GE GSD1120R User manual

Use and Care Guide
Dishwasher
Contents
Air (;ap
14
Soil I.evcl
7
Appliance Re@stration
2
POTS(:KLJBIIER (:ycle 4,5,7
C;are and [;leaning
14
Problem Solver
11-1:3
(lhina, (:rystal, Sterling
10
Rinse Agent 6
(:(msumer Services
15
Safkty Instructi(ms
:3
(:ycle Features
5
User Maintenance Instructi(ms 14
t)elay Start 4Warranty
13ack (:over
I)etergent, Detergent (;uicle 6, 7 Wash Heat
B()()st 4–(j
Dispenser
(:ups
7 Water ‘temperature
6
Enerby Saver 4Winter Storage
14
Energ-Saving l’ips
2
Features 4
Fr(mt Panel (Iolor” (lhange
14
I.oacling
8.9
Mt)ciel and Serial Numbers
2
operating (;uicle 4,5
(lycle Selection 5
GE Answer Center
m
I)rying options”
4,5 800.626.2000
Built-in Model GSD1120 ~
GE Appliances

Help us help you...
If you need service
Before using your
dishwasher, read this
book carefully.
It is intended to help you
operate and maintain your new
dishwasher properly.
Keep it handy for answers to
your questions.
If yOLI don’t understand something
or
need more help. write (include
your phone number):
Consumer Affairs
GE Appliances
Appliance Park
Louisville, KY 40225
Write down the model and
serial numbers.
YoLI’11 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:
-i”Number
Serial Number
Use these numbers in any
correspondence or service calls
concerning your dishwasher.
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...
Check the Problem Solver
section. It I ists causes of minor
operating problems that you can
correct yourself.
2
To obtain a Spanish language
version
of this book, call
GE Answer Center’”
800.626.2000”
consumer information service.
Para
obtener la versi6n en
Espafiol de este manual,
IIame a
GE Answer Center,’”
servicio de infornlacibn
para el consumidor,
telefono 800.626.2000.
Energy-Saving tips
c Operate dishwasher only when
it’s full. Let the dishes accumulate
in dishwasher. When you put in
only a partial load, use the RINSE
& HOLD
cycle to rinse off heavy
soils. Be sure to latch the door
when waiting
for a full load.
This helps keep soils moist, easier
to remove.
● If you don ‘t need your dishes
right away, use your ENERGY
SAVER no-heat boost drying
feature that turns the drying heater
off automatically. Dishes dry
naturally over a longer period such
as overnight.
● Always select the cycle that
uses least amount of water that
will remove the soil from the
load. (See the Operating section).
● Turn your water heater down to
deliver
120°F water to your
dishwasher
and use the WASH
HEAT BOOST Option. Make sure
the entering water temperature is
no less than
120°F. (See Water
Temperature section).
To obtain service, see the
Consumer Services page in the
back of this book.
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

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read all instructions before using this appliance
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.
● This dishwasher must be
properly installed and
located in accordance 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 Calrod@
heating element and be damaged.
To minimize the possibility
of injury.
Q 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 touch the Calrod@
heating element during or
immediately after use.
● Do not operate your dishwasher
unless all enclosure panels are
properly in place.
● Do not tamper with controls.
● 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 of children, preferably in a
locked cabinet. Observe all
warnings on container labels to
avoid personal injury.
● To minimize the possibility
of 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.
Aw ~G—~RWEN
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
3

