GE GSD1205 User manual

Dishwasher
❑
!Safe~ instructions.........................3
@OperatingInstructions,~ps
;,:. China,Crystal,Sterling...............................10
..
@~.~j~~CareandCleaning
Air Gap...........................................................11
m
●Problem Solver......................l3-I5
Morequestions?...call
:<.:,. GEAnswerCentera800.626.2000
,,
mPreparation
,, .,, FrontPanelChange....................................12
a
‘@> Consumer Services,..................l9
., ApplianceRegistration.................................2
Important PhoneNumbers.......................19
ModelandSerialNumbers..........................2
RepairService..............................................18
Warranty........................................BackCover
Models: GSD1205 GSD1235
To obtain aSpanish language Para obtener la versi6n en
version of this book, call espafiolde este manual,
GE Answer CenterGname a
800.626.2000 GE Answer Center?
consumer information service. servicio de informaci6n
para el consumidor,
te16fono800.626.2000.
GEAppliances

A note toconsumer—
We’d like to thank you and congratulate you for making the wise decision in purchasing your dishwasher.
This User Guide is designed to be kept near your dishwasher at all times for quick and easy reference. Features
may vary on some dishwasher models. Please read the following tips to insure your dishwasher is operating at its
best performance.
We care about you and your appliance and we want your dishwasher to do itsjob for you.
●HOT WATER—Your dishwasher
mneeds hot water for best results. Water
+entering the dishwasher should be at
least 120°F.but your dishwasher
performs BETTER with HIGHER
water temperatures not to exceed 150°F.
QWATER~RDNESS-The hardness
of thewaterplaysan importantpart in
how wellyourdishwashercleans.In
areaswherewateris veryhard (12 grains
ormore),it maybe necessaryto install
awatersoftener.If youdo notknow the
hardnessof yourwatersupply,contact
yourlocalwaterdepartment.
●DETERGENTMnly usedetergents
labeledfor usein automaticdishwashers,
ANeveruse laundrydetergentsor
liquidsoaps..that willcauseoversudsing
and leaks.The amountofdetergentyou
usedependson thewaterhardnessandthe
amountof soilon yourdishes.In most
cases,detergentamountsshouldbe
increasedforhard waterand heavy soil.
MNSE AGENT—should alwaysbe used:
—to reduce water spotting.
—to improve drying.
Always check and refill the rinse agent
when necessary.
●FOR BEST RESULTS—The cycles
and the options you choose have an
effect on the results you get. The
following are examples. (Please, see the
Operating Instructions, Tips for more
information.)
“TEMP BOOST OPTION—
e—use with heavily soiled loads.
—extends cycle to heat water for best
washing and drying.
●POTS PANS CYCLE—
—use with dried or baked-on
soiled loads.
“FEgu:e;:s:gygloN–
—be sureto usearinseagent.
*’v
heavily
aBeforeusingyourdishwasher,
‘Q“:~readthisguidecarefully.
&+...
L. 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 or need more help, call:
GE Answer Center@
800.626.2000
Mhours aday, 7days aweek.
=
Ifyou receiveda
Idamageddishwasher...
&Immediatelycontactthedealer(or
builder)that soldyouthe dishwasher.
Savetime andmoney.
Beforeyou requestservice...
Check the Problem Solver in the back of this guide. It lists
causes of minor operating problems that you can correct
yourself.
Writedownthemodel
andserialnumbers.
You’llfindthemon alabelfastenedto the
tubwalljust insidethedishwasherdoor.
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.
We’11be there...
No matter what major appliance you buy from us, you
always get more than aquality product. You receive the
added assurance that, should you ever need our help, we’11
be there.
We ask that you please be sure to read all the Important
Safety Instructions before operating your new appliance
to insure your safety.
2

