GDT696SSFSS - Dishwasher GE - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL GDT696SSFSS GE

Owner’s Manual Stainless Steel Tub with Top Controls

Write the model and serial numbers here: Model #_ ___________________ Serial #_____________________ You can find them on a label on the tub wall just inside the door.

29-5922 10-13 MC IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION. READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING —

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS WARNING!

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

WARNING! WATER HEATER SAFETY Under certain conditions, hydrogen gas may be produced in a water heater that has not been used for two or more weeks. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXPLOSIVE. If the hot water has not been used for two or more weeks, 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 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, use an open flame, or use the appliance during this process.

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.ca. nConnect the dishwasher/appliance to a grounded metal, permanent wiring system; or run an equipment-grounding conductor with the circuit conductors and connect to the equipmentgrounding terminal or lead of the appliance. nImproper 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. nDispose of discarded appliances and shipping or packing material properly.

nDo 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. nTo 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.

CAUTION: To prevent minor injury or property damage

n Contents washed in Anti-bacterial mode, if available, may be hot to the touch. Use care before handling. n Using a detergent that is not specifically designed for dishwashers will cause the dishwasher to fill with suds. n If your dishwasher is connected to a wall switch, ensure that the switch is on prior to use. n On dishwashers with electronic controls, if you choose to turn the wall switch off between wash cycles, allow 5–10 seconds after turning the switch on before touching ON/OFF to allow the control to reboot.

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

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION. READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING — SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS WARNING! RISK OF CHILD ENTRAPMENT PROPER DISPOSAL OF THE DISHWASHER Junked or abandoned dishwashers are dangerous… even if they will sit for “just a few days.” If you are getting rid of your old dishwasher, please follow the instructions below to help prevent accidents.

Before You Throw Away Your Old Dishwasher:

Hold nut at top of dishwasher while removing screw

n Take off the door of the washing compartment or remove the door latch keeper (as shown).

When using your dishwasher, follow basic precautions, including the following:

n Use this appliance only for its intended purpose as described in this Owner’s Manual.

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

n Do not tamper with controls. n Use only powder, tabs, liquid detergents or rinse agents recommended for use in a dishwasher and n Do not abuse, sit on or stand on the door or dish keep them out of the reach of children. rack of the dishwasher. n Locate sharp items so that they are not likely n Do not allow children to play around dishwasher to damage the door seal. when opening or closing door due to the possibility of small fingers being pinched in door. n Load sharp knives with the handles up to reduce the risk of cut-type injuries. n Do not discard a dishwasher without first removing the door of the washing compartment or the door n Do not wash plastic items unless marked latch. “Dishwasher Safe” or the equivalent. For plastic items not so marked, check the manufacturer’s n Do not store or use combustible materials, recommendations. gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other appliance. n Do not touch the heating element during or immediately after use. n Do not allow children to play with, on or inside this appliance or any discarded appliance.

READ AND FOLLOW THIS SAFETY INFORMATION CAREFULLY. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS 2

About the dishwasher control panel 1

Display Will display many parameters, including remaining time, delay time, selected Program and Options icons, rinse aid indicator, and when applicable, error codes.

Delay This option allows you to delay the start of a wash cycle for up to 24 hours. When the dishwasher is on, press the DELAY button to choose the number of hours you want to delay the start of the wash cycle. The hours will show in the display window. Note: To cancel the delay hour option before the wash cycle starts, repeatedly press the DELAY button until the display reads“0:00”.

Press the OPTIONS button once, “Heated Dry” will be selected; Press the OPTIONS button twice, the “Hi temp” will be selected; Press the OPTIONS button a third time, the “Heated Dry” and “Hi temp” will be selected;

HI TEMP When the “Hi Temp” option is selected, the temperature of the water will reach 60°C (140°F) max. HEATED DRY When the “Heated Dry” option is selected, the drying portion of the cycle will be heated.

