Frigidaire FDPC4221AW

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Summary

Important Safety Instructions

General Safety Warnings

Comprehensive safety guidelines for operating the dishwasher, covering electrical, operational, and usage precautions.

Product Registration

Normal Operating Sounds

Explanation of typical sounds the dishwasher makes during operation, highlighting its quietness.

Features at a Glance

Getting Started Guide

Step-by-step instructions for initial setup and operation of the dishwasher.

Wash Cycle Options

Details on available wash cycles and their characteristics, including time and water usage.

Operating Instructions

Drying Options Explained

Explanation of Heat Dry and Air Dry options and their impact on drying performance and energy use.

Cycle Control and Safety Features

Instructions for canceling cycles, locking controls for child safety, and status indicator lights.

Understanding Wash Cycles

Details on Heavy Wash, Normal Wash, and Recommended Cycle for optimal dishwashing performance.

Preparing and Loading Dishes

Dish Preparation Steps

Guidelines for scraping, rinsing, and preparing dishes before loading into the dishwasher.

Loading the Top Rack

Instructions for correctly placing cups, glasses, and small items on the upper rack for optimal cleaning.

Loading the Bottom Rack

Guidance on arranging plates, bowls, and cookware on the lower rack to ensure proper cleaning and spray arm clearance.

Loading the Silverware Basket

Best practices for loading silverware to maximize washability and prevent damage to items or the dishwasher.

Adding Items During Cycle

Procedure for adding or removing dishes after the wash cycle has started without disrupting the process.

Dishwasher Dispenser and Detergents

Filling the Detergent Dispenser

Instructions on how to properly fill the detergent dispenser cups for effective cleaning.

Determining Detergent Amount

Guidance on how much detergent to use based on water hardness and cycle selection.

Factors Affecting Performance

Rinse Aid Usage and Benefits

Explanation of rinse aid's role in improving drying, reducing spots, and its dispenser mechanism.

Water Pressure and Temperature Requirements

Essential water pressure and temperature guidelines for optimal dishwasher performance.

Care and Cleaning

Cleaning the Glass Trap and Filter

Step-by-step instructions for emptying and cleaning the glass trap and filter system.

Maintaining Interior Components

Guidance on cleaning the dishwasher interior, tub gasket, and overfill protector.

Drain Air Gap Maintenance

Instructions for checking and cleaning the external drain air gap for proper drainage.

Before You Call

Winterizing Procedures

Instructions for winterizing the dishwasher to protect it from freezing in unheated areas.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A guide to common dishwasher problems and their potential solutions before calling for service.

Food Soil and Drying Problems

Solutions for issues like food soils left on dishes and dishes not drying properly.

Spotting and Cloudiness on Glassware

Tips for addressing glassware spotting or cloudiness, often related to water hardness and detergent use.

Dishware Chipping and Staining

Advice on preventing dishware chipping and addressing stains or discoloration on dishes and utensils.

Addressing Dishwasher Fill and Leak Issues

Troubleshooting steps for when the dishwasher fails to fill or exhibits leaks.

Understanding Normal Sounds

Information about the expected operating sounds of the dishwasher during various cycles.

Resolving Operational Failures

Solutions for issues such as the dishwasher not running, not draining, or taking too long to complete a cycle.

Managing Odors and Tub Stains

Tips for eliminating odors, preventing tub stains, and addressing issues with opening the door during a cycle.

Removing Spots and Film

A detailed procedure using vinegar to remove hard water spots and film from the dishwasher interior.

Major Appliance Warranty

Warranty Exclusions

List of conditions and situations not covered by the appliance's limited warranty.

Warranty Limitations and Legal Rights

Details on implied warranties, limitations of remedies, and consumer legal rights.

Obtaining Service and Support

Information on how to contact Electrolux for warranty service and support within the USA and Canada.

Summary

Important Safety Instructions

General Safety Warnings

Comprehensive safety guidelines for operating the dishwasher, covering electrical, operational, and usage precautions.

Product Registration

Normal Operating Sounds

Explanation of typical sounds the dishwasher makes during operation, highlighting its quietness.

Features at a Glance

Getting Started Guide

Step-by-step instructions for initial setup and operation of the dishwasher.

Wash Cycle Options

Details on available wash cycles and their characteristics, including time and water usage.

Operating Instructions

Drying Options Explained

Explanation of Heat Dry and Air Dry options and their impact on drying performance and energy use.

Cycle Control and Safety Features

Instructions for canceling cycles, locking controls for child safety, and status indicator lights.

Understanding Wash Cycles

Details on Heavy Wash, Normal Wash, and Recommended Cycle for optimal dishwashing performance.

Preparing and Loading Dishes

Dish Preparation Steps

Guidelines for scraping, rinsing, and preparing dishes before loading into the dishwasher.

