Whirlpool 400 Dishwasher User Manual


 
11
Using the Dispensers
For best washing results, review the information below. It is important to use detergents and
rinse agents properly.
Using the detergent dispenser
Use automatic dishwashing detergent
only. Other detergents are too mild and
much too sudsy.
Add detergent just before starting cycle.
Store tightly closed detergent in a cool, dry
place. Fresh automatic dishwasher
detergent results in better cleaning.
Filling the detergent dispenser
The detergent dispenser has one section
with a cover and one without. Push cover
down firmly until it latches. Detergent in the
open section falls into the dishwasher when
closing the door. The covered section opens
automatically for the main wash.
NOTE: It is normal for the cover to open
partially when dispensing detergent.
Cover latchCover
Use only covered
section for:
– Low Energy
– China/Crystal
Use both sections for:
– Normal
– Heavy
– Pots-N-Pans
How much detergent to use
The amount of detergent to use depends
on the hardness of your water and the type
of detergent. If you use too little, dishes
won’t be clean. If you use too much in soft
water, glassware will etch.
Different brands of dishwasher detergent
have different amounts of phosphorus for
softening water. If you have hard water
and use low phosphorous content deter-
gent (6.0% or less), you may need to use
more detergent or use a detergent with a
higher phosphorous content (8.7%).
Find out your water’s hardness by asking
your local water department, water soft-
ener company, or county extension agent.
WHERE TO FILL
Top of
3rd step
(3 tbs)
Top of
2nd step
(2 tbs)
Top of
1st step
(1 tbs)
WATER TYPE
Hard
8+ grains per gallon
136+ parts per million
Medium
5-7 grains per gallon
85-119 parts per million
Soft
0-4 grains per gallon
0-68 parts per million
Fill amounts shown are for standard
powdered detergent. Amounts may vary if
you use liquid or concentrated powdered
detergent. Follow manufacturer’s directions
when using liquid dishwasher detergent or
concentrated powdered detergent.