Kenmore Elite Dishwasher Manual

The Kenmore Elite Dishwasher is a high-performance kitchen appliance featuring multiple wash cycles, energy-saving options, advanced soil sensors, quiet operation, stainless steel interior, adjustable racks, delay start, heated dry, sanitize rinse, and child lock. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Control panel with digital display, upper and lower racks, silverware basket, detergent dispenser, rinse aid dispenser, soil sensor, filtration system, and spray arms.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper electrical and plumbing connections.

1. Remove shipping materials: Take off tape, brackets, and foam blocks.
2. Level the dishwasher: Adjust leveling legs for stability.
3. Connect water supply: Attach hot water line (120°F recommended).
4. Connect drain hose: Use high loop or air gap to prevent backflow.
5. Electrical connection: Plug into grounded 120V outlet or hardwire per local codes.
6. Secure to counter: Use mounting brackets to prevent tipping.

WARNING! Installation should be performed by qualified technician. Ensure water and electrical connections are secure to prevent leaks or shock hazard.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, run a complete cycle without dishes to clean interior.

1. Remove all packing materials from interior.
2. Fill rinse aid dispenser: Open cap, fill to MAX line, close securely.
3. Add detergent: Use recommended dishwasher detergent (not regular dish soap).
4. Select Normal cycle with Heated Dry option.
5. Start cycle and allow to complete.
6. After cycle, check for leaks around connections.

CAUTION! Use only dishwasher-specific detergents. Regular dish soap will create excessive suds.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 24" W x 24" D x 34" H (standard under-counter).
• Capacity: 14 place settings.
• Water Usage: 3-6 gallons per cycle depending on settings.
• Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, 15A circuit.
• Water Pressure: 20-120 psi required.
• Water Temperature: 120°F minimum for optimal cleaning.
• Noise Level: 48 dBA (Quiet series).
• Wash Cycles: 6 main cycles plus options.
• Drying System: Heated dry with fan-assisted circulation.
• Filter Type: Self-cleaning with manual clean option.

Controls and Settings

Control Panel: POWER, CYCLE SELECTION (Normal, Heavy, Light, Rinse, Sanitize), OPTIONS (Heated Dry, High Temp, Sani Rinse, Delay Start), START/RESET, CHILD LOCK.

Cycle Descriptions:

• Normal: For everyday loads with medium soil.
• Heavy: For pots, pans, and heavily soiled items.
• Light: For lightly soiled loads or quick wash.
• Rinse Only: Rinses without detergent or dry cycle.
• Sanitize: Uses high temperature water to kill bacteria.
• Delay Start: Delays cycle start up to 24 hours.

Options: Heated Dry (default on), High Temp Wash (boosts water temp), Sani Rinse (final rinse at 155°F), Extra Quiet (reduces noise).

Loading the Dishwasher

Proper loading ensures optimal cleaning and prevents damage.

1. Scrape off large food particles (no pre-rinsing needed with soil sensor).
2. Load lower rack: Pots, pans, plates, bowls (facing center).
3. Load upper rack: Cups, glasses, small bowls, plastics.
4. Silverware basket: Mix utensils (some up, some down) for better cleaning.
5. Adjust upper rack: Lower for tall items, raise for clearance below.
6. Ensure items don't block spray arms or detergent dispenser.

Tip: Place heavily soiled items facing spray arms. Delicate items on top rack only.

Cycle Selection

Choose cycle based on soil level and item type.

1. Add detergent: Fill main cup for wash cycle, pre-wash cup for heavy soil.
2. Select cycle: Press CYCLE button until desired cycle lights up.
3. Add options: Press OPTION buttons for additional features.
4. Close door firmly: Cycle will not start if door is ajar.
5. Press START: Control panel will display cycle progress.
6. To pause: Open door during cycle (closing resumes after 4 seconds).
7. To cancel: Press and hold START/RESET for 3 seconds.

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

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Clean filter monthly: Remove lower rack, twist filter assembly counterclockwise, rinse under water.
2. Check spray arms: Ensure holes are not clogged; remove and clean if needed.
3. Wipe door gasket: Clean with damp cloth to maintain seal.
4. Run cleaning cycle monthly: Use dishwasher cleaner or 2 cups vinegar on hot cycle.
5. Check rinse aid level: Refill when indicator light comes on.
6. Clean exterior: Use mild detergent and soft cloth; avoid abrasives.

CAUTION! Unplug dishwasher before performing any maintenance. Do not use sharp objects to clean spray arm holes.

Safety Features

Child Lock: Press and hold CHILD LOCK for 3 seconds to activate/deactivate. Door Lock: Automatically locks during cycles with water heating. Overflow Protection: Float switch stops water if detected. Thermal Fuse: Prevents overheating. Leak Detection: Some models have sensors to detect leaks.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Meets safety standards. Energy Star: Certified for energy efficiency. NSF/ANSI 184: Certified for sanitation performance. California Proposition 65 Warning: Contains chemicals known to cause cancer/reproductive harm. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-422-1230.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes or turn off circuit breaker for 1 minute.

Service: 1-800-422-1230; www.kenmore.com