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Common questions
Common Questions
28 totalHow long is the warranty on the VWSR4100 washer and what does it cover?
The washer comes with a one-year full warranty covering any part that fails due to defects in materials or workmanship, including free labor and in-home service. Additionally, the transmission is covered for five years and the washer basket is covered for twenty years, though labor and in-home service costs are your responsibility for these extended coverages. The warranty is extended to the original purchaser and any succeeding owner for products purchased for home use within the USA. (Page 19)
How do I properly use the liquid bleach dispenser?
Before starting the washer, pour the measured amount of liquid chlorine bleach directly into the bleach dispenser, avoiding splashing or overfilling. Never pour undiluted liquid chlorine bleach directly onto clothes or into the wash basket. Do not pour powdered bleach into the dispenser — if using powdered bleach, add it into the wash basket with your detergent. (Page 10)
How do I fix a noisy washer or an unbalanced load?
If the washer is noisy, first make sure it is level and firm to the floor. If the load is unbalanced, push the Cycle knob in to stop the washer, open the lid, redistribute the load evenly, then close the lid and restart. (Page 15)
How do I clean and maintain the fabric softener dispenser?
Remove the dispenser from the agitator and separate the dispenser cup from the cover by pushing down on the inside of the cup. Soak both the cup and cover in a solution of 1 US gallon warm water, 1/4 cup heavy duty liquid detergent, and 1 cup bleach, then loosen any build-up with a clean, soft cloth — do not use a stiff brush as it may roughen the surface. Rinse, reassemble, and place the dispenser back on the agitator. (Page 11)
What should I do if water won't drain from the washer?
Check that the drain hose is not kinked or improperly connected, and make sure the washer is not sitting on the hose. The top of the drain outlet should be less than 8 feet above the floor. (Page 15)
How should I load the washer correctly?
Load dry items loosely, no higher than the top row of holes in the washer tub, and ensure the water level just covers the clothes. Do not wrap large items like sheets around the agitator, and always add detergent before adding clothes so it can work effectively. If you need to add items after the washer has started, push in the Cycle knob, submerge the additional items next to the agitator, close the lid, and pull the Cycle knob out to restart. (Page 12)
Show 22 more questions
What safety precautions should I follow when not using the washer for an extended period?
Why are my clothes coming out with lint or residue, and how can I fix it?
How do I add items to the washer after it has already started?
What is the correct way to use liquid bleach in this washer?
Why is there lint or residue on my clothes after washing?
How do I clean the fabric softener dispenser?
What should I do if the washer is noisy or vibrating excessively?
Is there any maintenance required for the lint filter?
What safety precautions should I take before performing any maintenance or cleaning on the washer?
What should I do if my washer won't start or operate?
What is the correct way to use the fabric softener dispenser?
How often should the fill hoses be replaced?
What are the warranty terms for the VWSR4100 washer?
How should I handle clothes with possible chemical residue before washing?
What should I do if my washer won't operate at all?
How do I properly load clothes into the washer?
What is the correct way to use the liquid bleach dispenser?
What should I do if water won't drain from my washer?
Why do I have lint or residue on my clothes after washing?
What is the warranty coverage for the washer basket?
Why is my water temperature incorrect?
What should I do if my clothes have excessive wrinkling after washing?
Full Manual
20 pages
Vwsr4100
Washers Owner’s Manual Part No. 175D1807P216 Pub. No. 39-9362
2 Congratulations! You Are Now Part of the Hotpoint Family. Welcome to the Hotpoint family. We’re proud of our quality products and we are committed to providing dependable service. You’ll see it in this easy-to-use Owner’s Manual and you’ll hear it in the friendly voices of our customer service department. Best of all, you’ll experience these values each time you use your washer. That’s important, because your new washer will be part of your family for many years. And we hope you will be part of ours for a long time to come. We thank you for buying Hotpoint. We appreciate your purchase, and hope you will continue to rely on us whenever you need quality appliances for your home. Important! Staple sales slip or cancelled check here. Proof of the original purchase date is needed to obtain service under the warranty. Write the model and serial numbers here. # # You can find them behind the top edge of the control panel.
