Why doesn't my dishwasher clean as well as it should? When poor cleaning occurs, it is usually related to water conditions, detergent usage and/or loading conditions. To achieve optimum results, we suggest reviewing the following: Temperature Proper water temperature is needed to activate the dishwasher detergent, dissolve greasy food soils and warm the interior for good drying results. The water heater should be set at 140 degrees F. if water heating options on your dishwasher are not available or not selected. If water heating options are used, the water heater may be set to deliver a minimum of 120 degrees F water to the dishwasher. (To check the water temperature, place a thermometer in a glass and set it in the sink below the faucet, allow hot water to run into the glass until the temperature stabilizes and take a reading). To ensure that the dishwasher is filling with the hottest water possible, do the following: • Before starting the dishwasher, let the faucet at the nearest sink run until the water is hot. • Avoid running the dishwasher while hot water is being used for other activities like showers. Detergent The amount of detergent used depends on the water hardness and amount of soil on the dishes. When very soiled or greasy pans are washed, extra detergent will be needed. In addition, if the detergent is caked or clumped from absorbing moisture, it may not dissolve and activate properly. Purchase fresh detergent and store it in a dry place (not under the kitchen sink). As a general guide, use one teaspoon of detergent for each grain of water hardness, with a minimum of three teaspoons in soft water. However, when using a concentrated dishwashing detergent, decrease the amount by half. For example, if the water is 10 grains per gallon hard use 10 teaspoons of detergent. For a normal or longer cycle place 10 teaspoons of detergent in each detergent cup. For shorter cycles place the 10 teaspoons of detergent in the Main Wash cup. Soft (0-3 grains) 3 Teaspoons (fill to the first line) Medium (4-9 grains) 4-9 Teaspoons (fill to the second or third line) Hard (10-12 grains) 10-12 Teaspoons (fill to the third line or above) If the water is over 15 grains, a mechanical water softener may be the only permanent solution. Do not use packaged water softeners such as Calgon or Spring Rain*. They create excessive suds. Cycle Selection The proper cycle needed depends on the amount of food soil. Selecting a short cycle will save water and energy. However, it may not provide adequate cleaning for heavily soiled dishes. If foods remain on dishes, a longer cycle may be required. Check the User's Guide for cycle recommendations. Loading For specific placement of dishes, glasses and flatware, refer to your User's Guide. However, here are some additional loading guidelines: • As a general rule, place all items in the racks so they are separated and face the center of the dishwasher to ensure the water spray will reach the soiled surfaces. • Make sure the movement of the upper and lower spray arms are not blocked by items extending above or below the racks. • The center wash tower provides wash action for the middle of the dishwasher. Avoid placing large items over the wash tower. • Load the dishwasher so large items do not shield small items from the washing action. • Place glasses in any row of the racks for proper cleaning and rinsing. • Do not load glasses over the tines. • Carefully load the dishwasher by placing only one item between each set of tines. • If flatware is nested, water cannot reach all surfaces. Load flatware with some handles up and some down to prevent nesting. * Brand names are trademarks of the respective manufacturers.