Loading the Top Rack

Instructions for correctly placing cups, glasses, and small items on the upper rack for optimal cleaning.

Loading the Bottom Rack

Guidance on arranging plates, bowls, and cookware on the lower rack to ensure proper cleaning and spray arm clearance.

Loading the Silverware Basket

Best practices for loading silverware to maximize washability and prevent damage to items or the dishwasher.

Adding Items During Cycle

Procedure for adding or removing dishes after the wash cycle has started without disrupting the process.

Dishwasher Dispenser and Detergents

Filling the Detergent Dispenser

Instructions on how to properly fill the detergent dispenser cups for effective cleaning.

Determining Detergent Amount

Guidance on how much detergent to use based on water hardness and cycle selection.

Factors Affecting Performance

Rinse Aid Usage and Benefits

Explanation of rinse aid's role in improving drying, reducing spots, and its dispenser mechanism.

Water Pressure and Temperature Requirements

Essential water pressure and temperature guidelines for optimal dishwasher performance.

Care and Cleaning

Cleaning the Glass Trap and Filter

Step-by-step instructions for emptying and cleaning the glass trap and filter system.

Maintaining Interior Components

Guidance on cleaning the dishwasher interior, tub gasket, and overfill protector.

Drain Air Gap Maintenance

Instructions for checking and cleaning the external drain air gap for proper drainage.

Before You Call

Winterizing Procedures

Instructions for winterizing the dishwasher to protect it from freezing in unheated areas.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A guide to common dishwasher problems and their potential solutions before calling for service.

Food Soil and Drying Problems

Solutions for issues like food soils left on dishes and dishes not drying properly.

Spotting and Cloudiness on Glassware

Tips for addressing glassware spotting or cloudiness, often related to water hardness and detergent use.

Dishware Chipping and Staining

Advice on preventing dishware chipping and addressing stains or discoloration on dishes and utensils.

Addressing Dishwasher Fill and Leak Issues

Troubleshooting steps for when the dishwasher fails to fill or exhibits leaks.

Understanding Normal Sounds

Information about the expected operating sounds of the dishwasher during various cycles.

Resolving Operational Failures

Solutions for issues such as the dishwasher not running, not draining, or taking too long to complete a cycle.

Managing Odors and Tub Stains

Tips for eliminating odors, preventing tub stains, and addressing issues with opening the door during a cycle.

Removing Spots and Film

A detailed procedure using vinegar to remove hard water spots and film from the dishwasher interior.

Major Appliance Warranty

Warranty Exclusions

List of conditions and situations not covered by the appliance's limited warranty.

Warranty Limitations and Legal Rights

Details on implied warranties, limitations of remedies, and consumer legal rights.

Obtaining Service and Support

Information on how to contact Electrolux for warranty service and support within the USA and Canada.

This document is a Use & Care Manual for a Frigidaire dishwasher, providing comprehensive instructions for its operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The dishwasher is designed to clean dishes by spraying a mixture of hot water and detergent through spray arms against soiled surfaces. It operates by filling with water, pumping it through the spray arms, and filtering out soil particles before draining. This process repeats multiple times during a cycle, with the number of water fills varying based on the selected cycle.

Function Description:

The Frigidaire dishwasher offers various wash cycles and options to accommodate different cleaning needs. The core function is to efficiently clean and dry dishware, pots, pans, and silverware. It utilizes energy-efficient motors for both washing and draining. The Precision Direct Wash System ensures thorough cleaning, with water circulating through lower and upper spray arms. An automatic sensor checks incoming water temperature, and if it's not hot enough, the cycle length is adjusted to ensure proper heating for optimal detergent activation and soil removal.

Usage Features:

