13
DISHWASHER CARE
Cleaning
Cleaning the exterior
In most cases, regular use of a soft, damp cloth or sponge and a
mild detergent is all that is necessary to keep the outside of your
dishwasher looking nice and clean. If your dishwasher has a
stainless steel exterior, a stainless steel cleaner is recommended.
Cleaning the interior
Hard water minerals can cause a white film to build up on the
inside surfaces, especially just beneath the door area.
Do not clean the dishwasher interior until it has cooled. Wear
rubber gloves. Do not use any type of cleanser other than
dishwasher detergent because it may cause foaming or sudsing.
To clean interior
Make a paste with powdered dishwasher detergent on a damp
sponge and clean.
OR
Use liquid automatic dishwasher detergent and clean with a
damp sponge.
OR
See the vinegar rinse procedure in “Spotting and filming on
dishes” in “Troubleshooting.”
NOTE: Run a normal cycle with detergent after cleaning the
interior.
Drain Air Gap
Check the drain air gap anytime your dishwasher isn’t draining
well.
Some state or local plumbing codes require the addition of a
drain air gap between a built-in dishwasher and the home drain
system. If a drain is clogged, the drain air gap protects your
dishwasher from water backing up into it.
The drain air gap is usually located on top of the sink or
countertop near the dishwasher. To order a drain air gap, contact
your local dealer; or in the U.S.A., call the Customer Interaction
Center and ask for Part Number 300096.
NOTE: The drain air gap is an external plumbing device that is
not part of your dishwasher. The warranty provided with your
dishwasher does not cover service costs directly associated with
the cleaning or repair of the external drain air gap.
To clean the drain air gap
Clean the drain air gap periodically to ensure proper drainage of
your dishwasher. Follow the cleaning instructions provided by the
manufacturer. With most types, you lift off the chrome cover.
Unscrew the plastic cap. Then check for any soil buildup. Clean if
necessary.
Material Dishwasher Safe?/Comments
Plastics Yes
Always check manufacturer’s
recommendations before washing.
Plastics vary in their capacity to
withstand high temperatures and
detergents. Load plastics in top rack
only.
Stainless Steel Yes
Run a rinse cycle if not washing
immediately. Prolonged contact with
food containing salt, vinegar, milk
products, or fruit juice can damage
finish.
Material Dishwasher Safe?/Comments
Sterling Silver or
Silver Plate
Yes
Run a rinse cycle if not washing
immediately. Prolonged contact with
food containing salt, acid, or sulfide
(eggs, mayonnaise, and seafood) can
damage finish.
Tin No
Can rust.
Wooden Ware No
Wash by hand. Always check
manufacturer’s instructions before
washing. Untreated wood can warp,
crack, or lose its finish.