Whirlpool WDF520PADM Dishwasher User Guide

June 4, 2024
Whirlpool

Whirlpool WDF520PADM Dishwasher

whirlpool wdf520padm dishwasher

LEARN MORE
In an effort to conserve natural resources, this dishwasher includes a condensed User Guide. A complete User Instructions manual for your model can be downloaded at www.whirlpool.com/manuals.
For future reference; please make a note of your product model and serial numbers. You can find them on the label located near the door on the right- hand or left-hand side of the dishwasher interior.
Model Number ___ Serial Number


Register your dishwasher at www.whirlpool.com. In Canada, register your dishwasher at www.whirlpool.ca.
Para una version de estas instrucciones en español, visite www.whirlpool.com.

Your safety and the safety of others are very important.

We have provided many important safety messages in this manual and on your appliance. Always read and obey all safety messages.

This is the safety alert symbol.
This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others.
All safety messages will follow the safety alert symbol and either the word “DANGER” or “WARNING.” These words mean:

DANGER
You can be killed or seriously injured if you don’t immediately follow instructions.

WARNING
You can be killed or seriously injured if you don’t follow instructions.
All safety messages will tell you what the potential hazard is, tell you how to reduce the chance of injury, and tell you what can happen if the instructions are not followed.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: When using the dishwasher, follow basic precautions, including the following:

  • Read all instructions before using the dishwasher.
  • Use the dishwasher only for its intended function.
  • Use only detergents or rinse agents recommended for use in a dishwasher, and keep them out of the reach of children.
  • When loading items to be washed:
    1. Locate sharp items so that they are not likely to damage the door seal; and
    2. Load sharp knives with the handles up to reduce the risk of cut-type injuries.
  • Do not wash plastic items unless they are marked “dishwasher safe” or the equivalent. For plastic items not so marked, check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Do not touch the heating element during or immediately after use.
  • Do not operate the dishwasher unless all enclosure panels are properly in place.
  • Do not tamper with controls.
  • Do not abuse, sit on, or stand on the door, lid, or dish racks of the dishwasher.
  • To reduce the risk of injury, do not allow children to play in or on the dishwasher.
  • Under certain conditions, hydrogen gas may be produced in a hot water system that has not been used for two weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXPLOSIVE. If the hot water system has not been used for such a period, before using the dishwasher turn on all hot water faucets and let the water flow from each for several minutes. This will release any accumulated hydrogen gas. As the gas is flammable, do not smoke or use an open flame during this time.
  • Remove the door or lid to the washing compartment when removing an old dishwasher from service or discarding it.

State of California Proposition 65 Warnings:

WARNING: This product contains one or more chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer.
WARNING: This product contains one or more chemicals known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.

WARNING
Tip Over Hazard Do not use dishwasher until completely installed.
Do not push down on open door.
Doing so can result in serious injury or cuts.

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

  • For a grounded, cord-connected dishwasher:
    The dishwasher must be grounded. In the event of a malfunction or breakdown, grounding will reduce the risk of electric shock by providing a path of least resistance for electric current. The dishwasher is equipped with a cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug must be plugged into an appropriate outlet that is installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.
    WARNING: Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a risk of electric shock.

Check with a qualified electrician or service representative if you are in doubt whether the dishwasher is properly grounded. Do not modify the plug provided with the dishwasher; if it will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.

  • For a permanently connected dishwasher:
    The dishwasher 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 on the dishwasher.

KEY USAGE TIPS

KEY USAGE TIPS

Your dishwasher has the latest technology in dishwasher filtration. This filtration system minimizes sound and optimizes water and energy conservation while providing superior cleaning.

The filter system consists of two parts, an upper filter assembly and lower filter.

IMPORTANT: To avoid damage to dishwasher, do not operate your dishwasher without filters properly installed. Be sure lower filter is securely in place and upper filter assembly is locked into place. If upper assembly turns freely, it is not locked into place.

Filter maintenance

The filters may need to be cleaned when:

  • Visible objects or soils are on upper filter assembly.
  • Dishes feel gritty to the touch.

See “Filtration System” in full User Guide for complete removal and maintenance schedule.

