GE GSD500 Dishwasher manual
Dishwashers · 19 Q&As

GE GSD500 Dishwasher

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— answers from the official manual

Answers from the official manual.

Common questions

Common Questions

19 total
1

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)

2

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)

3

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)

4

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)

5

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)

6

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)

Show 13 more questions

Full Manual

16 pages
Page 1

Use and Care Guide Dishwasher Contents Air (;ap 14 Safety Instructions 3 Appliance Registration 2 User Maintenance Instructions 14 (;are and C:leaning 14 Warranty Back (;over (;hina, Cryshl, Sterling 10 water Temperature 6 (;onsumer Services 15 Winter Storage 14 (;ycle Features 5 Detergent, Detergent Guide 6,7 Dispenser (;ups 7 Energy Saver Stitch 4 Ener~-Saving l“ips 2 Front Panel (Iolor (;hange 14 Loading 8,9 Model and Serial Numbers 2 Operdting Instructions 4,5 (;ycle Selection 4,5 Drying Options 4,5 Problem Solver 11-13 GEAnswer Center@ Rinse Agent 6 80~626.2000 Built-in Model GSD500 + 500 p

Gsd530

GE Appliances

Page 2

Help us help you... Before using your Save time and money. dishwasher, read this Before you request book carefully. service... It is intended to help you operate Check the Problem Solver (pages and maintain your new dishwasher 11–1 3). It lists causes of minor properly. operating problems that you can

1/ --- :. L,. - ,J. L---

,. -,... .--,. .- . . . . . correct yourself. ACC~ 1 L lldllUy 101 dllh WCI > L\) y\JUl questions. If you don’t understand something or need more help, write (include your phone number): Consumer Affairs GE Appliances Appliance Park Louisville, KY 40225 Write down the model and serial numbers. You’ll find them on a label fastened to the tub wall just inside the dishwasher door. These numbers are also on the To obtain a Spanish language version of this book, call GE Answer Center m 800.626.2000 consumer information service. Para obtener la version en espafiol de este manual, name a GE Answer Center, (’ ) servicio de informaci6n para el consumidor, te16fono 800.626.2000 Consumer Product Ownership Energy-sating tips Registration Card that came with yo;r dishwasher. Before sending in this card, please write these numbers here: Model Number Serial Number Use these numbers in any correspondence or service calls concerning your dishwasher. If you received a damaged dishwasher... G Operate dishwasher only when it’s full. Let the dishes accumulate in dishwasher. When you put in only a partial load, use the RINSE & HOLD cycle to rinse off heavy soils. Be sure to latch the door when waiting for a full load. This helps keep soils moist, easier to remove. G Always select the cycle that uses least amount of water that will remove the soil from the load. See pages 4 and 5. Uyou need sefice To obtain service, see the Consumer Services page in the back of this book. We’re proud of our service and want you to be pleased. If for some reason you are not happy with the service you receive, here are three steps to follow for further help. FIRST, contact the people who serviced your appliance. Explain why you are not pleased. In most cases, this will solve the problem. NEXT, if you are still not pleased, write all the details—including your phone number—to: Manager, Consumer Relations GE Appliances Appliance Park Louisville, KY 40225 FINALLY, if your problem is still not resolved, write: Major Appliance Consumer Action Panel 20 North Wacker Drive Chicago, lL 60606 Immediately contact the dealer (or G If you don’t need your dishes builder) that sold you the right away, use your NO HEAT DRYING (Energy Saver) feature dishwasher. that turns the drying heater off. Dishes dry naturally over a longer period such as overnight. 2

