GE GPF40BC User manual

Dishwasher
❑
!
Safe~ instructions .........................3
N
, Operating Instructions, Tips
ApplianceRegistration..................................2
China,Crystal,Sterling...............................10
CycleFeatures............................................4,5
CycleSelectionChart....................................5
DetergentGuide.............................................7
DispenserCups...............................................7
Drying Options ................................................4
Energy-SavingTips.........................................2
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...........................4, 5
Loading .........................................................8, 9
Operatinginstructions..............................4,5
Rinse
Agent......................................................6
Water Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................6
❑
~~;: Care and Cleaning
Air Gap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11
❑
✘
Problem Solver .......................13-15
More auestions ?...call
GE Answer Center” 800.626.2000
❑
Preparation
Front Panel Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
❑
.@
Consumer Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Important Phone Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Model and Serial Numbers ..........................2
Repair Service
.................................................2
Warranty........................................BackCover
Models GSD85Q GSD880
Winter Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
GE Appliances

HELP US HELP YOU...
Before using your
dishwasher, read this
guide carefully.
It is intended to help you
operate and maintain your new
dishwasher properly.
Keep it handy for answers to
your questions.
If YOU don’t understand something
If you received
a damaged dishwasher...
Immediately contact the dealer
(or builder) that sold you the
dishwasher.
Save time and money.
Before you request
service . . .
or-need more help, write (include”
your phone number):
Check the Problem Solver in the
back of this guide. It
lists causes
Consumer Affairs
GE Appliances of minor operating problems that
vou can correct vourself.
Appliance Park .,
Louisville, KY 40225
To obtain a Spanish language
Para obtener la versi6n en
version of this book, call
espafiol de este manual,
GE Answer
Center@
name a
800.626.2000
GE Answer Center,@
consumer information service.
servicio de information
para
e] consumidor,
telifono 800.626.2000.
Write down the model
and serial numbers.
You’ll find them on a label
fastened to the tub wall just
inside the dishwasher door.
These numbers are also on the
Consumer Product Ownership
Registration Card that came
with your dishwasher. Before
sending in this card, please write
these numbers here:
Model Number
Serial Number
Use these numbers in any
correspondence or service
calls
concerning your dishwasher.
~ YOU NEED SERVICE...
To obtain service, see the Consumer Services page in
the back of this guide.
We’re proud of our service and want you to be
pleased. If for some reason you are not happy with the
service you receive, here are three steps to follow for
further help.
FIRST, contact the people who serviced your
appliance. Explain why you are not pleased. In most
cases, this will solve the problem.
NEXT, if you are still not pleased, write all the
details—including your phone number—to:
Manager, Consumer Relations
GE Appliances
Appliance Park
Louisville, KY 40225
FINALLY, if your problem is still not resolved, write:
Major Appliance Consumer Action Panel
20 North
Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60606
ENERGY-SAVING TWS
● Operate dishwasher only when it’s full. Let the ● If you don’t need your dishes right away, allow the
dishes accumulate in dishwasher. When you put in dishes to dry naturally over a longer period such as
only a partial load, use the RINSE & HOLD cycle to
overnight.
rinse off heavy soils.
● Always select the cycle that uses the least amount
of water that will remove the soil from the load.
(See the Operating section.)
2