IMPORTANT: Do not use wire brush, scouring pad, etc., as they may damage the filters.
Rinse filter under running water until soils are removed. If you have hard to remove soils or calcium deposits from hard water, a soft brush may be required.

Drying – Rinse Aid is essential.

You must use a drying agent such as a rinse aid for good drying performance. Rinse aid along with the Heat Dry option will provide best drying and avoid excessive moisture in dishwasher interior.

Energy efficiency
Energy efficiency is gained by extending cycle time and reducing the amount of wattage and water used during your dishwasher’s cycle. For exceptional cleaning, cycles are longer due to the soak and pauses. Several models contain an optical water sensor used to determine water and energy consumption for great cleaning performance.
Efficient dishwashers run longer to save water and energy, just as driving a car slower saves on gas.
Press start/resume every time you add a dish.

IMPORTANT: If anyone opens the door (such as, for adding a dish, even during the Delay Hours option), START/RESUME must be pressed each time.

If START/RESUME is located on top of door: Push door firmly closed within 3 seconds of pressing START/RESUME. If door is not closed within 3 seconds, the start button LED will flash, an audible tone will be heard, and cycle will not start.

Recommended detergent
The United States and Canada have passed a restriction limiting the amount of phosphorus (phosphates) in the household dishwasher detergents to no more than 0.5%, where previous detergents contained 8.7%. Major manufacturers have reformulated their dishwasher detergent for this change in detergents as another step in eco-conscious awareness. With these recent changes it is recommended to use tablets and packs for convenience and improved performances.

OPERATING YOUR DISHWASHER

Prepare and Load the Dishwasher

whirlpool wdf520padm dishwasher-6

IMPORTANT: Remove leftover food, bones, toothpicks and other hard items from dishes. Remove labels from containers before washing.

  • Make sure when dishwasher door is closed no items are blocking detergent dispenser.
  • Items should be loaded with soiled surfaces facing down and inward to the spray as shown in the graphics above. This will improve cleaning and drying results. Angle dirtiest dish surface downward, allowing space for water to flow up through rack and between dishes.
  • Avoid overlapping items like bowls or plates that may trap food.
  • Place plastics, small plates and glasses in upper rack.
  • Wash only items marked “dishwasher safe.”
  • To avoid thumping/clattering noises during operation: Load dishes so they do not touch one another. Make sure lightweight load items are secured in racks.
  • Additional loading patterns are available online at www.whirlpool.com.
  • When loading silverware, always place sharp items pointing down and avoid “nesting” as shown. If your silverware does not fit into the designated slots, flip covers up and mix silverware types to keep them separated.
  • Use slots in the covers (if provided) and suggested loading patterns to keep your silverware separated for optimum wash.

NOTE: The
AnyWare™ Silverware Basket can sit in the door for completely usable rack space letting you fit more items. It can also go in the front or side of your lower rack to fit your needs.

Check That All Arms Spin Freely

Add Detergent

  • Use automatic dishwasher detergent only. Add powder, liquid or tablet detergent just before starting a cycle.
  • Fresh automatic dishwasher detergent results in better cleaning. Store tightly closed detergent container in a cool, dry place.

Recommended Detergents
Many detergents now come in premeasured forms (gel packs, tablets, or powder packs). It is recommended to use tablets and packs for convenience and improved performance. They have been proven better than powder, liquid, or gel detergents at reducing filming on dishes. Using tablets and packs over time will start to reduce or eliminate white film. Also, by using a rinse aid you can minimize repeat buildup of white film. These forms are suitable for all hardness and soil levels. Always place premeasured detergents in the main compartment and close the lid.

NOTE: Follow instructions on the package when using other dishwasher detergent types. See the online guide for more information on powder and gel usage.

Add Rinse Aid

  • Your dishwasher is designed to use rinse aid for good drying performance. Without rinse aid, your dishes and dishwasher interior will have excessive moisture. The Heat Dry option will not perform as well without rinse aid.
  • Rinse aid keeps water from forming droplets that can dry as spots or streaks. It also improves drying by allowing water to drain off of dishes after final rinse.
  • To add rinse aid, turn the  dispenser cap ¼ turn to the left and lift off. Pour rinse aid into the opening until indicator level is at “Full.” Replace dispenser cap and turn to “Lock.” Make sure cap is fully locked.

