GSS1800HBB - Washing machine GE - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL GSS1800HBB GE

Safety Instructions .....2-4

Operating Instructions

Adding Wood Inserts .....11

Care and Cleaning ..... 12, 13

Control Panel 6,7

Features 5

Loading the

Dishwasher Racks .....10, 11

Using the Dishwasher ..... 8, 9

Troubleshooting Tips . . . .14–16

Consumer Support

Consumer Support . . .Back Cover

Product Registration .....17, 18

Warranty .....19

Write the model and serial numbers here:

Model # ____

Serial #

You can find them on the tub wall just inside the door.

Owner's Manual

GSS1800

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION. READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.

WARNING!

For your safety, the information in this manual must be followed to minimize the risk of fire, explosion, electric shock, or to prevent property damage, personal injury, or loss of life.

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WATER HEATER SAFETY

Under certain conditions hydrogen gas may be produced in a water heater that has not been used for two weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXPLOSIVE.

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 allow 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.

WARNING!

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DO NOT...

■ Do not tamper with controls.
Do not abuse, sit on, or stand on the door or dish rack of the dishwasher.
Do not discard a dishwasher without first removing the door of the washing compartment.

Do not store or use combustible materials, gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other appliance.

Do not allow children to play inside, on or with this appliance or any discarded appliance.

Use your dishwasher only for its intended purpose as described in this Owner's Manual.

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PROPER INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE

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 receive one by visiting our Website at GEAppliances.com.

Connect to a grounded metal, permanent wiring system; or run an equipment-grounding conductor with the circuit conductors and connect to the equipment-grounding terminal or lead of the appliance.
Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a risk of electric shock. Check with a qualified electrician or service representative if you are in doubt whether the appliance is properly grounded.
■ Dispose of discarded appliances and shipping or packing material properly.

Do not attempt to repair or replace any part of your dishwasher unless it is specifically recommended in this manual. All other servicing should be referred to a qualified technician.
To minimize the possibility of electric shock, disconnect this appliance from the power supply before attempting any maintenance. NOTE: Turning the dishwasher off does not disconnect the appliance from the power supply. We recommend having a qualified technician service your appliance.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION. READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.

WHEN USING YOUR DISHWASHER

Use only powder, tabs or liquid detergents or wetting agents recommended for use in a dishwasher and keep them out of the reach of children. Cascade, ^ Cascade ^ Complete and Electrasol ^ Automatic Dishwashing Detergents and Jet-Dry ^ rinse agent have been approved for use in all GE dishwashers.

- Locate sharp items so that they are not likely to damage the door seal.

- Load sharp knives with the handles up to reduce the risk of cut-type injuries.

Do not wash plastic items unless marked dishwasher safe or the equivalent. For plastic items not so marked, check the manufacturer's recommendations.

Non-Dishware Items: Do not wash items such as electronic air cleaner filters, furnace filters and paint brushes in your dishwasher. Damage to dishwasher and discoloration or staining of dishwasher may result.

■ Do not touch the heating element during or immediately after use.

Do not operate your dishwasher unless all enclosure panels are properly in place.

■ Close supervision is necessary if this appliance is used by or near children.

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 element and be damaged.

Colored aluminum, cast iron, hand-painted china, wooden, plastic, rubber and bone-handled items which are not marked dishwasher-safe or equivalent should be washed by hand.

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READ AND FOLLOW THIS SAFETY INFORMATION CAREFULLY.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Features of the dishwasher (a side view).

GEAppliances.com

Upper rack Tower assembly Lower rack Lower spray arm Normal water fill level Motor Leveling legs Console Model & serial # (on right side of tub) Float Heating element Door spring

About the dishwasher control panel.

You can locate your model number on the tub wall just inside the door. Throughout this manual, features and appearance may vary from your model.

HEATED DRY ON

HEATED DRY OFF

OFF POTS & PANS HEAVY WASH NORMAL WASH LIGHT WASH PLATE WARMER (HEATED DRY ON) RINSE ONLY (HEATED DRY OFF) 1 3

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Control Settings

Wash Cycles

POTS & PANS For heavily soiled dishes or cookware with dried-on or baked-on soils. Everyday dishes may be included. This cycle will not remove burned-on foods.

HEAVY WASH For heavily soiled dishes or cookware. For dried-on or baked-on soils, use the POTS & PANS cycle. Everyday dishes may be included.

NORMAL WASH For loads of everyday dishes, glasses and cookware with medium soils. NOTE: Many dishes have lighter soil than normal. Choosing a cycle other than NORMAL WASH will save energy and water.