WORTANT SAmH mSTRUC~ONS
Read@instictionsbefamwingttis appliance.
AWAMNG—When usingthis
appliance,alwaysexercisebasic
safe~precautions,includingthe
following:
●Usethisapplianceonlyforitsintended
purpose,asyouwillfinddescribedinthis
UseandCareGuide.
o●Thisdishwashermustbeproperly
,Q (;~installedandlocatedinaccordance
&+.-. withthehstallationInstructions
...+.‘beforeitisused.Ifyoudidnot
receiveanInstallationInstructionssheetwithyour
dishwasher,youcanobtainonebycalling,toll
free,theGEAnswerCenter?8~.626.20W.
—Thisappliancemustbeconnectedtoagrounded
metal,permanentwiringsystem;oran
equipment-groundingconductormustberun
withthecircuitconductorsandconnectedto
theequipment-groundingterminalorleadof
theappliance.
—Connecttoaproperlyrated,protectedandsized
power-supplycircuittoavoidelectricaloverload.
●Donotstoreorusecombustible
*Imaterials,gasolineorother
.= flammablevaporsandliquids
inthevicinityofthisoranyotherappliance.
●Useonlypowderorliquiddetergentsorwetting
agentsrecommendedforuseinadishwasher.
QDonotwashplasticitemsunlessmarked
“dishwashersafe”ortheequivalent.Forplastic
itemsnotsomarked,checkthemanufacturer’s
recommendations.
●Loadlightplasticitemssotheywillnot
becomedislodgedanddroptothebottomof
thedishwasher—theymightcomeintocontact
withtheheatingelementandbedamaged.
Tominimize the possibility of injury.
*Whenloadingitemstobewashed:
A.Locatesharpitemssothattheyarenotlikely
todamagethedoorseal,and
B.Loadsharpkniveswiththehandlesupto
reducetheriskofcut-typeinjuries.
●Donottamperwithcontrols.
●Donottouchtheheatingelementduringor
immediatelyafteruse.
●Donotoperateyourdishwasherunlessallenclosure
panelsareproperlyinplace.
●Donotabuse,siton,orstandonthedoorordish
rackofthedishwasher.
●Closesupervisionisnecessaryifthisappliance
isusedbyornearchildren.Donotallowchildren
toplayinside,onorwiththisapplianceorany
discardedappIiance.Disposeofdiscarded
appliancesandshippingorpackingmaterial
properly.Beforediscardingadishwasher,remove
thedoorofthewashingcompartment.
●Keepdl washingdetergentsandwettingagents
outofthereachofchildren,preferablyinalocked
cabinet.Observeallwarningsoncontainerlabels
toavoidpersonalinjury.
~-
●Tominimizethepossibilityof
/’ electricshock,disconnectthis
appliancefromthepowersupply
b~foreattemptinganymaintenance.NOTE:
Turningthecontroldialtothe0~ position
doesnotdisconnecttheappliancefromtie
powersupply.Werecommendhavingaqualified
technicianserviceyourappliance.
●Donotattempttorepairorreplaceanypart
ofyourdishwasherunlessitisspecifically
recommendedinthisguide.
Allotherservicing
shouldbereferredtoaqualifiedtechnician.
AWARNING—HYDROGENGAS
isproducedbythechemicalaction
withinyourwaterheater.Itcan
accumulateinthewaterheaterandor
waterpipesifhotwaterhasnotbeenusedfora
periodoftwoweeksorlonger.~DROGEN GAS
ISEXPLOSIVE.Topreventthepossibilityof
damageorinjury,ifyouhavenotusedhotwater
fortwoweeksormore,ormovedintoaresidence
inwhichthehotwatersystemmaynothavebeen
usedforsometime,tumonallhotwaterfaucets
andallowthemtorunforseveralminutesbefore
usinganyelectricalappliancewhichisconnected
tothehotwatersystem.Thiswillallowany
hydrogengastoescape.Also,sincethegasis
flammable,donotsmokeoruseanopenflame
orapplianceduringthisprocess.
SAVETHESE
INSTRUCTIONS 3

HOWTOOPERATEYOURDISHWASHER
Yourdishwasher is designed to give maximum
performance on loads with normal and heavy soils.
Youmay find that many of your dishes have lighter
soils than normal; if this is the case you can save
water and energy by selecting acycle 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 Energy Option Indicator lights
remain on while the door is latched.
The CYCLE ON light will come on when the
dishwasher is in aStart Delay, Wash or Dry cycle.
The light will go out when all cycles are complete.
If dishwasher drains into afood waste disposal,
operate the disposal until it is empty before starting
dishwasher.
ICYCLES ENERW OPTIONS
000000
IDnuauuu
POT- NORMALELICAWWATER TEMP HEAmD ENERGY
SCRUBBER
WASH WASH SAVER BOOST DRY
step 1.Loadyour dishwasher. (SeeLoadingsection.)
Featuresand appeuratlcemay ~a~, ,rlightly.
step 2. Make sure the Cycle Indicator Dial is at
the OFF position and the CYCLE ON light is off,
indicating all cycles are complete. Add detergent
to the detergent dispenser. (See Detergent Guide.)
Use arinse aid agent to help prevent spotting.
(See How to Use aRinse 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.
●WATER SAVER—For dishes with light soils. This
cycle uses less water than the other cycles.
●DELICATE WASH—For lightly soiled china
and crystal.
step s. Select the desired Energy Options.
●TEMP 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.)
4
●HEATED DRY—Turns the drying heater on for
fast drying. When selected, the cycle time will be
extended for 32 minutes.
●ENERGY SAVER—Shutsoff the heating unit,
thus saving energy. Dishes air-dry naturally.It takes
longer but saves energy. Youcan open the door after
the motor stops to speed drying. Excellent for
overnight drying.
Step6. Turn the Cycle Indicator Dial to START
or to the desired START DELAY time.
●Turning the dial to START will begin the cycle
immediately.To obtain the benefits of acomplete
cycle, be careful that you do not turn the dial any
farther than is necessary to start the dishwasher.
There is atime delay between start-up and water
fill so you will not hear any wash action right away.
●The START DELAY will allow you to delay the
start time of your dishwasher automatically for up
to 6hours. Turn the Cycle Indicator Dial to the
desired time. The CYCLE ON light will come on.
DialCycles
The SHORT WASH cycle allows you to quickly
wash loads of everyday dishes with medium soils
that have not dried on, such as loads consisting mostly
of glasses. Start Delay 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.