Hotpoint & You, A Service Partnership. Inside you will find many helpful hints on how to use and maintain your washer properly. Just a little preventive care on your part can save you a great deal of time and money over the life of your washer. Read this Manual Ask any Hotpoint appliance owner and they will tell you we stand behind our products with unmatched quality service. However, did you know that most questions result from simple problems that you can easily fix yourself in just a few minutes? This Owner’s Manual can tell you how. You’ll find many answers to common problems here. If you review our chart of Troubleshooting Tips first, you may not need to call for service at all. Review the Section on Troubleshooting Tips If you do need service, you can relax knowing help is only a phone call away. A list of toll-free customer service numbers is included in the back section. Or you can always call the GE Answer Center® at 800.626.2000, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If You Need Service Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Operating Instructions Safety Information Safety Information . . . . . . .4–7 Operating Instructions Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Control Settings . . . . . . . . . . .8, 9 Washer Features . . . . . . . .10, 11 Loading and Using the Washer . . . . . . . . . . . .12, 13 Troubleshooting Tips Before You Call For Service . . . . . . . . .14–18 Customer Service Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Service Telephone Numbers . . . . . . . . . .Back Cover 3
Safety Information Operating Instructions Troubleshooting Tips Customer Service
Important Safety Information.
Read All Instructions Before Using.
4 For your safety, the information in this manual must be followed to minimize the risk of fire or explosion, electric shock, or to prevent property damage, personal injury, or loss of life. Under certain conditions hydrogen gas may be produced in a water heater that has not been used for two weeks or more. Hydrogen gas can be explosive under these circumstances. If the hot water has not been used for two weeks or more, prevent the possibility of damage or injury by turning on all hot water faucets and allowing them to run for several minutes. Do this before using any electrical appliance which is connected to the hot water system. This simple procedure will allow any built-up hydrogen gas to escape. Since the gas is flammable, do not smoke or use an open flame or appliance during this process.Water Heater Safety
Warning!
5 Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Operating Instructions Safety Information This washer 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, you can receive one by calling us toll-free at the GE Answer Center®, 800.626.2000.
Proper Installation
I Install or store where it will not be exposed to temperatures below freezing or exposed to the weather. I Properly ground washer to conform with all governing codes and ordinances. Follow details in Installation Instructions. I Keep the area underneath and around your appliances free of combustible materials such as lint, paper, rags, chemicals, etc. I Close supervision is necessary if this appliance is used by or near children. Do not allow children to play on, with, or inside this or any other appliance.Your Laundry Area
Safety Information Operating Instructions Troubleshooting Tips Customer Service
Important Safety Instructions.
Read All Information Before Using.
6 Use this appliance only for its intended purpose as described in this Owner’s Manual. I Never reach into washer while it is moving. Wait until the machine has completely stopped before opening the lid. I Do not mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or acids such as vinegar and/or rust remover. Mixing different chemicals can produce a toxic gas which may cause death. I Do not wash or dry articles that have been cleaned in, washed in, soaked in, or spotted with combustible or explosive substances (such as wax, oil, paint, gasoline, degreasers, dry-cleaning solvents, kerosene, etc.) which may ignite or explode. Do not add these substances to the wash water. Do not use or place these substances around your washer or dryer during operation. I The laundry process can reduce the flame retardancy of fabrics. To avoid such a result, carefully follow the garment manufacturer’s wash and care instructions. I To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug this appliance from the power supply or disconnect the washer at the household distribution panel by removing the fuse or switching off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or cleaning. NOTE: Turning the Cycle Selector knob to an off position does NOT disconnect the appliance from the power supply. I Never attempt to operate this appliance if it is damaged, malfunctioning, partially disassembled, or has missing or broken parts, including a damaged cord or plug.When Using The Washer
Warning!
7 Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Operating Instructions Safety Information I Turn off water faucets to relieve pressure on hoses and valves and to minimize leakage if a break or rupture should occur. Check the condition of the fill hoses; they may need replacement after 5 years. I Before discarding a washer, or removing it from service, remove the washer lid to prevent children from hiding inside. I Do not attempt to repair or replace any part of this appliance unless specifically recommended in this Owner’s Manual, or in published user-repair instructions that you understand and have the skills to carry out. I Do not tamper with controls.