—
How to operate your dishwasher
STEP 1. Load your dishwasher
with dishes. silverware, pots, pans,
bowls, etc., according to the
Loading section.
STEP 2. Add detergent to the
detergent dispenser. Make sure the
Cycle Indicator Dial is at OFF
position before adding detergent.
(See Detergent Guide.)
Use rinse
aid agent to help prevent
spotting. Occasionally check to
insure
that rinse agent container is
at least half full. (See How to Use
a Rinse Agent Section. )
STEP 3. Select Drying option.
HEATED :N:j:;
DRY
(NO HEAT BOOSTI
I=ln
)..--— j~:- -+,
HEATED DRY. Turns the drying
heater on for fast drying.
ENERGY SAVER (No Heat Boost).
Turns the drying heater off to save
energy. Dishes will dry naturally
over a longer period such
as
overnight.
If you need your dishes sooner,
open the dishwasher door after the
cycle is complete to reduce the
natural drying time.
Note: The ENERGY SAVER option
will also cancel the WASH HEAT
BOOST. To obtain WASH BOOST
without HEATED DRY, select only
the WASH HEAT BOOST option.
(See Energy-Saving Tips.)
STEP 4. WASH HEAT BOOST
Option.
To test water temperature, see
“How To Test Water Temperature
Section.”
The entering water must be
between
120°F. and 140°F. Use
the wash heat boost option when
water is less than
140°F.
When selected, the wash cycle will
be extended for 21 minutes while
the dishwasher heats the water for
good washing and drying.
STEP 5. Select the wash cycle and
start the dishwasher. (See Cycle
Selection Hints on next page.)
If your dishwasher drains into a
food waste disposer, operate the
disposer until it is empty before
starting the dishwasher.
“When NOT using DELAY
START (for all cycles):
a. Be sure door is unlatched.
b. Push selected cycle button.
c. Push selected option button.
I
■
RINSING
d.
e.
Slowly turn Cycle indicator Dial
to START.
Latch the door 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.
● When using DELAY START
(for all cycles):
Note: START can be delayed
automatically for up to
6 hours.
a. Be sure door is unlatched.
b. Push selected cycle button.
. ● slAnl
~’>52..
.Y,.;.’
;/ .,
:,6.!
OFF ;m,,
@
WASHING
\ “
‘!, ‘i
;
,,,;’, ,’
,
DRYING
~
I
■
RINSING
c. Push selected option button.
d. Slowly turn Cycle Indicator
Dial to desired delay time.
e. Latch door to start timer. The
DELAY START light will come
on and stay on until dishwasher
starts. Dishwasher will start
automatically at end of selected
delay time.
4

Cycle selection hints
It is important to follow the loading
instructions.
POTSCRUBBER—For items such
as pots, pans and casseroles with
dried-on or baked-on soils.
Everyday dishes
may be included.
NORMAL WASH—For
loads of
everyday dishes, glasses
and
cookware with medium soils.
Designed
[o yield high
performance on normal soils.
WATER SAVER—For most loads
of everyday dishes with light soils
or
soils that have not dried on. Also
for everyday dishes that have had
extra preparation before loading.
RINSE & HOLD—For rinsing
partial loads which will be washed
later. D() not usc detergent. Delay
St~zrt is not recomrnendedfbr this
(“.yc’le.
What happens in each cycle
● You II hear occasional clicking ● During the drying period:
sounds:
—The motor stops.
—Soft food disposer shredding —Water vapor comes through the
uction.
vent by the door latch during
—Drain valve opening to pump drying and when water is being
water out. pumped out.
—Timer control as cycle
progresses.
—Detergent cup opening.
Wfish Cyc]e
Woter Use
Time
G:ilh)ns Mimltes
Wilsh (.YCICS
(approx.) (approx. )
Cycle Sequence
POTSCR~JBBER
1 I .4
65* mmmmmmm
NORMAL WASH
1 I .4
50* HEEmmmm
WATF;R SAVER
7.3
5~,:
Bmmm
RINSE & HOLD
2.9 9
mm
~:url~x(ende~ times. These cycle times will be increased approximately 21 minutes if WASH
HEAT BOOST Option is selected.
Drying Options:
HEATED DRY. Avtiilable on all wash cycles except RINSE & HOLD. Add 32 minutes to wash
cycle time.
ENERGY SAVER (No Heat Boost). Drying heater is turned off. Dishes dry naturally.

