Whirlpool DU81Ux Dishwasher User Guide

DU81Ux Dishwasher
User Guide DU81OOxT
DU8116xT

Dishwashers. Built-In Ovens and Surface Units Ranges Microwave Ovens )rash Compactors. Room Air Conditioners. Dehumidifiers. Automatic Washers. Clothes Dryers. Freezers. Refrigerator-R

Before you use your dishwasher

It is your personal responsibility and obligation to be sure your dishwasher:

  • Is installed by a qualified installer.
  • Has been installed where it is protected from the elements.
  • Has been installed on a floor strong enough to support its weight.
  • Has been properly connected to electricity, water and drain.*
  • Has been properly electrically grounded.*
  • Has had all hang tags and temporary labels removed.
  • Is not used by children or anyone unable to operate it properly.
  • Is properly maintained.
    ‘See installation instructions for complete information.

Important safety instructions
WARNING — When using your dishwasher, follow basic precautions, including the following:

  1. Read all instructions before using the dishwasher.
  2. DO NOT let children play in or on the dishwasher.
  3. DO NOT reach into the area below the bottom rack until the Heating Element has cooled for at least 20 minutes.
  4. DO NOT wash plastic items unless marked “Dishwasher Safe” or the equiv­ talent. If not marked check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  5. Store dishwasher detergent in a cool, dry place WHERE CHILDREN CAN’T REACH-IT.
  6. Use ONLY detergents and rinse aids rec­ommended for use in a dishwasher.
  7. REMEMBER, use your dishwasher only for the job it was designed to do.
  8. Locate sharp items and knives so that they are not likely to damage the door seal or cut the user.
  9. Properly connect to electricity and water.
  10. DISHWASHER MUST BE ELECTRICALLY Read the Installation Instruc­tions for details.
  11. DO NOT use your dishwasher unless all enclosure panels are properly in place.
  12. Be sure your dishwasher is installed on a level floor that will hold the weight, and in an area suitable for its size and use.
  13. DO NOT sit, stand on or abuse the dish­washer door or dish racks.
  14. DO NOT tamper with controls.
  15. When discarding an old dishwasher, al­ways remove the door to prevent acci­dental entrapment.
  16. WARNING: If hot water has not been used recently (usually two weeks or longer), hydrogen gases may build up in the water heater and the hot water pipes. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXPLOSIVE. To prevent injury or damage, before using your dishwasher, turn on all hot water faucets and allow water to run for sev­eral minutes. This will allow gases to es­cape. Do not smoke or use any open flame near the faucet while it is open.
  17. WARNING: Disconnect electrical power to the dishwasher before at­tempting to service.

Parts and features

Models DU8100XT and DU8116XT

Copy your Model and Serial Numbers here,.
When you need service or call with a question leaves this -?formation ready:

  1. Complete Model and Serial Numbers (from the elate located as shown).
  2. Purcha:-e dote from soles slip.
    Copy this information In these spaces. Keep this book. you: warranty and sales slip together in a handy place

Model Number…………
Serial Number…………
Purchase Date…………
Service Company and Telephone Number…………

For Best Results

Your dishwasher cleans by spraying a mixture of hot, clean water and detergent against the soiled surfaces of dishes. When a cycle is started, the dishwasher fills with water to about the level of the heating element. This water is pumped through the rotating spray arms, drained through the filter system which re- moves food and soil, and pumped back through the rotating spray arms. Soiled water is pumped out and replaced with clean water during a cycle-the number of times depending on the cycle being used.

The filtering system

It is not necessary to rinse dishes before putting them into the dishwasher. Just remove large pieces and quantities of food and bones.
The filtering system helps keep food particles out of the wash water. Small particles are flushed away as water is pumped out. Larger particles are trapped in the pump guard.
To remove the pump guard for cleaning ,,,

  1. Wait at least 20 minutes after a cycle for the heating element to cool down.
  2. Unload and remove the bottom rack.
  3. Press the outside wall of the pump guard at the center to release the latch.
  4. Lift out and rinse clean.

To replace the pump guard..