LIGHT WASH For dishes with light soils.

RINSE ONLY For rinsing partial loads that will be washed later. Do not use detergent or HEATED DRY ON.

PLATE WARMER For warming clean dishes and serving plates. This cycle will take approximately 30 minutes.

Options

HEATED DRY ON Turns the heating element on for fast drying. This option will extend the time of your wash cycle.

HEATED DRY OFF Turns HEATED DRY ON off. Dishes air dry naturally and energy is saved.

Start

Slowly turn the Dial to the desired position on the Dial after selecting the drying option. Don't turn it past that position, or you could accidentally miss a rinse. There is a time delay between start-up and water fill so you will not hear any wash action right away.

Cycle Sequence

Water Time

Cycles (approx.) (approx.) Cycle Sequence

POTS & PANS 9.3 gal. 55 min. Wash Rinse Rinse Rinse Wash Rinse Rinse

HEAVY WASH 8.0 gal. 48 min. Wash Rinse Rinse Wash Rinse Rinse

NORMAL WASH 6.7 gal. 43 min. Wash Rinse Wash Rinse Rinse

LIGHT WASH 5.3 gal. 37 min. Rinse Wash Rinse Rinse

RINSE ONLY

1.3 gal.

9 min. Rinse

Drying Options

HEATED DRY ON adds approximately 36 minutes to the cycle. (Not available on the RINSE ONLY cycle.)

Using the dishwasher.

Check the Water Temperature

The entering water must be at least 120^ F and not more than 150^ F, for effective cleaning and to prevent dish damage. Check the water temperature with a candy or meat thermometer. Turn on the hot water faucet nearest the dishwasher, place the thermometer in a glass and let the water run continuously into the glass until the temperature stops rising.

Use Jet-Dry ^® Rinse Agent

Jet-Dry ^® rinse agent removes spots and prevents new film buildup on your dishes, glasses, flatware, cookware and plastic.

A dispenser, located next to the detergent cup, automatically releases a measured amount of rinse aid during the last rinse. If spotting and poor drying are problems, increase the amount of rinse aid dispensed by rotating the dial to a higher number. The dial is located under the dispenser cap. The indicator will be dark when full and will show clear when it is time to refill.

To add liquid rinse aid, turn dispenser cap 1/4 turn counterclockwise and lift out. Pour in rinse aid until liquid touches the indicated fill level. Replace the cap.

A full dispenser should last about one month.

If rinse agent spills, wipe up the excess.

Dispenser opening Indicator RINSE AID Adjustable setting Dispenser cap

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Proper Use of Detergent

Use only detergent specifically made for use in dishwashers.

Cascade, ^® Cascade ^® Complete and Electrasol ^® Automatic Dishwashing Detergents have been approved for use in all GE dishwashers. Keep your detergent fresh and dry. Don't put powder detergent into the dispenser until you're ready to wash dishes.

The amount of detergent to use depends on whether your water is hard or soft. With hard water, you need extra detergent. With soft water, you need less detergent.

Protect your dishes and dishwasher by contacting your water department and asking how hard your water is. Twelve or more grains is extremely hard water. A water softener is recommended. Without it, lime can build up in the water valve, which could stick while open and cause flooding. Too much detergent with soft water can cause a permanent cloudiness of glassware, called etching.

You'll find two detergent cups on the inside door of your dishwasher. For POTS & PANS, HEAVY WASH and NORMAL WASH, fill both cups. For LIGHT WASH, fill only the Main Wash cup. Close the Main Wash cup before closing the dishwasher door. When using automatic dishwashing detergent tabs, simply place one tab in the main wash and close.

Pre Wash open cup

Fill to ▲ULTRA▲ line when using ultra or concentrated dishwashing detergent.

Fill to ▲REGULAR ▲line when using standard dishwashing detergent.

Main Wash covered cup

Fill to ▲ULTRA▲ line when using ultra or concentrated dishwashing detergent.

Fill to ▲REGULAR ▲line when using standard dishwashing detergent.

To open the main wash cover, press the retainer button. The cover will flip back.

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Forget to Add a Dish?

A forgotten dish can be added any time before the main wash.

CAUTION: Do not open the door until the water spray action stops. Water may splash out of the dishwasher.

1 Unlatch the door to interrupt the cycle.

2 Do not open the door until water spray action stops. Steam may rise out of the dishwasher.

3 Add forgotten dishes.

4 Close the door and push it in to relatch.

Loading the dishwasher racks.

