, heated dry options, and child safety lock. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Loading the Dishwasher 7. Using Wash Cycles 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Control Panel, Upper and Lower Racks, Silverware Basket, Filter System, Detergent Dispenser, Rinse Aid Dispenser, Spray Arms.

FeatureDescription
Control PanelTouch or button controls for cycle selection and options
Upper RackAdjustable for cups, glasses, and small plates
Lower RackDesigned for plates, bowls, and larger items
Silverware BasketRemovable basket for utensils
Filter SystemSelf-cleaning or manual filter for food particles
Detergent DispenserHolds detergent, tabs, or pods
Rinse Aid DispenserImproves drying and reduces spots
Spray ArmsUpper and lower arms for water distribution
Heated DryOptional heating element for drying dishes
Delay StartPostpone cycle start up to 24 hours

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper location and connections.

  1. Choose location: Under counter or freestanding with adequate space.
  2. Connect water supply: Attach hot water line (120°F recommended) to inlet valve.
  3. Connect drain hose: Secure to sink drain or garbage disposal with high loop.
  4. Electrical connection: Plug into grounded 120V outlet (dedicated circuit recommended).
  5. Level the dishwasher: Adjust leveling legs for stability.

WARNING! Disconnect power and water before installation. Follow local plumbing and electrical codes.

First-Time Setup

After installation, prepare dishwasher for first use.

  1. Remove shipping materials: Take out all foam blocks and tape from interior.
  2. Run a test cycle: Add detergent and run a normal cycle without dishes to clean interior.
  3. Set water hardness: Adjust setting on control panel if available for optimal performance.
  4. Fill rinse aid: Open dispenser and fill with rinse aid to MAX line.
  5. Load detergent: Use recommended detergent type (powder, gel, or tabs).

CAUTION! Do not use regular dish soap; use only dishwasher detergent to prevent suds overflow.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel buttons or dial. Common buttons: POWER, CYCLE SELECT, OPTIONS, START/PAUSE, DELAY START.

Cycle Guide: NORMAL for everyday dishes, HEAVY for pots/pans, LIGHT for lightly soiled, RINSE ONLY for rinsing without detergent, SANITIZE for high-temperature cleaning.

Options: HEATED DRY for improved drying, HIGH TEMP WASH for tough soils, DELAY START to run later, CHILD LOCK to prevent accidental changes. Settings: Water hardness, sound on/off, rinse aid level indicator.

Loading the Dishwasher

Proper loading ensures optimal cleaning and prevents damage.

  1. Scrape off large food particles; no pre-rinsing needed for most cycles.
  2. Lower rack: Place plates, bowls, pots, and pans facing center.
  3. Upper rack: Load cups, glasses, and small bowls; secure stemware.
  4. Silverware basket: Mix utensils (some up, some down) for better cleaning.
  5. Avoid blocking spray arms: Ensure items do not obstruct rotation.
  6. Use recommended detergent: Fill dispenser according to soil level.

Tip: Place plastic items on top rack away from heating element to prevent melting.

Using Wash Cycles

Select cycle based on soil level and dish type.

  1. Turn on dishwasher: Press POWER button.
  2. Select cycle: Press CYCLE button until desired cycle lights up.
  3. Add options: Press OPTIONS for Heated Dry, Sani Rinse, etc.
  4. Close door firmly: Latch should engage.
  5. Start cycle: Press START; dishwasher will begin fill and wash.
  6. Pause/stop: Press START/PAUSE to interrupt; open door to stop immediately.
  7. After cycle: Wait for cool down if Heated Dry used; unload bottom rack first.

WARNING! Do not open door during high-temperature cycles to avoid steam burns.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

  1. Clean filter: Remove and rinse filter monthly (check manual for type).
  2. Check spray arms: Clear holes of debris; ensure free rotation.
  3. Wipe door gasket: Clean with damp cloth to prevent leaks.
  4. Run cleaning cycle: Use dishwasher cleaner or vinegar monthly to remove buildup.
  5. Inspect racks: Repair loose tines with rack repair kit if needed.

CAUTION! Unplug or turn off power at breaker before servicing. Do not use abrasive cleaners.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed; complies with NSF/ANSI 184 for residential dishwashers. ENERGY STAR® certified where applicable. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4668.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Dishwasher won't startPower/door latchEnsure power is on; close door firmly; check child lock.
Poor cleaningSpray arms/filter/detergentClean spray arm holes; check filter; use fresh detergent.
Water not drainingDrain hose clogCheck hose for kinks; clean filter; ensure garbage disposal clear.
Leaking waterDoor seal/overfillingInspect door gasket; ensure level; check float switch.
Unusual noiseSpray arm obstructionCheck for utensils blocking spray arms; tighten loose parts.
Dishes not dryRinse aid/Heated Dry optionRefill rinse aid; select Heated Dry; load dishes for water drainage.

Reset: Turn off power for 1 minute, then restart.

Service: 1-800-469-4668; www.kenmore.com

Kenmore Dishwasher Owners Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025