NOTE: For most water conditions, the factory setting will give good results.

  • Check water hardness level to ensure no rings or spots on your dishware before adding rinse aid or adjusting the factory setting.
  • If you are experiencing poor drying performance, you may want to try a higher setting.
    Turn the arrow adjuster inside the dispenser to change rinse aid setting.

Select a Cycle (cycles vary by model)
Efficient dishwashers run longer to save water and energy, just as driving a car slower saves on gas. Typical cycle time is approximately 2¹⁄₂ hours, but can take less or more time to complete depending on selections.

Select Options (options vary by model)
You can customize your cycles by pressing the options desired. If you change your mind, press the option again to turn off the option. Not all options are available for every cycle. If an invalid option is selected for a given cycle, the lights will flash.

Start or Resume a Cycle

NOTE: Run hot water at the sink nearest your dishwasher until the water is hot. Turn off water.

  • f the Start/Resume button is located on top of door; push door firmly closed within 3 seconds of pressing START/RESUME. If door is not closed within 3 seconds, the Start/Resume button LED will flash, an audible tone will be heard, and cycle will not start.
    IMPORTANT: If anyone opens the door (such as, for adding a dish, even during the Delay Hours option), the START/RESUME button must be pressed each time.

  • If your Start/Resume button is located on front of door: Push door firmly closed. The door latches automatically. Select the wash cycle, options and press START/RESUME or press START/RESUME to repeat the same cycle and options as in previous wash cycle.

CYCLE GUIDE

This information covers several different models. Your dishwasher may not have all of the cycles and options described.

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DISHWASHER CARE

Cleaning the Dishwasher
Clean the exterior of dishwasher with a soft, damp cloth and mild detergent. If your dishwasher has a stainless steel exterior, a stainless steel cleaner is recommended – Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish Part Number 31462A.
Removal of Hard Water / Filming: It is recommended to use a monthly maintenance product such as affresh® Dishwasher Cleaner Part Number W10282479.

  • Load your dishwasher (preferably with dishes affected by filming / hard water).
  • Place tablet in main wash compartment of detergent dispenser.
  • Select cycle/option best for heavily soiled dishes and start dishwasher.
    NOTE: It is recommended to use a premeasured detergent tablet or pack for regular daily use.

If you have a drain air gap, check and clean it if the dishwasher isn’t draining well.

To Reduce Risk of Property Damage During Vacation or Extended Time Without Use

  • When you will not be using the dishwasher during the summer months, turn off the water and power supply to the dishwasher.
  • Make sure the water supply lines are protected against freezing conditions. Ice formations in the supply lines can increase water pressure and cause damage to your dishwasher or home. Damage from freezing is not covered by the warranty.
  • When storing your dishwasher in the winter, avoid water damage by having your dishwasher winterized by authorized service personnel.

PROBLEM SOLVER

First try the solutions suggested here. If you need further assistance or more recommendations that may help you avoid a service call, refer to the
warranty page in this manual and scan the code there with your mobile device, or visit www.whirlpool.com/product_help for recommendations
that may help you avoid a service call. In Canada, visit http://www.whirlpool.ca.
Contact us by mail with any questions or concerns at the address below:

In the U.S.A.:

Whirlpool Brand Home Appliances
Customer eXperience Center
553 Benson Road
Benton Harbor, MI 49022-2692

In Canada:
Whirlpool Brand Home Appliances
Customer eXperience Centre
200 – 6750 Century Ave.
Mississauga ON L5N 0B7

Please include a daytime phone number in your correspondence

If you experience Recommended Solutions
Dishwasher does not run or stops during a cycle It is normal for

certain cycles to repeatedly pause for several seconds during the main wash. Is the door closed tightly and latched?

Is the right cycle selected?

Is there power to the dishwasher? Has a household fuse blown, or has a circuit breaker tripped? Replace the fuse or reset the circuit breaker. If the problem continues, call an electrician.

Has the motor stopped due to an overload? The motor automatically resets itself within a few minutes. If it does not restart, call for service.

Is the water shutoff valve (if installed) turned on?

The Clean light is flashing| Check the following:

■     Is the overfill protection float able to move up and down freely? Press down to release.

■     Be sure the water supply is turned on to the dishwasher. This is very important following the new installation of your dishwasher.

