Manual for Kenmore Dishwasher

The Kenmore Dishwasher is a high-efficiency, energy-saving appliance designed for household use. It features multiple wash cycles, adjustable racks, soil sensors, quiet operation, delay start, heated dry option, 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. Maintenance & Cleaning 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, Spray Arms, Drain Pump.

FeatureDescription
Wash CyclesNormal, Heavy, Light, Rinse Only, Sanitize
OptionsHeated Dry, Delay Start, High Temp Wash, Sani Rinse
Soil SensorAutomatically adjusts wash time and water usage
Quiet OperationSound insulation for low noise
Adjustable RacksUpper rack can be raised/lowered for tall items
Child LockPrevents accidental button presses
Filter SystemSelf-cleaning filter for food particles
Energy Star CertifiedMeets energy efficiency guidelines
Delay StartSet wash cycle to begin later (1-24 hours)
Heated DryOptional heating element for drying dishes

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure location near sink with water supply and drain.

  1. Connect water supply: Attach hot water line to inlet valve (¾ inch connection).
  2. Connect drain hose: Secure to sink drain or garbage disposal.
  3. Level the dishwasher: Adjust leveling legs for stability.
  4. Electrical connection: Plug into grounded 120V outlet (dedicated circuit recommended).
  5. Secure to countertop: Use mounting brackets if required.

WARNING! Ensure water and electrical connections are secure to prevent leaks or shock. Follow local plumbing/electrical codes.

First-Time Setup

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

  1. Remove shipping materials: Take out all tape and packing from interior.
  2. Load detergent: Fill main detergent cup with detergent.
  3. Add rinse aid: Fill rinse aid dispenser (located inside door).
  4. Select cycle: Choose Normal cycle and press Start.
  5. Set preferences: Use control panel to set default options (e.g., Heated Dry).

CAUTION! Do not use regular dish soap; use only dishwasher detergent to avoid suds overflow.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Control Panel: POWER, Cycle Select buttons (Normal, Heavy, Light, Rinse, Sanitize), Options (Heated Dry, Delay Start, High Temp, Sani Rinse), Start/Resume, Cancel/Drain.

Cycle Details: Normal for daily loads; Heavy for pots/pans; Light for lightly soiled; Rinse for holding; Sanitize uses high temp for bacteria reduction.

Options: Heated Dry (dries with heat), Delay Start (postpones cycle), High Temp (boosts water temp), Sani Rinse (extra hot rinse). Settings: Child Lock (hold Cancel 3 sec), Sound On/Off, Default Cycle.

Loading the Dishwasher

Proper loading ensures clean dishes and efficient operation.

  1. Scrape food: Remove large food particles; no pre-rinse needed.
  2. Lower rack: Place plates, pots, pans; face soiled surfaces toward spray arm.
  3. Upper rack: Cups, glasses, bowls; secure stemware.
  4. Silverware basket: Mix utensils; place knives pointing down.
  5. Adjust racks: Raise/lower upper rack for tall items.
  6. Avoid blocking: Ensure spray arms rotate freely.

Tip: Load similar items together; do not overcrowd.

Using Detergents & Rinse Aids

Use only dishwasher-specific products.

  1. Detergent: Fill main cup (1 tbsp for light soil, 2 for heavy). Use pods in main cup, not dispenser.
  2. Rinse aid: Fill dispenser until indicator shows full; adjust setting (1-6) for sheeting.
  3. Additives: Do not use bleach or vinegar; may damage seals.
  4. Soft water: Use less detergent to prevent spotting.

WARNING! Keep detergents out of reach of children. Do not use hand soap.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Monthly maintenance ensures performance.

  1. Clean filter: Remove lower rack, twist and lift filter; rinse under water.
  2. Spray arms: Check for clogs; clean holes with toothpick.
  3. Door seal: Wipe with damp cloth to remove debris.
  4. Interior: Run empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner monthly.
  5. Exterior: Wipe with soft cloth; avoid abrasives.

CAUTION! Unplug before cleaning. Do not use sharp objects on spray arms.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed; meets NSF/ANSI 184 for sanitation. Energy Star certified. 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 closed/powerEnsure door latched; check circuit breaker; plug in.
Poor cleaningSpray arms clogged/detergentClean spray arms; use fresh detergent; check water temp.
Water not drainingDrain hose clogged/filterCheck hose for kinks; clean filter; ensure disposal knockout plug removed.
Leaking waterDoor seal/hose connectionsInspect door seal for debris; tighten hose connections.
Unusual noiseSpray arm hitting itemsRe-load dishes; check for foreign objects in pump.
Dishes not dryHeated Dry off/rinse aidEnable Heated Dry option; refill rinse aid; use rinse aid setting 4-6.

Reset: Unplug for 1 minute, then restart.

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

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