QuietMwf
DialCycles(continued)
The RINSE &HOLD cycle is for rinsing
partial loads which will be washed later.
Do not use detergent.
a. Mke sure ENERGY SAVER is selected.
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.
The PLATE WA~ER cycleisforwarmingclean
dishesand servingplatesfor the servingof hotfoods.
The cyclewillt~e approximately32minutesif
selected.
a. Load clean plates and dishes to be warmed.
b. Select HEATED DRY.
c. Be sure the door is unlatched.
d. Slowly turn the Cycle Indicator Dial to
PLATE WA~ER.
e. Latch the door to start the cycle.
CycleSelectionChart
WashCycle
WaterUse Time
Gatlons Minutes
WashCycles (approx.) (approx.) CycleSequence
POTSCRUBBER 10.6 72 mmmmmBB
NORMALWASH 9.1 51* mmmBmm
WATERSAVER 6.4 51* BEmm
DELICATEWASH 8.1 51* mmmmmm
SHORTWASH 7.4 43* Mmmmm
RINSE&HOLD 3.0 12 mm
.——..—----— ,.,
*Unextendedtimes.Thesecycletimeswillkincreasedapproximately21mmutesd‘IEMP BUOS 1optlmrISselected.
D~ingOptions:
HEATEDDRY.Availableon allwashcyclesexceptRINSE& HOLD.Add32minutesto washcycletime.
ENERGYSAVER.Dryingheateristurnedoff.Dishesdrynaturally.

GoodDishwashingStirk withHOTWater
Toget dishesclean and dry,you need hot water.For good washing and drying,
the enteringwater mustbeat least 120°F,Toprevent dish damage, inlet water shodd not exceed 150°F.
Howto TestWaterTemperature
Check your water temperaturewith acandy or meat
thermometer.Turn on the hot water faucet nearest
the dishwasher.Put the thermometer in aglass and
let the water run continuouslyinto the glassuntil the
temperature stopsrising. If the water temperature is
below 120°F.,adjustyour water heater.
Helpfulhints: If outsidetemperaturesare unusually
low,or if your water travelsalong distancefrom water
heaterto dishwasher,you may need to set your water
heater’sthermostatup. If you have not usedhot water
for sometime, the water in thepipes willbe cold.Turn
on the hot water faucet at the sinkand allowit to run
untilthe water is hot.Then startthe dishwasher.If
you’ve recently done laundry or run hot water for
showers,giveyour water heatertime to recoverbefore
operatingthe dishwasher.
To improvewashabilityif the water is less than
120°F.and you cannot adjust your water heater: Select
alongercycle or the TEMP BOOST option and fill
both detergentcups at least half-full with detergent.
How to UseaRinseAgent
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 arinse
agent such as JET-DRY brand is recommended.
Rinse agents come in either liquid or solid form.
Yourdishwasher uses the liquid form.
lIOWto fill the rinse agent dispenser.
Unscrew the cap.
Add liquid rinse agent
until itjust reaches the
bottom of lip inside the
4L
~,/’
dispenser opening. o.
Replace cap. The D
dispenser automatically
releases rinse agent into
final rinse water.
Yourdishwasher’s rinse agent container holds
approximately 4X ounces. This should last about
3months. Fill as needed.
If you accidentally spill: Wipe up the rinse
agent with adamp 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”)
Corporate Centre 1
55 Federal Road
P.O.Box 1991
Danbury, CT 06813-1991
Youmay 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 2or 3times.
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