Good dishwashing starts
with HOT water
To get dishes clean and dry you need
hot water.
To help you get water of
the proper temperature, your
dishwasher has a WATER HEAT
BOOST feature. When selected (see
Operating section), this water
heating feature allows you
to turn
down your household water heater
and save energy if you’re willing to
let the dishwasher run a little longer
while it heats water. For good
washing and drying, the entering
water must be between 120°F and
1400F. To prevent dish damage, inlet
water should not exceed
150°F.
How to test water temperature:
Higher water temperature is
needed to dissolve grease and
activate powder detergents. If the
water temperature is less than
140°F, use the WATER HEAT
BOOST option. See WATER
HEAT BOOST section.
Check your water temperature
with
a candy or meat thermometer.
Turn
on the hot water faucet
nearest the dishwasher. Put the
thermometer in a glass and let the
water run continuously into the
glass until the temperature stops
rising.
[f the water temperature is
below
1200F adjust your water
heater.
Helpful hints: If outside
temperatures
are unusually low, or
if your water travels a long
distance from water heater to
dishwasher,
you may need to set
your water heater’s thermostat up.
If you have not used hot water for
some time, the water in the pipes
will be cold. Turn on the hot water
faucet at the sink and allow it to
run until the water is hot. Then
start the dishwasher. [f you’ ve
recently done laundry or run hot
water for showers, give your water
heater time to recover before
operating the dishwasher.
How to use a Rinse Agent
A 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’s
dispenser uses the liquid form.
How to
fill the
rinse agent
dispenser.
Unscrew the cap.
Note the FULL
line on the tip
❑
~ti 1! 1 14!IV l,M
Y
>’
FULL
f
d
I
of the cap. Add the liquid rinse
agent until it just reaches the top
of the FULL line. Replace the
cap. The dispenser automatically
releases the rinse agent into the
final rinse water.
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 CONSUMER
PRODUCTS, INC.
(“JET DRY”)
55 Federal Rd.
P.O. Box 1991
Danbury, CT. 06313-1991
Your dishwasher’s rinse agent
container holds 4X ounces. This
should last about
3 months. Fill as
needed. Do not overfill.
How to choose and use
detergent
First, use only powder or liquid
detergents specifically made for
use in dishwashers. Other types
will cause oversudsing.
Second, check the phosphate
content.
Phosphate helps prevent
hard-water materials from forming
spots or
film on your dishes. [f your
water is hard (7 grains or
tnore),
your detergent has to work harder.
Detergents with a higher phosphate
level will probably work better.
If
the phosphate content is low (8.7%
or less), you’]] have to use extra
detergent with hard water.
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.
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,
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. Too tnuch
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.
It won’t
wash well. 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 water.
6

You’ 11 find two detergent
dispensers on the inside door of
your dishwasher. Two, because
some cycles use two washes.
AIN
UP
See “Detergent Usage Guide”
below! (Be sure the Cycle Indicator
Dial is at OFF position before
adding detergent. Otherwise, the
detergent cup will not close and
latch properly.)
C1OSP the main cup,
NOTE: E) open the detergent cup
after it has been closed, unlatch the
door
atld rotate the Cycle indicator
Dial
~ljull turn to the OFF position.
When the closed cup contains soap
it is best that the door be in a
partiall>’ open position before
rotating the
C}lcle Indi(ator Dial.
This will help-reduce the amount
of detergent and rinse aid agent
spillage into the tub.
How to prepare the dishes
for washing
If this is your first dishwasher, or
if you’re replacing a much older
model, you may wonder how much
preparation your dishes need.
Actually very little. Pre-rinsing of
normal food
soils is not necessary.
With common sense and a little
practice you’ll soon know what
foods to remove. Here are some
guidelines:
1. Scrape off bones, seeds, skins,
toothpicks and other hard solids. It
is also best to remove hard-shelled
vegetables, meat trimmings, leafy
vegetables and crusts. Remove
excessive quantities of oil or grease.
2. Remove large quantities of any
food. Your dishwasher has a built-in
soft food disposer that pulverizes
soft food bits and flushes them
away. It can handle
small amounts
of soft foods, but large amounts will
be difficult to handle.
3. Try to remove food scraps and
place dishes in dishwasher before
soil has a chance to dry and become
hard. Dishes with dried-on soil
are more difficult to wash and may
not come clean in the NORMAL
WASH cycle. Remember to use
your RINSE & HOLD cycle for
small “holding” loads.
Detergent Usage Guide (powder or liquid)
Note: The foods mentioned are
for examples only. Other foods
not mentioned may also need to
be removed from your dishes. You
may also want to consider removing
foods such as mustard, mayonnaise,
vinegar, lemon juice and other foods
that can cause discoloration of
stainless steel if allowed to remain
on dishes for a long period of time.
When using the POTSCRUBBER
cycle, less
preparation is required
before loading. The POTSCRUBBER
cycle can wash heavily-soiled dishes.
Items with burned-on and baked-on
soils may not come clean. And the
dishwasher cannot remove bum
marks or restore fading caused by
overheating during cooking.
1
SOFT WATER MEDIUM WATER HARD WATER
(O-3 grains hardness) (3-7 grains) (7-12 grains*)
CYCLES Main Cup Open Cup Main Cup
Open Cup Main Cup~ Open
Cup*
POTSCRUBBER Half Full + Half Full Completely + Half Full Completely + Completely
NORMAL WASH Full Full Full
WATER SAVER Half Full None Half
Full
None Completely None
Full
RINSE
& HOLD Use no detergent
Use no detergent Use no detergent
K I zgrains and Up is extremely hard water. A water softener is recommended. Without it, lime can
$Filled Main Cup hnlds 3 tablespoons;
build up in the water valve. The water valve may stick while
open and cause tlooding.
Filled Open Cup holds 2 tablespo(ms.
7