A
WARNING—When using this
appliance, always exercise basic
safety precautions, including the
following:
● Use this appliance only for its intended
purpose, as you will find described in this
Use and Care Guide.
a
● This dishwasher must be properly
‘Q.,”; Q
installed and located in accordance
~ Q . . .
with the Installation Instructions
. . =- ‘
before it is used. If you did not
receive an Installation Instructions sheet with your
dishwasher, you can obtain one by calling, toll
free, the GE Answer Center! 800.626.2000.
—This appliance must be connected to a grounded
metal, permanent wiring system; or an
equipment-grounding conductor must be run
with the circuit conductors and connected to
the equipment-grounding terminal or lead of
the appliance.
—Connect to a properly rated, protected and sized
power-supply circuit to avoid electrical overload.
● Do not store or use combustible
*
\
materials, gasoline or other
..- flammable vapors and liquids
in the vicinity of this or any other appliance.
● Use only powder or liquid detergents or wetting
agents recommended for use in a dishwasher.
● Do not wash plastic items unless marked
“dishwasher safe” or the equivalent, For plastic
items not so marked, check the manufacturer’s
recommendations.
● 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.
To minimize the possibility of i~ury.
● When loading items to be washed:
A. Locate sharp items so that they are not likely
to damage the door seal, and
B. Load sharp knives with the handles up to
reduce the risk of cut-type injuries.
● Do not tamper with controls.
●
9
9
●
●
Do not touch the heating element during or
immediately after use.
Do not operate your dishwasher unless all enclosure
panels are properly in place.
Do not abuse, sit on, or stand on the door or dish
rack of the dishwasher.
Close supervision is necessary if this appliance
is used by or near children. Do not allow children
to play inside, on or with this appliance or any
discarded appliance. Dispose of discarded
appliances and shipping or packing material
properly. Before discarding a dishwasher, remove
the door of the washing compartment.
Keep all washing detergents and wetting agents
out of the reach
~f children, preferably in a locked
cabinet. Observe all warnings on container labels
to avoid personal injury.
$%
● To minimize the possibility of
0“
electric shock, disconnect this
/-
appliance from the power supply
before attempting any maintenance. NOTE:
Turning the control dial to the OFF position
does not disconnect the appliance from the
power supply. We recommend having a qualified
technician service your appliance.
A
WARNING—HYDROGEN GAS
is produced by the chemical action
within your water heater. It can
accumulate in the water heater andor
water pipes if hot water has not been used for a
period of two weeks or longer. HYDROGEN GAS
IS EXPLOSIVE. To prevent the possibility of
damage or injury, if you have not used hot water
for two weeks or more, or moved into a residence
in which the hot water system may not have been
used for some time, turn on all hot water faucets
and allow them to run for several minutes before
using any electrical appliance which is connected
to the hot water system. This will allow any
hydrogen gas to escape. Also, since the gas is
flammable, do not smoke or use an open flame
or appliance during this process.
SAVE THESE
INSTRUCTIONS
n
3

HOW TO OPERATE YOUR DISHWASHER
Your dishwasher is designed to give maximum
performance on loads with normal and heavy soils.
You may find that many of your dishes have lighter
soils than normal, if this is the case you can save
water and energy by selecting a cycle other than
NORMAL WASH.
NOTE: The lights over the Cycle and Energy Option
pads come ON to indicate the cycle/option that has
been selected. Press pad firmly until the light comes
on. These Cycle and Option Indicator lights remain on
while the door is latched.
If dishwasher drains into a food waste disposal,
operate the disposal until it is empty before starting
dishwasher.
Step 1.
Load your dishwasher. (See Loading section.)
Step 2.
Make sure the Cycle Indicator Dial is at the
OFF position. Add detergent to the detergent
dispenser. (See Detergent Guide.) Use a rinse aid
agent to help prevent spotting. (See How to Use
a Rinse Agent section.)
Step 3.
Latch the door.
Step 4.
Select desired wash cycle.
● POTSCRUBBER—For items such as pots, pans
and casseroles with dried-on or baked-on soils.
Everyday dishes may be included. This cycle will
get heavily soiled dishes cleaner than the normal
cycle. It will not remove burned-on foods.
● NORMAL WASH—For most loads of everyday
dishes, glasses and cookware with medium soils.
Designed to yield high performance on normal soils.
● LIGHT WASH—For loads that have dishes with
light soils.
\
POT. NORMAL LIGHT WASH HEAT H;~]EO O~:~O:S
SCRUBBER WASH
666660
~
Cvcles
L
Energy Options
A
Features and (Ippearatzce may vary slightly.
Step 5.
Select the desired Energy Options.
● WASH HEAT BOOST—Use this option for
best performance with heavily-soiled dishes.
When selected, the wash cycle is extended while the
dishwasher heats the water for the best washing and
drying. (See Cycle Selection Chart).
● HEATED DRY—Turns the drying heater on for
fast drying. When selected, the cycle time will be
extended for 35 minutes.
● HEATED DRY off-Shuts off the heating unit,
thus saving energy. Dishes air-dry naturally. It takes
longer but saves energy. You can open the door after
the motor stops to speed drying. Excellent for
overnight drying.
● OPTIONS RESET—Turns all Energy Options off.
Step 6.
~rn the Cycle Indicator Dial to START.
● Turning the dial to START will begin the cycle
immediately. To obtain the benefits of a complete
cycle, be careful that you do not turn the dial any
farther than is necessary to start the dishwasher.
There is a time delay between start-up and water fill
so you will not hear any wash action right away.
4