Howto ChooseandUsethe RightDetergent
Useonlypowderor liquiddetergentspecifically
madeforuseindishwashers.Othertypeswillcause
oversudsing.
How much detergentshouldyou use? That depends.
Isyour water “hard” or “soft”? Withhard water,you
needextradetergentto get dishesclean.Withsoft water,
you need lessdetergent.
Yourwater departmentcantellyou how hardyour
wateris. So canyourcountyextensionagentor your
area’swater softenercompany.Justcalland ask them
howmany “grains” of hardnessthereare inyour water.
Toomuchdetergentwithsoftwaternotonlywastes
money,itcanbe harmful.It cancauseapermanent
cloudinessof glassware,called “etching.”An outside
layerofglassisetchedaway!Of course,thistakessome
time,Butwhytakeachancewhenit’seasytofindoutthe
hardnessofyourwater.
Keepyourdetergentfreshand dry, Underthe sink
isn’tagoodplace to storedetergentbecausethereis
toomuch moisture.Don’tputpowderdetergentinto
thedispenseruntilyou’reready to washdishes,either.
(Itwon’tbe freshOR dry.)
Ifyour powderdetergentgetsold or lumpy,throwit
away.Old detergentoften won’tdissolve.If you use a
liquiddishwasherdetergent,theseprecautionsare not
necessarybecauseliquiddetergentsdon’t “lump” as
they age or come in contactwith moisture.
Detergent Dispensers
You’llfind two detergent dispensers on the inside
door of your dishwasher. Two, because /Closethe rrraincup,
NOTE:Toopendetergentcupafterithas
beenclosed,unlatch~hedoorand rotatethe
CycleIndicatorDialafull turnto the OFF
position.Whentheclosedcupcontains Grasphandle,
rotateand
soapit isbestthatthedoorbeinapartially ~lo~etightjY
openpositionbeforerotatingtheCycle
IndicatorDial,Thiswillhelpreducetheamountof
detergentand rinseaidagentspillageintothetub.
DetergentUsageGuide(powderor liquid)
SO~ WATER(O-3grainshardness) MEDIUMWATER(3-7grains) HARDWATER(7-12grains*)
CYCLES MainCup OpenCup MainCup IOpenCup MainCup$ OpenCup+
POTSCRUBBER HalfFull ~HalfFull Completely ~HalfFull Completely ~Completely
NORMALWASH Full Full Full
WATERSAVER HalfFull None HalfFull None Completely None
DELICATEWASH Full
SHORTWASH
RINSE&HOLD Usenodetergent Usenodetergent Usenodetergent
*12grainsandupisextremelyhardwater.Awatersofteneris recommended,Withoutit, lime $FilledMainCupholds3tablespoons;
canbuildupinthewatervalve.Thewatervalvemaystickwhileopenandcauseflooding. filledOpenCupholds2tablespoons.
How to Prepare the Dishes for Washing
If this is your first dishwasher, or if you’re NOTE: Youmay also want to consider removing
replacing amuch older model, you may wonder foods such as mustard, mayonnaise, vinegw, lemon
how much preparation your dishes need. Actually juice and other foods that can cause discoloration of
very little. Scrape off bones, seeds, skins, toothpicks stainless steel if allowed to remain on dishes for along
and other hard solids. Remove excessive quantities 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

HOWTOLOADYOURDIS~AS~R
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 best for glasses, cups and saucers.
Cups and glasses fit best along the sides. This is also
the place for dishwasher-safe ~lastics. 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.
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 cup shelves (number may vary) may be placed
in the up or down position to add flexibility.Load the
bottom row first, then fold down the shelf and load the
top row.
8

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 facing the
center of rack.
Don’tletany
itemextend
throughbottom.
w
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 aportion of an item such as auot or
dish handle extend-throughthe bottom rack. This could
block the wash arm and ~ausepoor washing results.
Put flatware in the removable basket with fork and knife
handles up to protect your hands. Place spoons in the
basket with handles down. Mix knives, forks and
spoons so they don’t nest together.Distribute evenly.
Be sure handles do not touch upper rack. For best
washing results be sure not to load large plates and
cookware between silverware basket and the center
of the rack.
To increasethe flexibilityof the lowerrack, theflexible
silverwarebasketmay be split.Grasp the silverware
basketat oppositecornersand slideapart.The silverware
basketsectionsshouldbe placed in the lowerrack by
hangingthem on the top hoop.
Don’tplacethe silverwarebasketin the frontrightcorner
becausethe detergentcouldpour intoit and damage
silverware.
9