  1. insert pump guard legs (on the inside wall) into matching openings in the filter screen.
  2. Press down on the outside wall until the latch snaps into place.
  3. Replace the bottom rack with rack bumpers in front.

Water must be hot
For best cleaning and drying results, water should be al least 140°F (60°C).

  1. Turn on the hot water faucet nearest the dishwasher. Let the water run until it is as hot as possible.
  2. Hold a candy or meat thermometer in the stream of hot water to measure the temperature.
  3. If the temperature is too low, have a qualified person raise the water heater thermostat setting.

Quiet operating tips

To avoid thumping and clattering noises during operation:

  • Make sure lightweight load items are secured in the rack.
  • Make sure pot lids and handles, pizza pans, cookie sheets, etc. do not touch interior walls or interfere with either of the spray arms’ rotation.
  • Load dishes so they don’t touch one another.
    NOTE: Keep sink drain plugs inserfed during dishwasher operation to prevent noise transfer through drains.

Proper loading

4lways load dishes so soiled surfaces are reached by spray from rotating spray arms.
Water must be able to drain off completely for best drying results. Be careful to separate Items so spray can reach all surfaces.

Top rack loading

The top rack is designed for cups, glasses, and smaller items.

  • Place so open ends face down for cleaning and draining.
  • Load glasses in top rack only. The bottom rack is rot designed for glasses. Damage may occur.
  • Load plastic items in the top rack only.
    Only plastic items marked “dishwasher safe” are recommended.
  • Plastic items can be melted in the bottom rack.
  • items with cooked-on or dried-on foods should be loaded in the bottom rack with ;olled surfaces facing the spray
  • Place items in the rows between prongs.
    Placing them over the prongs can lead to breakage.
  • Be sure lightweight items are held firmly in place.
  • China, crystal, and other delicate items must not touch each other during dishwasher operation. Damage may occur.
  • Small bowls, pans, and other utensils can be placed on the top rack.

Bottom rack loading

  • Make sure pot handles and other items do not stop the rotation of either the upper or lower spray arm. Spray arms must move freely.
  • Securely place heavily soiled cookware face down in the rack.
  • Load cookie sheets, cake pans and other large items at the sides and back. Loading such items in front may keep water spray from reaching detergent dispenser.
    NOTE:
  • Do not load glasses, cups, or plastic items in the bottom rack.
  • When the lower rack is removed, replace it with bumpers in front.
  • Place plates, soup bowls, etc., between prongs and facing the spray.

Silverware basket loading

Load the silverware basket while It‘s in or out of the bottom rack. The loaded basket should be in the right front corner of the bottom rack

Load forks and spoons so they don’t nest together. Spray can’t reach nested items.
Mix items In each section of the basket with some pointing up and some down. Small items – baby bottle caps, jar lids, etc. – car, be put in any section.
Make sure sharp items (knives, forks, skewers, etc.] are put in point down. Make sure long items do not stop the upper spray arm from turning.

Adding detergent

The kind and amount of dishwasher detergent you use is an important part of getting your dishes clean. Read this section carefully.

Use automatic dishwasher detergent only.
Other detergents are too mild and much too sudsy to work in the dishwasher.
Different brands of dishwasher detergent have different amounts of phosphorus.
Phosphorus softens water and helps prevent water spots on dishes If water is hard and phosphorus content is iow (8 7% or less). you may need to use more detergent or use a brand with a higher phosphorus content (12% or higher).
Do not add detergent until you are ready to wash Fresh automatic dishwasher detergent is necessary for best washing results. Store detergent tightly closed in a cool dry place.

The detergent dispenser
The detergent dispenser has one section with a cover and one without.

  • Put detergent in both sections.
  • Push the cover down until it is latched The cover opens automatically when the main wash starts, Detergent in the open section falls into the dishwasher when the door is closed.

How much detergent to use
The amount of detergent to use depends on the hardness of your water. If too little IS used, dishes won’t be clean. However, if too much is used In soft water, glassware will begin to, etc Find out your water’s hardness by asking your local water department, water softener company, or county extension agent.

Before starting your dishwasher

  1. Read “Important Safety Instructions” on page 2 before starting your dishwasher.
  2. Spin the Upper Spray Arm to make sure nothing will stop it from turning freely.
  3. Push the door firmly when closing and it will automatically latch.
  4. Run hot water at the sink nearest the dishwasher until it is hot. Turn it off.