When Not In Use
Remember…
Your continued health and safety are important to us. Please read and follow this Safety Information carefully. We want you to remain a happy and healthy part of our family.Save These Instructions
Safety Information Operating Instructions Troubleshooting Tips Customer Service About the washer control panel. You can locate your model number behind the top edge of the control panel. 8
Knits
Off
Off
Off
Heavy
Supercycle
Auto Soak/30 Min
Auto Soak/15 Min
Normal
Light Soil
Perm Press
Optional Extra Rinse
Load Size
Medium
Small
Large
Super
Speed
Normal
Fast
Gentle
Slow
Gentle
Fast
Normal
Slow
Temperature
Hot
Cold
Warm
Cold
Wash
Rinse
Wash
Spin
Warm
Warm
Cold
Cold
Delicates
Extra Rinse
Set
Off
1 2 3 4 Control Settings Load Size The water level should just cover the clothes. Adjust the load size accordingly. Loosely load clothes no higher than the top row of holes in the washer tub. Wash/Spin Speed The agitator moves clothes around for a cleaner wash; the basket spins later in the cycle to release water from the load. The WASH/SPIN SPEED dial sets the speed of both the agitator and the basket. With NORMAL wash speed, the agitator moves faster. Use for cottons, denims and play clothes. With GENTLE wash speed, the agitator moves slower. Use for delicate and knit items. The FAST spin speed is for durable items. The SLOW spin speed is for delicate items like sweaters and lingerie. Clothes will be less dry than when using FAST spin speed. 1 2
Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Operating Instructions Safety Information Wash/Rinse Temp Select the water temperature for the wash and rinse cycles. Always follow fabric manufacturer’s care label or instructions when laundering. Follow the water temperature guide on washer lid. Wash Cycle The wash cycle controls the length of the washing process. The chart below will help you match the wash cycle setting with your clothing. REGULAR For heavy to lightly soiled cottons, household linens, work and play clothes. PERM PRESS For easy care and wrinkle-resistant items. KNITS Specially designed for normally soiled knits. DELICATES For lingerie and delicate fabrics with light to normal soil. AUTO SOAK For heavily soiled clothes. Begins with a brief agitation, soaks for a specified period of time, then moves through the rest of the cycle automatically. SUPERCYCLE For heavily soiled and heavy-duty fabrics. This cycle provides a longer agitation. 3 4 9
Safety Information Operating Instructions Troubleshooting Tips Customer Service About the washer features. Extra Rinse When you use extra detergent or bleach to clean heavily soiled clothes, you may want to use the EXTRA RINSE option. This option provides a second deep cold rinse in the Regular cycle. Turn the EXTRA RINSE knob to SET. The washer will pause for a few minutes before the EXTRA RINSE option begins.
Off
Set
Liquid Bleach Dispenser The dispenser dilutes liquid chlorine bleach before it reaches into your wash load. Check clothing care labels for special instructions. Measure liquid bleach carefully, following instructions on the bottle. Before starting the washer, pour measured amount of bleach directly into bleach dispenser. Avoid splashing or over-filling dispenser. If you prefer to use powdered bleach, add it into the wash basket with your detergent. Never pour undiluted liquid chlorine bleach directly onto clothes or into the wash basket. Do not pour powdered bleach into bleach dispenser. Do not mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or acids such as vinegar and/or rust remover. Mixing can produce a toxic gas which may cause death. 3 2 1 10
Fabric Softener Dispenser This dispenser automatically releases liquid fabric softener at the proper time during the cycle. To use, follow these steps: Make sure dispenser is securely attached to agitator. Use only liquid fabric softener. Pour into dispenser, using amount recommended on package. Add water to dispenser until it reaches the maximum fill line. Do not stop the washer during the first spin. This will cause the dispenser to empty too soon. Do not use the Fabric Softener Dispenser with AUTO SOAK or
Extra Rinse.