-T YOUCANUSUALLYWASHSAFELY
~YOURDISWASHER
Exceptions(notsafe)
S5mQ
coloredanodized
aluminumcanfade.
Antique,metal-trimmed,
hand-painted5rover-the-glaze
patternsfade.Goldleaf
wil~discolor.
Usuatly
Safe
Material
Aluminum
Chinti
stoneware
SpecialInstructions
Somedarkeningorspottingpossible.
Removeby
scrmrhtgwithsoap-fdled$@elWWIpads.
YEs Hindoubt,checkwithmematmfaeturer.Ortestwash
onepiecedailyforat leastamonth.Comparewiththe
restoftheset.
Crystal YES
NO
Antique,metal-timmedor
hand-paintedpatternsfade.
GoIdIeafwiIldiscolor.
Loadsecurelytopreventmovement.Checkyour
manufacturer’sinstructionsforyourcrystal.
Non-dishwashe
items—such
aselectronic
aircleaner
filters,furnace
filters,paint
brushes,etc.
Donotwashindishwasher.Damagetodishwasher
anddiscolorationorstainingofdishwashermayresult.
Glass Ym
NO Ironwillrust.
Pewtertarnishes.
kon
Pewter NO
Plastics YES Ifit doesn’tsavDISHWASHERSA~, testoneniecein
thetoprackb~foredishwashinganentireset. -
Stainlesssteel YES Rinseif notwashingimmediately.Saltyoracidicfoods
canstainiflefton.
Sterlingsilver
andsilverplate YES Don’tputinsamesilverware
bmketwithstainlesssteel.
Contactbetweenmetalscan
damagesilver.
Don’twashcopperutensilsin
thesameload.Silvermaygeta
brownfilm.
Adhesiveusedtoattachsome
hollow-handleknivescanloosen.
Rinseif notwashingimmediately.Saltyor acidicfoodscan
stainif Iefton.Drydetergentcancausediff~cult-to-remove
blackspots.Placeinbacksectionofsilverwarebasketto
avoidexposuretodetergentfromthedetergentcup.
Afterwashing,wipethenon-stickcoatingareawith
vegetableoiltokeepit fromlosingitsnon-stickquality.
Non-stick
coatings
Tin
YES
NO Tincanrust.
Wood NO Woodcanwarp,crackorlose
itsfinishwithanytypeof washing.
Forgetadish?Here’swhenyou canaddit.
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 aforgotten dish:
1. fish the door latch to the left. Washing will stop,
2. Wait afew 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

CA~ Am CLEAN~G
USERMAINTENANCEINSTRUCTIONS ~
‘,.,..“- .,
., .,,,
,:4,
“’.:.!..
Clean the control panel with alightly dampened Appliance Polish Wax &Cleaner (Cat. No.
cloth. Dry thoroughly.Do not use abrasives or WR97X0216)is availablefrom GE Service and
sharp objects on the panel. They can damage it. Parts Centers.
Clean the outside with agood 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 amild cleansing powder.
can scratch. So use no scouring pads, or harsh or Scouring pads and harsh cleaners can mar the finish.
gritty cleaners.
NotUsingYourDishwasherin Winter?ProtectAgainstFreezing.
If your dishwasher is left in an
unheated place during the winter,
ask aservice 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. 1 1
●Drain water from the inlet line
and water valve. (Use apan 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.
s
I
Built-inDishwashersOftenUsean Air Gap.KeepIt Clean.
An air gap is aplumbing device.
It protects your dishwasher against
water backing up into it if adrain
clogs, The air gap is not apart 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 amonth. IT IS NOT
PARTOF 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.
Atoothpick makes cleaning easy.
Check the air gap any time your
dishwasher isn’t draining well.
11