Starting your dishwasher

HEAT DRY cycle…
Turn Cycle Control Knob clockwise to dot marked HEAT DRY CYCLE START. The dishwasher will automatically start that cycle.
AIR DRY cycle…
Turn Cycle Control Knob clockwise to dot marked AIR DRY START. The dishwasher will auto- matically start that cycle.
RINSE & HOLD cycle…
Turn Cycle Control Knob clockwise to dot marked RINSE & HOLD. The dishwasher will auto- matically start that cycle

Selecting a cycle

HEAT DRY Cycle
If the HEAT DRY Cycle is selected, the air in the dishwasher is heated during the” dry” part of the cycle. (The Energy Guide label data is based on this cycle.) Cycle time is about 65 minutes. 

AIR DRY Cycle
If the AIR DRY Cycle is selected, the air in the dishwasher is not heated. Using this option helps save energy, but dishes take longer to dry [overnight) and some water spotting may result. Some items (such as plastics] may need towel drying. For best results, use a solid rinse aid.

RINSE & HOLD Cycle
For rinsing a few items to be washed one or more days later. Cycle time is about10 minutes.

Changing a setting
You can change a setting anytime during any cycle.

  1. Lift up on the door latch to unlatch the door and stop the cycle. Don’t open the door until the spray arms stop spinning.
  2. Turn the Cycle Control Knob clockwise to the cycle you want.
  3. Be sure the detergent dispensers are filled properly for the new cycle.
  4. Press the door firmly to latch it. The dishwasher will automatically start the new cycle.

To add a dish after starting

  1. To be sure the added item is washed and rinsed, add the item before the end of the main wash.
  2. Lift up on the door latch to unlatch the door to stop the cycle. Don’t open the door until the spray arms stop spinning.
  3. Open the door and add the dish.
  4. Close the door. Do not latch it. Wait 30 seconds for the air in the dishwasher to warm up. This helps reduce the amount of moisture that can come from the vent when restarting the cycle.
  5. Press the door firmly to latch it. The dishwasher will automatically start where it stopped.

Energy-saving tips

You can help save energy if you;

  1. Wash full loads. Running a half-filled dishwasher uses the same amount of electricity and hot water as a fully loaded machine.
  2. Air-dry dishes when you don’t need a rapid drying cycle Allow longer drying times [overnight].
  3. Don’t pre-rinse normally soiled dishes. Use the recommended amount of detergent for good washing results without hand rinsing.
  4. Load correctly for best washing results. Incorrect loading may cause poor washing and the need to rewash all or part of the load.
  5. Use your dishwasher during off-peak hours.
    Local utilities recommend this to avoid heavy usage of energy at certain times of dav
  6. Kitchen cleanup can be done quickly and efficiently through the use of your dishwasher. Most appliance parts that can fit in the dishwasher can be cleaned by it. Burned-on soil, however, should be cleaned by hand.

Special tips on dishwasher use

Special tips on dishwasher use Remember, use your dishwasher only for the job it was designed to do.
Some items are not dishwasher safe or may require special care. Read these special tips for the following items:

Aluminum: Aluminum loses its bright, shiny appearance and darkens in color due to minerals in the water and the alkalinity of the dishwasher detergent. Colored aluminum may fade.
TIPS: If washed in the dishwasher avoid placing directly in front of detergent dispenser where it could be sprinkled with undissolved detergent causing spotting, pitting, and discoloration. Follow utensil manufacturers’ cleaning instructions.
China: Hand-painted, metal-trimmed, and antique china fade due to high water temperatures and alkaline detergent solution in the dishwasher NOTE: Delicate, antique items should not be washed in the dishwasher.
TIPS: Load china carefully. Do not allow pieces to touch each other. Test one piece by washing it daily in the dishwasher for several weeks. Then compare it with the rest of the set to see if colors have changed.
Crystal and decorative glasses: Crystal can break from sudden exposure to high water temperature. Metal trim and colorful decoration on glass will fade in time when washed in the dishwasher. NOTE: Delicate, antique items should not be washed in the dishwasher.
TIPS: Load crystal carefully in top rack only. Be sure to load a few larger items in the bottom rack to reduce amount of force of water spray reaching glassware from lower spray arm. Use the shortest cycle.
Flatware: Salty and acidic foods may tarnish silver and stainless flatware if allowed to remain on the utensils. A film may form on sterling silver and silver plate items washed in a dishwasher. This film is caused by reaction of silver with chlorine in the detergent. Gold flatware is not dishwasher safe.
TIPS: Rinse flatware as soon as possible. especially if it is not to be washed right away. Dishwasher detergent may remove antique finishes. Wash by hand. Tarnish and film build-up can be removed with silver polish.
Cast iron utensils: The seasoned finish will be removed in the dishwasher. Rusting will result. TIPS: Wash by hand To re-season, coat with unsalted fat and heat in a slow oven for an hour or two.
Plastics: Many plastics will hove “Dishwasher Safe” written on them. Some plastics are heat sensitive and may melt or warp
TIPS: If in doubt try one piece Place in upper rack only. AIR DRY option provides additional protection

Cast iron utensils: The seasoned finish will be removed in the dishwasher. Rusting will result. TIPS: Wash by hand To re-season, coat with unsalted fat and heat in a slow oven for an hour or two.
Plastics: Many plastics will have “Dishwasher Safe” written on them. Some plastics are heat sensitive and may melt or warp
TIPS: If in doubt try one piece Place in upper rack only AIR DRY option provides additional protection
Non-stick finish utensils: Most can be washed in the dishwasher.
TIPS: Follow manufacturers’ suggestions.
Wood: Manv wooden items will crack and warp or lose their finish.
TIPS: Do not wash cutting boards, wooden salad bowls or knives with wooden handles in the dishwasher.
Pewter or pewter-like materials: May streak, discolor. and pit.
TIPS: To keep pewter at its very best, hand wash with mild detergent.

Dishwasher care & cleaning:
Exterior – Regular use of a soft damp cloth or sponge and a mild detergent is all that is necessary, in most cases, to keep the outside of your dishwasher nice looking and clean.  Interior – Hard water minerals may cause a white film to build up on the inside surfaces, especially just beneath the door area. Wear rubber gloves when cleaning the dishwasher interior. Do not use any type of cleanser other than dishwasher detergent because it may cause foaming or sudsing.