Page 3

Important Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before using this appliance AWARNING–Whe.using this appliance, always exercise basic safety precautions, including the following: . Use this appliance only for its intended purpose, as you will find described in this Use and Care Guide. G This dishwasher must be properly installed and located in accordance with the Installation Instructions before it is used. If you did not receive an Installation Instructions sheet with your dishwasher, you can obtain one by contacting the service location nearest you, —This appliance must be connected to a grounded metal, permanent wiring system; or an equipment- grounding conductor must be wn with the circuit conductors and connected to the equipment-grounding terminal or lead of the appliance. —Connect to a properly rated, protected and sized power- supply circuit to avoid electrical overload. G Do not store or use combustible materials, gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other appliance. G Use only powder or liquid detergents or wetting agents recommended for use in a dishwasher. Q Do not wash plastic items unless marked “dishwasher safe” or the equivalent. For plastic items not so marked, check the manufacturer’s recommendations. G Load light plastic items so they will not become dislodged and drop to the bottom of the dishwasher—they might come into contact with the heating unit and be damaged. To minimize the possibility of injury. G When loading items to be washed: A. Locate sharp items so that they are not likely to damage the door seal, and B. Load sharp knives with the handles up to reduce the risk of cut-type injuries. G Do not touch the heating element during or immediately after use. G Do not operate your dishwasher unless all enclosure panels are properly in place. G Do not tamper with controls. G Do not abuse, sit on, or stand on the door or dish rack of the dishwasher. G Close supervision is necessary if this appliance is used by or near children. Do not allow children to play inside, on or with this appliance or any discarded appliance. Dispose of discarded appliances and shipping or packing material properly. Before discarding a dishwasher, remove the door of the washing compartment. G Keep all washing detergents and wetting agents out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet. Observe all warnings on container labels to avoid personal injury. “ To minimize the possibility of electric shock, disconnect this appliance from the power supply before attempting any maintenance. Note: Turning the control dial to the OFF position does not disconnect the appliance from the power supply. We recommend having a qualified technician service your appliance. Aw~G—~ROGEN GAS is produced by the chemical action within your water heater. It can accumulate in the water heater and/or water pipes if hot water has not been used for a period of two weeks or longer.

Hydrogen Gas Is

EXPLOSIVE. To prevent the possibility of damage or injury, if you have not used hot water for two weeks or more, or moved into a residence in which the hot water system may not have been used for some time, turn on all hot water faucets and allow them to run for several minutes before using any electrical appliance which is connected to the hot water system. This will allow any hydrogen gas to escape. Also, since the gas is flammable, do not smoke or use an open flame or appliance during this process.

Save These

Instructions

3

Page 4

How to operate your dishwasher STEP 1. Load your dishwasher with dishes, silverware, pots, pans, bowls, etc. according to instructions on pages 8 and 9. STEP 2. Add detergent to the detergent dispenser. Make sure the Cycle Indicator Dial is at OFF position before adding detergent. (See pages 6 and 7.) STEP 4. Select the Cycle and start dishwasher. If your dishwasher drains into a food waste disposer, operate the disposer until it is empty before starting the dishwasher. (See Cycle Selection Hints on next page.) To obtain the benefits of a com~lete cvcle. be careful that you Use rinse aid agent to helu Prevent do n;t turn the dial any furth;r spotting. (See ~age 6.) ‘ . STEP 3. Select DRYING Option. n

Heated

Drying

No Heat

Drying

HEATED DRYING. Turns the drying heater on for fast drying. Available on all cycles except

Rinse & Hold.

NO HEAT DRYING (Energy Saver). Turns the drying he;~er off to save energy. Dishes will dry naturally over a longer period such as overnight. Available on all cycles. If you need your dishes sooner, open the dishwasher door after the cycle is complete to reduce the natural drying time. Use of this option reduces the electrical energy used by this model approximately 7Y0 for the NORMAL WASH cycle. than necessary to start the dishwasher. G For NORMAL WASH cycle: a. Latch the door. b. Slowly turn Cycle Indicator Dial to ON position to start the cycle. You will hear the motor start. There is a time delay between start-up and water fill so you will not hear any wash action right away. G For LIGHT WASH cycle: a. Be sure door is unlatched.