HOWTOC~NGE COLORPANELS
If you are redecorating, you can change your dishwasher’s front panels
to match or blend with your new colors by flipping them over. You may
also paint apanel with acolor of your own choice.
Howto Changethe DoorPanel:
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
dishwasherwhilechanging
panelsorwhenloweraccess
panelisremoved.
Howto Changethe LowerPanel: 1. Remove the bottom panel attachment screws.
“l’=~’n’ng
Top
Trim
\
~~ ~
“L- Bottom Panel Attachment Screws
2. On models without top mounting screws, remove
the entire access assembly by ro~atingthe bottom
out and lifting it up and over the retaining tabs.
3.On models with top mounting screws, remove
tie 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.
Adding1/4”WoodInserts
Color insert panels for both the
door and the lower panel can be
replaced by 1/4”thick wood inserts
to match your kitchen cabinets.
Get them from your nearest
cabinet or lumber dealer.
Dimensions for 1/4”wood inserts:
Door Panel: 19fi”Hx23%6” W.
Lower Panel: 3’X# Hx23%flW.
ColorPanels
If you haveredecoratedand the
colorpanelsin yourdishwasher
do notblend witi yournew color
schemeyou may order an additional
colorpanel.
Specifythe colorpanelnumber
whenordering:
GPF24 White/Almond
GPF26 Harves~lack
GPF27 BlacWhite
OrderingInformation
Color Panels are available for
$5.00 (shipping and handling).
Make check payable to General
Electric Co.
Order acolorpanelfrom:
Dri-ViewManufacturing
4706 AllmondAve.
Louisville,KY 40209
12

Q~STIONS? ●
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
Afuse in your home maybe blown, or the circuit breaker tripped. Replace fuse or
reset circuit breaker. Remove any other appliances from tie 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 evevthing is secured in dishwasher.
Make sure inletwater temperatureis correct. (See How to TestWaterTemperaturesection.)
Unload the bottom rack first. Water from dishes in the top rack maybe spilling into
the bottom rack.
Make sure the Cycle On light is off, indicating the dry cycle (if selected) is complete.
Check for improper loading. Dishes shouldn’tnest together. Avoid overloading.
Check the rinse agent dispenser to see that it’snot empty.
Check inlet water temperature. It should be at least 120°F.(To test, see How to Test
WaterTemperature section.) Try to use the Temp Boost option.
Waterpressure may be temporarily low. Turn on afaucet. 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.)
Chooseanother cycle to give you longer washing time.
Watermay not be reaching the detergent cups. Move dishes that maybe blocking
detergentcup.
me dispenser cover may not be opening or maybe blocked by improperly loaded
items.If you used apowder detergent, open the cup and remove any caked-on
~etergent.If the cup still doesn’t open automatically, call for service.
Detergentmay be old. If the powder detergent is hard or caked in the box, throw it away.
me detergent may not be working wel~.Try another brand.
~ycle Indicator Dial must be in OFF position and Cycle On light must be off for
;up lid to close and latch properly. If you unlatch the door and open it to dry your
iishes, the Cycle Indicator Dial does not advance by itself.
Tea or coffee can stain cups. Remove the stain by hand, using asolution of 1/2cup
bleach and 3cups warm water.
An overall yellow or brown film on dishes or glassware can be caused by iron
deposits in water. Aspecial filter in the water supply line is the only way to correct
this problem. Yourwater softener company can tell you about the filter.
Yeliowfilm 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 Cycle and Energy Option Indicator lights.
NOTE: The Cycle On light will stay on until all cycles are complete. Wait until this
light goes off to unlatch the door or acycle will be interrupted.
CYCLE AND OPTION
INDICATOR LIGHTS
STAYON W~N
CYCLE IS
COMPLETED
(continued next page)
13

A
r
●
●T~ PROBLEMSOL~R
(continued)
PROBLEM /POSSIBLE CAUSE
S~TS AND
~MNG ON
GLASSESAND
~ATWARE
CLOUDINESS ON
GLASSWARE
CHIPPING OF C~A
Spotting can becausedbydl these things:
*Extremely hard water. (See How to Choose and Use Detergent section.)
●Low inlet water temperature. (See How to TestWater Temperature section.)
●Overloading the dishwasher.
●kproper Ioading. (See Loading section.)
●Oldordamppowder detergent.
*Phosphate level in detergent too low. (See How to Choose and Use
Detergent section.)
●Rinse agent dispenser empty. (See How to Use aRinse Agent section.)
●Too tittledetergent, (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. Aliquid dishwasher
detergent may help reduce filming.
To remove stubborn spots and film from glassware:
1,Remove afimetal utensils from the dishwasher,
2.DOnotadddetergent.
3.Select
POTSCRUBBER cycle.
4. Start the dishwasher and ~low to run for 18to 22 minutes. The dishwasher will
now be in the main wash.
5. Then open the door and pour 2cups (500 ml) of white vinegar into the bottom of
the dishwasher.
6. Close the door and allow to complete the cycle.
If tinegarrhsedoesn’twork:Repeat as above, except use 1/4cup (60 ml) of citric
&id crystis instead of vinegar. (Most drugstores carry citric acid crystals, If yours
doesn’t,caIlGE Factory Service.)
Using avinegar or citric acid crystal rinse more than twice amonth? Consider ahome
water sofiener.
If vinegarorcitricacidcrystalrinsedoesn’twork,thecloudinessis “etching.”
Thefilmcannotberemoved.
It cm beprevented:Uselessdetergentifyouhavesoftwater.Washglasswarein
theshortestcyclethatwi~getthemclean.
Watertemperatureenteringdishwasherexceeds150°F.
Roughhanding can cause chipping. Load with care. Make sure glassware and china
are secure and can’tjar 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.
Alwavs use the top rack for delicate items.
14