Common dishwashing problems

PROBLEM CAUSED BY SOLUTION
Spotting and
filming
[hard water film)
Hard water Fill detergent dispensers to capacity. Use dishwasher de- target with highest available phosphorus content It May be necessary to install a water softener
To remove spots and film. try a vinegar rinse
1 Wash and rinse load as usual. Use AIR DRY.
2. Remove all metal items.
3. Put 2 cups (500 ml) white vinegar In a container on the bottom rack
A. Run dishwasher through
a complete washing cycle
Water Is not
hot enough
Water temperature should be at least 140-F (60 C]. Set water heater thermostat to a higher setting Run water at sink until hot before starting.
Not enough
detergent,
or
Improper detergent
“0ld” detergent
Use more dishwasher detergent. Use detergent with high- est available phosphorus content. especially with hard water Use only fresh dishwasher detergent. Store tightly closed containers, in a cool, dry place. Discard old detergent. Do not fill dispensers until ready to start the dishwasher.
Improper loading Make sure dishes and glassware are loaded so spray reaches all surfaces and items drain properly Do not overload Do not nest items Make sure large items do not block the spray from reaching detergent dispensers.
No rinse aid Try a bar rinse old such as Solid Jet DRY” Follow package directions.
AIR DRY Setting used Drying without heat may result in some spotting of glasses and silver.
Small particles
deposited on
items
Spray arm or arms not
rotating freely
“Old” detergent
Check spray arms to make sure they turn freely after loading. Be sure a utensil has not prevented their turning  Use only fresh dishwasher detergent. Store tightly closed containers, in a cool, dry place. Discard old detergent.  o  not fill dispensers until ready to start the dishwasher.
Not enough
detergent,
or
Improper detergent
Use more dishwasher detergent. Use detergent with high- est available phosphorus content. especially with  hard water
The water IS not hot
enough
Water temperature
should be at least 140 F (60 C). Set the water heater thermostat lo a higher setting Run water at the sink until hot  before starting
Water pressure may
be low, dishwasher
is
not filling properly
If the water pressure is low, do not use water for other purposes while the dishwasher IS running (to assure correct fills)
Dishes not dry Water IS not hot
enough
Water temperature
should be at least 140 F (6O’C). Set water heater thermostat to a higher setting Run water at sink until hot before starting
Improper loading Make sure dishes and glassware are loaded so spray reaches all surfaces and items drain properly Do not overload Do not nest Items
No rinse aid Try a bar rinse old such as Solid Jet DRY” Follow package directions
AIR DRY Setting used Allow more time when using the AIR DRY Option, or use the HEAT DRY Plastic items may need towel drying
Black marks on dishes Aluminum utensils
rubbing against items
dunng washing
Use care In loading aluminum utensils, especially any lightweight toll container. Place so they do not touch dishes. Remove black marks with a plastic scouring pad and a mild abrasive cleanser,
Chipping or breaking
glassware
Improper loadlng Do not overload
Load glasses In the top rack only. Load between
prongs, not over them Glasses loaded over prongs will not be supported and may chip or break
Dishes not
washing clean
Water is not
hot enough
Water temperature
should be at least IAO‘F (60-C) Set the water heater thermostat to a higher setting Run water at sink until hot before starting
Improper loading Make sure dashes and glassware are loaded so spray reaches all surfaces and items drain properly Do not overload Do not nest items Make sure large items do not block the spray from reaching detergent dispensers
Spray arm or arms not
rotating freely
Not enough detergent
or Improper
detergent
Old” detergent
Check spray arms to make sure they turn freely after loading Be sure a utensil has not prevented their turning.
Use more dishwasher detergent
Use detergent with high- est available phosphorus content. .especially with hard water.
Use only fresh dishwasher detergent.
Store tightly closed containers, in a cool, dry place. Discard old detergent. Do not fill dispensers until ready to start the dishwasher.
Water pressure may
be low, dishwasher
IS not filling properly
If the water pressure is low, do not use water for other purposes while the dishwasher IS running (to assure correct fills]
Cloudy film on
glassware,
etching

permanent
corrosion
Too much detergent
in soft water
Check for rainbow hue on glasses. A rainbow hue is the first sign of etching [corrosion of glass). Reduce the  amount of dishwasher detergent Use a detergent with a lower phosphorus content
Inadequate
rinsing
If water pressure
IS low do not use water for other purposes while the dishwasher is running (to assure correct water fills).
Make sure dishes and glassware are loaded properly to assure adequate rinsing and draining. Do not overload.
Dishes &
interior of
dishwasher
yellow or
brown
Iron or manganese
in
water
Temporary remedy:
1 Sel empty dishwasher for a “one wash” cycle
2 Start the dishwasher and unlatch the door to stop it when it has filled for the wash part of the cycle.
3 Add ‘4 to 1)2 cup (120 to 240 ml) of citric acid crystals (usually available in drugstores].
A Close and latch door to complete the cycle Permanent solution: Install an iron or manganese filter to the home water supply
Rust spots on
stainless steel -OR- Dark spots on flatware – stainless steel, silver plate, or sterling
Allowing salty or acidic foods such as mayonnaise. vinegar,  fruit juices, salad dressings, milk products to remain on flatware Undrssolved detergent coming in contact  with flatware Rinse flatware
that is to stand for several hours before washing [use Rinse & Hold). Clean stained items with silver polish and re-wash. Do not put stainless steel and silver flatware In some silverware basket comportment.
Direct contact between these metals con causes perma- net damage to the sliver.
Remove spots with silver polish. Avoid spilling concentrated detergent on wet flatware.
Bronze tarnish
on silverplate
silver plate IS worn off Exposed base metal to kes on  a bronzed hue Remove tarnish with silver polish. Have silver replated
Water left in
bottom of
dishwasher
Dishwasher
cycle not
completed
Clogged dram arr
gap
Allow dishwasher to complete cycle Some plumbing codes require the use of a drain air gap between an undercounter dishwasher and the drain system of the house The air gap is usually located above the sink or on the top of the counter near the dishwasher to prevent the possibility of water backing up from the drain into the dishwasher due lo a plugged drain. The drain air gap is
NOT a part of the dishwasher and is NOT covered by the dishwasher warranty. The drain air gap should be kept clean to ensure proper draining of the dishwasher.