When the dishwasher is powered, you can press the Cycles button to select the wash cycle. A light on the display will indicate which cycle has been selected. NOTE : The following information about cycle duration and water consumption are approximate. Results will vary based on various factors, including but not limited to incoming water temperature and pressure as well as soil level. Heavy Water: 24.3 liters, Time: 130 minutes This cycle is meant for heavily soiled dishes or cookware with dried-on or baked-on soils. This cycle may not remove burned-on foods. Everyday dishes are safe to be used in this cycle. Normal Water: 13.8 liters, Time: 140 minutes This cycle is meant for loads of everyday dishes, glasses and cookware with medium soils that have not been pre-rinsed. Qu ick

Water: 17.3 liters, Time: 80 minutes This cycle is meant for loads of everyday dishes, glasses and cookware with medium soils that have not been pre-rinsed. This cycle features reduced wash times to allow for faster cycle completion. This cycle also has a reduced time heated dry.

Glass Water: 13.8 liters, Time: 90 minutes This cycle is meant for lightly soiled glassware. This cycle has less heating during the wash and rinse to protect your glassware. This cycle also has a lower temperature heated dry. Eco

Water: 14.0 liters, Time: 95 minutes This cycle is meant for loads of everyday dishes, glasses and cookware with light soils that have been pre-rinsed.

Water: 6.8 liters, Time:25 minutes For rinsing partial loads that will be washed later. Do not use detergent with this cycle. This cycle does not include

With door open, press POWER button to turn the unit ON to begin operation and OFF at the end of a wash cycle.An icon will be displayed when the dishwasher is ON.

Using the dishwasher. Check the Water Temperature 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.

The entering water should be at least 49°C (120°F) and not more than 65°F (150°F) for effective cleaning and to prevent dish damage. Check the water temperature with a candy or meat

Use Rinse Agent Rinse agent removes spots and prevents new film buildup on your dishes, glasses, flatware, cookware and plastic.

Filling the Dispenser

The rinse agent dispenser holds approximately 100 ml of rinse agent. Under normal conditions, this will last approximately one month. Try to keep it full, but do not overfill. Min

Make sure the dishwasher door is fully open.

Turn the dispenser cap to the left and lift it out. Add rinse agent until the indicator window looks full. Clean up any spilled rinse agent with a damp cloth.

Adjustable setting Dispenser cap

Replace the dispenser cap.

Rinse Aid Setting The amount of rinse agent released into the final wash can be adjusted. The factory setting is at the midpoint. If there are rings of calcium (hard water) spots on dishes, try a higher setting. If you observe foam in the final rinse, try a lower setting. To adjust the setting Remove the dispenser cap; then turn the adjuster counterclockwise to increase the amount of rinse agent or clockwise to reduce the amount of rinse agent dispensed.

Dish Preparation Prior to Loading n No prerinsing of normal food soil is required if using Heavy, Normal or Speed wash cycles. n Scrape off hard soils, bones, toothpicks, skins and seeds.

n Remove large quantities of any remaining food. n Remove leafy vegetables, meat, trimmings and excessive amounts of grease or oil. n Remove acidic food soils that can discolor stainless steel.

Proper Use of Detergent Use only detergent specifically made for use in dishwashers. Keep your detergent fresh and dry. Don’t put 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.

For heavily-soiled loads, use the HEAVY wash cycle and add a little extra detergent.

DO NOT USE HAND DISH DETERGENT Use the information in the table below as a guideline to determine the amount of automatic dishwasher detergent to place in the dispenser. When using automatic dishwasher detergent tablets, simply place one tablet in the dispenser and close the cover. Number of Grains

Detergent Cups to Fill

15, 25 cups and the open cup

NOTE: Using a detergent that is not specifically designed for dishwashers will cause the dishwasher to fill with suds. During operation, these suds will spill out of the dishwasher vents, covering the kitchen floor and making the floor wet. Because so many detergent containers look alike, store the dishwasher detergent in a separate space from all other cleaners. Show anyone who may use the dishwasher the correct detergent and where it is stored. While there will be no lasting damage to the dishwasher, your dishes will not get clean using a dishwashing detergent that is not formulated to work with dishwashers.

To open the wash cover, press the button and the cover will flip back.

Forgot to Add a Dish? A forgotten dish can be added any time before the main wash.

Open the door slightly to disengage the latch and stop the cycle.

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

Add forgotten dishes. 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.

Upper Rack The upper rack is for glasses, cups and saucers. This is also a secure place for dishwasher-safe plastics. A cup shelf 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 tines when possible. Make sure small plastic items are secure so they can’t fall onto the heater. Be sure that items do not protrude through the bottom of the rack and block rotation of the middle spray arm. This could result in poor wash performance for items in the upper rack.