■     Check for suds in the dishwasher. If foam or suds are detected by the dishwasher sensing system, the dishwasher may not operate properly or may not fill with water.

Suds can come from:

■     Using the incorrect type of detergent, such as laundry detergent, hand soap, or dish detergent for hand washing dishes.

■     Forgetting to replace the rinse aid dispenser cap after filling (or refilling) the rinse aid.

■     Using an excessive amount of dishwasher detergent.

Dishes do not dry completely| NOTE: Plastic and items with nonstick surfaces are difficult to dry because they have a porous surface which tends to collect water droplets. Towel drying may be necessary.

Use of rinse aid along with Heat Dry option is needed for proper drying. Proper loading of items can affect drying.

Glasses and cups with concave bottoms hold water. This water may spill onto other items when unloading.

■     Unload the bottom rack first.

■     For improved results, place these items on the more slanted side of the rack.

If you experience Recommended Solutions
Noise NOTES:

■     Surging sounds can occur periodically throughout the cycle while the dishwasher is draining.

■     Normal water valve hissing may be heard periodically.

■     A normal snap sound may be heard when the detergent dispenser opens during the cycle or when the door is opened at the end of the cycle.

■     Improper installation will affect noise levels. Be sure the filters are properly installed.

A thumping sound may be heard if items extend beyond the racks and interfere with the wash arms. Readjust the dishware and resume the cycle.

Spotting/Filming| NOTES:

■     Liquid rinse aid is necessary for drying and to reduce spotting.

■     Use the correct amount of detergent.

Confirm that the cloudiness is removable by soaking the item in white vinegar for 5 minutes. If the cloudiness disappears, it is due to hard water. Adjust the amount of detergent and rinse aid (see “Dishwasher Care” section in full Use and Care Guide). If it does not come clear, it is due to etching.

Be sure the incoming water temperature is set at 120°F (49°C). Try using the Sani Rinse option, if available.

To remove spotting, run a vinegar rinse through the dishwasher.

■     Wash and rinse the affected dishware and load into dishwasher. Remove all silverware and metal items. Put 2 cups (500 mL) of white vinegar in a glass measuring cup in the lower rack. Run a normal cycle with the Heat Dry option turned off. No detergent is needed (see “Dishwasher Care” section in full Use and Care Guide).

Dishwasher does not clean completely| Be sure the dishwasher is loaded correctly. Improper loading can greatly decrease the washing performance (see Operating Your Dishwasher” section).

Check filter to ensure it is properly installed. Clean it if needed (see “Filtration System” in full Use and Care Guide for details).

Select the proper cycle for the type of soils. The Heavy Wash cycle can be used for tougher loads. Be sure the incoming water temperature is at least 120°F (49°C).

Use the proper amount of fresh detergent. More detergent is needed for heavier-soiled loads and hard water conditions. Scrape food from dishes prior to loading (do not prerinse).

If foam or suds are detected by the dishwasher sensing system, the dishwasher may not operate properly or may not fill with water.

Suds can come from:

■     Using the incorrect type of detergent, such laundry detergent, hand soap, or dish detergent for hand washing dishes.

■     Not replacing the rinse aid dispenser cap after filling (or refilling) the rinse aid.

■     Using an excessive amount of dishwasher detergent.

Dishwasher does not drain| Be sure the cycle has been completed (the Clean light is on). If it has not, you will need to resume the cycle by closing the door and pressing START/RESUME.

If dishwasher is connected to a food waste disposer, be sure the knockout plug has been removed from the disposer inlet. Check for kinks in the drain hose.

Check for food obstructions in the drain or disposer.

Check your house fuse or circuit breaker.

ACCESSORIES
Whirlpool Corporation also offers a variety of accessories for your dishwasher. In the U.S.A., visit www.whirlpool.com/accessories to order. In Canada, visit www.whirlpoolparts.ca to order.