For best dishwashing results, follow these loading guidelines. Features and appearance of racks and silverware baskets may vary from your model.

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Upper Rack

The upper rack is for glasses, cups and saucers. Cups and glasses fit best along the sides. This is also a secure place for dishwasher-safe plastics. A cup shelf (on some models) may be placed in the up or down position to add flexibility. The upper rack is good for all kinds of odd-shaped utensils. Saucepans, mixing bowls and other items should be placed face down.

Secure larger dishwasher-safe plastics over two fingers when possible.

Make sure small plastic items are secure so they can't fall onto the heating element.

Do not block center area

The Wash Tower

Keep the center area clear in the lower rack.

The wash tower rises through the center of the lower 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.

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Lower Rack

When loading the lower rack, do not load large platters or trays in the front right corner. They may prevent detergent from circulating during the wash cycle.

The lower rack is best used for plates, saucers and cookware. Large items such as broiler pans and racks should go along the sides. Load platters, pots and bowls along the sides, in corners or in the back. The soiled side of items should face the center of the rack.

Don't let any item extend through bottom.

Silverware Basket

Put flatware in the removable basket with fork and knife handles up to protect your hands. Place spoons in the basket with handles down. 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, should go in the bottom of the silverware basket with silverware on top.

Adding wood inserts.

Ordering GPF18

The dishwasher door and access panel can be customized with 3/16" thick wood inserts to match your kitchen cabinets. Contact your dealer to obtain trim kit, GPF18.

Dimensions for 3/16" wood inserts:

Door Panel: 17 ^5 /16" H x 17 ^7 /16" W.

Access Panel: 6^1/2 " H x 17^7/_16 " W.

Caring for the dishwasher.

Tower Spray arm Heating element Pump opening

Cleaning the Pump and Spray Arms

The dishwasher will flush away all normal food soils. However, objects (fruit pits, bones, etc.) may collect in openings and should be removed once in a while to avoid clogging the drain system.

▲ WARNING!

Personal injury hazard. Before cleaning the interior, wait at least 20 minutes after a cycle for the heating element to cool down. Failure to do so could result in burn injuries.

1 Remove tower base by turning counterclockwise.
2 Remove locknut and spray arm.
3 Clean out spray arm holes.
4 Clean in and around pump openings.
5 Replace spray arm and securely tighten locknut. Spray arm should rotate freely.
6 Replace tower base.

Clean and remove particles collected here Locking tabs Float guide

Cleaning the Float

Clean the float to prevent it from sticking. The float controls the water level in the dishwasher; sticking may cause an overflow or no water fill. When removing float to clean, pull up firmly until it snaps out. To replace float, push down until float locks into place. This will activate the float switch. For location of the float see Features of the dishwasher.

NOTE: The float should move up and down freely for approximately one inch when replaced on the tube. Never run the dishwasher without the float in place.

To clean the control panel, use a lightly dampened cloth, then dry thoroughly. To clean the exterior, use a good appliance polish wax.

Never use sharp objects, scouring pads or harsh cleaners on any part of the dishwasher.

Protect Against Freezing

If your dishwasher is left in an unheated place during the winter, ask a service technician to:

1 Cut off electrical power to the dishwasher. Remove fuses or trip circuit breaker.
2 Turn off the water supply and disconnect the water inlet line from the water valve.
3 Drain water from the inlet line and water valve. (Use a pan to catch the water.)
4 Reconnect the water inlet line to the water valve.
5 Remove the plastic sump cover in the tub bottom and use a sponge to soak up water in the rubber boot.

NOTE: Before using the dishwasher again, operate it through a complete cycle with detergent in both cups.

Two types of air gaps

Does Your Dishwasher Have an Air Gap?

An air gap protects your dishwasher against water backing up into it if a drain clogs. The air gap is not a part of the dishwasher. It is not covered by your warranty. Not all plumbing codes require air gaps, so you may not have one.

The air gap is easy to clean.

1 Turn off the dishwasher and lift off the chrome cover.
2 Unscrew the plastic cap and clean with a toothpick.

Before you call for service...

Troubleshooting Tips

Review the charts on the following pages first and you may not need to call for service.

