5
Detergent Dispenser
The detergent dispenser has two sections. The smaller Pre-Wash
section empties detergent into the dishwasher when you close the
door. The larger Main Wash section automatically empties
detergent into the dishwasher during the wash. (See the “Cycle
Selections” in the Consumer Reference Guide.)
■ Use automatic dishwashing detergent only. Other detergents
can produce excessive suds that can overflow out of the
dishwasher and reduce washing performance.
■ Add detergent just before starting cycle.
■ Store tightly closed detergent in a cool, dry place. Fresh
automatic dishwasher detergent results in better cleaning.
NOTE: Do not use detergent with a rinse cycle.
Filling the dispenser
1. If the dispenser cover is closed, open the cover by moving the
cover latch to the right.
2. Add the correct amount of detergent to the Main Wash section
of the dispenser according to the chart below. If you are using
a tablet detergent, it must be placed in the Main Wash section.
(See “How much detergent to use.”)
3. Add the correct amount of detergent to the Pre-Wash section
of the dispenser, if needed, according to the chart below.
4. Close the dispenser cover.
It is normal for the cover to open partially when dispensing
detergent.
NOTE: See the “Cycle Selections” in the Consumer Reference
Guide for which section to fill depending on the cycle selected.
How much detergent to use
■ The amount of detergent to use depends on the soil level of
your dishes, hardness of your water, and the type of
detergent. If you use too little, dishes will not be clean. If you
use too much in soft water, glassware will etch.
■ Water hardness can change over a period of time. If you do
not know your water hardness, call us or your designated
service center and ask for a free water hardness test strip,
Part Number 4171690. For more information, see “Assistance
or Service.”
NOTE: Fill amounts shown are for standard powdered detergent. Amounts may vary if you use liquid or concentrated powdered
detergent. Tablet detergents should be placed in the main wash section of the detergent dispenser with the cover closed. Follow
instructions on the package when using liquid dishwasher detergent, concentrated powdered detergent or tablet detergent.
A. Cover latch
B. Main Wash section
C. Pre-Wash section
A
B
C
MAIN WASH
PRE-
WASH
Soft Water
Hard Water
Soft Water
Hard Water
MAIN WASH
PRE-
WASH
Soft Water
Hard Water
Soft Water
Hard Water
Detergent Dispenser fill recommendations per dish load, soil level and water hardness
Water Hardness
Light Soil or Prerinsed Normal - Heavy Soil
Main Wash section Pre-Wash section Main Wash section Pre-Wash section
Soft
(0-2 grains per
U.S. gallon)
4 tsp (20 mL)
Fill to Soft Water line
Empty 6 tsp (30 mL)
Fill above the Soft Water line
2 tsp (10 mL)
Fill to Soft Water line
Medium
(2-6 grains per
U.S. gallon)
6 tsp (30 mL)
Fill above the Soft Water line
2 tsp (10 mL)
Fill to Soft Water line
6 tsp (30 mL)
Fill above the Soft Water line
4 tsp (20 mL)
Fill to Hard Water line
Hard
(7 grains per U.S. gallon
and above)
8 tsp (40 mL)
Fill to Hard Water line
4 tsp (20 mL)
Fill to Hard Water line
9 tsp (45 mL)
Fill cup completely
7 tsp (35 mL)
Fill cup completely