If you need service or assistance, we suggest you follow these five steps:

  1. Before calling for assistance…
    Performance problems often result from little things you can find and fix yourself without tools of any kind.

If your dishwasher will not run, or stops during a cycle:

  • Is the door tightly closed and securely latched?
  • Has the cycle been correctly set?
  • Is the water turned on?
  • Have you checked your home’s main fuses or circuit breaker box?
  • Is the dishwasher wired into a live circuit with the proper voltage (DU8100XT)?
  • Is the power supply cord plugged into a live circuit with the proper voltage (DU8116XTI?
  • If the motor has stopped because of an overload, it will automatically reset itself within a few minutes. If the motor does not start, call for service.

If water remains in the dishwasher:

  • Has the cycle been completed?
  • A small amount of remaining water IS normal
  • Is drain air gap clogged?

If detergent remains in the covered detergent cup:

  • Is the bottom rack in backward? (The rack bumpers should be at the front.)
  • Is the dishwasher detergent fresh?
  • Is the cycle completed?

If you need assistance

Call Whirlpool COOL-LINE” service assistance telephone number. Dial free from in the U.S.:
I-800-253-1301
and talk with one of our trained anywhere Consultants. The Consultant can instruct you in hew to obtain satisfactory operation from your appliance of, if service is necessary,  recommend a qualified service company in your area.

If you need service*…

Whirlpool has a nationwide network of franchised TECH-CARE’ Serv-ice Companies. TECH-CARE service technicians are trained to fulfill the product warranty and provide after-warranty service, anywhere in the United States. To locate TECH-CARE service in your area, call our COOL-LINE service assistance telephone number (see Step 2) or look in your telephone directory Yellow Pages under:

If you have a problem?..

Call our COOL-LINE service assistance telephone number [see Step 2) and talk with one of our Consultants, or if you prefer, write to:
Mr. Robert Stanley
Division Vice President
Whirlpool Corporation 2000 M-63
Benton Harbor, Ml 49022

If you need FSP replacement parts%.

FSP is a registered trademark of Whirlpool Corporation for quality parts. Look for this symbol of quality whenever you need a replacement part for your Whirlpool appliance.
FSP replacement
parts will fit right and work right because they are made to the same exacting specifications used to build every new Whirlpool appliance.
* If you must call or write, please provide the model number. serial number, date of purchase, and a complete description of the problem. This information IS needed in order to better respond to your request for assistance

Notes

WHIRLPOOL DISHWASHER WARRANTY

LENGTH OF WARRANTY WHIRLPOOL WILL PAY FOR
FULL ONE-YEAR WARRANTY From Date of Purchase FSP’ replacement parts and repair labor to correct defects in materials or workmanship. Service must be provided by a franchised TECH-CARE” service company.
LIMITED NINE-YEAR WARRANTY Second Through Tenth Year From Date of Purchase FSP replacement of the porcelain tub and/or DURAPERM• inner door should they fail to contain water due to defective materials or workmanship.
WHIRLPOOL WILL NOT PAY FOR
A. Service calls to:
1. Correct the installation of the dishwasher.
2. Instruct you how to use the dishwasher.
3. Replace house fuses or correct house wiring or plumbing.
B. Repairs when the dishwasher is used in other than normal, single-family household use.
C. Pick up and delivery. This product is designed to be repaired in the home.
D. Damage to dishwasher caused by accident, misuse, fire, flood, acts of God or use of products not approved by Whirlpool.
E. Any labor costs during limited warranty.

WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages so this limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
Outside the United States, a different warranty may apply. For details, please contact your franchised Whirlpool distributor or military exchange.

Part No. 3368017 Rev A
@1988 Whirlpool Corporation