—
HORT WASH
(
\m/
.-..——— — ..,
-...
.R~&HoLo(PRESS OPTIONS RESET!.
——
J
Dial Cycles
The RINSE & HOLD cycle is for rinsing
partial loads which will be washed later. Do
not use detergent.
a. Make sure HEATED DRY is off.
b. Be sure the door is unlatched.
c. Slowly turn the Cycle Indicator Dial to
RINSE & HOLD;
d. Latch the door to start the cycle.
Cycle Selection Chart
Wash Cycles
Water Use
Gallons
(approx.)
POTSCRUBBER
NORMAL WASH
LIGHT WASH
SHORT WASH
RINSE & HOLD
10.6
9. I
7.9
6.4
3.0
The SHORT WASH cycles allows you to quickly
wash loads of
evervdav dishes with medium soils that
have not dried on,
~ucfi as loads consisting mostly of
glasses. Delay Start cannot be used with this cycle.
a. Select The NORMAL WASH cycle and any
Energy Option if desired;
b. Be sure the door is unlatched.
c. Slowly turn the Cycle Indicator Dial to
SHORT WASH.
d. Latch the door to start the cycle.
Wash Cycle
Time
Minutes
(approx.) I
Cycle Sequence
72
BBEEBEm
51*
51*
51*
12
mmm
E@
n
Rinse
n
Rinse
D
Main
Wash
nMain Wash
I
I
Rinse
Rinse
HB
Rinse Rinse
mm
mm
*Unextended times. These cycle times will be increased approximately 2 I minutes if Wash Heat Boost option is selected
Drying Options:
HEATED DRY on. Available on all wash cycles except RINSE& HOLD. Add 35 minutes to wash cycle time.
HEATED DRY off. Drying heater is turned off. Dishes dry naturally.

a
,,
Good Dishwashing Starts with HOT Water
To get dishes clean and dry, you need hot water. For good washing and drying,
the entering water must be
at least 120°F. To prevent dish damage, inlet water should not exceed 150°F.
How to Test Water Temperature
Check your water temperature with a candy or meat
Helpful hints: II’ outside temperatures arc unusually
thermometer. Turn on the hot water
faucet neurest
low, or if your water travels a long distance from water
the dishwasher. Put the thermometer in a glass
tind
heater [o dishwasher, you may need to set your water
let the water run continuously into the
glass until the heater’s thermosttit up. If you have not used hot wuter
temperature stops rising. If the water temperature is
for some time, the water in the pipes will be cold. Turn
below 1200 F., adjust your water heater. on the hot water
faucet at the sink and allow it to run
until the water is hot. Then
start the dishwasher. If
you’ve recently done laundry or run hot water
for
showers, give your water hetiter time to recover before
operating the dishwasher.
To improve washability
if the water is less than
120°F. and you cannot adjust your water heater: Select
a longer cycle or the WASH HEAT BOOST option and
fill both detergent cups at least half-full with detergent.
How to Use a Rinse Agent
The rinse agent makes water flow off dishes
quicker than usual. This lessens water spotting
and makes drying faster, too.
For best dishwashing performance, use of a rinse
agent such as JET-DRY brand is recommended.
Rinse agents come in either liquid or solid form
Your dishwasher uses the liquid form.
How to fill the rinse agent dispenser.
Unscrew the cap.
Add liquid rinse agent
until it just reaches the
bottom of lip inside the
dispenser opening.
o
‘...,,.
Replace cap. The
dispenser automatically
&d
,6, /
J
D
releases rinse agent into
final rinse water.
Your dishwasher’s rinse agent container holds
approximately 4Y~ ounces. This should last about
3 months. Fill as needed.
If you accidentally spill: Wipe up the rinse
agent with a damp cloth. Don’t leave the spill in the
dishwasher. It can keep your detergent from working
If you can’t find any rinse agent, write:
BENCKISER CONSCJMER PRODUCTS, [NC
(“JET-DRY” )
Corporate Centre 1
55 Federal Road
P.O. Box 199 I
Danbury, CT 06813-1991
You may check to see if you need to add rinse agent by
removing the fill cap and looking into the container.
You may also check the rinse agent, on some models,
by pressing the clear center of the fill cap 2 or
3 times.
If rinse agent is drawn into the center of the fill cap.
you have enough.
If the center area remains clear add
rinse agent,
6

