GE GSD820 Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (10)
What water temperature does the GSD820 require for good washing and drying?
The entering water must be between 120°F and 140°F for good washing and drying. To prevent dish damage, inlet water should not exceed 150°F. If your water temperature is less than 140°F, you should use the WASH HEAT BOOST option. (Page 6)
How do I use the WASH HEAT BOOST option and how long does it add to the cycle?
Select the WASH HEAT BOOST option before starting your wash cycle. When selected, the wash cycle will be extended by 21 minutes while the dishwasher heats the water for good washing and drying. Note that selecting the ENERGY SAVER option will also cancel the WASH HEAT BOOST. (Page 4)
My dishwasher won't run — what should I check first?
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 12)
How much detergent should I use based on my water hardness?
With soft water (0–3 grains hardness), use a minimum of 1 tablespoon in each cup for POTSCRUBBER and NORMAL WASH cycles. With medium water (3–7 grains), fill both cups half full, and with hard water (7–12 grains), fill both cups completely. Note that water above 12 grains is extremely hard and a water softener is recommended. (Page 7)
How do I remove spots and film from glassware?
Remove all metal utensils, add no detergent, and select the POTSCRUBBER cycle. After 15–20 minutes into the main wash, open the door and pour 2 cups (500ml) of white vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher, then allow the cycle to complete. If vinegar doesn't work, repeat the process using 1/4 cup (60ml) of citric acid crystals instead. (Page 13)
Show all 10 questions
How do I properly fill the rinse agent dispenser?
Unscrew the dispenser cap and add liquid rinse agent until it just reaches the bottom of the lip inside the dispenser opening, then replace the cap. The dispenser holds 4.5 ounces and should last about 3 months. If you accidentally spill rinse agent, wipe it up immediately with a damp cloth, as it can prevent your detergent from working. (Page 6)
What items should NOT be washed in the GSD820 dishwasher?
Iron, pewter, tin, and wood should never be washed in the dishwasher, as they will rust, tarnish, or warp. Non-dishwasher items such as electronic air cleaner filters, furnace filters, and paint brushes should also never be washed, as they can damage the dishwasher and cause discoloration. Plastic items not marked 'dishwasher safe' should be checked with the manufacturer before washing. (Page 10)
What should I do if there are suds in the dishwasher tub?
Only use detergents specifically designed for automatic dishwashers, as sudsing detergents will cause overfoaming and can lead to leaking. To remove existing suds, open the dishwasher door and let the suds evaporate, then add 1 gallon of cold water to the tub, close and latch the door, and pump out the water by slowly turning the control dial to a drain period. Repeat if necessary. (Page 14)
How do I start the dishwasher and what is the correct order of steps?
First load the dishwasher, then add detergent with the Cycle Indicator Dial at the OFF position. Next, select your drying option and WASH HEAT BOOST if needed, then push your chosen cycle button, latch the door, and slowly turn the Cycle Indicator Dial to the ON position. There is a time delay between start-up and water fill, so you will not hear wash action right away. (Page 4)
What warranty coverage comes with the GSD820 dishwasher?
The dishwasher includes a full one-year warranty covering parts and in-home service labor for any manufacturing defects. A full ten-year warranty covers the PermaTuf tub or door liner if it fails to contain water due to defects such as cracking, chipping, peeling, or rusting. A limited second-year warranty also covers replacement parts for the Water Distribution System, though you are responsible for the service trip and labor charges. (Page 20)
Hi! I'm your AI assistant for the GE GSD820 Dishwasher. Ask me anything about setup, troubleshooting, maintenance, or features — I'll answer using the official manual.
Suggestions
AI answers may contain errors. Verify with the original manual for safety-critical questions.