GE Consumer & Industrial Technical Service Guide September 2008 18-in.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE The information in this service guide is intended for use by individuals possessing adequate backgrounds of electrical, electronic, and mechanical experience. Any attempt to repair a major appliance may result in personal injury and property damage. The manufacturer or seller cannot be responsible for the interpretation of this information, nor can it assume any liability in connection with its use. WARNING To avoid personal injury, disconnect power before servicing this product .
TABLE OF CONTENTS Bottom Door Seal.............................................................................................................................................................. 19 Component Locator Views .......................................................................................................................................... 10 Control Panel........................................................................................................................................
Introduction The 18-in. Built-In Dishwasher with top controls has a compact size, allowing the unit to fit in areas as small as 18 inches (45.72 cm) wide, 22 inches (55.88 cm) long, and 34 inches (86.36 cm) high. It is compact in size, yet still delivers the performance of larger units. With a low power usage, this product model meets ENERGY STAR® guidelines for energy efficiency. The 18-in.
Nomenclature Model Number Z B D 1 8 0 0 M S S Brand Z = Monogram P = Profile Exterior Color SS = Stainless Steel BB = Black WW = White II = Custom panel and handle required Product Type BD = Built-In Dishwasher DW = Dishwasher Model Designator Compact 18-in. Model Year Designator Nomenclature Serial Number The first two characters of the serial number identify the month and year of manufacture.
Custom Panel Installation Some models of this dishwasher are designed for use with a 3/4-in. custom front panel. For easier installation, the custom panel and custom handle should be attached before installing the dishwasher. Use the template from Pub. No. 31-30244 supplied with the dishwasher to locate mounting screws and spacers on the custom panel. Locate the vertical center of the panel at the top. Use a carpenter's square to draw a centerline from top to bottom.
facing up. If the back surface of the panel is not flat, use the spacer pads provided. Drive the 1/2-in. Phillips flat-head screws through the brackets and into the panel. Stand the dishwasher upright and open the dishwasher door to remove the 2 plug buttons, one on each side as shown. Place the supplied 3/4-in. Phillips round-head screws inside the plastic sleeve and drive through the inner door and into the custom panel.
Control Panel Features 3 ON OFF 1 DELAY HOURS 1 - 24 HR. 2 HEAVY NORMAL LIGHT GLASSES AIR-DRY SPEED LOW RINSE AID 5 RINSE CYCLE SELECT CLEAN 5 1 ON/OFF With door open, press ON/OFF button to turn the unit ON to begin operation and OFF at the end of a wash cycle. The ON/OFF light is displayed when the dishwasher is ON. 2 WASH CYCLE SELECTIONS Press CYCLE SELECT button to choose wash cycle. The light under the cycle name will display to indicate which cycle has been selected.
3 DELAY HOUR SELECTION This option allows you to delay the start of a wash cycle for up to 24 hours. With the door open, turn the dishwasher ON by pressing the ON/OFF button; then press DELAY HOURS button to choose the number of hours you want to delay the start of the wash cycle. The hours will show in the display window. NOTE: To cancel the DELAY HOURS option before the start of the cycle, repeatedly press the DELAY HOURS button until the display is blank or reads “00.
Component Locator Views Front View (Door Panel Removed) Right Side View (Insulation Removed) Electronic Control Panel Door Tension Spring Detergent/Rinse Module Fill Funnel Fill Hose Pressure Switch Hose Drain Pump Pressure Switch Access Panel Control Panel View – 10 –
Interior View (With Bottom Rack Removed for Clarity) Top Rack Spray Arm Spray Arm Heater Detergent/Rinse Module Static Dry Vent Control Panel Detergent/Rinse Module Compartment View Detergent Compartment Sight Glass Rinse Agent Cap Compartment Lid – 11 –
Interior View of Basin (With Racks Removed) Heating Element Filter Assembly Spray Arm Clamp Nut Sump Screen Micro-filter Bottom View (Looking Up) Sump Tub Thermistor Motor Pump Assembly – 12 – Drain Pump Capacitor
Dishwasher Components Throughout this manual, features and appearance may vary from your model. Door Panel The door panel covers the door to the dishwasher and protects the detergent/rinse module electronics. For custom door panel installations, see Custom Panel Installation. Removal Control Panel The control panel is located on the door assembly behind the door panel. The control panel consists of a 2-board push-button keypad with LED indicators and a power board assembly. Removal and Installation 1.
User Interface Boards Door Latch Assembly 1. Disconnect the 2 wire harnesses from the power board. The door latch assembly is located on the door assembly behind the control panel cover. The dishwasher will not operate until the door is closed, the latch engages the door catch (holding the door firmly against the seal), and the normally open contacts of the double-pole, single-throw door safety switch are closed. Removal and Installation 2. Remove the 2 Phillips-head screws from the power board tray.
Static Dry System Detergent/Rinse Module The static dry system operates through a vent located behind the left side of the door panel. The vent allows hot air to exit the dishwasher tub and gradually remove moisture. The detergent/rinse module sends a signal to turn on the "LOW RINSE AID" LED on the control panel when the rinse agent is low. The detergent/rinse module automatically dispenses both the detergent and the rinse agent at the appropriate times.