Lower Rack When loading the lower rack, do not load large platters or trays in the front left corner. They may prevent detergent from circulating during the wash cycle. The lower rack is best used for plates, saucers and cookware. Large items 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. Be careful not to let a portion of any item such as a pot or dish handle extend through the bottom rack. This could block the wash arm and cause poor washing results.

The silverware basket may be used without the topper for quick loading. With the topper, flatware is better positioned for the dishwasher to thoroughly wash and dry all pieces by preventing nesting.

Without the topper Put the 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. With the topper Place small plastic items, such as measuring spoons and lids from small containers, in the bottom of the basket and snap the topper in place. Insert spoons and forks, handles first, through the holes in the topper. Place knives, blades first, through the holes in the topper.

To remove end baskets, grasp the basket at opposite corners and slide apart.

Caring for the dishwasher.

To clean the control panel, use a lightly dampened cloth, then dry thoroughly. To clean the exterior, use a nonabrasive,approved appliance Cleaner. Never use sharp objects, scouring pads or harsh cleaners on any part of the dishwasher.

Cleaning the Exterior Cleaning the Door Panel Before cleaning the front panel, make sure you know what type of panel you have. Refer to the last two letters of your model number. You can locate your model number on the left-hand tub wall just inside the door. If your model number ends with BB or WW, then you have a Painted Door panel. If your model number ends with SS, then you have a Stainless Steel Door panel. Follow the instructions below for cleaning the door panel for your specific model. Painted Door Panel (model numbers ending in BB–black or WW–white) Use a clean, soft, lightly dampened cloth, then dry thoroughly. You may also use a good appliance wax or polish.

Cleaning the Control Panel To clean the control panel, use a lightly dampened cloth; then dry thoroughly. Do

Stainless Steel Interior Tub and Inner Door The stainless steel used to make the dishwasher tub and inner door provides

the highest reliability available in a GE Stainless Steel Door Panel (model numbers ending in SS) The stainless steel panels can be cleaned with Stainless Steel Magic or a similar product using a clean, soft cloth. Do not use appliance wax, polish, bleach or products containing chlorine on Stainless Steel doors. You can order Stainless Steel Magic #WX10X15 through GE Parts by calling 800.661.1616. Do not wipe the dishwasher with a soiled dish cloth or wet towel. These may leave a residue. Do not use scouring pads or powdered cleaners because these products can scratch the finish. not use sharp objects, scouring pads or harsh cleaners on the control panel.

dishwasher. If the dishwasher tub or inner door is ever scrached or dented during during normal use, they will not rust or corrode. These surface blemishes will not affect their function or durability.

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

CAUTION 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. Upper Arm UNSCREW Lower PULL OUT Arm

Cleaning the Spray Arms Because hard water chemicals will clog the spray arm jets and bearings, it is necessary to clean the spray arms regularly. Wash the arms in soapy, warm water and use a soft brush to clean the jets. Replace them after rinsing thoroughly. To remove the upper spray arm, unscrew the nut clockwise. To remove the lower spray arm, pull upward.

Caring for the dishwasher. Cleaning the Spray Arms and the Filters (Continued) Cleaning the Filters For best performance and results, the filter assembly must be cleaned once a month. The filter efficiently removes food particles from the wash water, allowing water to be recirculated during the cycle. For this ­­­reason, it is a good idea to remove the large food particles trapped in the filter frequently by rinsing the

main filter and cup under running water. To remove the filter assembly, follow the 3 steps shown below. To clean the main filter and fine filter, use a cleaning brush. The dishwasher must never be used without the filters. Improper replacement of the filter may reduce the performance level of the appliance and may damage dishes and utensils.

STEP 1: Turn the filter counter-clockwise and lift up.

STEP 2: Lift the main filter up

STEP 3: Lift the fine filter up

General Care Instructions

Two types of air gaps

Check the air gap any time your dishwasher isn’t draining well.

Protect Against Freezing

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

Drain water from the water inlet line and water valve. (Use a pan to catch the water.)

Reconnect the water inlet line to the water valve.

Cut off electrical power to the dishwasher. Remove fuses or trip circuit breaker.