O:F.On

L,Ch,

Wash

% + 0

Orwng G

G RINSE& HOLO lus~!;?i%’op,foNl b. Slowly turn Cycle Indicator Dial to LIGHT WASH position. c. Latch door to start the cycle. G For RINSE & HOLD cycle: a. Be sure door is unlatched. b. Select NO HEAT DRYING option. c. Slowly turn Cycle Indicator Dial to RINSE & HOLD position. d. Latch door to start the cycle. 4

Page 5

Cycle selection hinh ‘t is important to follow the loading Instructions on pages 8 and 9. NORMAL WASH is for loads of everyday dishes, glasses and cookware. LIGHT WASH is for dishes that are lightly soiled with soils that have not dried on. Also for everyday dishes that have extra preparation before loading. RINSE & HOLD is for rinsing partial loads which will be washed later. D() not use detergent. What happens in each cycle G You’11 hear occasional clicking G During the drying period: sounds: —The motor stops. —Soft food disposer shredding —Water vapor comes through the action. vent by the door latch during —Drain valve opening to pump drying and when water is being water out. pumped out. —Timer control as cycle progresses. —Detergent cup opening. Wash Cycle Water Use Time Gallons Minutes Wash Cycles (approx.) (approx.) Cycle Sequence

Normal Wash

12.1 ‘ 7 EEmmmBm

Light Wash

10.3 51 BmmmBm

Rinse & Hold

4.9 14 mmm Drying Options: HEATED DRYING. Available on all wash cycles except RINSE & HOLD. Add 29 minutes to wash cycle time. NO HEAT DRYING (Energy Saver). Drying heater is turned off. Dishes dry naturally

Page 6

Good dishwashing starts with HOT water. To get dishes clean and dry, you need hot water. To help you get water of the proper temperature, your dishwasher automatically heats the water in the wash cycle. For good washing and drying, the entering water must be at least 120°F. To prevent dish damage, inlet water should not exceed 150°F. How to test water temperature: Higher water temperature is needed to dissolve grease and activate powder detergents. Check your water temperature with a candy or meat thermometer. Turn on the hot water faucet nearest the dishwasher. Put the thermometer in a glass and let the water run continuously into the glass until the temperature stops rising. If the water temperature is below 120°F adjust your water heater. Helpful hints: If outside temperatures are unusually low, or if your water travels a long distance from water heater to dishwasher, you may need to set your water heater’s thermostat up. If you have not used hot water for some time, the water in the pipes will be cold. Turn on the hot water faucet at the sink and allow it to run until the water is hot. Then start the dishwasher. If you’ve recently done laundry or run hot water for showers, give your water heater time to recover before operating the dishwasher. To improve washability if the water is less than 120°F and you cannot adjust your water heater: Select a longer cycle and fill both detergent cups at least half-full with detergent. How to use a rinse agent... A rinse agent makes water flow off dishes quicker than usual. This lessens water spotting and makes drying faster, too. For best dishwashing performance, use of a rinse agent such as JET- DRY brand is recommended. Rinse agents come in either liquid or solid form. Your dishwasher uses the liquid form. How to fill the rinse agent dispenser. Unscrew the cap. Add the liquid rinse agent until it just reaches the bottom of the lip inside the dispenser opening. Replace the cap. The dispenser automatically releases the rinse agent into the final rinse water. If you accidentally spill: Wipe up the rinse agent with a damp cloth. Don’t leave the spill in the dishwasher. It can keep your detergent from working. If you can’t find any rinse agent, write:

Benckiser Consumer

Products, Inc.

(“Jet-Dry”)

411 W. Putnam Ave. Greenwich, CT 06830 & , .~ , /

D

~, 4-. @ How to choose and use the right detergent. First, use only powder or liquid detergent specifically made for use in dishwashers. Other types will cause oversudsing. Second, check the phosphate content. Phosphate helps prevent hard-water materials from forming spots or film on your dishes. If your water is hard (7 grains or more), your detergent has to work harder. Detergents with a higher phosphate level will probably work better. If the phosphate content is low (8.7Yo or less), you’ll have to use extra detergent with hard water. Your water department can tell you how hard your water is. So can your county extension agent. Or your area’s water softener company. Just call and ask them how many “grains” of hardness is in your water. How much detergent should you use? That depends. Is your water “hard” or “soft”? With hard water, you need extra detergent to get dishes clean. With soft water, you need less detergent. Too much detergent with soft water not only wastes money, it can be harmful. It can cause a permanent cloudiness of glassware, called “etching.” An outside layer of glass is etched away! But why take a chance when it’s easy to find out the hardness of your water. Keep your detergent fresh and dry. Under the sink isn’t a good place to store detergent. Too much moisture. Don’t put powder detergent into the dispenser until you’re ready to wash dishes, either. (It won’t be fresh OR dry.) If your powder detergent gek old or lumpy, throw it away. Old detergent often won’t dissolve. If you use a liquid dishwasher detergent, these precautions are not necessary because liquid detergents don’t “lump” as they age or come in contact with water. 6

Page 7

You’ll find two detergent dispensers on the inside door of our dishwasher. Two, because some cycles use two washes. See “Detergent Usage Guide” below. (Be sure the Cycle Indicator Dial is at OFF position before adding detergent. Otherwise, the detergent cup will not close and latch properly.)