When activated for the second time in a cycle, the lever lifts the connecting rod by the notch, lifting the rinse dispenser plunger (4) and releasing the rinse agent. When deactivated, the lever returns to its original starting position. 5. Remove the 3 screws and bottom mounting bracket. 4 Bracket 6. Remove the detergent/rinse module from door assembly. Removal and Replacement 1. Disconnect power. 2. Remove the door panel. (See Door Panel.) 3. Disconnect the 4 terminals from the detergent/ rinse module.
10. Mark the position of the spring bolt key in the mounting bracket with a felt-tip marker. Door Assembly Removal and Replacement 1. Disconnect power. 2. Carefully pull the dishwasher out from its installation. Key 3. Remove the control panel. (See Control Panel.) Bracket 4. Remove the door foam wire guide and place the control panel on a cloth or cardboard protected surface. 5. Remove the detergent/rinse module. (See Detergent/Rinse Module.) 6. Remove the static dry system. (See Static Dry System.) 7.
13. Open the dishwasher door approximately 30 degrees. Caution: The star washer is easily damaged and should not be reused. 14. Lift the bottom hinge arm up from the bottom hinge, far enough to expose the hook. Star Washer Hook 17. Remove the hinge pin from the dishwasher door hinge. Lift Hinge Pin 15. Close the dishwasher door. Caution: The star washer is easily damaged during removal and should not be reused. Order a new set of star washers (part number: WD01X10254). 16.
Bottom Door Seal Dishwasher Tub Seal The bottom door seal prevents water leakage. The seal is fitted in a pinched metal groove at the bottom of the dishwasher door. The dishwasher tub seal prevents water leakage. The seal is fitted in a seal channel that lines the rim of the dishwasher tub. WARNING: The pinched metal groove is sharp. Wear Kevlar gloves when removing or installing the bottom door seal. Failure to comply may result in personal injury.
Heating Element The heating element maintains water temperature during the wash and rinse cycles and heats the air during the static dry cycle. (The heating element has an approximate resistance value of 29.5 to 32.5 Ω.) To check operation, see step 9 of Service Mode. Allow one minute before opening the dishwasher door and note if heat is present. Removal and Replacement 1. Disconnect power. 7. Remove the nut and ground wire. 2. Open the dishwasher door. 8. Remove the lock washer and spacer bracket. 3.
4. Loosen the clamp and disconnect the fill funnel hose from the fill funnel. Fill Funnel The fill funnel is mounted on the right side of the tub. Its purpose is to provide a method of supplying water for the wash and rinse cycles. The fill funnel provides an air gap, which prevents wash water from siphoning back into the water supply system if the water pressure drops to less than atmospheric pressure. The fill funnel also allows air into the tub to permit airflow for dish drying. 5.
5. Remove the clamp and disconnect the tub fill hose from the water valve assembly. Water Valve The water valve is solenoid operated and regulated by the electronic control. The flow of water is controlled by a rubber flow washer capable of maintaining a flow rate of 1.8 ±14% gallons per minute (6.81 ±14% liters per minute) with incoming water pressure of 20 to 120 PSI. The water valve is mounted to the left hinge support of the dishwasher. Tub Fill Hose Valve Assembly Removal and Replacement 1.
5. Remove the pressure switch hose from the pressure switch. Pressure Switch The pressure switch is a water valve safety device. It is located under the tub at the right, front corner. A clear plastic tube, (the pressure switch hose), runs from the float switch, around the fill funnel, and to the sump. As the dishwasher basin fills with water, the air pressure in the pressure switch hose increases. Normally, the electronic control regulates the amount of time the water fill valve remains open.
6. Remove the 2 Phillips-head screws that attach the pump mounting bracket to the frame. Drain Pump Assembly The drain pump assembly is located under the tub at the right, rear corner. The drain pump operates on 120 VAC and is energized 60 seconds after the wash pump shuts down, to remove any water in the dishwasher sump. The drain pump forces the water out the drain line. A check valve flapper on the drain pump prevents the dirty water from reentering the sump. Removal and Replacement 1. Disconnect power.
Motor Pump Assembly The motor pump assembly is located under the tub behind the sump assembly. This dishwasher model uses a capacitor start induction motor. The motor rotates clockwise (as viewed from the terminal end) and draws approximately 1 amp (±10%) at 120 VAC (±10%). Caution: The clamp is easily damaged during removal and should not be reused. Replace the old clamp with a new universal clamp (part number: WH1X2036). 5. Remove the clamp from the motor sump interconnect hose.
Caution: The clamp is easily damaged during removal and should not be reused. Replace the old clamp with a new universal clamp (part number: WH1X2036). 7. Remove the clamp from the motor to the washer arm interconnect hose. Lock Nut Interconnect Hose Clamp As seen from right side of dishwasher. Note: Do not attempt to remove the Phillips-head screw and locknut that connect the motor mount to the dishwasher frame. 9.