How to Choose and Use the Right Detergent
Use only powder or liquid detergent specifically
made for use in dishwashers. Other types will cause
oversudsing.
How much detergent should you use? That depends.
Is your water “hard” or “soft”? With hard water, you
need extra detergent to get dishes clean. With soft water,
you need less detergent.
Your water department can tell you how hard your
water is. So
can your county extension agent or your
area’s water softener company. Just call and ask them
how many “grains” of hardness there are in your water.
Too much detergent with soft water not only wastes
money, it can be harmful. It
can cause a permanent
cloudiness of glassware, called “etching.” An outside
layer of glass is etched away! Of course, this takes some
time. But why take a chance when it’s easy to find out the
hardness of your water.
Keep your detergent fresh and dry. Under the sink
isn’t a good place to store detergent because there is too
much moisture. Don’t put powder detergent into the
dispenser until you’re ready to wash dishes, either. (It
won’t be fresh OR dry.)
If your powder detergent gets old or lumpy, throw it
away.
Old detergent often won’t dissolve. If you use a
liquid dishwasher detergent, these precautions are not
necessary because liquid detergents don’t “lump” as
they age or come in contact with moisture.
Detergent Dispensers
You’ll find two detergent dispensers on the inside
Close the main cup.
door of your dishwasher. Two, because
NOTE: To open detergent cup afier it has been
some cycles use two washes.
Open
See “Detergent Usage Guide “below.
cup
closed, unlatch the door and rotate the Cycle <~ *
(Be ~ure the CYCLE INDICATOR
DIAL is at
OFb” position before
adding detergent. Otherwise,
4J
$
Indicator Dial a full turn to the OFFposltion.
&
9
1
When the closed cup contains soap it is
Grasp handle,
best that the door be in u partially open
rotate and
the detergent cup will not
Main
close and latch properly).
cup
~
,6 ~ “
position before rotating the Cycle
close tightly
[ndicator Dial. This will help reduce the amount of
detergent and rinse aid agent spillage into the tub.
Detergent Usage Guide (powder or liquid)
SOFT WATER (0-3 grains hardness) MEDIUM WATER (3-7 grains) HARD WATER (7- 12 grains*)
CYCLES Main Cup Open Cup Main Cup Open Cup
Main CupX Open Cup~
POTSCRUBBER Half Full
+ Half Full
Completely
+ Half Full Completely
+ Completely
NORMAL WASH
Full Full Full
LIGHT WASH Half Full None Half Full None Completely None
SHORT WASH
Full
RINSE & HOLD
Use no detergent
Use no detergent
Use no detergent
* 12 grains and up is extremely hard water. A water softener is recommended. Without it, lime
+Filled Main Cup holds 3 tablespoons;
can build up in the water valve. The water valve may stick while open and cause flooding. Filled Open Cup holds 2 tablespoons.
How to Prepare the Dishes for Washing
If this is your first dishwasher, or if you’re replacing NOTE: You may also want to consider removing
a much
older model, you may wonder how much foods such as mustard, mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon
preparation your dishes need. Actually very little. juice and other foods that can cause discoloration of
Scrape off bones, seeds, skins, toothpicks and stainless steel if allowed to remain on dishes for a
other hard solids. Remove excessive quantities
long period of time.
of oil or grease. The POTSCRUBBER cycle can wash heavily
soiled
dishes and remove dried-on and baked-on soils from
pots, pans and casseroles. Items with burned-on
soils need extra preparation.
7

HOW TO LOAD YOUR DISmASHER
NOTE: Do not load large platters or trays in front right corner
of lower rack. They may prevent detergent from circulating in the wash cycle.
-.. .,
The upper rack is handy for all kinds of odd shapes.
Sauce pans, mixing bowls and other items should
be placed face down. When loading dishwasher safe
plastics make sure each plastic item is secured over
two fingers. This will insure good washing results.
The upper rack is best for glasses, cups and
saucers. Cups and glasses fit best along the sides.
This is also the place for dishwasher-safe plastics.
Make sure small plastic items are lodged in tightly so
they can’t fall onto the heating unit. Arrange stemware
so that it cannot move easily. ‘Don’t let the-glasses
touch each other.
Keep center area clear in the lower rack.
The wash tower rises through the center of the lower
rack during the wash and rinse portions of the cycle.
Don’t block it or load tall things next to it. Also, be
careful not to let a portion of an item such as a pot or
dish handle extend through the bottom rack. This could
block the wash arm and cause poor washing results.
8

. .
.
,.’-.
Put flatware in the removable basket with handles up
to protect your hands. 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 are not recommended for
automatic
dishwashing. If placed in dishwasher, they
should go in bottom of silverware basket with
silverware on top.
The lower rack is best used for plates, saucers, and
cookware. Large items such as broiler pans and racks
should go in the lower rack along the edge. Load
platters, pots and bowls along the sides, in corners,
or in the back. For best washing results, all items
should be positioned with the soiled side of the dish
facing the center of the rack.
~o”,t,eta”y ~
item extend-
through bottom
Precaution!
Take out anything that may fall or extend through the
bottom of the basket.
9

