Maytag MDB4949S Owners Manual - Page 3

OPERATING YOUR DISHWASHER 1. Prepare and Load Dishwasher Upper rack Lower rack Rack and silverware basket styles vary by model. 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. ■ Angle dirtiest dish surfaces 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 items are secured in racks. ■ Additional loading patterns are available online at www.maytag.com/ manuals. ■ When loading silverware, always place sharp items pointing down and avoid "nesting" as shown. If your silverware does not fit into designated slots, flip covers up and mix silverware types to keep them separated. Ensure that any items taller than the basket handle do not block the spray arm. ■ Use slots in the covers and suggested loading patterns to keep your silverware separated for optimum wash. Silverware basket styles vary by model. 2. Check That All Arms Spin Freely Items in rack can block the spray arms. ■ Fresh automatic dishwasher detergent results in better cleaning. Store tightly closed detergent container in a cool, dry place. Detergents Many detergents now come in several forms (gel packs, tablets, or powder packs). Maytag recommends high quality tablets and packs for convenience and SLIDE improved performance. Quality tablets and packs 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. These forms are suitable for all water hardness and soil levels. Always place detergents in the main compartment and slide lid to close. Also, by using a rinse aid, you can minimize repeat buildup of white film. (Not all packs and tablets contain rinse aid). NOTE: Follow instructions on the package when using other dishwasher detergent types. See the online User Instructions for more information on powder, liquid, and gel usage. To close lid To open lid SLIDE SLIDE Place selected detergent in the dispenser. Place finger, as shown, and slide lid closed. Press firmly until it clicks. 4. Add Rinse Aid Push OPEN, as shown, and the lid will slide open. ■ 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 heating and drying options 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, open the dispenser lid by gently pushing in the center of the lid with your thumb while lifting up on the edge. Pre Wash SLIDE OPEN 3. Add Detergent NOTE: If you do not plan to run a wash cycle soon, run a rinse cycle. Do not use detergent. ■ Use automatic dishwasher detergent only. Add detergent just before starting a cycle. ■ Pour rinse aid into the opening until the indicator level shows that it is full. ■ Rinse aid is dispensed automatically. Be sure to check level and refill as needed.