Grasp

Handle,

, ,

Rotate And /

Close Tightly /

f’ --- ~d& , ,.! ‘.
  • .,
  • .— —-- How to prepare the dishes for washing If this is your first dishwasher, or if you’re replacing a much older model, you may wonder how much preparation your dishes need. Actually very little. Pre-rinsing of normal food soils is not necessary. With common sense and a little practice you’ll soon know what foods to remove. Here are some guidelines:
  • Scrape off bones, seeds, skins,
  • toothpicks and other hard solids. It is also best to remove hard shelled vegetables, meat trimmings, leafy vegetables and crusts. Remove excessive quantities of oil or grease.
  • Remove large quantities of any
  • food. Your dishwasher has a built-in soft food disposer that pulverizes soft food bits and flushes them away. It can handle small amounts of soft foods, but large amounts will be difficult to handle. Close the main cup. NOTE: Detergent cup may be opened manually with no harm. Turn handle counterclockwise until it releases. A snapping sound is normal when it opens. Detergent Usage Guide (powder or liquid)
  • Try to remove food scraps and
  • place dishes in dishwasher before soil has a chance to dry and become hard. Dishes with dried-on soil are more difficult to wash and may not come clean in the NORMAL WASH cycle. Remember to use your RINSE & HOLD cycle for small “holding” loads. Note: The foods mentioned above are for examples only. Other foods not mentioned may also need to be removed from your dishes. You may also want to consider removing foods such as mustard, mayonnaise, vinega, lemon juice and other foods that can cause discoloration of stainless steel if allowed to remain on dishes for a long period of time.

    Soft Water

    Medium Water

    Hard Water

    (O-3 grains hardness) (3-7 grains) (7- 12 grains*)

    I

    I

    Cycles

    Main Cup Open Cup Main Cup Open Cup Main Cup$ Open Cup*

    Normal Wash

    1 Tablespoon ~ I Tablespoon Half Full 1 Half Full Completely ~ Completely minimum + 1 minimum Full

    I

    Full

    I

    Light Wash

    1 Tablespoon None Half Full None Completely None minimum Full

    I

    Rinse&Hold

    Use no detergent Use no detergent Use no detergent
  • 12 grains and up is extremely hard water. A water softener is recommended. Without it, lime
  • can build up in the water valve. The water valve may stick while open and cause flooding. +Filled Main Cup holds 3 tablespoons; Filled Open Cup holds 2 tablespoons. 7

    Page 8

    How to load your dishwasher How to load the TOP RACK ----Wf’- Make sure dishes are properly loaded to insure that water can reach the soiled surfaces. The wash arm in the bottom sprays water up. The tower that rises in the center sends wtiter out over the dishes to wash the items in the upper rack. The top rack is best for glasses, cups and saucers. Cups and glasses fit best along the sides. This is the place for dishwasher-safe plastics, too. Make sure small plastic items are lodged in tightly so they can’t fall onto the Calrod(’heating unit. Arrange ste-mware so that it cannot move easily. Don’t let the glasses touch each other.

    Watc’H Out [’Or This.