WHAT YOU CAN USUALLY WASH SAFELY
IN YOUR DISHWASHER.
Usu:illy
SalFe
Material
Exceptions (not safe) Special Instructions
Aluminum YES
——
YES
Some colored anodized
aluminum can fade.
Antique, metal-trimmed,
hand-painted or over-the-glaze
patterns fade. Gold leaf
will discolor.
Some darkening or spotting possible. Remove by
scouring with soap-filled steel wool pads.
Chinti
Stoneware
If in doubt, check with the manufacturer. Or test wash
one piece daily for at least a month. Compare with the
rest of the set.
——
YES Crystal
Antique, metal-trimmed or
hand-painted patterns fade.
Gold leaf will discolor.
Load securely to prevent movement. Check your
manufacturer’s instructions for your crystal.
Do not wash in dishwasher. Damage to dishwasher
and discoloration or staining of dishwasher may result.
Non-dishwasher
items—such
as electronic
air cleaner
filters, furnace
filters, paint
brushes, etc.
Glass
N()
——
YES
Iron N() Iron will rust.
Pewter tarnishes.Pewter
Plastics
N()
——
YES If it doesn’t say DISHWASHER SAFE, test one piece in
the top rack before
dishwashin~ an entire set.
Stainless steel
Sterling Silver
and Silver plate
YES Rinse if not washing immediately. Salty or acid foods
can stain if left on.
——
YES
Don’t put in same silverware
basket with stainless steel,
Contact between metals can
damage silver.
Don’t wash copper utensils in
the same load. Silver may get a
brown film.
Adbesive used to attach some
hollow-handle knives can loosen.
Rinse if not washing immediately. Salty or acid foods can
stain if left on. Dry detergent can cause difficult-to-remove
black spots. Place in back section of silverware basket to avoid
exposure to detergent from the detergent cup.
Non-stick
coatings
YES
After washing, wipe the non-stick coating area with
vegetable oil to keep it from
losing its non-stick quality.
Tin
NO Tin can rust.
Wood can warp, crack or lose
its finish with any type of washing.
Wood NC)
Forget a dish? Here’s when you can add it.
Add dishes any time during the RINSE & HOLD
cycle. With other wash cycles, you can add dishes
at any time BEFORE the main detergent wash portion
of the cycle.
However, opening the door during any cycle
lessens cleaning power. So try to
load everything
at the beginning.
Here’s how to add a forgotten dish:
1. Push the door latch to the left. Washing will
stop,
2. Wait a few seconds until the water calms. Then
open the door. WARNING: Hot vapor may rise
from opened door.
3. Add dishes you’ve forgotten.
4. Close the door and push the latch to the far right.
When the door is locked, washing will continue.
10

USER MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
Clean the control panel with a lightly dampened Appliance Polish
Wax & Cleaner (Cat. No.
cloth. Dry thoroughly. Do not use abrasives or
WR97X02 16) is available from GE Service and
sharp objects on the panel. They can damage it.
Parts Centers.
Clean the outside with a good appliance polish The inside usually takes care of itself. If it should
wax. The outside cabinet finish is durable, but it ever need cleaning, use a mild cleansing powder.
can scratch. So use no scouring pads, or harsh
or
Scouring pads and harsh cleaners can mar the finish.
gritty cleaners.
Not Using Your Dishwasher in Winter? Protect Against Freezing.
If your dishwasher is left in an
unheated place during the winter,
ask
a service technician to:
● Cut off electrical power to the
dishwasher. Remove fuses or trip
circuit breaker.
● Turn off the water supply.
● Disconnect the water inlet line
from the water valve.
Pump Cover Screws
●
●
✎
Drain water from the inlet line
and water valve. (Use a pan to
catch the water. )
Reconnect the water inlet line to
the water valve.
Remove the plastic pump cover
in the tub bottom and use a
sponge to soak up water in
the rubber boot.
Built-in Dishwashers Often Use an Air Gap. Keep It Clean.
An air gap is a plumbing device.
It protects your dishwasher against
water backing up into it if a drain
clogs. The air gap is not a part of
the dishwasher. And you may not
even have one. Not all plumbing
codes require air gaps.
If you have an air gap, check it at
least once a month. IT IS NOT
PART OF YOUR DISHWASHER.
IT IS NOT COVERED IN YOUR
WARRANTY.
The air gap is easy to clean.
With most types, first turn off the
dishwasher, then lift off the chrome
cover. Then unscrew the plastic cap
and check for any buildup of grit.
A toothpick makes cleaning easy.
Check the air gap any time your
dishwasher isn’t draining well.
11