How to load your dishwasher
you will have.
Make sure dishes are properly loaded
to insure that
water can reach the soiled surfaces. The wash arm in
the bottom sprays water up. The tower that rises in
the center sends water out over the dishes to wash the
items in the upper rack. A spray arm in the top washes
down also. Make sure to place tall items to the outside
so the upper wash arm is not blocked.
How to load the TOP WCK
.
WATCH OUT FOR THIS.
The wash tower rises through the center of the bottom
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.
Below is the special upper rack that comes with this
model.
The
tc)p rack is best for glasses, cups and saucers.
Cups and utensils can be washed when using the
folding shelf. Load the bottom row first, then fold
down the shelf and load the top row. Cups and glasses
fit best along the sides. This is the place for
dishwasher-
safe plastics, too. Make sure small plastic items are
lodged in tightly so they can’t fall onto
Calrod@ heating
unit. Arrange stemware so that it cannot move easily.
Don’t let the glasses touch each other.
Sauce pans, mixing bowls and other small items may
be placed—face down—in the top rack. The top rack
is handy for all kinds of odd shapes. Be sure the force
of water and detergent can reach soiled surfaces.
8

How to load the BOTTOM WCK
Fit plates and saucers between the pins. Load platters,
pots
and bowls along the sides, in corners or in the
back.
Load platters, pots, pans and bowls along the sides, in
corners or in the back. All
large items, such as uitchers,
salad bowls, and mixing bow~s, should be was~ed in
the lower rack.
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.
The security cell cover, hinged in the handle, can be
A
lowered to either side to secure light-weight items
from the effects of the vigorous wash action. When
it is not needed, this cover can remain upright.
v
Precaution!
Take out anything that may fall or extend through the
bottom of the basket.
As shown here, this plate is being placed with the
soiled side facing the center of the rack so water and
detergent from wash arm can reach soiled surfaces.
Heavily soiled pots, pans and casseroles MUST be
loaded in the bottom rack, facing down. Prop broiler
pans and racks along the edge.
*. Don’t let anv
(
.

What you can usually wash safely in your dishwasher.
And what you can’t.
Special Instructions
Some darkening
m spottin: possible. Remove by
scouring with soap-filled steel wool p:Ids,
Usually
Safk
hlaterial
Exceptions (not safe)
Some colored
tmodized :duminurn can
lade.
Alnminnm
YES
C;hina/Stoneware
YES Antique. metal-trimmed.
hancl-painted
[~r ove[”-the-gluzc patterns tt~de, Gnld
Ie:ii will discolor,
Antique, met:il-trimmed 01
h:uld-
ptiinted patterns f:lde. Gold Ieilf’ will
discolor.
It in doubt, check wi(h the tll:l[lut:lctLlt.el. (jr test w:[sh
one piece daily fnr Jt Ic:ist a mtmth. (’{>mp:Irc with the
rest c>t the set,
YES
L(J:Ld securely tn prevent movement. Check
manufacturer’s instructimls tot” yout- crys(;il.
Du not wash in disbw:tshcr. Dim)iigc to dishw:isbcr :Ind
discolor:ition” or st:lining of distlw:ishe[ nl:Iy result,
Notl-(list]\*:ishcr
items-such as
electronic air cteaoer
fitters,
f’urnace filters,
paint
hrnshes, etc.
(;tass
N()
YES
Milk gl~ss may yellow,
Iron NO Ir(m will rust.
I’ewter NC) Pewter ttirnishcs.
I’tastics
If it doesn’t say DISHWASHER SAFE, test (mc piece in
the top
rack before dishwashing an entire set. W:tsh in
top rack only.
Rinse if not washing immediately. S:dty or acid fi)ods
can stain if left on.
Rinse if not washing immediately. S~ilty 01 ttcid Ii)ods
can stain if Iett nn. Dry detergent ctin cuusc ditticult-to-
remove black spots.
Place in b:ick sccti{)n of” silvcrwiu”e
basket to dvoid cxp(~sure [() detergent i’r(ml the dc[ergen(
cup.
YES
Stainless steet
Sterting Sitver
and ,Sitver ptate
Don’t put in s:ltne silverware b~sket
with stlinless steel, C’onttict between
mct~ds can dmntige silver. Dtm’t wash
copper utensils in the same load. Silver
Ini[y get ii brown film, Adhesive used
[() ~tt~ch some hnllow-h:mdle knives
can loosen.
YES
Non-stick
coatings
YES After washing. wipe the rim-stick cotiting iucii with
vegetable
oil t(> keep it Frntn losing its rim-stick qu;ii ity.
‘1’in NO Tin
c:m rust.
W()()d NO
W()()d can w~rp, cr~lck 01- lose its
finish with :my type of washing.
Forget a dish? Here’s
when you can add it.
Add dishes any tinle during the
RINSE & HOLD
cycle. With
()[hcr WdSh CyCleS, ~oll call tidd
However, opening the door during 2. Wait
a few seconds until the
any cycle lessens cleaning power. water
callns. Then open the door.
So try to load everything
at the
3. Add dishes vou ’ve forzotten.
beginning.
J.
Here’s how to add ii forgotten dish: 4. Close the door
;lnd push the
latch to the f~u- rixht. When the
1. Push the
door latch to the left. door is locked,
w;lshing will
Washinz will sto~.
continue.
10