6. Remove the clamp from the hose that connects the sump to the drain pump assembly. Sump Assembly The sump assembly consists of the filter assembly, micro-filter, sump clamping nut, sump gasket, and sump. The filter assembly prevents large particles from reaching the micro-filter and the micro-filter prevents small particles from reaching the sump. The filter assembly rests above the sump and the micro-filter sits above the sump basin.
Note: The sump clamping nut turns counterclockwise and may be difficult to remove. It may be necessary to insert a screwdriver or other tool between the clamping nut tabs to enable you to apply sufficient torque to break the factory seal. 10. Remove the clamping nut. Tub Thermistor The tub thermistor is located under the tub and is attached to the left side of the sump with 2 lock tabs. A thermal mastic is applied to the flat side of the thermistor where it makes contact with the underside of the tub.
6. Using a small flat-blade screwdriver, lift each of the 2 lock tabs (one on each side) that hold the thermistor to the sump. Tab 7. Slide the thermistor off the sump. Note: Before installing the thermistor, evenly apply white thermal mastic (included in box with part) about 0.10-in. thick over the entire disk.
Troubleshooting WARNING: Always turn off the electric power supply before servicing any electrical component, making ohmmeter checks, or replacing any parts. Note: After service is completed, be sure all safety grounding circuits are complete, all electrical connections are secure, and all access panels are in place. Troubleshooting the Heating Element The heating element maintains water temperature during the wash and rinse cycles and heats the air during the static dry cycle.
Troubleshooting the Water Valve 6. If the water valve is good, check the filter screen and clean it, if necessary. If the water valve is suspected of faulty operation, refer to the strip circuit and proceed as follows: 7. If there is no voltage present at the water valve solenoid coil, disconnect power and check continuity through the latch switch, timer contacts, pressure switch, and wiring. Repair wiring, as necessary. 1. Disconnect dishwasher from electrical supply. 2.
Troubleshooting the Wash Pump Motor The wash pump motor does not start immediately when the dishwasher cycle has started. The tub will begin filling with water and the motor will start approximately 40 seconds into the fill cycle. If the motor hums, but will not start, make certain the pump impeller is free from obstructions and the motor shaft can turn freely. If the capacitor is open or shorted, the motor will hum and will not start. Check for 120 VAC (±10%) at the wash pump motor terminals.
Service Mode – 33 –
Troubleshooting Checklist The troubleshooting checklist is common for all dishwasher models. They use different parts to accomplish the same thing and diagnosis will remain similar. The wiring diagram, schematic, and service mode test are a necessity when making electrical checks. In most cases, an ohmmeter will handle all the tests necessary. When a problem arises, and a possible cause is listed, follow the test and remove or replace procedures as outlined in this Technical Service Manual.
Symptom No heat during the dry cycle. Dishwasher will not fill with water or will not fill properly. . Dishwasher will not pump out. Water siphons out. Too much water fill. Water leaks from dishwasher. Check for the Following 1. Defective heater element. 2. Damaged or defective wiring. 1. The water supply is turned off. 2. Low water pressure. 3. Defective water fill valve. 4. Obstructed water fill valve or hose. 5. Damaged or defective wiring. 6. Defective pressure switch. 7.
Sympton Poor washability. Check for the Following 1. Improper loading of dishes, pots, pans, and nesting of silverware. 2. Defective spray arm. 3. Water level should cover heating element. 4. Defective detergent/rinse module. 5. Old, improper amount, or wrong type of detergent used (detergents lose effectiveness in a damp area). 6. Low incoming water temperature. 7. Clogged filter assembly. Poor drying of dishes. 1. Improper loading of dishes, pots, pans, and nesting of silverware. 2.
Symptom Noisy pump assembly. Spotting or filming on glasses (reposition of food soil). . Check for the Following 1. Debris in bottom of tub sump area. 2. Pump parts were not properly installed. 3. Impellers are not properly shimmed or are rubbing. 4. Defective motor bearings. 5. A sucking sound is heard at the end of the cycle. 1. Detergent allowed to stand too long in the dispenser or excessive amounts of detergent are being used. 2. Low incoming water temperature. 3.
Washability Complaints Rinse Agent – Use rinse agent if spotting or drying is a problem. A rinse agent will improve the water sheeting action and drying performance. Hot Water – Ample supply of water at a temperature of 120°F (60°C) is necessary for best results. Do not use dishwasher soon after using clothes washer or filling bathtub. Water Valve – (See Water Valve.) Loading - Consult Owner’s Manual on loading procedures. Spray Arm – Check to be sure the spray arms spin freely and jets are not clogged.
Schematic WARNING: Power must be disconnected before servicing the appliance. Note: Resistance of thermistor at room temperature: 50k Ω with a negative coefficient. Note: Schematic diagram subject to change. Please refer to diagram supplied with product located behind the kick plate.
Warranty GE Dishwasher Warranty. All warranty service provided by our Factory Service Centers, or an authorized Customer Care® technician. To schedule service, on-line, 24 hours a day, visit us at GEAppliances.com, or call 800.GE.CARES (800.432.2737). Staple your receipt here. Proof of the original purchase date is needed to obtain service under the warranty.