HOW TO CHANGE COLOR PANELS
If you are redecorating, you can change your dishwasher’s front panels to
match or blend with your new colors by flipping them over. Each side of
each panel is a different color. You may also paint a panel with a
color of
your own choice.
How to Change the Door Panel:
1. Take out trim screws on either side of the
dishwasher door. Remove the side trim.
2. Slide the door panel out.
(Careful—edges may be sharp.)
3. Turn the door panel around and put the color you
want in front.
4. Replace the door panel, side trim and screws.
NOTE: Do not operate
dishwasher while changing
panels or when lower access
panel is removed.
How to Change the Lower Panel:
Bottom Panel Attachment Screws
1. Remove the bottom panel attachment screws.
2. On models without top mounting screws, remove
the entire access assembly by lifting it up and over
the retaining tabs.
3. On models with top mounting screws, remove
the screws.
4. Take out the top trim screws and remove the
top trim.
5. Slide the color panel(s) up and out and put the
color you want in front.
6. Replace the top trim and screws
7. Replace the entire access assembly by reversing
the steps.
Wood Panel fiim Kit
Wood panel trim kits, contain trim and The kit is available for $5.00 (shipping and handling).
instructions for adding a decorative wood door Make check payable to the General Electric Co.
panel and lower access panel no thicker than 1/4” Order a Trim Kit from:
to match kitchen cabinets.
GE Appliances
Specify the trim color of your choice from the c/o
Dri-View Manufacturing
following options: 4706 Allmond Ave.
GPF40BC (Chrome Trim and Screws) Louisville, KY 40209
GPF40BK (Black Trim)
GPF40WH (White Trim)
12

PROBLEM
DISHWASHER
WON’T RUN
UNUSUAL NOISE
DISHES DON’T DRY
UNCLEAN DISHES
AND FLATWARE
DETERGENT LEFT
IN DISPENSER CUPS
DETERGENT CUP
LID WON’T LATCH
AFTER ADDING
DETERGENT
YELLOW OR
BROWN FILM
CYCLE AND OPTION
INDICATOR LIGHTS
STAY ON WHEN
CYCLE IS
COMPLETED
POSSIBLE CAUSE
A fuse in your home may be blown, or the circuit breaker tripped. Replace fuse or
reset circuit breaker. Remove any other appliances from the circuit.
Utensils may not be secure on rack pins, or something small may have dropped from
the rack. Water is causing utensils to rattle. Make sure everything is securely placed
in dishwasher.
Make sure inlet water temperature is correct. (See How to Test Water Temperature
section).
Unload the bottom rack first. Water from dishes in the top rack maybe spilling into
the bottom rack.
Check for improper loading. Dishes shouldn’t nest together. Avoid overloading.
Check the rinse agent dispenser to see that it’s not empty.
Check inlet water temperature. It should be at least 120°F. (To test, see How to Test
Water Temperature section). Try the Wash Heat Boost Option.
Water pressure may be temporarily low. Turn on a faucet. Is water coming out slower
than usual? If so, wait until pressure is normal before using your dishwasher.
Plugged air gap. (See Care and Cleaning section).
Improper rack loading. (See Loading section).
Choose another cycle to give you longer washing time.
Water may not be reaching the detergent cups. Move dishes that maybe blocking
detergent cup.
The dispenser cover may not be opening or may be blocked by improperly loaded
items. If you used a powder detergent, open the cup and remove any caked-on
detergent. If the cup still doesn’t open automatically, call for service.
Detergent may be old. If the powder detergent is hard or caked in the box, throw it
away. The detergent may not be working well. Try another brand.
Cycle Indicator Dial must be OFF for cup lid to close and latch properly. If you
unlatch the door and open it to dry your dishes, the Cycle Indicator Dial does
not advance by itself.
Tea or coffee can stain cups. Remove the stain by hand, using a solution of 1/2 cup
bleach and
3 cups warm water.
An overall yellow or brown
film on dishes or glassware can be caused by iron
deposits in water. A special filter in the water supply line is the only way to correct
this problem. Your water softener company can tell you about the filter.
Yellow film on sterling silver results when you wash copper utensils in the same load.
Silver polish will usually remove this stain.
This is normal. Unlatch the door to turn off the lights.
(<ontitzued next page)
13