PROBLEM
EL~CKORGRAY
M~KS ONDISHES
SMALLAMOU~ OF
WATERST~~G
IN THE BO~UM
OF THE TUB
WATERWON’T PUMP
OUTOFT~ TUB
S~S IN THE TUB
DISHWASHER
LEAKS
MOTOR HUMS
STAINING OF
TUB INTEWOR
SOUNDSYOU
WKL HEAR
VAPOR AT
THE VENT
u
●
●
POSSIBLE CAUSE
Mwmimwtrtutensils often leavemarkswhentheytib ag&rtst@sh&s.Removemarks
wih amild abrasive cleanser.
Wateraroundtheoutletonthetubbottomatthebackofthetubisttormd,It isclean
w~ter.It’sthereto keep thewatersed lubricated.
If theentirebottomof thetubhaswater, you may have adrain problem. Clean the air
gap, if you have one. (See Care and Cleaaing section.)
Checkthekitchensink.Is it draiting well?Youmayneedaplumber.
If dishwasherdrainsintodisposer,rundisposerto clear.Be suredisposeris not
clogged.
Sudsingdetergentsarenotmeantfor dishwashers.USEONLYAUTOMATIC
DISHWASHERDETERGENTSTOAVOIDSUDSING.
To remove sudsfromthetub:Open thedishwasher,Letsudsevaporate.Add
1gallonof coldwaterto thetub.Closeandlatchthedishwasher.Pumpoutwater
by slowlyturningthecontroldialunti~adrainperiodis reached.
Repeatif necessary.
Sudscancauseunittooverflow.That’swhyit’sso importantto useadetergentthat’s
designedfor automaticdishwashers,
Spillingtherinseagentcancausefoamduringwashing.Thiscanleadtoovetiowing.
Wipeup accidenti spillof rinseagentwithadampcloth,
Dishwasherhasnotbeenusedon are~ar 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) &at 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’llhear occasional clicking sounds. These are norrmd.
●Softfood disposalshreddingaction.
@Drainvalveopeningtopumpwaterout.
●Timercontrolas cycleprogresses.
*Detergentcupopening.
Duringthedryingperiod:
“Themotorstops.
Watervaporcomesthroughtheventby thedoorlatchduringdryingandwhen
wateris beingpumpedout.
If you need more help.. .mll, toll free:
GE Answer Center@
800.626.2000
consumer information service 15

NOTES
16

NOTES
17

~YOU~ED SERVICE...
Toobtainservice,seetheConsumerServicespagein the NEXT, if you are still not pleased, write all the
backof thisguide. details—including your phone number—to:
We’re proud of our service and want you to be Manager, Consumer Relations
pleased. If for some reason you are not happy with the GE Appliances
service you receive, here are three steps to follow for Appliance Park
further help. Louisville, KY 40225
FIRST, contact the people who serviced your
appliance. Explain why you are not pleased. In most
cases, this will solve the problem.
FINALLY,if your problem is still not resolved, write:
Major Appliance Consumer Action Panel
20 North Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60606
18