MAJOR APPLIANCE LIMITED WARRANTY

ATTACH YOUR RECEIPT HERE. PROOF OF PURCHASE IS REQUIRED TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE.
Please have the following information available when you call the Customer eXperience Center:

  • Name, address and telephone number
  • Model number and serial number
  • A clear, detailed description of the problem
  • Proof of purchase including dealer or retailer name and address

IF YOU NEED SERVICE:

  1. Before contacting us to arrange service, please determine whether your product requires repair. Some questions can be addressed without service. Please take a few minutes to review the Troubleshooting or Problem Solver section of the Use and Care Guide, scan the QR code on the right to access additional resources, or visit www.whirlpool.com/product_help.
  2. All warranty service is provided exclusively by our authorized Whirlpool Service Providers. In the U.S. and Canada, direct all requests for warranty service to:
    Whirlpool Customer eXperience Center
    In the U.S.A., call 1-800-253-1301. In Canada, call 1-800-807-6777.
    If outside the 50 United States or Canada, contact your authorized Whirlpool dealer to determine whether another warranty applies.

ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

WHAT IS COVERED

For one year from the date of purchase, when this major appliance is installed, operated and maintained according to instructions attached to or furnished with the product,Whirlpool Corporation or Whirlpool Canada LP (hereafter “Whirlpool”) will pay for Factory Specified Replacement
Parts and repair labor to correct defects in materials or workmanship that existed when this major appliance was purchased, or at its sole discretion replace the product. In the event of product replacement, your appliance will be warranted for the remaining term of the original unit’s warranty period.
YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY UNDER THIS LIMITED WARRANTY SHALL BE PRODUCT REPAIR AS PROVIDED HEREIN. Service must be provided by a Whirlpool designated service company. This limited warranty is valid only in the United States or Canada and applies only when the major appliance is used in the country in which it was purchased. This limited warranty is effective from the date of original consumer purchase. Proof of original purchase date is required to obtain service under this limited warranty.

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

  1. Commercial, non-residential, multiple-family use, or use inconsistent with published user, operator or installation instructions.
  2. In-home instruction on how to use your product.
  3. Service to correct improper product maintenance or installation, installation not in accordance with electrical or plumbing codes or correction of household electrical or plumbing (i.e. house wiring, fuses or water inlet hoses).
  4. Consumable parts (i.e. light bulbs, batteries, air or water filters, preservation solutions, etc.).
  5. Conversion of products from natural gas or L.P. gas.
  6. Damage from accident, misuse, abuse, fire, floods, acts of God or use with products not approved by Whirlpool.
  7. Repairs to parts or systems to correct product damage or defects caused by unauthorized service, alteration or modification of the appliance.
  8. Cosmetic damage including scratches, dents, chips, and other damage to the appliance finishes unless such damage results from defects in materials and workmanship and is reported to Whirlpool within 30 days.
  9. Discoloration, rust or oxidation of surfaces resulting from caustic or corrosive environments including but not limited to high salt concentrations, high moisture or humidity or exposure to chemicals.
  10. Food or medicine loss due to product failure.
  11. Pick-up or delivery. This product is intended for in-home repair.
  12. Travel or transportation expenses for service in remote locations where an authorized Whirlpool servicer is not available.
  13. Removal or reinstallation of inaccessible appliances or built-in fixtures (i.e. trim, decorative panels, flooring, cabinetry, islands, countertops, drywall, etc.) that interfere with servicing, removal or replacement of the product.
  14. Service or parts for appliances with original model/serial numbers removed, altered or not easily determined.
    The cost of repair or replacement under these excluded circumstances shall be borne by the customer.

DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR IMPLIED WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED TO ONE YEAR OR THE SHORTEST PERIOD ALLOWED BY LAW. Some states and provinces do not allow limitations on the duration of implied warranties of merchantability or fitness, so this limitation may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you also may have other rights that vary from state to state or province to province.

DISCLAIMER OF REPRESENTATIONS OUTSIDE OF WARRANTY
Whirlpool makes no representations about the quality, durability, or need for service or repair of this major appliance other than the representations contained in this warranty. If you want a longer or more comprehensive warranty than the limited warranty that comes with this major appliance, you should ask Whirlpool or your retailer about buying an extended warranty.
LIMITATION OF REMEDIES; EXCLUSION OF INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY UNDER THIS LIMITED WARRANTY SHALL BE PRODUCT REPAIR AS PROVIDED HEREIN. WHIRLPOOL SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states and provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so these limitations and exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you also may have other rights that vary from state to state or province to province.

References

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