    The w~sh tower rises through the center of the bottom rack during the wash and rinse portions of the cycle. Don’t block it or load tall things next to it. Also, be careful not to let a portion of an item such as a pot or dish handle extend through the bottom rack. This could block the wash arm and cause poor washing results. This rack is ideal for dishwasher-safe plastics. When loading, place plastic items along the back and be sure that each plastic tumbler is secured over two fingers. This will prevent dislodging; tumbler will not fall through rack onto heating unit. 8

    Page 9

    -1 .,- Sauce pans, mixing bowls and other small items may be placed-face down—in the top rack. The top rack ii handy for all kinds of odd shapes. How to load the BOTTOM RACK Fit plates and saucers between the pins. Place items so that water and detergent from wash arm can reach soiled surfaces. Put flatware in the removable basket with handles up to protect your hands. Mix knives, forks and spoons so they don’t nest together. Distribute evenly. Small plastic items, such as measuring spoons and lids from small containers are not recommended for automatic dishwashing. If placed in the dishwasher, they should go in the bottom of silverware basket with silverware on top. Precaution! Take out anything that may fall or extend through the bottom of the basket. Load platters, pots, pans and bowls along the sides, in corne~s or in the ba~k. All large items, s~ch as pitchers, salad bowls and mixing bowls, should be washed in the lower rack. Heavily soiled pots, pans and casseroles MUST be loaded in the bottom rack, facing down. Prop broiler pans and racks along the edge. 9

    Page 10

    What you can usually wash safely in your dishwasher. And what you can’t. Usually Safe Material Exceptions (not safe) Special Instructions Aluminum

    Yes

    Some colored anodized aluminum can fade. Antique, metal-trimmed, hand-painted or over-the-glaze patterns fade, Gold leaf will discolor. Some darkening or spotting possible. Remove by scouring with soap-filled steel wool pads. If in doubt, check with the manufacturer, or test wasb one piece daily for at least a month. Compare with the rest of the set. ChindStoneware

    Yes

    Crystal

    Yes

    Antique, metal-trimmed or hand- painted patterns fade. Gold leaf will discolor. Load securely to prevent movement. Check manufacturer’s instructions f’or your crystal. Do not wash in dishwasher. Damage to dishwasher and discoloration or staining of dishwasher may result. Non-dishware items—such as

    No

    electronic air cleaner filters, furnace filters, paint brushes, etc. Glass

    Yes

    Milk glass may yellow. Iron

    No

    ——

    No

    Yes

    Iron will rust. Pewter tarnishes. Pewter Plastics [fit doesn’t say DISHWASHER SAFE, test one piece in the top rack before dishwashing an entire set. Wash in top rack only. Stainless steel

    Yes

    Rinse if not washing immediately. Salty or acid foods can stain if left on. Sterling Silver and Silver plate

    Yes

    Don’t put in same silverware basket with stainless steel. Contact between metals can damage silver. Don’t wash copper utensils in the same load. Silver may get a brown film, Adhesive used to attach some hollow-handle knives can loosen. Rinse if not washing immediately. Salty or acid foods can stain if left on. Dry detergent can cause difficult-to- remove black spots. Place in back section of silverware basket to avoid exposure to detergent from the detergent cup.

    Yes

    After washing, wipe the non-stick coating area with ve&etable oil to keep it from losing its non-stick quality. Non-stick coatings Tin

    No

    Tin can rust. Wood

    No

    Wood can warp, crack or lose its finish with any type of washing. Forget a dish? Here’s when you can add it. Add dishes any time during the RINSE & HOLD cycle. With other wash cycles, you can add However, opening the door during
  • Wait a few seconds until the
  • any cycle lessens cleaning power water calms. Then open the door. because the temperature inside the dishwasher is lowered. So try to
  • Add dishes you’ve forgotten.
  • load everything at the begin~ing.
  • Close the door and push the
  • dishes at any -time BEFORE the main Here’s how to add a forgotten dish: latch to the far right. When the door is locked, washing will detergent wash portion of the cycle.
  • Push the door latch to the left.
  • continue. Washing will stop. 10