Never pour fabric softener directly on clothes. It may stain them. 3 2 1 Do not pour anything into the agitator if the top is removed. Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Operating Instructions Safety Information Separate for cleaning. Cleaning the Fabric Softener Dispenser Remove the dispenser from the top of the agitator. Separate the dispenser cup from the cover by grasping the top and pushing down on the inside of the cup with your fingers. Dispenser cup will pop free from the cover. To clean dispenser, soak both the dispenser cup and the dispenser cover in the following solution: I 1 US gallon (3.8 liters) warm water I 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy duty liquid detergent I 1 cup (240 ml) bleach If necessary, loosen build-up with a clean, soft cloth after soaking. Do not use a stiff brush; you may roughen the surface of the dispenser. Rinse and reassemble dispenser. Place dispenser back on the agitator. 5 4 3 2 1 11
Safety Information Operating Instructions Troubleshooting Tips Customer Service Loading and using the washer. Always follow fabric manufacturer’s care label when laundering. 12 Proper Use of Detergent Always add detergent before adding clothes so that the detergent can work effectively. Follow the detergent package directions. Using too little detergent is a common cause of laundry problems. Use more detergent if you have hard water, large loads, greasy or oily soils or lower water temperature. Loading the Washer Load dry items loosely, no higher than the top row of holes in the washer tub. When loading wet items make sure you set the load/water level high enough to allow the items to move freely. Water level should just cover the clothes. To add items after washer has started, push in Cycle knob and submerge additional items next to the agitator. Close the lid and pull Cycle knob out to restart. Do not wrap large items like sheets around the agitator. Do not wash fabrics containing flammable materials (waxes, cleaning fluids, etc.). Washer will not start with the lid up. Sorting Wash Loads Colors Whites Lights Darks Soil Heavy Normal Light Fabric Delicates Easy Care Sturdy Cottons Lint Lint Producers Lint Collectors
13 Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Operating Instructions Safety Information Care and Cleaning of the Washer Wash Basket: Leave the lid open after washing to allow moisture to evaporate. If you want to clean the basket use a clean soft cloth dampened with liquid detergent, then rinse. (Do not use harsh or gritty cleaners.) Fill Hoses: Hoses connecting washer to faucet should be replaced every 5 years. Lint Filter: It is self-cleaning, requires no maintenance, and is located under the agitator. Exterior: Immediately wipe off any spills. Wipe with damp cloth. Try not to hit surface with sharp objects. Moving and Storage: Ask the service technician to remove water from drain pump and hoses. Do not store the washer where it will be exposed to the weather. Call the GE Answer Center®, 800.626.2000 for information on how to keep the tub stationary when moving the washer. Long Vacations: Be sure water supply is shut off at faucets. Drain all water from hoses if weather will be below freezing.
Troubleshooting Tips Save time and money! Review the charts on the following pages first and you may not need to call for service. Problem Possible Causes What To Do Washer won’t operate Washer is unplugged
(48°C.–60°C.).
Safety Information Operating Instructions Troubleshooting Tips Customer Service Before you call for service… 14
Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Operating Instructions Safety Information Problem Possible Causes What To Do Water won’t drain Drain hose is kinked or
Safety Information Operating Instructions Troubleshooting Tips Customer Service Before you call for service… 16 Troubleshooting Tips Problem Possible Causes What To Do Lint or residue on clothes Incorrect sorting
Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Operating Instructions Safety Information Problem Possible Causes What To Do Wrinkling Improper sorting
Safety Information Operating Instructions Troubleshooting Tips Customer Service Before you call for service… 18 Problem Possible Causes What To Do Pilling Result of normal wear on
120°F.–140°F.
(48°C.–60°C.).
Washer is overloaded
Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Operating Instructions Safety Information 19 For The Period Of: We Will Replace, At No Charge To You: One Year Any part of the washer which fails due to a defect From the date of the in materials or workmanship. During this full one-year original purchase warranty, we will also provide, free of charge, all labor and in-home service to replace the defective part. Five Years The transmission, if it should fail due to a defect in From the date of the materials or workmanship. During this five-year limited original purchase warranty, you will be responsible for any labor or in- home service costs. Twenty Years The washer basket, if it should fail due to a defect in From the date of the materials or workmanship. During this twenty-year original purchase limited warranty, you will be responsible for any labor or in-home service costs. Hotpoint Washer Warranty All warranty service provided by our Factory Service Centers, or an authorized Customer Care® technician. For service, call 800-GE-CARES. This warranty is extended to the original purchaser and any succeeding owner for products purchased for home use within the USA. In Alaska, the warranty excludes the cost of shipping or service calls to your home. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. To know what your legal rights are, consult your local or state consumer affairs office or your state’s Attorney General. I Service trips to your home to teach you how to use the product. I Improper installation. I Failure of the product if it is abused, misused, or used for other than the intended purpose or used commercially. I Replacement of house fuses or resetting of circuit breakers. I Damage to the product caused by accident, fire, floods or acts of God. I Incidental or consequential damage to personal property caused by possible defects with this appliance. What Is Not Covered: Warrantor: General Electric Company. Louisville, KY 40225
Service Telephone Numbers. The GE Answer Center® is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. GE Answer Center® 800.626.2000 Expert GE repair service is only a phone call away. In-Home Repair Service 800-GE-CARES (800-432-2737)