GE GSD500 Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (10)
What is the correct water temperature for the GSD500 dishwasher to clean and dry dishes properly?
The entering water must be at least 120°F for good washing and drying results. To prevent dish damage, inlet water should not exceed 150°F. You can test your water temperature using a candy or meat thermometer at the hot water faucet nearest the dishwasher. (Page 6)
Why won't my dishwasher run?
A fuse in your home may be blown, or the circuit breaker may have tripped. Replace the fuse or reset the circuit breaker, and remove any other appliances from the circuit. (Page 11)
How do I remove spots and film from glasses and flatware?
Run a Normal Wash cycle without detergent and without metal utensils, allowing it to run 15 to 20 minutes into the main wash, then pour 2 cups (500ml) of white vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher and allow the cycle to complete. If vinegar does not work, repeat the process using 1/4 cup (60ml) of citric acid crystals instead. If cloudiness remains after these treatments, it is permanent etching that cannot be removed. (Page 12)
How much detergent should I use based on my water hardness?
For soft water (0–3 grains), use 1 tablespoon minimum in the main cup for Normal Wash. For medium water (3–7 grains), fill the main cup at least half full. For hard water (7–12 grains), fill both the main cup and open cup completely full. Note that 12 grains and above is extremely hard water and a water softener is recommended. (Page 7)
Why is there water standing in the bottom of the dishwasher tub?
A small amount of water around the outlet on the tub bottom at the back is normal — it is clean water that keeps the water seal lubricated. However, if the entire bottom of the tub has water, you may have a drain problem and should check and clean the air gap if you have one. You should also check whether your kitchen sink is draining properly, and if the dishwasher drains into a disposer, run the disposer to clear any clogs. (Page 13)
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How do I use the rinse agent dispenser on the GSD500?
Unscrew the cap on the rinse agent dispenser and add liquid rinse agent until it just reaches the bottom of the lip inside the dispenser opening, then replace the cap. The dispenser will automatically release the rinse agent into the final rinse water. If you accidentally spill rinse agent, wipe it up immediately with a damp cloth, as a spill can prevent your detergent from working properly. (Page 6)
How do I properly load knives and sharp items in the dishwasher?
Load sharp knives with the handles up to reduce the risk of cut-type injuries. Additionally, locate sharp items so they are not likely to damage the door seal. Flatware should be placed in the removable basket with handles up, and knives, forks, and spoons should be mixed so they don't nest together. (Pages 3, 9)
What should I do to prepare my dishwasher for winter storage in an unheated location?
You should have a service technician cut off electric power to the dishwasher, turn off the water supply, disconnect the water inlet line from the water valve, and drain water from the inlet line and water valve. The technician should also remove the plastic pump cover in the tub bottom and use a sponge to soak up any water in the rubber boot. (Page 14)
What does the GSD500 warranty cover and for how long?
The dishwasher includes a Full One-Year Warranty covering parts and in-home service labor to repair or replace any part that fails due to a manufacturing defect. It also includes a Full Ten-Year Warranty covering parts and in-home service labor to repair or replace the tub or door liner if it fails to contain water due to a manufacturing defect such as cracking, chipping, peeling, or rusting. The warranty does not cover improper installation, service trips to teach product use, air gap cleaning, or damage caused by accident, fire, floods, or acts of God. (Page 16)
Why is my detergent cup lid not latching after I add detergent?
The Cycle Indicator Dial must be in the OFF position for the detergent cup lid to close and latch properly. If you have unlatched the door and opened it to dry dishes, the Cycle Indicator Dial does not automatically advance to OFF by itself, so you must manually turn it to OFF before adding detergent. (Page 11)
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