Problem Possible Causes What To Do
Dishwasher won't run	Fuse is blown, or the circuit breaker tripped	Replace fuse or reset circuit breaker. Remove any other appliances from the circuit.
	Door not latched	Close the door and push it in to relatch.
	Dial NOT set exactly at desired wash cycle	Turn the Dial to the desired wash cycle.
Dishwasher leaks	Improper installation	Review Installation Instructions and install properly.
	Correct detergent wasn't used	Use only automatic dishwashers detergents. Cascade®, Cascade® Complete and Electrasol® Automatic Dishwashing Detergents have been approved for use in all GE dishwashers.
Suds in the tub	Correct detergent wasn't used	Use only automatic dishwashers detergents to avoid sudsing. Cascade®, Cascade® Complete and Electrasol® Automatic Dishwashing Detergents have been approved for use in all GE dishwashers.
		To remove suds from the tub, open the dishwasher and let suds evaporate. Add 1 gallon of cold water to the tub. Close and latch the dishwasher. Pump out water by slowly turning the Dial until a drain period is reached. Repeat if necessary.
	Rinse agent was spilled	Always wipe up rinse agent spills immediately.
Dishwasher will not fill turned on	Water supply not	Turn water supply on.
	Water supply line may be clogged You may need a plumber.	Check water supply line.
Aluminum discoloration	Certain water conditions in combination with some detergents tend to darken aluminum	Scour all surfaces with a soap-filled pad.Try another dishwasher detergent. Cascade®, Cascade® Complete and Electrasol® Automatic Dishwashing Detergents have been approved for use in all GE dishwashers.
Dishes don't dry	Low inlet water temperature	Make sure inlet water temperature is correct.
	Rinse agent dispenser is empty	Check the rinse agent dispenser.
	Improper rack loading	Load items to permit proper drainage.
	HEATED DRY OFF is selected	Select HEATED DRY ON.
Dishes and flatware not clean	Inlet water temperature is below 120°F	Raise the water heater temperature to 120°F.
	Water pressure is temporarily low	Turn on a faucet. Is water coming out more slowly than usual? If so, wait until pressure is normal before using your dishwasher.
	Air gap is clogged	Clean the air gap.
	Improper rack loading	Make sure large dishware does not block the detergent dispenser or the wash arm.
	Detergent	Use the correct amount of dishwasher detergent that is fresh and dry. Cascade®, Cascade® Complete and Electrasol® Automatic Dishwashing Detergents have been approved for use in all GE dishwashers.

Before you call for service...

Problem Possible Causes What To Do
Dish fading	Decoration which is applied to a glazed surface is most susceptible	Consult with dishware manufacturer.
Rust deposits	Iron deposits in water supply water supply line.	Install an iron filter in the line.
Spots and filming on glasses and flatware	Extremely hard waterLow inlet water temperatureOverloading the dishwasherImproper loadingOld or damp powder detergentRinse agent dispenser emptyToo little detergent	Use Jet-Dry® rinse agent to new film buildup.To remove stubborn spots and pre-existing film from glassware:1 Remove all metal utensils from the dishwasher.2 Do not add detergent.3 Select the longest cycle.4 Start the dishwasher and allow to run for 18 to 22 minutes. Dishwasher will now be in the main wash.5 Open the door and pour 2 cups (500 ml) of white vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher.6 Close the door and allow to complete the cycle. If vinegar rinse doesn’t work: Repeat as above, except use 1/4 cup (60 ml) of citric acid crystals instead of vinegar.
Cloudiness on glassware	Combination of soft water and too much detergent	This is called etching and is permanent. To prevent this from happening, use less detergent if you have soft water. Wash glassware in the shortest cycle that will get them clean.
	Water temperature entering the dishwasher exceeds 150°F	Lower the water heater temperature.
Black or gray marks on dishes	Aluminum utensils have rubbed against dishes	Remove marks with a mild, abrasive cleaner.Load items so that they do not touch.

GE Service Protection Plus™

GE, a name recognized worldwide for quality and dependability, offers you Service Protection Plus™—comprehensive protection on all your appliances—No Matter What Brand!

Benefits Include:

• Backed by GE
• All brands covered
• Unlimited service calls
• All parts and labor costs included
  • No out-of-pocket expenses
• No hidden deductibles
  • One 800 number to call

We'll Cover Any Appliance. Anywhere. Anytime.\*

You will be completely satisfied with our service protection or you may request your money back on the remaining value of your contract. No questions asked. It's that simple.

Protect your refrigerator, dishwasher, washer and dryer, range, TV, VCR and much more—any brand! Plus there’s no extra charge for emergency service and low monthly financing is available. Even icemaker coverage and food spoilage protection is offered. You can rest easy, knowing that all your valuable household products are protected against expensive repairs.

Place your confidence in GE and call us in the U.S. toll-free at 800.626.2224 for more information.

*All brands covered, up to 20 years old, in the continental U.S.

