GE Appliances WPSF4170 User manual

GEAppliances
WPSF4170
._PartNo. 175D1807P211,Pub.No.49-9946-I 997

Congratulations!
YouAre Now PartoftheGEFamily.
Welcome to the GE family..
We're proud of our quality
prod,ucts and we are
committed to pro_4ding
dependable seMce. You'll.
see it in this easy-to-use
Owner's Manual and you'll
hem it in the friendly voices
of our customer service
dep:mment.
Best of all, you'll experience
these values each time you
do the laundry. That's
important, because your
new washer will be part of
your family for many years.
And we hope you will be
parr- of ours for a long time
tO come.
We thank you for bu)ing
GE. We appreciate •your
purchase, and hope you
will continue to rely on us;
whenever you need quails/
appliances for your home.
Proof of the original purchase date
is needed to obtain service under
the warranty.
Write themodel and serial
numbershere.
#
#
Youcan find them behind the top edge
-ofthe controlpanel.

GE& You,
A ServicePartnership.
Ask any GEappliance owner and they will
tell you we stand behind our products with
unmatched quality service. However, did
you know that most questions result from
simplE:problems that you can easily fix
yourself in just a few minutes? This
Owner's Manual can tell you how.
ReadthisManual
Inside you u_ll find many
helpful hints on how to use and
maintain yolarwasher properly.
Just a little preventive care on
your pmt cmasave you a great
deal of time and money over the
life of your washer.
ReviewtheSectionon
Troubleshootingtips
You'll find many answers to
common problems here.
If you review,our chart of
Troubleshooting Tips first, you may
not need to call for service at all.
If YouNeedService
If you do need service, you can
relax knowing help is only a
phone call av_,ay.A list of toll-free
customer service numbers is
included in tile back section.
Or call you can always call the
GE Answer Center ®at
800.626.2000, 24 hours a day,
7 days a week.
SafetyInformation....... 4-7
" _L. .
Z

IMPORTANTSAFETYINFORMATION.
READALLINSTRUCTIONSBEFOREUSING.
WARNING!
For your safety, the information in this manual must be
followed to minimize :therisk of fire or explosion, electric
shock, or to prevent property damage, personal injury, or
loss of life.
WATERHEATERSAFETY
Under certain conditions hydrogen gas may be produced
in a water heater that has not been used for two weeks
or more. Hydrogen gas can be explosive under these
circumstances.
If the hot water has not been used for ,twovceeks or more, prevent
the possibility of damage or injury by aiming on all hot water
faucets and allowing them to run for several minutes. Do this
before using any electrical appliance which is connected to the
hot water system. This simple procedure will allow any built-up
hydrogen gas to escape. Since the gas is flammable, do not smoke
or use an open flame or appliance during this process.

PROPERINSTALLAtiON
This washer must beproperly installed and located in
accordance with the Installation Instructions before it is
used. If you did not receive an Installation Instructions
sheet, you can receive one by calling us toll-free at the
GEAnswer Center_,800.626.2000.
Install or store where itwill not
be exposed to temperatures
below freezing or exposed to
the weather.
Properly ground washer to
conform with all governing
codes and ordinances. Follow
details in Installation
Instructions.
YOURLAUNDRYAREA
m Keep the ;area underneath
and around your appliances
free of combustible materials
such as lint, paper, rags, -
chemicals, etc.
I Close supervision is necessary
if this appliance is used by or
near children. Do not allow
children to play on, with, or
inside this or any other
appliance.
€; 5

IMPORTANTSAFETYINSTRUCTIONS.
READALLINFORMATIONBEFOREUSING.
WARNING!
Use this appliance only for its intended purpose as
described in this Owner's Manual
WHENUSINGTHEWASHER
I Never reach into washer while []
it is moving. Wait until the
machine has completely
stopped before opening
the lid.
i Do not mix chlorine bleach
with ammonia or acids such
as vinegar and/or rust
remover. Mixing different
chemicals can produce a toxic
gas which may cause death.
!Do not wash or dry articles
that have been cleaned in,
washed in, soaked in, or
spotted with combustible or
explosive substances (such as
wax, oil, paint, gasoline,
degreasers, dry-cleaning
solvents, kerosene, etc.)
which may ignite or explode.
Do not add these substances
to the wash water. Do not use
or place these substances
around your washer or dryer
during operation.
The laundry process can
reduce the flame retardancy
of fabrics. To avoid such a
result, carefully follow the
garment mantffacturer's
wash and care instructions.
!1 To minimize the possibility
of electric shock, unplug this
appliance from the power
supply or disconnect the
washer at the household
distribution panel by
removing the fuse or
switching offthe circuit
breaker before attempting
any maintenance or cleaning.
N01E:Tuming the Cycle
Selector knob to an off
position does NOTdisconnect
the appliance from the
power supply.
[] Never attempt to operate this
appliance if it is damaged,
malfunctiolfing, partially
disassembled, or has missing
or broken parts, including a
damaged cord or plug.

