The Sears Kenmore Dishwasher is a reliable kitchen appliance designed for efficient cleaning and drying of dishes. This manual covers key sections for safety, parts identification, installation, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and replacement parts ordering. Below are the essential sections to help you understand, use, and maintain your Kenmore dishwasher.
Key components of your Kenmore dishwasher for reference and parts ordering.
| Part Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Upper Rack | Holds cups, glasses, and smaller items |
| Lower Rack | Designed for plates, bowls, and larger dishes |
| Spray Arms (Upper & Lower) | Rotating arms that spray water during wash cycles |
| Filter Assembly | Traps food particles; includes coarse and fine filters |
| Detergent Dispenser | Holds detergent and releases it at the proper time |
| Rinse Aid Dispenser | Holds rinse aid for improved drying and spot prevention |
| Door Latch | Secures the door during operation |
| Heating Element | Heats water for washing and aids in drying |
| Control Panel | Interface for selecting cycles and options |
| Drain Pump | Removes dirty water from the dishwasher |
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and safety.
WARNING! Installation should be performed by a qualified technician. Ensure water and electrical supplies are turned off before beginning.
Power on the dishwasher; follow these steps for normal operation.
CAUTION! Use only detergents and rinse aids designed for automatic dishwashers. Do not overload racks.
Proper loading ensures effective cleaning and prevents damage.
Upper Rack: Place cups, glasses, bowls, and plastic items facing downward. Secure long items like utensils in the basket. Lower Rack: Place plates, pots, pans, and larger items. Avoid blocking the spray arm rotation. Utensil Basket: Mix utensils (some up, some down) to allow water flow. Do not nest spoons.
Tip: Refer to the diagram inside the dishwasher door for recommended loading patterns.
Use only automatic dishwasher detergent. Fill the main wash cup (usually marked "1" or "Main") for the primary wash. A pre-wash cup ("2") may be available for heavily soiled loads.
WARNING! Hand dish soap, laundry detergent, or all-purpose cleaners will cause oversudsing and damage the dishwasher.
Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.
CAUTION! Unplug the dishwasher or turn off the circuit breaker before performing any maintenance.
Some user-replaceable parts and their functions.
| Part | Purpose | Replacement Frequency/Indication |
|---|---|---|
| Dishwasher Racks | Hold dishes | Replace if tines are broken or coating is peeling. |
| Spray Arms | Distribute water | Replace if cracked, broken, or not rotating. |
| Door Gasket | Seals door | Replace if torn, cracked, or leaking. |
| Heating Element | Heats water | Replace if dishes are not drying or water is not hot. |
| Detergent Dispenser | Releases detergent | Replace if door does not open or detergent remains after cycle. |
For genuine Kenmore parts, visit www.searspartsdirect.com or call 1-800-469-4663.
If the control panel displays a fault code, refer to this list.
Reset: Try turning off power at the circuit breaker for 2 minutes, then restore power.
Important safety precautions to prevent injury and damage.
Electrical Safety: Plug into a grounded outlet. Do not operate if the power cord is damaged.
Water Safety: Connect to hot water supply. Do not use if a leak is detected.
Chemical Safety: Store detergents and rinse aids out of reach of children.
Loading Safety: Load sharp items (knives) with handles up. Do not touch the heating element during or immediately after a cycle.
Child Lock: Use the control lock feature to prevent accidental cycle changes.
This appliance complies with FCC Part 15 and relevant safety standards.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Dishwasher won't start | Door not latched, no power, child lock on | Ensure door is closed firmly. Check circuit breaker. Deactivate control lock. |
| Poor cleaning results | Spray arms blocked, incorrect detergent, overloaded | Clean spray arms and filter. Use correct amount of fresh detergent. Load dishes properly. |
| Water not draining | Drain hose kinked, filter clogged, drain pump issue | Check hose for kinks. Clean filter. If problem persists, pump may need service. |
| Leaking water | Door gasket damaged, overfilling, loose connections | Inspect and clean door gasket. Ensure proper detergent amount. Check water inlet connections. |
| Unusual noise | Spray arm hitting dish, foreign object in pump, loose part | Re-rack dishes. Check for debris in pump. Tighten spray arm. |
| Dishes not drying | Heated dry option off, rinse aid empty, wet load | Select Heated Dry. Refill rinse aid. Allow dishes to air dry with door slightly open. |
Service: For persistent issues, contact Sears Service at 1-800-469-4663 or visit www.sears.com/services.