Kenmore Ultra Wash III Dishwasher Manual

The Kenmore Ultra Wash III Dishwasher is a high-performance appliance featuring multiple wash cycles, energy-saving options, adjustable racks, soil sensors, and quiet operation. It includes features like Ultra Wash for heavily soiled loads, heated dry, delay start, and a stainless steel tub. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, 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, Drain Pump.

Feature	Description
Ultra Wash Cycle	Intensive cleaning for heavily soiled pots and pans
Heated Dry Option	Uses heat to dry dishes completely
Delay Start	Programs dishwasher to start at a later time
Soil Sensor	Automatically adjusts wash time based on soil level
Quiet Operation	Sound insulation for reduced noise
Adjustable Upper Rack	Can be raised/lowered to accommodate tall items
Stainless Steel Tub	Durable and resistant to stains and odors
Energy Saver Dry	Uses residual heat for drying to save energy
Rinse Aid Dispenser	Improves drying and reduces spots
Child Lock	Locks control panel to prevent accidental changes

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure location near water supply, drain, and power outlet.

Connect water supply: Attach hot water line to inlet valve (recommended water temperature 120°F).
Connect drain hose: Secure to sink drain or garbage disposal using provided clamp.
Level the dishwasher: Adjust leveling legs so unit is stable and door closes properly.
Connect electrical: Plug into dedicated 120V, 15-amp grounded outlet.

WARNING! Installation should be performed by a qualified technician. Ensure water connections are tight to prevent leaks.

First-Time Setup

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

Remove shipping materials: Take out all tape and brackets from interior.
Load detergent and rinse aid: Fill dispensers with recommended products.
Select cycle: Choose Normal Wash with Heated Dry.
Start cycle: Close door and press Start. Allow cycle to complete.

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

Specifications

Capacity: Standard place settings for 12.
Water Consumption: Approximately 3-6 gallons per cycle depending on settings.
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz, 15-amp dedicated circuit.
Water Pressure: 20-120 psi required.
Noise Level: 50 dBA (Quiet Series).
Dimensions (HxWxD): 34.5" x 23.75" x 24.5".
Wash Cycles: Ultra Wash, Heavy, Normal, Light, Rinse Only, China/Crystal.
Options: Heated Dry, Energy Saver Dry, Delay Start (1-24 hours), Sani Rinse.
Warranty: 1-year limited parts and labor.

Controls and Settings

Control Panel: POWER, CYCLE SELECTION (Ultra Wash, Heavy, Normal, Light, Rinse Only, China/Crystal), OPTIONS (Heated Dry, Energy Saver, Sani Rinse, Delay Start), START/RESET, CHILD LOCK.

Cycle Guide: Ultra Wash (2.5 hours, high temp wash for baked-on soils), Heavy (2 hours), Normal (1.5 hours, everyday dishes), Light (1 hour, lightly soiled), Rinse Only (no detergent), China/Crystal (gentle wash for delicate items).

Options: Heated Dry (uses heating element), Energy Saver Dry (fan-assisted), Sani Rinse (raises final rinse temp to 155°F), Delay Start (program start 1-24 hours later). Settings: Sound On/Off, Rinse Aid level adjustment (1-6), Default cycle memory.

Loading the Dishwasher

Proper loading ensures optimal cleaning and prevents damage.

Scrape off large food particles; no pre-rinsing needed with soil sensor.
Lower rack: Place plates, pots, pans, and larger items facing center.
Upper rack: Cups, glasses, bowls, and plastic items. Adjust height if needed.
Silverware basket: Mix utensils handle-up/down; separate silver from stainless steel.
Ensure spray arms rotate freely and nothing blocks detergent dispenser.

Tip: Load similar items together and avoid nesting to allow water flow.

Using Wash Cycles

Select cycle based on soil level and dish type.

Add detergent: Use recommended amount in main wash compartment.
Add rinse aid: Fill dispenser; adjust setting based on water hardness.
Select cycle: Press CYCLE button until desired cycle lights up.
Add options: Press OPTIONS for Heated Dry, Delay Start, etc.
Start: Close door firmly and press START. Display shows time remaining.
Pause: Open door during cycle to add forgotten items; close to resume.
Cycle complete: Signal sounds; wait a few minutes before unloading to avoid steam.

WARNING! Do not open door during high-temperature cycles; hot steam can cause burns.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures performance and longevity.

Clean filter: Remove lower rack, twist and lift out filter assembly; rinse under water monthly.
Clean spray arms: Check for clogs in holes; remove if necessary.
Wipe door gasket: Clean with damp cloth to prevent leaks.
Run cleaning cycle: Monthly, use dishwasher cleaner or place cup of vinegar on top rack and run hot cycle.
Check rinse aid: Refill when indicator light comes on.

CAUTION! Unplug or turn off power at circuit breaker before performing any maintenance.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed; complies with NSF/ANSI 184 for residential dishwashers. Energy Star® certified for energy efficiency. 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	Door not closed/power	Ensure door latched; check circuit breaker; plug securely in outlet.
Poor cleaning results	Loading/detergent	Rearrange load; use fresh detergent; clean filter; check water temperature.
Water not draining	Drain clog	Check drain hose for kinks; clean filter; ensure garbage disposal knockout plug removed.
Leaking water	Door seal/hose	Inspect door gasket for debris; tighten hose connections; level dishwasher.
Unusual noise	Spray arm/foreign object	Check for utensils blocking spray arm; remove debris from pump area.
Detergent not dispensing	Dispenser latch/wet detergent	Ensure dispenser clicks shut; store detergent in dry place.
Error codes displayed	Various faults	Consult manual code list; reset by turning power off for 5 minutes.

Reset: Turn power off at breaker for 1 minute, then restore.

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