Kenmore Elite Dishwasher User Manual

The Kenmore Elite Dishwasher is a high-performance kitchen appliance designed for efficient cleaning and sanitizing of dishes, glassware, and utensils. It features multiple wash cycles, energy-saving options, adjustable racks, soil sensors, quiet operation, delay start, heated dry, and child 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 Detergents & Rinse Aids 8. Care & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stainless steel interior, Control Panel, Upper and Lower Racks, Silverware Basket, Filter System, Detergent Dispenser, Rinse Aid Dispenser, Drain Pump, and Heating Element.

Feature	Description
Wash Cycles	Heavy, Normal, Light, Rinse Only, Sanitize, Delay Start
Soil Sensor	Automatically adjusts wash time and water usage based on soil level
Quiet Operation	Sound insulation for reduced noise during operation
Adjustable Upper Rack	Can be raised or lowered to accommodate tall items
Heated Dry	Optional heated drying cycle for spot-free dishes
Child Lock	Locks control panel to prevent accidental changes
Energy Saver	Reduces energy consumption by using less hot water
Delay Start	Delays start of wash cycle up to 24 hours
Filter System	Self-cleaning filter traps food particles
Rinse Aid Dispenser	Automatically dispenses rinse aid for better drying

Installation

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

Location: Place in a level, sturdy location under countertop.
Water Connection: Connect hot water supply line (120°F recommended).
Drain Connection: Connect drain hose to sink drain or garbage disposal.
Electrical Connection: Plug into grounded 120V, 15-amp outlet.
Leveling: Adjust leveling legs to ensure dishwasher is level.

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

First-Time Setup

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

Remove shipping materials: Take out all tape and packaging from interior.
Check water connection: Turn on water supply and check for leaks.
Add detergent and rinse aid: Fill detergent dispenser and rinse aid reservoir.
Run initial cycle: Select Normal cycle and start without dishes.
Set preferences: Configure default settings like heated dry and sound volume.

CAUTION! Do not use dishwasher until initial cycle is complete. Keep area well-ventilated.

Specifications

Capacity: Standard place settings: 14-16.
Water Consumption: 2.5-6 gallons per cycle depending on settings.
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, 15A dedicated circuit.
Water Pressure: 20-120 psi required.
Noise Level: 44-50 dBA (Quiet Series).
Dimensions (HxWxD): 34.5" x 23.75" x 24.5" (under counter).
Wash Cycles: Heavy, Normal, Light, Rinse Only, Sanitize.
Options: Heated Dry, Delay Start (1-24 hours), Child Lock.
Warranty: 1-year limited parts and labor, 10-year limited on tub.

Controls and Settings

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

Cycle Details: Heavy (for pots/pans, 2+ hours), Normal (daily dishes, 1.5 hours), Light (lightly soiled, 1 hour), Rinse Only (rinse without detergent), Sanitize (high-temp wash, kills 99.9% bacteria).

Options: Heated Dry (turns on heating element for drying), Delay Start (postpones start time), Child Lock (disables controls). Settings: Defaults can be adjusted in settings mode (hold START and POWER for 3 seconds).

Loading the Dishwasher

Proper loading ensures optimal cleaning and prevents damage.

Scrape off large food particles; no pre-rinsing needed.
Lower Rack: Place plates, pots, pans, and larger items facing center.
Upper Rack: Place cups, glasses, bowls, and plastic items.
Silverware Basket: Mix utensils (some up, some down) to prevent nesting.
Adjust Upper Rack: Lower for tall items on bottom; raise for large bowls on top.
Ensure spray arms can rotate freely; no items blocking them.

Tip: Place delicate items on top rack, heavily soiled items facing spray arms.

Using Detergents & Rinse Aids

Use only dishwasher-specific detergents and rinse aids.

Detergent: Fill main dispenser with powder, gel, or pods. Use correct amount based on soil level and water hardness.
Rinse Aid: Fill reservoir until indicator shows "Full." Adjust dispenser setting (1-6) based on water hardness.
For hard water: Use more detergent and higher rinse aid setting.
Do not use hand soap, laundry detergent, or abrasive cleaners.

WARNING! Keep detergents out of reach of children. Close detergent dispenser firmly to prevent premature release.

Care & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Exterior: Wipe with damp cloth and mild detergent; dry immediately.
Interior: Monthly, run empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner or vinegar.
Spray Arms: Check monthly for clogs; clean holes with toothpick.
Filter: Remove and rinse under warm water monthly.
Door Gasket: Wipe clean to prevent leaks and odors.

CAUTION! Unplug before cleaning. Do not use abrasive pads or harsh chemicals on stainless steel interior.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL 749 safety standards. Energy Star: Meets ENERGY STAR® criteria for energy efficiency. NSF Certified: Sanitization cycle meets NSF/ANSI 184 for residential dishwashers. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4668.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Dishwasher won't start	Power/child lock	Ensure plugged in; circuit breaker on; disable child lock.
Poor cleaning	Loading/detergent	Check spray arms for blockage; use correct detergent amount; ensure water is hot enough.
Water not draining	Drain clog	Check drain hose for kinks; clean filter; ensure garbage disposal is clear.
Leaking water	Door seal/connection	Ensure door closed properly; check door gasket for damage; tighten water connections.
Unusual noise	Foreign objects	Check for utensils or debris in pump or spray arms.
Detergent not dispensing	Dispenser latch	Ensure dispenser closes fully; check for obstruction.

Reset: Unplug for 1 minute, then restart. For persistent issues, run diagnostic mode (hold HEATED DRY and NORMAL for 5 seconds).

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