WHENNOTINUSE
[] Turn offwater faucets to
relieve pressure on hoses and
valves and to minimize
leakage ifa break or rupture
should occur. Check the
condition of the fill hoses;
they may need replacement
after 5 years.
BBefore discarding a washer,
or remo_ring it from service,
remove the washer lid to
prevent children from
hiding inside.
[] Do not attempt to repair or
replace any part of this
appliance unless specifically
recommended in this
Owner's Manual, or in
publ!shed user-repair
instructions that you
understand and have the
skills to carry out.
[] Do not tamper with conlxols.
REMEMBER...
Yourcontinued health and safety are important to us.
Please read and follow this Safety Information carefully.
We want you to remain ahappy and healthy part of our
GEfamily.
SAVETHESEINSTRUCTIONS
7

AboutthewashercontrolpaneL
Youcan locate ),'ourmodel number behind the top edge of the control paneL
Ao_ •oN
SensorWash •_RMANENTPRESS
LOAD SIZE
vARumLe EASY CARE_
SUPER
Le_GIE RIESETBclRA SOAK/WASH
SM,U.L GENTLEWASH_
MeoI •
PREWASU°SPOTSOAB
FABRIC CARE OPTION_; COTTONS
w_ _HOT WARM WARM COLD WARM SIGkVd.EXTENDCO
m_sz COU) COl.O COLD COLD WARM SPIN RINSE LIGHT SOtL
L_ _ _SET NOmAL
OPTIONS
3O MIN
AUTOSOAK WMIN "e
AUTOSOAK
ControlSettings
LoadSize
The _¢ater level should just cover the clothes. Adjust the
load size accordingly. Loosely!oad clothes no higher than
the top row of holes in the washer tub.
FabricCare
Select the water temperature for the wash and rinse cycles.
Always follow fabric manufacturer's care label or
instructions when laundering. Follow the water
temperature guide on washer lid.
r
Y

Wash Cycle
The wash cycle controls the length of the washing process.
The chart below will help you match the wash cycle setting
with your clothing.
c0"rr0NS Forheavyto lightlysoiledcottons,householdlinens,
workandplayclothes.
PERMANENTPRESSForeasy_;areandwrinkle-resistantitems.
KNITS Speciallydesignedfornormalsoilknits.
-GENTI.BNASHForlingerieandspecial-carefabricswithlightsoils.
SelectGENTLEWASHforloadsizeandforcycle.
Providesperiodsofagitationandsoakduringwash
andrinse.
PRBNASfl ForheavilySoiledclothesorforclotheswithacarelabel
thatrecommendsprewashingbeforewearing.
AUTOSOAKForheavilysoiledclothes.Beginswitha briefagitation,
soaksfora specifiedperiodoftime,thenmoves
throughtherestofthecycleautomatically.
SensorWash
The SensorWash sensesthe incomingwater temperature
and adjuststhe fill water to obtaina moreprecise
temperature. For example, in a Cold Wash selection, some
.warm water may be added to reach a temperature needed
to dissotve detergent, often, detergents am not completely
dissolved in very cold water, especially in cooler climates.
The SensorWash switch is located on thetop of the
control panel. Turning the switch to ONwill activate this
option.
NOTE:The SensorWash ,_ll not adjust the fill on WARM
WASHtmless the washer lid is dosed. Be sure to start the
washer after the lid is closed.
• . - • k
_.. _ . _; .
_.. : .
-r :\9

Aboutthewasherfeatures.
ff the SIGNAL option is selected, a signal will sound just
before the end of the cycle. This reminds you to remove
the clothes to avoid excess wrinkling before drying, ff
you selected/EXTRA RINSEthe signal will sound at the
end of the cycle and at the end of the EXTRARINSE.
The EXTENDEDSPIN optionis recommended for washable
woolens and sweaters. It will extend the spin without
stretching the "knit.
When you use extra detergent or bleach to clean heavily
soiled clothes, you may want to use the EXTRARINSE
option. This option provides a second deep cold rinse in
the COTTONSREGULARand PERMANENT PRESScycles.
Select EXTRARINSE.The washer will pause for a few
minutes Before the EXTRARINSEbegms.
Selecting RESETOP77ONS cancels all options that have
been selected.
10
LiquidBleach Dispenser
The dispenser dilutes liquid chlorine bleach before it
reaches into your wash load.
Check clotlfing care labels for special instruetions.
Measure liquid bleach carefully, following
instructions, on r_hebottle.
I efore starting the washer, pour measured amount
of bleach directly into bleach dispenser. Avoid
splashing or over-filling dispenser. If you prefer to
use powdered bleach, add it into the wash basket
with your detergent.
liqu[dh!odneb/eachdir ! ontofothosor

