Kenmore Elite Ultra Wash Dishwasher Manual

The Kenmore Elite Ultra Wash Dishwasher is a high-performance appliance featuring multiple wash cycles, energy-saving options, advanced soil sensors, stainless steel tub, quiet operation, adjustable racks, and delay start functionality. Designed for residential use with standard household electrical and plumbing connections. 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. Wash Cycles & Options 8. Care & Cleaning 9. Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Control Panel, Stainless Steel Interior, Upper and Lower Racks, Silverware Basket, Filter System, Detergent Dispenser, Rinse Aid Dispenser.

FeatureDescription
Ultra Wash SystemPowerful spray arms and targeted jets for thorough cleaning
Quiet OperationSound insulation for low noise during cycles
Soil SensorAutomatically adjusts wash time and temperature based on soil level
Adjustable Upper RackRack can be raised/lowered to accommodate tall items
Heated Dry OptionOptional heated drying for spot-free results
Delay StartProgram cycle to begin up to 24 hours later
Energy Saver DryUses residual heat for drying to save energy
Cycle Status LightsLED indicators show current cycle stage
Child LockPrevents accidental button presses during operation
Leak ProtectionFloat switch helps prevent overflow

Installation

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

  1. Position dishwasher: Slide into cabinet opening, level using adjustable feet.
  2. Connect water supply: Attach hot water line (120°F recommended) to inlet valve.
  3. Connect drain hose: Route to sink drain or garbage disposal with high loop.
  4. Electrical connection: Plug into grounded 120V, 60Hz outlet (dedicated circuit recommended).
  5. Secure to countertop: Use mounting brackets to prevent tipping.

WARNING! Installation should be performed by qualified technician. Ensure water and electrical connections are secure before use.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, run a complete cycle to clean interior.

  1. Remove shipping materials: Take out all tape, brackets, and foam from interior.
  2. Check water connection: Turn on water supply, check for leaks.
  3. Load detergent: Fill main detergent cup with dishwasher detergent.
  4. Add rinse aid: Fill rinse aid dispenser to MAX line.
  5. Run initial cycle: Select Normal cycle with Heated Dry, run empty to remove manufacturing residues.
  6. Set preferences: Configure default settings like sound volume, cycle defaults.

CAUTION! Use only detergents specifically designed for automatic dishwashers.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel or optional remote start. Control Panel: POWER, CYCLE SELECTION, OPTIONS, START/RESET, LOCK.

Display Indicators: Cycle progress, time remaining, error codes, option status.

Cycle Selection: NORMAL (everyday dishes), HEAVY (pots/pans), LIGHT (lightly soiled), RINSE ONLY (rinse without detergent), SANITIZE (high-temp wash), CHINA/CRYSTAL (gentle wash). Options: HEATED DRY, ENERGY SAVER, DELAY START (1-24 hours), HI-TEMP WASH, SANI RINSE. Settings: SOUND ON/OFF, DEFAULT CYCLE, RINSE AID LEVEL, WATER SOFTENER SETTING.

Loading the Dishwasher

Proper loading ensures optimal cleaning and drying results.

  1. Scrape food: Remove large food particles before loading.
  2. Lower rack: Place plates, pots, pans, and bowls facing center.
  3. Upper rack: Load glasses, cups, and smaller items between tines.
  4. Silverware basket: Mix utensils (some up, some down) for better cleaning.
  5. Adjust racks: Lower upper rack for tall items by releasing latches.
  6. Check spray arms: Ensure items don't block rotation of spray arms.

Tip: Place heavily soiled items facing toward spray arms. Do not overload dishwasher.

Wash Cycles & Options

Select appropriate cycle based on load type and soil level.

  1. Normal Cycle: For everyday dishes, approximately 2-hour duration.
  2. Heavy Cycle: For pots, pans, baked-on foods, includes pre-wash and extra hot wash.
  3. Light Cycle: For lightly soiled or rinse-and-hold items, shorter duration.
  4. Rinse Only: Rinses without detergent to prevent drying of food particles.
  5. Sanitize Cycle: Heats water to 155°F to kill bacteria, meets NSF standards.
  6. China/Crystal: Gentle wash with lower water pressure for delicate items.
  7. Options: Combine cycles with Heated Dry, Energy Saver, or Delay Start as needed.

WARNING! Plastic items on lower rack may warp from heat. Use upper rack for plastics.

Care & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Exterior: Wipe with soft, damp cloth. Use mild detergent if needed.
  2. Interior: Monthly cleaning with dishwasher cleaner or vinegar cycle.
  3. Spray arms: Remove and clean holes with toothpick to remove debris.
  4. Door gasket: Wipe clean to prevent mold and maintain seal.
  5. Filter system: Clean monthly by removing and rinsing under water.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on stainless steel interior.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance tasks to keep dishwasher operating efficiently.

Rinse Aid: Adjust dispenser setting based on water hardness. Higher settings for harder water.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Meets Underwriters Laboratories safety standards. Energy Star: Certified for energy efficiency when qualified cycles used. NSF/ANSI 184: Certified for sanitation performance. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4668. Model specific information on rating plate inside door.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Dishwasher won't startDoor not closed/powerEnsure door latched securely; check circuit breaker; verify power at outlet.
Poor cleaning resultsSpray arms/loading/detergentClean spray arm holes; reload dishes properly; use fresh detergent; check water temperature.
Water not drainingDrain clog/filterCheck drain hose for kinks; clean filter; ensure garbage disposal knockout plug removed.
Leaking waterDoor seal/connectionsCheck door gasket for debris; tighten water connections; ensure proper leveling.
Unusual noiseSpray arm/foreign objectCheck for utensils blocking spray arm; remove debris from pump area.
Dishes not dryingRinse aid/heated dryRefill rinse aid; select Heated Dry option; use rinse aid setting appropriate for water hardness.
Error codes displayedVarious system faultsConsult manual for specific error code meaning; reset by turning power off for 5 minutes.

Reset: Turn power off at circuit breaker for 5 minutes to reset control board.

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

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