Turn off the water supply and disconnect the water inlet line from the water valve.

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.

Turn off the dishwasher and lift off the chrome cover.

Remove the plastic cap and clean with a toothpick.

Before you call for service… Troubleshooting Tips - Save time and money! Review the charts on the following pages, or visit GEAppliances.ca. You may not need to call for service. Problem

Some of the sounds you’ll hear are normal

• Detergent cup opening. • The motor starting during the drying period.

• Water draining out of the tub immediately after you start the dishwasher. Utensils are not secure in the • Make sure everything is secured in dishwasher. rack or something small has dropped into the rack Motor hums • 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.

• Dishwasher control was not advanced properly to the start of the desired cycle. Advance the control to the start of the desired cycle. Detergent left in dispenser cups

Dishes are blocking the detergent cups

• Reposition the dishes.

Water standing in the Drain is clogged • If you have an air gap, clean it. bottom of the tub

• Check to see if your kitchen sink is draining well. If not, you may need a plumber.

• If the dishwasher drains into a disposer, run disposer clear.

This is normal • A small amount of clean water around the outlet of the tub bottom at the back of the tub keeps the water seal lubricated. Suds in the tub Correct detergent wasn’t used • Use only automatic dishwasher detergents to avoid sudsing. Cascade® Dishwashing Detergent has been approved for use in all GE dishwashers.

• To remove suds from the tub, open the dishwasher and let suds evaporate. Add 3.8 liters of cold water to the tub. Close and latch the dishwasher. Repeat if necessary.

Rinse agent was spilled

• Always wipe up rinse agent spills immediately.

Detergent with • Some detergents contain colorant (pigment or dyes) that colorant was used will discolor the tub interior with extended use. Check the detergent cup for signs of any discoloration. If cup is discolored, change to detergent without any colorant.

Some tomato-based • Use of the RINSE ONLY cycle after adding the dish to the foods can stain load can decrease the level of staining. Dishwasher won’t run Fuse is blown, or the • Replace fuse or reset circuit breaker. Remove any other appliances circuit breaker tripped from the circuit. Stained dishwasher parts

Power is turned off • In some installations, the power to the dishwasher is proved through a wall switch, often located next to the disposer switch. Make sure it is on. Reboot your control • Turn off power to the dishwasher (at circuit breaker or wall switch) for 30 seconds, then turn back on. Steam This is normal •

Beeping at the end This is normal •

Steam comes through the vent during washing, drying and when water is being pumped out.

The dishwasher will beep 4 times (unless interupted) and the CLEAN light will display at the end of the wash cycle.

Before you call for service… Problem

Dishes and flatware not clean

Low inlet water temperature

• Make sure inlet water temperature is correct (see page 6).

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 arms. No air gap or high drain loop • Verify that you have an air gap or a high drain loop. Refer to the Installation Instructions. Filter needs cleaning • The filter assembly must be cleaned regularly to allow the filter to efficiently remove food particles from the wash water. See Cleaning the Filter section on page 1. Spots and filming Extremely hard water • Use rinse agent to remove spots and on glasses and prevent new film buildup. flatware Low inlet water temperature • Make sure water temperature is at least 49°C (120°F). Overloading the dishwasher / • Load dishwasher as shown in the Loading the Dishwasher Racks Improper loading section. Old or damp powder detergent

• Make sure detergent is fresh.

Rinse agent dispenser empty • If water is extremely hard, a water softener may be required. Too little detergent Cloudiness on Combination of soft water and • This is called etching and is permanent. To prevent this from happening, glassware too much detergent use less detergent if you have soft water. Wash glassware in the shortest cycle that will get them clean. Water temperature entering • Lower the water heater temperature. the dishwasher exceeds 65°C (150°F) Black or gray marks on dishes

Aluminum utensils have • Remove marks with a mild, abrasive cleaner. rubbed against dishes

Yellow or brown film Tea or coffee stains • Remove the stain by hand, using a solution of 1/2 cup bleach and on inside surfaces 3 cups warm water.

WARNING Before cleaning interior wait at least 20 minutes after a cycle for the

heating element to cool down. Failure to do so can result in burns. An overall yellow or brown film can • A special filter in the water supply line is the only way to correct be caused by iron deposits in water this problem. Contact a water softener company. White film on inside Hard water minerals • To clean the interior, apply dishwasher detergent to a damp sponge. surfaces Wear rubber gloves. Do not use any type of cleanser other than dishwasher detergent because it may cause foaming or sudsing.