.——
,—~ Questions?
-——
--
—
. . .-
- Use This Problem Solver
———...,
~
,..——.
-
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
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 may be 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.)
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.)
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. [f 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 in OFF position 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 to OFF 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.
11

The Problem Solver (continued)
PROBLEM
SPOTS AND
FILMINC
ON GLASSES AND
FLATWARE
CLOUDINESS ON
GLASSWARE
CHIPPING OF CHINA
12
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. )
● Rinse agent dispenser empty. (See How To Use 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.

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
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 necesstiy.
Suds
can cause unit to oveflow. 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 overflowing.
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 seal moist, and the garbage disposer clear.
If you need more help.. call, toll free:
GE Answer Centerk)
800.626.2000
consumer information service
13

Care and Cleaning
USER MAINTENANCE
INSTRUCTIONS
Clean the control panel with a
lightly dampened cloth. Dry
thoroughly. Do not use abrasives
or sharp objects on the panel. They
can damage it.
Clean the outside with a good
appliance
polish wax. The outside
cabinet finish is durable, but it can
scratch. So use no scouring pads
or harsh or gritty cleaners.
Appliance Polish Wax & Cleaner
(Cat. No. WR97X0216) is
available from GE Appliance
Parts Mart.
The inside usually takes care of
itself. If it should ever need
cleaning, use a mild cleansing
powder. Scouring pads and harsh
cleaners can mar the finish.
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.
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 electric power to the
dishwasher. Remove fuses or trip
circuit breaker.
● Turn off the water supply.
● Disconnect the water inlet line
from the water valve.
● Drain water from the inlet 1 ine
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.
How to change color panels
If you are redecorating, you can How to change the door panel:
change your dishwasher’s door 1. Take out trim screws on either
panel to match or blend with your
side of the dishwasher door.
new colors. Remove the side trim.
The panels are held in place by the
door trim. Each side of the
panel is 2. Slide the panel out.
(Careful—edges may be sharp.)
a different color. Or you can paint
the panel with the color of your 3. Turn the panel around and put
own choice.
the color you want in front.
4. Replace the panel, side trim and
—
~
<.-
5 “-”i ~q :
,,
, ~i:;:::,:.
screws.
How to change the lower panel:
,A.
1. Remove panel attachment screws.
2. Remove the entire access panel.
.,. ,
-.
3. Take out screws and remove the
top trim.
NOTE: Do not operate the 4. Slide the access panel out.
dishwasher while changing 5. Turn the panel around and put
panels or when lower access
the color you want in front.
panel is removed.
6. Replace the lower panel, top
trim and screws.
7. Replace entire access panel and
attachment screws.
A wood panel trim kit contains
trim and instructions for adding a
decorative wood door
panel and
lower access panel no thicker than
1/4” to match kitchen cabinets. The
kit is available at no extra cost.
(Specify
GPF40.)
Order from:
GE Appliances
c/o
Dri-View Manufacturing
4706
Allmond Ave.
buisville, KY 40209
14