    Page 11

  • _~ Questions?
  • ‘~ Use This Problem Solver
  • Problem

  • Dishwasher

    Won’T Run

    Unusual Noise

    Dishes Don’T Dry

    Unclean Dishes

    And Flatware

    Black Or Gray

    dARKS ON DISHES

    Detergent Left In

    Dispenser Cups

    Detergent Cup

    Lid Won’T Latch

    After Adding

    Detergent

    Yellow Or

    Brown Film

    Possible Cause And Remedy

    A fuse in your home maybe blown, or the circuit breaker tripped. Replace fuse or reset circuit breaker. Remove any other appliances from the circuit. Utensils may not be secure on rack pins, or something small may have dropped from the rack. Water is causing utensils to rattle. Make sure everything is securely placed in dishwasher. Make sure inlet water temperature is correct. (See Page 6.) Unload the bottom rack first. Water from dishes in the top rack maybe spilling into the bottom rack. Check for improper loading. Dishes shouldn’t nest together. Avoid overloading. Check the rinse agent dispenser to see that it’s not empty. Check inlet water temperature. It should be at least 120°F. (To test, see page 6.) Water pressure may be temporarily low. Turn on a faucet. Is water coming out slower than usual? If so, wait until pressure is normal before using your dishwasher. Plugged air gap. (See page 14.) Improper rack loading. (See pages 8 and 9.) Aluminum utensils often leave marks when they rub against dishes. Remove marks with a mild abrasive cleanser. Water may not be reaching the detergent cups. Move dishes that may be blocking detergent cup. The dispenser cover may not be opening or may be blocked by improperly loaded items. If you used a powder detergent, open the cup and remove any caked-on detergent. If the cup still doesn’t open automatically, call for service. Detergent may be old. If the powder detergent is hard or caked in the box, throw it away. The detergent may not be working well. Try another brand. Cycle Indicator Dial must be in OFF position for cup lid to close and latch properly. If you unlatch the door and open it to dry your dishes, the Cycle Indicator Dial does not advance to OFF by itself. Tea or coffee can stain cups. Remove the stains by hand, using a solution of li2 cup bleach and 3 cups warm water. An overall yellow or brown film on dishes or glassware can be caused by iron deposits in water. A special filter in the water supply line is the only way to correct this problem. Your water softener company can tell you about the filter. Yellow film on sterling silver results when you wash copper utensils in the same load. Silver polish will usually remove this stain. 11

    Page 12

    The Problem Solver (continued)

    Problem

    Spots And

    Hlming On

    Glasses And

    Flatwam

    Cloudiness On

    Glassware

    Possible Cause And Remedy

    Spotting can be caused by all these things:

    G

    G

    G

    G

    G

    G

    G

    G

    Extremely hard water. (See page 6.) Low inlet water temperature. (To test, see page 6.) Overloading the dishwasher. Improper loading. (See pages 8 and 9.) Old or damp powder detergent. Phosphate level in detergent too low. (See page 6.) Rinse agent dispenser empty. (See page 6.) Too little detergent. (See page 7.) Due to varying local water conditions and personal preferences, try several brands of detergents to find one that gives the best results for you. A liquid dishwasher detergent may help reduce filming. To remove stubborn spok and film from glassware:
  • Remove all metal utensils from the dishwasher.
  • Do not add detergent.
  • Select Normal Wash cycle.
  • Start the dishwasher and allow to run for 15 to 20 minutes. The dishwasher will
  • now be in the main wash. 5, Then open the door and pour 2 cups (500ml) of white vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher.
  • Close the door and allow to complete the cycle.
  • If vinegar rinse doesn’t work: Repeat as above, except use 1/4 cup (60ml) of citric acid crystals instead of vinegar. (Most drugstores carry citric acid crystals. If yours doesn’t, call GE Factory Service.) Using a vinegar or citric acid crystal rinse more than twice a month? Consider a home water softener. If vinegar or citric acid crystal rinse doesn’t work, the cloudiness is “etching.” The film cannot be removed. It can be prevented: Use less detergent if you have soft water. Wash glassware in the shortest cycle that will get them clean. Water temperature entering dishwasher exceeds 150°F. 12

    Page 13

    Problem

    Chipping Of

    China

    Small Amount Of

    Water Standing

    In The Bottom

    Of The Tub

    Water Won’T Pumf

    Out Of The Tub

    Suds In The Tub

    Dishwasher

    Leaks

    Motor Hums

    Possible Cause And Remedy

    Rough handling can cause chipping. Load with care. Make sure glassware and china are secure and can’t jar loose. (See page 8 for correct way to load glassware.) Make sure tall glasses and stemware will clew the top of the tub when you push the rack into the dishwasher. Always use the top rack for delicate items. Water around the outlet on the tub bottom at the back of the tub is normal. It is clean water. It’s there to keep the water seal lubricated. If the entire bottom of the tub has water, you may have a drain problem. Clean the air gap, if you have one. (See page 14.) Check the kitchen sink. Is it draining well? You may need a plumber. If dishwasher drains into disposer, run disposer to clear. Be sure disposer is not clogged. Sudsing detergents are not meant for dishwashers. USE ONLY AUTOMATIC

    Dishwasher Detergents To Avoid Sudsing.