FabricSoftenerDispenser
This dispenser automatically releases liquid fabric
softener at the proper lkne during the cycle: To use,
follow these steps:
Make sure dispenser is securely attached to agitator.
Use only liquid fabric softener. Pour into dispenser,
using amount recommended on package.
Add water to dispenser until it reaches the
maximum fill line.
o#Otstopthe_sher duringtfiefirst sp& Thiswill causethe
'roembioo i.............
{ ;-, :: ; egg; } {? { ,':_
!Dona_usa_aFaoriaSofie_e_ aL_AUTO $OAKa_ '
k21ffBARINSE ...... :.........................................
me_{ pour fabricsofteaa_directlyofi clothes,it may_fO them:
-p
SPOTSOAK
When you open the washer lid and press the SPOTSOAK
button, you will see a short stream of water.
Open the washer lid.
_ Press the SPOTSOAK button. (You will see a short
stream of water.)
Dampen your soiled garment with'the SPOTSOAK
option and rub your favorite pretreatment product
into soiled area.
NOTE:TheSPOTSOAKopdon will not work if
Ethe washer lid is down
m the washer tub is filling
!the water has already reached the level you
selected.- :i
(
"f '" - t :

About the washer features.
Selx2ratef'er_eaniW)
Cleaning the Fabric Softener Dispenser
Remove the dispenser from the top of the agitator.
[_ Separate the dispenser cup from the cover by grasping
the top and pushing down on the inside of the cup with
your fingers. Dispenser cup willpop free from the cover.
To clean dispenser, soak both the dispenser cup and
the dispenser cover in the following solution:
i_ 1USgallon(3.8liters)warmwater
B1/4cup(60m!)heavydutyliquiddeteoent
mI cup(240ml)bleach
B f necessary, loosen build-up with a clean, soft cloth
after soaking. Do not use a stiffbrush; you may
roughen the surface of the dispenser.
_ Rinse and reassemble dispenser. Place dispenser back
on the agitator.
Loadingand usingthe washer.
Always follow fabric manufacturer's care label when laundering.
SortingWashLoads
Colors
Soil
(
12
ProperUseofDetergent
" Add detergent before adding dothes so that the detergent can
work effectively. Follow the detergent package directions: Using too
litfle detergent is.a Common cause of laundry problems. Use more
detergent if);ou have hard water,lalg._ loads, greasy or oily soils or
lower water temperature.

FabricCareLabels
Below are Fabric Care Label "symbols" that affect the clothing you
will be putting into the washer.
WASHLABELS
DRYLABELS
BLEACHLABELS
Loadingthe Washer
Load dry items l°°sely, n° higher th:m the top row of holes in the
washer tub. 'When loading wet items make sure you set the
load/water level high enough to allow the items to move freely.
Water level should just cover the clothes. To add items after washer
has sta}ted, push in Cycle knob and submerge additional items next
to the agitator. Close the lid and pull Cycle knob out to restart.
etv:/a
_._.'_,'_ --_ _ _>.'. !3

Loadingandusingthewasher.
ColorLogic
'I'nis feature will help you wash your garments in the preferred
wash/rinse temperaturesshown on your Fabric Care labels. (Refer to
•the Fabric Care Labels in this section.)
F_XAMPLE:Press the GENTLEWASHpad (it's a particular color over
the pad) and then turn the Dial to GENTLEWASH (which is the same
color) and the washer is now set for a cold wash/cold rinse.
CareandCleaningof theWasher
Wash Basket:Leave the lid open after washing to allow moisture
1:oevaporate. If you want to clean the basket use a clean soft cloth
dampened with liquid detergent, then rinse. (Do not use harsh or
gTittycleaners.) --
Fill Hoses: Hoses connecting washer to faucet should be replaced
,every 5 years.
LintFilter.The lin(fiher is located under the agitator,, It is
self-cleaning and requires no maintenance.
Exterior. Immediately wipe off any spills. Wipe with damp cloth.
Try not to hit surface with sharp objects.
Moving and Storage:Ask the service technician to remove water from
€_ain pump and hoses. Do not store the washer where it will be
exposed to the weather. Call the GE Answer Center("), 800.626.2000
for information on how to keep the tub stationary when moving the
_sher.
Long Vacations:Be sure x_ater supply is shut off at faucets. Drain all
water from hoses ifweaff_er will be below freezing.
14