.We’llBeThere
Withthepurchaseofyour newGEappliance,receivetheassurancethatifyou everneed
informationor assishncefrom GE,we’llbe there.Allyouhavetodo iscall—toll-free!
GEAnswerCenter@
Whatever your question about any GE major appliance, GE Answer Center@
information senice is available to help. Your call—and your question—will be
answered promptly and courteously. And you can call any time. GE Answer
Center@ service is open 24 hours aday, 7days aweek.
lwHomeRepairSewice
80ME$ARES(80M32-273~
AGE consumer sewice professional will provide expert repair sel~ice,
scheduled at atime that’s convenient for you. Many GE Consumer Service
company-operated locations offer you service today or tomorrow, or atyour
con~’enience (7:00a.m. to 7:00p.m. weekdays,9:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. Saturdays),
Our factory-trainedtechnicians knowyour appliance inside and out–so most
repairs can be handled injust one visit.
ForCustome~WithSpecialNeeds...
80~6262000
Upon request, GE will provide Consumers with impaired hearing or speech who have
Braille controls for avariety of access to aTDD or aconventional teletypewriter may
GE appliances, and abrochure to call 800-TDD-GEAC (800-833-4?22) to request
assist in planning abarrier-free information or semice.
kitchen for persons with limited
mobility. To obtain these items,
free of charge, call 800.626.2000.
SemiteContracts
80M2&2224
You can have the secure feeling that GE Consumer Service will stillbe there
after your warranty expires. Purchase aGE contract while your warrantyis still
in effect and you ’11receive asubstantial discount. With amultiple-year contract,
you’re assured of future service at today’s prices.
PartsandAccessories
Individuti q~fied toservicetheirow appliances User maintenanceinstructionscontainedinthisboo~et
can have needed parts or accessories sent directly to coverproceduresintendedtobe performed byanyuser.
their home. The GE parts system provides access to over O&er servicinggenerfly shodd be referred toqudfied
47,000parts.. and all GE C,enuine Renewal Partsare service personnel. Caution must be exercised, since
fully warranted. VISA, NlasterCard and Discover cards improper servicingmaycauseunsafeoperation.
are accepted.

YOUR GE DISHWASHERWITH Staple sales slip or cancelled check II
PERMATUF INTERIOR here. Proof of original purchase date
WARRANTY is
needed to obtain service
under warranty.
#1
WHATIS COVERED
FULLONE-YEARWARRANTY
Forone yearfrom date of original
purchase,we will provide,free of
charge,partsand servicelaborin
your hometo repairor replaceany
pati of the dishwasherthatfails
becauseof amanufacturingdefect.
LIMITEDSECOND-YEARPARTS
WARRANTY
Forthe secondyearfrom date of
originalpurchase,we will provide,
free of charge,replacementpartsfor
any part of thedishwasherthat fails
becauseof amanufacturingdefect.
Youpayfor the servicetrip to your
homeandservicelaborcharges.
LIMITED FIVE-YEAR
RACWLECTRONIC PARTS
WARRANTY
Forfive yearsfrom date of original
purchase,we will provide,free of
charge,replacementpartsfor any
●rackthat rustsbecauseof a
manufacturingdefect
or any part of
●e/*tronic contro/modulethat fails
becauseof amanufacturingdefect.
Youpayfor the servicetripto your
homeand sewice laborcharges.
FULL TWENTY-YEARTUB~OOR
LINER WARRANTY
Fortwenty yearsfrom dateof original
purchase,we will provide,free of
charge,partsand sewice laborin
your hometo repairor replacethe
PermaTu~ or stain/essstee/ tub
or door linerif it fails to containwater
becauseof amanufacturingdefect.
***** **************************
This warrantyis extendedto
the originalpurchaserandany
succeedingownerfor products
purchasedfor ordinaryhome use in
the 48 mainlandstates, Hawaiiand
Washington,D.C. InAlaskathe
warrantyis the same exceptthat it is
LIMITEDbecauseyou must payto
shipthe productto the serviceshop
orfor the sewice technician’stravel
coststo your home.
All warrantysewice will be
providedbyour Facto~ Service
Centersor byourauthorized
CustomerCare@servicersduring
normalworkinghours,
Shouldyour applianceneed
service,duringwarrantyperiodor
beyond,call800-GE-CARES
(800-432-2737).
WHATIS NOTCOVERED ●Sewice trips to your hometo teach
you howto usethe product.
Readyour Use and Care material.
Ifyouthen haveany questions
aboutoperatingthe product,please
contactyourdealeror our
ConsumerAffairsofficeatthe
addressbelow,or call,toll free:
GE Answer Center@
800.626.2000
consumer informationsewice
●Improperinstallation.
Ifyou havean installationproblem,
contactyour dealeror installer.You
are responsiblefor providing
adequateelectrical,plumbing,and
other connecting facilities.
●Replacementof housefuses or
resettingof circuitbreakers.
●Cleaningor servicingof air gap
devicein drain line.
●Failureof the productif it is usedfor
otherthan its intendedpurposeor
usedcommercially.
.Damageto productcausedby
accident,fire, floods or acts of God.
WARRANTORISNOTRESPONSIBLE
FORCONSEQUENTIALDAMAGES.
Some statesdonotallowthe 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 va~ from state to state.
To know what your legal rights are in your state, consult your localor 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
Thisbook is printed on recycled pape~
~GSD1205
GSD1235
2-95 CG Ptintedin Louisville, KY