Dishes don’t dry Control panel responded to input but dishwasher never filled with water

Low inlet water temperature

• Make sure inlet water temperature is correct (see page 6).

Rinse agent dispenser is empty

• Check the rinse agent dispenser.

Door latch may not be properly seated

• Make sure the door is firmly closed.

Water vale may be turned off

• Make sure water valve (usually located under the sink) is turned on.

Dishwasher beeps This is normal once every 15 seconds This is a reminder that the door has been left open during operation

• Close the door after opening it mid-cycle. • Press ON/OFF to turn OFF the dishwasher.

GE Dishwasher Warranty. All warranty service provided by our authorized technician. To schedule service, call 1.800.561.3344 . Please have serial number and model number available when calling for service.

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

One Year From the date of the original purchase

Any part of the dishwasher which fails due to a defect in materials or workmanship. During this limited one-year warranty, GE will also provide, free of charge, all labor and in-home service to replace the defective part.

What Is Not Covered (for customers in Canada): n Service trips to your home to teach you how to use the product. n Improper installation. If you have an installation problem, contact your dealer or installer. You are responsible for providing adequate electrical, exhausting and other connecting failures. n Cleaning or servicing of the air gap device in the

drain line. Product not accessible to provide required service.

n Failure of the product if it is abused, misused, or used for other than the intended purpose or used commercially. n Replacement of house fuses or resetting of circuit breakers. n Damage to the product caused by accident, fire, floods or acts of God. n Damage caused after delivery. n Incidental or consequential damage caused by possible defects with this appliance.

EXCLUSION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES—Your sole and exclusive remedy is product repair as provided in this Limited Warranty. Any implied warranties, including the implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to one year or the shortest period allowed by law. This warranty is extended to the original purchaser and any succeeding owner for products purchased in Canada for home use within Canada. In home warranty service will be provided in areas where it is available and deemed reasonable by MC Commercial to provide.

WARRANTOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Warrantor: MC Commercial

Consumer Support. GE Appliances Website

Have a question or need assistance with your appliance? Try the GE Appliances Website 24 hours a day, any day of the year!

Expert GE repair service is only one step away from your door. Call 1.800.561.3344 during normal business hours.

Real Life Design Studio

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. In Canada, contact: Director, Customer Relations, MC Commercial

Please consult your local listings for extended warranty suppliers.

Parts and Accessories

Consult the yellow pages for the nearest Mabe service center, or call 1.800.661.1616.

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.

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:

Director, Consumer Relations, MC Commercial Suite 310, 1 Factory Lane Moncton, N.B. E1C 9M3

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. Printed in China

N’ouvrez pas la porte tant que l’action de pulvérisation de l’eau n’a pas cessé. Il est possible que de la vapeur s’échappe du lave-vaisselle. Ajoutez les articles oubliés. Refermez la porte et poussez sur la poignée pour la reverrouiller.

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.

Upper Rack The upper rack is for glasses, cups and saucers. This is also a secure place for dishwasher-safe plastics. A cup shelf 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 tines when possible. Make sure small plastic items are secure so they can’t fall onto the heater. Be sure that items do not protrude through the bottom of the rack and block rotation of the middle spray arm. This could result in poor wash performance for items in the upper rack.

Lower Rack When loading the lower rack, do not load large platters or trays in the front left corner. They may prevent detergent from circulating during the wash cycle. The lower rack is best used for plates, saucers and cookware. Large items 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. Be careful not to let a portion of any item such as a pot or dish handle extend through the bottom rack. This could block the wash arm and cause poor washing results.

The silverware basket may be used without the topper for quick loading. With the topper, flatware is better positioned for the dishwasher to thoroughly wash and dry all pieces by preventing nesting.

Without the topper Put the 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. With the topper Place small plastic items, such as measuring spoons and lids from small containers, in the bottom of the basket and snap the topper in place. Insert spoons and forks, handles first, through the holes in the topper. Place knives, blades first, through the holes in the topper.

To remove end baskets, grasp the basket at opposite corners and slide apart.