    To remove suds from the tub: Open the dishwasher. Let suds evaporate. Add 1 gallon of cold water to the tub. Close and latch the dishwasher. Pump out water by slowly turning the control dial until a drain period is reached. Repeat if necessary. Suds can cause unit to oveflow. That’s why it’s so important to use a detergent that’s designed for automatic dishwashers. Spilling the rinse agent can cause foam during washing. This can lead to overflowing. Wipe up accidental spill of rinse agent with a damp cloth. Dishwasher has not been used on a regular basis. If you do not use your dishwasher often, set it to fill and pump out once every week. This will help keep the seal moist, and the garbage disposer clear. If you need more help.. call, toll free: GE Answer Center@ 800.626.2000 consumer information service 13

    Page 14

    Care and Cleaning

    User Maintenance

    Instructions

    Clean the control panel with a lightly dampened cloth. Dry thoroughly. Do not use abrasives or sharp objects on the panel. They can damage it. Clean the outside with a good appliance polish wax. The outside cabinet finish is durable, but it can scratch. So use no scouring pads, or harsh or gritty cleaners. Appliance Polish Wax & Cleaner (Cat. No. WR97X0216) is available from GE Appliance Parts Mart. The inside usually takes care of itself. If it should ever need cleaning, use a mild cleansing powder. Scouring pads and harsh cleaners can mar the finish. Built-in dishwashers often use an air gap. Keep it clean. An air gap is a plumbing device. It protects your dishwasher against water backing up into it if a drain clogs. The air gap is not a part of the dishwasher. And you may not even have one. Not all plumbing codes require air gaps.

    Air Gaps

    11}1 tl illll 1

    T W O Types~F ‘:1,,’~’4,:;~1

    If you have an air gap, check it at least once a month. IT IS NOT

    Part Of Your Dishwasher.

    It 1S Not Covered In Your

    Warranty.

    The air gap is easy to clean. With most types, first turn off the dishwasher, then lift off the chrome cover. Then unscrew the plastic cap and check for any buildup of grit. A toothpick makes cleaning easy. Check the air gap any time your dishwasher isn’t draining well. Not using your dishwasher in winter? Protect against freezing. If your dishwasher is left in an unheated place during the winter, ask a service technician to: G Cut off electric power to the dishwasher. Remove fuses or trip circuit breaker. G Turn off the water supply. G Disconnect the water inlet 1 ine from the water valve. G Drain water from the inlet line and water valve. (Use a pan to catch the water. ) G Reconnect the water inlet 1 ine to the water valve. G Remove the plastic pump cover in the tub bottom and use a sponge to soak up water in the rubber boot.

    I

    Pump Cover Screws

    I

    How to change color panels If you are redecorating, you can How to change the door panel: A wood panel trim kit contains change your dishwasher’s door
  • Take out trim screws on either
  • trim and instructions for adding a panel to match or blend with your new colors. side of the dishwasher door. decorative wood door panel and Remove the side trim. lower access panel to match kitchen The panel is held in place by the cabinets. The kit is available at no door trim. Each side of the panel is
  • Slide the panel out.
  • extra cost. (Specify GPF40.) a different color. Or vou can uaint (Careful—edges may be sharp.) Order from: . the panel with the color of your own choice. — 7, .1~Turn the panel around and put GE Appliances the color you want in front. c/o Dri-View Manufacturing 4706 Allmond Ave.
  • Replace the panel, side trim and
  • Louisville, KY 40209 screws. Note: Do not operate the dishwasher while changing panels. 14

    Page 15

    We’ll Be There With tie purchase of your new GE appliance, receive tie assurance fiat if you ever need information or assistance from GE, we’ll be” there. ~1 you have to do is cdl—toll-free! In-Home Repak Service