THE PROBLEM SOLVER
(continued)
PROBLEM
SPOTS AND
FILMING ON
GLASSES AND
FLATWARE
CLOUDINESS ON
GLASSWARE
CHIPPING OF CHINA
POSSIBLE CAUSE
Spotting can be caused by all these things:
● Extremely hard water. (See How to Choose and Use Detergent section).
● Low inlet water temperature. (See How to Test Water Temperature section).
● Overloading the dishwasher.
● Improper loading. (See Loading section).
● Old or damp powder detergent.
● Phosphate level in detergent too low. (See How to Choose and Use
Detergent section).
c Rinse agent dispenser empty. (See How to Use a Rinse Agent section).
● Too little detergent, (See How to Choose and Use Detergent section).
Local water conditions and personal preferences vary. Try several brands of
detergents to find one that gives the best results for you. A liquid dishwasher
detergent may help reduce filming.
To remove stubborn spots and film from glassware:
1. Remove all metal utensils from the dishwasher.
2. Do not add detergent.
3. Select POTSCRUBBER cycle.
4. Start the dishwasher and allow to run for 18 to 22 minutes. The dishwasher will
now be in the main wash.
5. Then open the door and pour 2 cups (500 ml) of white vinegar into the bottom of
the dishwasher.
6. Close the door and allow to complete the cycle.
If vinegar rinse doesn’t work: Repeat as above, except use 1/4 cup (60 ml) of citric
acid crystals instead of vinegar. (Most drugstores carry citric acid crystals. If yours
doesn’t, call GE Factory Service).
Using a vinegar or citric acid crystal rinse more than twice a month? Consider a home
water softener.
If vinegar or citric acid crystal rinse doesn’t work, the cloudiness is “etching.”
The film cannot be removed.
It can be prevented: Use less detergent if you have soft water. Wash glassware in
the shortest cycle that will get them clean.
Water temperature entering dishwasher exceeds
150°F.
Rough handling can cause chipping. Load with care. Make sure glassware and china
are secure and can’t jar loose. (See Loading section). Make sure tall glasses and
stemware will clear the top of the tub when you push the rack into the dishwasher.
Always use the top rack for delicate items.
14

PROBLEM
BLACK OR GRAY
MARKS ON DISHES
SMALL AMOUNT OF
WATER STANDING
IN THE BOTTOM
OF THE TUB
WATER WON’T PUMP
OUT OF THE TUB
SUDS IN THE TUB
DISHWASHER
LEAKS
MOTOR HUMS
STAINING OF
TUB INTERIOR
SOUNDS YOU
WILL HEAR
VAPOR AT
THE VENT
POSSIBLE CAUSE
Aluminum utensils often leave marks when they rub against dishes. Remove marks
with
a mild abrasive cleanser.
Water around the outlet on the tub bottom at the back of the tub is normal, It is clean
water. It’s there to keep the water seal lubricated.
If the entire bottom of the tub has water, you may have a drain problem. Clean the air
gap, if you have one. (See Care and Cleaning section).
Check the kitchen sink. Is it draining well? You may need a plumber,
If dishwasher drains into disposer, run disposer to clear. Be sure disposer is not
clogged.
Sudsing detergents are not meant for dishwashers. USE ONLY AUTOMATIC
DISHWASHER DETERGENTS TO AVOID SUDSING.
To remove suds from the tub: Open the dishwasher. Let suds evaporate. Add
1 gallon of cold water to the tub. Close and latch the dishwasher. Pump out water
by slowly turning the control dial until a drain period is reached.
Repeat if necessary.
Suds can cause unit to overflow. That’s why it’s so important to use a detergent that’s
designed for automatic dishwashers.
Spilling the rinse agent can cause foam during washing. This can lead to ovetiowing.
Wipe up accidental spill of rinse agent with a damp cloth.
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
sed moist, and the garbage disposer clear.
Some detergents contain colorant (pigment or dyes) that 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.
You’ll hear occasional clicking sounds. These are normal.
s Soft food disposal shredding action.
● Drain valve opening to pump water out.
Q Timer control as cycle progresses.
● Detergent cup opening.
During the drying period:
● The motor stops.
Water vapor comes through the vent by the door latch during drying and when
water is being pumped out.
If you need more help. ..call, toll free:
GE Answer
Center@
800.626.2000
consumer information service
15