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Please place in envelope and mail to:

General Electric Company

Warranty Registration Department

P.O. Box 32150

Louisville, KY 40232-2150

Consumer Product Ownership Registration

Dear Customer:

Thank you for purchasing our product and thank you for placing your confidence in us. We are proud to have you as a customer!

Follow these three steps to protect your new appliance investment:

1

Complete and mail your Consumer Product Ownership Registration today. Have the peace of mind of knowing we can contact you in the unlikely event of a safety modification.

2

After mailing the registration below, store this document in a safe place. It contains information you will need should you require service. Our service number is 800.GE.CARES (800.432.2737).

3

Read your Owner's Manual carefully. It will help you operate your new appliance properly.

Model Number

Serial Number

Important: If you did not get a registration card with your product, detach and return the form below to ensure that your product is registered, or register online at GEAppliances.com.

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Consumer Product Ownership Registration

Important Mail Today!

Model Number

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Street Address

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Apt. #

E-mail Address*

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GE Appliances

General Electric Company Louisville, Kentucky GEAppliances.com

* Please provide your e-mail address to receive, via e-mail, discounts, special offers and other important communications from GE Appliances (GEA).

□ Check here if you do not want to receive communications from GEA's carefully selected partners.

GE Dishwasher Warranty.

All warranty service provided by our Factory Service Centers, or an authorized Customer Care® technician. To schedule service, on-line, 24 hours a day, visit us at GEAppliances.com, or call 800.GE.CARES (800.432.2737).

Staple your receipt here. Proof of the original purchase date is needed to obtain service under the warranty.

For The Period Of: GE Will Replace:

One Year Any part of the dishwasher which fails due to a defect in from the date of the original purchase	materials or workmanship. During this full one-year warranty, GE will also provide, free of charge, all labor and in-home service to replace the defective part.
Ten Years The PermaTufFrom the date of the water due to a defect in materials or workmanship. original purchase	®tub or door liner, if it fails to containDuring this full ten-year warranty, GE will also provide, free of charge, all labor and in-home service to replace the defective part.

What GE Will Not Cover:

■ Service trips to your home to teach you how to use the product.
Improper installation.
■ Replacement of house fuses or resetting of circuit breakers.
Failure of the product if it is abused, misused, or used for other than the intended purpose or used commercially.

■ Damage to the product caused by accident, fire, floods or acts of God.
■ Incidental or consequential damage caused by possible defects with this appliance.
- Cleaning or servicing of the air gap device in the drain line.

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.

GE Appliances Website

GEAppliances.com

Have a question or need assistance with your appliance? Try the GE Appliances Website 24 hours a day, any day of the year! For greater convenience and faster service, you can now download Owner's Manuals, order parts, catalogs or even schedule service on-line. You can also "Ask Our Team of Experts™" your questions, and so much more...

Schedule Service GEAppliances.com

Expert GE repair service is only one step away from your door. Get on-line and schedule your service at your convenience 24 hours any day of the year! Or call 800.GE.CARES (800.432.2737) during normal business hours.

Real Life Design Studio GEAppliances.com

GE supports the Universal Design concept—products, services and environments that can be used by people of all ages, sizes and capabilities. We recognize the need to design for a wide range of physical and mental abilities and impairments. For details of GE's Universal Design applications, including kitchen design ideas for people with disabilities, check out our Website today. For the hearing impaired, please call 800.TDD.GEAC (800.833.4322).

Extended Warranties GEAppliances.com

Purchase a GE extended warranty and learn about special discounts that are available while your warranty is still in effect. You can purchase it on-line anytime, or call 800.626.2224 during normal business hours. GE Consumer Home Services will still be there after your warranty expires.

Parts and Accessories GEAppliances.com

Individuals qualified to service their own appliances can have parts or accessories sent directly to their homes (VISA, MasterCard and Discover cards are accepted). Order on-line today, 24 hours every day or by phone at 800.626.2002 during normal business hours.

Instructions contained in this manual cover procedures to be performed by any user. Other servicing generally should be referred to qualified service personnel. Caution must be exercised, since improper servicing may cause unsafe operation.

Contact Us GEAppliances.com

If you are not satisfied with the service you receive from GE, contact us on our Website with all the details including your phone number, or write to:

General Manager, Customer Relations

GE Appliances, Appliance Park

Louisville, KY 40225

Register Your Appliance GEAppliances.com

Register your new appliance on-line—at your convenience! Timely product registration will allow for enhanced communication and prompt service under the terms of your warranty, should the need arise. You may also mail in the pre-printed registration card included in the packing material.