    800-Ge-Cares

    A GE Consumer Service professional will provide expert repair service, cheduled at a time that’s convenient for you. Many GE Consumer Service company-operated locations offer you service today or tomorrow, or at your convenience (7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. weekda~ 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 pm, Satur- days). Our factory-trained technicians know your appliance inside and out— so most repairs can be handed in just one visit. Service Contracts

    800-626-2Z4

    You can have the secure feeling that GE Consumer Service will still be there after your warranty expires. Pur- chase a GE contract while your war- ranty is still in effect and you’ll receive a substantial discount. With a multiple- year contract, you’re assured of fiture service at today’s prices. Pafls andAccesories 800-626-2002 IndividuA qutiled to sernce their o- appliances can have needed parts or accessories sent direcdy to their home, free of shipping charge! The GE parts system provides access to over 47,000 parts . . . and dl GE Genuine Renewal Parts are fully warranted. WSA, MasterCard and Discover cards are accepted. User maintenance instructions contained in this boo~et cover proce- dures intended to be performed by any user. Other servicing genetiy should be referred to qu~led ser- vice personnel. Caution must be exercised, since improper servicing may @use unsafe operation. Whatever your question about any GE major appliance, GF, Answer Cente@ information service is available to help. Your cdl—and your question- will be answered prornpdy and courteously And you can cdl any time. GE Answer Cente@ service is open 24 hours a day 7 days a week. ~

    I

    Telecommunication Device for the Deaf For Customers Wdh Special Needs... Upon request, GE will provide Braille controls for a variety of C,E appliances, and a brochure to assist in planning a barrier-free kitchen for persons with limited mobility To obtain these items, free of charge, cdl 800.626.2000. Consumers with impaired hearing or speech who have access to a TDD or a conventional teletypewriter may cdl 800-TDD-GEAC (800-833-4322) to request infi)rmation or service.

    Page 16

    Ii

    Your Ge Automatic Dishwasher

    Warranty

    What Is Covered

    Full One-Year Warranty

    For one year from date of original purchase, we will provide, free of charge, parts and service labor in your home to repair or replace any pati of the dishwasher that fails because of a manufacturing defect.

    Full Ten-Year Warranty

    For ten years from date of original purchase, we will provide, free of charge, parts and service labor in your home to repair or replace the tub or door Ijner if it fails to contain water because of a manufacturing defect such as cracking, chipping, peeling or rusting. This warranty is extended to the original purchaser and any succeeding owner for products purchased for ordinary home use in the 48 mainland states, Hawaii and Washington, D.C. In Alaska the warranty is the same except that it is LIMITED because you must pay to ship the product to the service shop or for the service technician’s travel costs to your home. All warranty service will be provided by our Factory Service Centers or by our authorized Customer Care(’) servicers during normal working hours. Look in the White or Yellow Pages of your telephone directory for

    General Electric Company,

    General Electric Factory

    Service, General Electric-

    Hotpoint Factory Service

    or GENERAL ELECTRIC

    Customer Care

    @ Service.

    What Is Not Covered

    G Service trips to your home to G Replacement of house fuses or teach you how to use the product. resetting of circuit breakers. Read your Use and Care material. If you then have any questions about operating the product, please contact your dealer or our Consumer Affairs office at the address below, or call, toll free: GE Answer Center@ 800.626.2000 consumer information service G Improper installation. G Cleaning or servicing of air gap device in drain line. G Failure of the product if it is used for other than its intended purpose or used commercially. G Damage to product caused by accident, fire, floods or acts of God.

    Warrantor Is Not

    Responsible For

    Consequential Damages.

    If you have an installation problem, contact your dealer or installer. You are responsible for providing adequate electrical, plumbing and other connecting facilities. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vay from state to state To know what your legal rights are in your state, consult your local or state consumer affairs office or your state’s Attorney General.

    I

    Warrantor: General Electric Company If further help is needed concerning this warranty, write: Manager—Consumer Affairs, GE Appliances, Louisville, KY 40225 This book is printed on recycled paper Pati No. 165 D3080P223

    Gsd.~C

    Pub No. 49-5526

    Gsd\

    : 9-91

    Cg

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