Kenmore Elite Dishwasher Repair Manual

The Kenmore Elite Dishwasher is a high-performance kitchen appliance designed for efficient cleaning and quiet operation. This manual provides comprehensive guidance for troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of common issues. Below are key sections covering safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting procedures.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation Guidelines 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Water Supply 7. Operating Cycles 8. Maintenance Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Control Panel, Spray Arms, Filter System, Heating Element, Door Latch, Drain Pump, and Detergent Dispenser.

FeatureDescription
Control PanelDigital display with touch controls for cycle selection
Spray ArmsUpper and lower rotating arms for thorough cleaning
Filter SystemSelf-cleaning filter for food particle removal
Heating ElementHeats water for sanitizing and drying
Door LatchSafety lock mechanism during operation
Drain PumpRemoves wastewater from the tub
Detergent DispenserAutomatic release of detergent and rinse aid
Quiet OperationSound insulation for reduced noise
Energy Star RatedEnergy-efficient operation
Delay StartProgrammable start time up to 24 hours

Installation Guidelines

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper location and connections.

  1. Select location: Level floor under counter, near water supply and drain.
  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 air gap.
  4. Electrical connection: Plug into grounded 120V outlet (dedicated circuit recommended).
  5. Level the unit: Adjust leveling legs to prevent rocking.

WARNING! Disconnect power and water before installation. Ensure all connections are secure to prevent leaks.

First-Time Setup

After installation, prepare dishwasher for initial use.

  1. Remove shipping materials: Take out all interior packaging and tape.
  2. Run test cycle: Add detergent and run a normal cycle without dishes to clean interior.
  3. Set preferences: Configure options like rinse aid dispenser level and sound settings.
  4. Load dishes properly: Follow loading guidelines for optimal cleaning.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel display. Buttons: POWER, CYCLE SELECT, OPTIONS, START/PAUSE, DELAY START.

Display Indicators: Cycle progress, time remaining, error codes, rinse aid level.

Cycle Settings: NORMAL (2-hour wash), HEAVY (for pots/pans), LIGHT (quick wash), RINSE ONLY, SANITIZE (high-temp). Options: HEATED DRY, HIGH TEMP WASH, EXTRA SCRUB, DELAY START (1-24 hours). Settings Menu: Language, sound volume, rinse aid dispenser level, factory reset.

Connecting Water Supply

Proper water connection is essential for operation.

  1. Turn off water supply at shut-off valve.
  2. Connect supply line: Use braided stainless steel hose to inlet valve.
  3. Secure connections: Tighten with adjustable wrench (do not overtighten).
  4. Check for leaks: Turn on water and inspect connections before running dishwasher.

Tip: Use Teflon tape on threaded connections. Ensure water pressure is 20-120 psi.

Operating Cycles

Select appropriate cycle for load type.

  1. Load dishes: Scrape food, place items properly facing spray arms.
  2. Add detergent: Fill main cup with powder or pod; use rinse aid dispenser if desired.
  3. Select cycle: Press CYCLE button until desired cycle lights up.
  4. Add options: Press OPTIONS for Heated Dry, Sani Rinse, etc.
  5. Start: Close door firmly, press START/PAUSE.
  6. Pause/Stop: Press START/PAUSE to pause; hold 3 seconds to cancel cycle.
  7. Unload: Wait for cycle complete signal; open door slightly to vent steam before unloading.

WARNING! Do not open door during wash cycle. Hot water and steam can cause burns.

Maintenance Features

Self-cleaning filter: Remove and rinse monthly. Rinse aid dispenser: Refill when indicator shows low. Diagnostic mode: Hold HEATED DRY and SANITIZE buttons for 3 seconds to enter diagnostic mode for error code display.

Care & Cleaning

Monthly maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Clean interior: Run empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner or vinegar.
  2. Clean spray arms: Remove and check for clogs in spray holes.
  3. Clean door seal: Wipe with damp cloth to remove debris.
  4. Clean filter: Remove, rinse under running water.

CAUTION! Unplug before cleaning. Do not use abrasive cleaners on stainless steel interior.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL 749 safety standards. Energy Star: Meets energy efficiency guidelines. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. 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 startDoor not latched, power issueEnsure door closed securely; check circuit breaker; verify power cord plugged in.
Poor cleaning resultsSpray arm clogged, low water tempClean spray arms; ensure water heater set to 120°F; use proper detergent amount.
Water not drainingDrain hose clogged, drain pump issueCheck drain hose for kinks/clogs; clean filter; inspect drain pump for obstruction.
Leaking waterDoor seal damaged, loose connectionsInspect door gasket; tighten water connections; check tub for cracks.
Unusual noiseSpray arm hitting dishes, pump issueRe-load dishes properly; check for foreign objects in pump; ensure level.
Error codes displayedSensor failure, component issueNote error code (F1-F9); consult manual for specific code meaning; reset power.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes or turn off circuit breaker for 1 minute to reset control board.

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

Kenmore Elite Dishwasher Repair Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025