Beforeyoucall forservice...
Troubleshooting tips
Save time and money! Review the charts on the following pages
first and you may not need to call for service.
_r
Possible Causes
Washer is unplugged
What ToDo
• Make sure cord is plugged
securely into a working
outlet.
Water supplyis turned off •Turn both hot and cold
faucets fully on.
Controls are not set
properly
Check controls and
make sure Cycle knob is
pulled out to ONposition.
I_.idis open • Close lid and pull Cycle
knob out to ONposition.
C_cuitbreaker/fuse is •Check house circuit
laJpped/blown breakers/fuses. Replace
fusesor reset breaker.
Washer should have
separate outleL
Control is not set properly °Check water temperature
control and adjust.
Water supply is turned off. °
or improperly connected
Turn both hot and cold
faucets fully on and make
sure hoses are connected
to correct faucets.
_rater valve screens are
stopped up
Turn offthe water source
and remove the wa(er
connection hoses from
the upper back of the
washer. Use a brush or
toothpick to clean the
screens in the machine.
Reconnect the hoses and
turn the water back on.
House water heater is
not set properly
Make sure house water
heater is delivering water
at 120°F.-140°F.
(48°C=60°C.).
715

Beforeyou call forservice...
Troubleshooting tips
Possible Causes What To Do
Drain hose is kinked or •
improperly connected Straighten drain hose and
make sure washer is not
sitting on it.
Top of drain outlet should
be less than 8 ft. above
floor.
Pump is plugged up • Have the pump cleaned.
Fill hoses or drain hose is
improperly connected
Make sure hose
connections are tight at
faucets and make sure end
of drain hose is correctly
inserted in and secured to
drain facifity.
Household drain may
be dogged
• Check household
plumbing. You may need
to call a plumber.
Constant water pressure
to the fill hoses at the
water source
• Tighten hoses at the
faucets and turn the water
off after each use.
• Check Condition of the fill
hoses; they may need
replacement after5 )'ears.
Washer is uneven • Make sure washer is level
and firm m the floor.
Washer load is • Push the Cycle knob in to
unbalanced stop the w_ksher, open the
lid and redistribute the
load evenly. Close the lid
and restart.
Thewashernormally pauses
betweenwashingsteps
Incorrect cycle selected • Make sure the cycle
selected matches the load
you are washing.

Possible Causes What ToDo
]Mcorrect sorting *Separate lint producers
from lint collectors.
Washing too long • Wash small loads for a
shorter time than larger
loads.
Detergent not dissolving • Add detergent as wash
basket fillswith water,
before you load clothes.
• Try a liquid detergent.
• Use warmer water
temperature.
,Overloading • Load clothes no higher
than the top row of holes
in the washer tub.
• Make sure load size
selector matches clothes
load,size.
Incorrect use of fabric
:softener
Incorrect use of fabric
softener
• Check fabric softener
package for instructions
and follow directions for
using dispenser.
• Check fabric softener
package for instructions-
and follow directions for
using dispenser.
• Pretreat stain and rewash.
Dye transfer •Sort whites or lightly
colored items from dark
colors.
1,7

Before youcall forservice...
Troubleshooting tips
18
Possible Causes What To Do
Improper sorting
Overloading or
incorrect water level
Incorrect wash and
dry cycles
IP
Q
Avoid mixing heavy item,;
(like work clothes) with
light items (like blouses).
Try a fabric softener.
Load your washer so
clothes have enough room
to move freely.
Match Cycle selection to '
the type ofi_abric you are
washing (especially for ea.v
care loads).
Repeated washing in •
water that is too hot ,
Type of detergent
Very soft water
Pins, snaps, hooks, sharp "
buttons, belt buckles
tippers, and sharp objects
left in pockets
Undiluted chlorine bleach "
Wash in warm or cold water
with plenty of detergent.
Switch to a lower sudsing
detergent brand and
follow instructions on
package.
Try less detergent.
Faste n snaps, hooks,
buttons, and zippers.
Remove loose items like
pins, objects in pockets
and sharp buttons.
Turn knits (which snag
easily) inside out.
Check bleach package
instructions for proper
amount.
Never add undiluted
bleach to wash or allow
clothes to come in contact
with undiluted bleach.
Chemicals llke hair bleach • Rinse items that may have
ordye, permanent wave ¢hemicals on them before
solution washing.

Possible Causes What.To Do
Result of normal wear on
poly-cotton blends and
fuzzy fabrics
f
Not enough detergent
•While this is not caused by
the washer, you can slow
the pilling process by
washing garments inside
ouL
• Use more detergent
(especially with larger
loads).
Hard water •Use awater conditioner
like Calgon brand or install
awater softener.
Water is not hot enough
Washer is overloaded
Make sure water heater is
delivering water at
120°F.-140°F.
(48oc.-5ooc.).
Select load size to match
clothes load.
Detergent is not
Dye transfer
• Add detergent as wash
basket fills with water
before you load clothes.
• Sort clothes by color. If
fabric label states wash
separately, unstable dyes
may be indicated.
19
i.: : :

Notes
20
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