We’ll Be There
With the purchase of your new GE appliance, receive the
assurancethatif you ever need information or assistance
from
GE, we’ll be there. Al you have to do is cdl—toll-free!
In-Home Repak
Service
8@o-GE-cAREs
BOO-432-273fl
A (;EI (;onsumer Service professional
will provide expert repair service,
scheduled at
a time that’s convenient
for you. Many (JE Consumer Service
conlparly-operated” locations offer you
service today or tomorrow, or at your
convenience
(7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
weekdays,
9:()() a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Satur-
days).
our factory-trained technicians
know your appliance inside and out-
so most repairs can be handed in just
one visit.
Service Contracts
800-626-2224
You can have the secure feeling that
GE Consumer Service will still be
there after your warranty expires. Pur.
chase a
GE contract while your war.
rarity is still in effect and you’ll receive
a substantial discount. With a multiple.
year contract, you’re assured of future
service at today’s prices.
Pam andAccesories
800-626-2002
Individu~ qudfied to service heir
own appliances can have needed
parts or accessories sent directly to
their home,
‘I-he (;~~ parts system pro-
vides access to over 47,()()() parts... and
all C;E (;erruine Renewal Parts are
fully warrantccl. VISA, Master(;ard
and Discover cards are accep[ed.
User maintenance instictions
contained in this booHet cover proce-
dures intended to be performed by
any user.
Otier servicing gener~y
shodd be referred to qualified ser-
vice personnel. Caution must be
exercised, since improper servicing
may cause unsafe operation.
GEAnswer Center@
80~626.2000
Whatever youI- question about ally (;kl
major” appliance, (;k~ AJISWCI- (:cnteI@
. .
in fi)rmation service is available 10
help. Your catl-and your questio~l-
wi]l be answered protnpdy arlcl
courteously And you can cat] any
time.
(;E Answer (;ente@ service is
open 24 hours a
day 7 clays a week.
Telecommunication Device for the Deaf
., , , .
——-
..,,, ;,. * . .
--- -... . . . . . ., .“. -. —..
,.-. . . . ..-, - ..-- . . . . . .
For Customers With
Special Needs...
8b0.626.2000
Upon request., (;E1 will provide Braille
controls for a variety
of (;E appliances,
and a brochure to assist in
plarln ing a
barrier-free kitchen for persons with
limited mobility
T() obtain these items,
free of charge, cdl 800.626.2000.
(lonsumers with impaired hearing
or speech who have access to a
TDD
or a corrventiond teletypewriter may
Cdl 800-TDD-GEA(; (800-833.4:322)”
to request information or service.

II
1
YOUR GE DISHWASHER
WARRANTY
Save proof of original purchase date such as your sales slip or cancelled check to establish warranty period.
WHAT IS COVERED
FULL ONE-YEAR WARRANTY
For one year from date of original
purchase, we will provide, free of
charge, parts and sewice labor in
your home to repair or replace
any
part of
the dishwasher that fails
because of a manufacturing defect.
LIMITED SECOND-YEAR PARTS
WARRANTY
For the second year from date of
original purchase, we will provide,
free of charge, replacement parts for
any part of the dishwasher that fails
because of a manufacturing defect.
You pay for the
sewice trip to your
home and sewice labor charges.
LIMITED FIVE-YEAR
RACWELECTRONIC PARTS
WARRANTY
For five years from date of original
purchase, we will provide, free of
charge, replacement parts for any
● rack that rusts because of a
manufacturing defect
or any part of
● elecfronlc control module that fails
because of a manufacturing defect.
You pay for the sewice trip to your
home and service labor charges.
FULL TWENTY-YEAR
TUB~OOR
LINER WARRANTY
For
twen~ 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(Q tub or door liner if it
fails to contain water because of a
manufacturing defect.
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 service shop
or for the service technician’s travel
costs to your home.
All warranty service will be
provided by our Factory Sewice
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).
II
I
WHAT IS NOT COVERED
. Sewice trips to your home to teach
you how to use the product.
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
c
’
)
800.626.2000
consumer information service
● Improper installation.
If you have an installation problem,
contact your dealer or installer. You
are responsible for providing
adequate electrical, plumbing, and
other connecting facilities.
● Replacement of house fuses or
resetting of circuit breakers.
● 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.
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
vay 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.
I
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. 165D3080P264
GSD1120
Pub No. 49-5574
8-92 CG