Wash Cycle Selections:
- Heavy Wash: Recommended for heavily soiled dishware, pots, pans, casseroles, and dinnerware with dried-on or baked-on soils. This cycle uses approximately 7.5 gallons (28 liters) of water, runs for about 190 minutes, and includes 5 washes and 3 rinses.
- Normal Wash: Designed for daily, regular use to completely wash and dry up to a full load of dishes and silverware. It uses approximately 4.5 gallons (17 liters) of water, runs for about 151 minutes, and includes 3 washes and 2 rinses. This is the recommended cycle for everyday use, suitable for a wide range of dish load sizes and food quantities.
Drying Options:
- Heat Dry: This option, in combination with rinse aid, enhances drying performance. It uses a heating element during the drying portion of the cycle.
- Air Dry: De-selecting the Heat Dry option activates Air Dry, which reduces energy use and cost by preventing the heating element from coming on. Drying may be improved by using rinse aid and opening the door slightly after the cycle.
Detergent Dispenser: Features one covered cup for the main wash and one uncovered cup for a pre-wash. The uncovered cup releases detergent when the door is closed, while the covered cup opens automatically later in the cycle. The amount of detergent needed varies based on water hardness, measured in grains per gallon. The manual provides a detergent usage chart:
- Soft Water (0-3 grains): 2 teaspoons (1/4 full in each cup).
- Medium Hard Water (4-8 grains): 5 teaspoons (fill to line above "Regular" in each cup).
- Hard Water (9-12 grains): 8 teaspoons (completely full in each cup).
- Very Hard Water (Over 12 grains): Each cup completely full (water softener recommended).
Rinse Aid Dispenser: Automatically releases a measured amount of rinse aid during the last rinse. Rinse aid improves drying, reduces water spots and filming, and lubricates wash arm bearings. The dispenser has an adjustable setting to control the amount dispensed, with an indicator that shows when it's time to refill.
Loading Features:
- Top Rack: Designed for flexibility, accommodating cups, glasses, stemware, small plates, and bowls. Plastic items and delicate items should be placed in the top rack. Items should be loaded with open ends facing down for better cleaning and draining. Long-handled knives and utensils can also be placed here.
- Bottom Rack: Best for plates, saucers, bowls, and cookware. Large items should be placed along the edge to avoid blocking spray arm rotation. Bowls, casseroles, and saucepans should face down or toward the center and be tilted slightly for better drainage.
- Silverware Basket: Can be loaded in the bottom rack or removed for loading on a counter or table. Sharp items (knives, skewers) should be loaded pointing down to prevent injury. Suggested loading patterns are provided to increase washability and prevent nesting. Silver and stainless items should not be mixed to avoid damaging the silver finish.
Control Panel: Features pads for cycle selection (Heavy, Normal), drying options (Heat Dry), and START/CANCEL. An indicator light glows next to the selected option. The dishwasher remembers the last cycle and options selected, allowing for quick restarts by simply pressing START/CANCEL.
Child Lock Controls: To prevent accidental changes or starts, the controls can be locked by pressing and holding the HEAT DRY pad for 3 seconds while the door is latched. An indicator light illuminates when locked.
Adding a Dish: Items can be added or removed after a cycle starts by unlatching the door, waiting a few seconds for wash action to stop and cold air to expand, adding the item, closing the door firmly, and pressing START/CANCEL to resume.
Water Temperature and Pressure: Hot water (at least 120°F / 49°C) is crucial for optimal cleaning and drying. Low water pressure (below 20-120 psi) can affect performance. It's recommended to run the hot water faucet nearest the dishwasher before starting a cycle to clear cool water from pipes.

Maintenance Features:

Glass Trap: Located in the center of the filter, it collects pieces of broken glass, straws, bones, and pits. To empty, grasp the handle, rotate 90° clockwise while pressing down on the wash arm, lift the spray arm and glass trap assembly, and tip it over to empty. It can also be separated from the assembly for easier emptying. Proper re-installation is crucial to avoid damage.
Outer Door: Clean with warm soapy water and a damp cloth, then rinse with clean water and dry. Avoid harsh cleaners.
Interior and Filter: The inside of the dishwasher and filter are self-cleaning with normal use. If needed, clean around the tub gasket area with a damp cloth.
Overfill Protector: Located in the left front corner of the tub, it prevents overfilling. It should move freely up and down about one inch. Clean occasionally with household cleaner containing vinegar or bleach to dissolve any buildup. If it doesn't move, lift and clean underneath.
Drain Air Gap: If installed (not part of the dishwasher, usually on the countertop), check to ensure it is clean for proper draining.
Removing Spots and Film: Hard water can cause lime deposit buildup, spots, and film. To remove, load clean dishes (no metal utensils), do not add detergent, select NORMAL WASH, let it run for about 10 minutes until the second water fill, then unlatch and open the door to pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the bottom. Close the door and press START/CANCEL to finish the cycle.
Winterizing: For dishwashers in unheated places, a qualified person should disconnect electrical power, shut off water supply, drain water from the inlet valve and drain line, and reconnect when restoring service.

The manual also includes extensive troubleshooting tips for common issues such as food soils left on dishes, dishes not drying, glassware/flatware spotting or cloudiness, chipped dishware, detergent left in cups, vapor at vent, unusual sounds, water in the bottom of the tub, leaks, dishwasher not filling, dishwasher not draining, long cycle times, and odors. These tips help users identify and resolve problems that are not due to defective workmanship or materials.

Frigidaire FDPC4221AW Specifications

General

Style	built in
Color	white
Load Capacity	12 place settings
Number of Cycles	2
Number of Options	1
Drying Type	static dry
Noise level	62 db
Control Type	gem k4 tower; touchpad
Delay Start	no
Child Lock	yes
Spray Arms	2
Water Filter	yes; plastic
Water Softener	no
Food Disposer	filtration; yes; stainless steel
Sanitize Settings	no
Wi-Fi	no
Smart Home	no
Remote Control	no
Water Consumption Per Cycle	5 gallon max.
Voltage	120 volts
Current	10