NOTES
16

NOTES
17

NOTES
18

We’ll Be There
With the purchase ofyour new GE appliance, receive the assurance that ifyou ever need
information or assistance from GE, we’ll be there. All you have to do is call—toll-free!
In-Home Repair Service
80MEXARES(80W32-2737)
A (;E consumer service professional” will provide expert repair service, sched-
llled at a time [hat’s convenient fi~r you. Many (;l; Cc)rrsumer Service company-
operated locat iorls of’fer you service [oday or [ornorrowj or at. your convenience
(7:()() a.m. to 7:()() p.m. weekdays, 9:()() a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Saturdays). Our f-actory-
trairrert technicians know your appliance inside and out–so most repairs can be
handled in,just onc visit.
GEAnswer Center@
8086262000
~’lla(c~et- your question about any (;E ulqjor appliance, C;E Answer (;enter@
irlfi)rmatiorr service is available I() help. Your call—and your question-will be
answered promptly and
courteously.” And you can call any time. (;E Answer
(lent er@ ser~ice is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
...,,0. . . .
.. . . . . . . . . . . . . .,7,, .,.....,.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ,.” ..., ,,.
!
—
kr Customers With Special Needs...
80fi626.2000
Upon request, (;E will provide
(;onsurners with impaired hearing or speech who have
13t-aille controls” for a variety of” GE access to a TDD or a conventional” teletypewriter may
aPPlian~:es~ and a brochure to call
800-TDD-C~EA(l” (800-8 ?~3-4322) L(J request infi)rma-
assist in
plarrn irrg a barrier-free tion or service.
ki[.chen for persons with limited
mohility. T() obtain these items,
free of’charge, call 800.626.2000.
Service Contracts
80@626-2224
You can have [he secut-e fi~cling that (1E Clonsumer Service will still be there
af’ter your warran ty expires. Purchase a (;E c(~rrtract while your warranty is still
in efl’ect and you’ll receive a substantial discount. With a multiple-year contract,
)’OLI’I-(: assLlrecf of’fllture service at tc~day’s prices.
Parts andAccessories
80G626-2002
Individuals qualified to service their om appliances User maintenance instructions contained in this
booMet
can have needed parts 01 accessories sent directly to cover procedures intended to be performed by any user.
their home. ‘1’he (;k; parts system prc)vides access t{) over
Other servicing generdy shodd be referred to qutified
47,()()() pal-ts... aud all (;E [;cnuiuc Renewal I)arts are service personnel. Caution must be exercised, since
fillly w~u-ranted. VISA, Mastcr(;ard and Disc{)ver cards improper servicing may cause unsafe operation.
are accepted.

YOUR GE DISHWASHER WITH
Staple sales slip or cancelled check
PERMATUF@ INTERIOR
here. Proof of original purchase date
I
WARRANTY
is needed to obtain service
under warranty.
WHAT IS COVERED
FULL ONE-YEAR WARRANTY
For one year from date of original
purchase, we will provide, free of
charge, parts and service labor in
your home to repair or replace any
part of the dishwasher that fails
because of a manufacturing defect.
FULL TEN-YEAR WARRANTY
For ten years from date of original
purchase, we will provide, free of
charge, parts and sewice labor in
your home to repair or replace the
PermaTuf(r” tub or door /iner if it
fails to contain water because of
a manufacturing defect such as
cracking, chipping, peeling
or rusting.
LIMITED SECOND-YEAR
WARRANTY
For the second year from date of
original purchase, we will provide,
free of charge, replacement parts for
anypati of the Water Distribution
System (as illustrated below) that
fails because of a manufacturing
defect. Associated inlet and drain
plumbing parts are not covered by
this warranty. You pay for the
sewice trip to your home and
service labor charges.
Power Shower ’’ar~
Wash arm
(spray arm)
s
Boot
@
1
Hose
Hub
connection
assembly
tt
)
●
Motor
Pllmn
Soft Food D&poser
-,. ,r
Water Distribution System
This warranty is extended to
the original purchaser and any
succeeding owner for products
purchased for ordinary home use in
the
48 mainland states, Hawaii and
Washington,
D.C. In Alaska the
warranty is the same except that it is
LIMITED because you must pay to
ship the product to the sewice shop
or for the
sewice technician’s travel
costs to your home.
All warranty sewice will be
provided by our Factory Service
Centers or by our authorized
Customer
Care’”’ servicers during
normal working hours.
Should your appliance need
sewice, during warranty period or
beyond, call 800-GE-CARES
(800-432-2737).
.
WHAT IS NOT COVERED
● Sewice trips to your home to teach adequate electrical, plumbing, and
you how to use the product.
other connecting facilities.
Read your Use and Care material.
If you then have any questions
about operating the product, please
contact your dealer or our
Consumer Affairs office at the
address below, or call, toll free:
GE Answer Center ’H’
800.626.2000
consumer information service
● Replacement of house fuses or
resetting of circuit breakers.
c Cleaning or sewicing of air gap
device in drain line.
● Failure of the product if it is used for
other than its intended purpose or
used commercially.
● Damage to product caused by
accident, fire, floods or acts of God.
WARRANTOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE
FOR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
● Improper installation
If you have an installation problem,
contact your dealer or installer. You
are responsible for providing
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above 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
To know what your legal rights are in your state, consult your local or state consumer affairs office or your state’s Attorney General.
Warrantor: General Electric Company
If further help is needed concerning this warranty, write:
Manager—Consumer Affairs, GE Appliances, Louisville, KY 40225
This book is printed on recycled paper.
Part No. 165D3080P325
GSD850
Pub No. 49-5633
GSD880
8-93 CG
Printed in Louisville, Ky