This document serves as a comprehensive guide for the Indesit dishwasher, covering its functions, usage, and maintenance.
Product Description and Controls
The Indesit dishwasher features an intuitive design with clearly labeled components and controls. The appliance includes an upper rack, foldable flaps, an upper rack height adjuster, an upper spray arm, a lower rack, a cutlery basket, a lower spray arm, a filter assembly, a salt reservoir, detergent and rinse aid dispensers, a rating plate, and a control panel.
The control panel is designed for ease of use, featuring an ON-OFF/Reset button with an indicator light, a program selection button (also serving as the Push&Go button), a salt refill indicator light, program indicator lights, and a START/Pause button with an indicator light. These controls allow users to easily select and manage wash cycles, monitor appliance status, and initiate or pause operations.
First Time Use and Setup
Before the first use, it is crucial to remove any stoppers or elastic elements from the racks. The initial setup involves filling the salt reservoir, adjusting water hardness, filling the rinse aid dispenser, and understanding detergent usage.
Salt Reservoir: The salt reservoir, located in the lower part of the dishwasher, must be filled to prevent limescale buildup. The salt refill indicator light on the control panel will illuminate when it needs refilling. To fill, remove the lower rack, unscrew the reservoir cap, and for the first time, fill with water before adding approximately 1 kg of salt using the provided funnel. Ensure the cap is screwed on tightly to prevent detergent from entering, which could damage the water softener. Always refill salt before starting a wash cycle to avoid corrosion.
Water Hardness Setting: Proper water hardness setting is essential for the water softener to function effectively. This information can be obtained from your local water supplier. To set, switch the appliance on and off, then hold the 'P' button for 5 seconds until a beep is heard. Switch it on again, and the current level's program indicator light will flash. Press 'P' to select the desired hardness level according to the provided Water Hardness Table, then switch the appliance off to save the setting. Running an empty program after this procedure is recommended.
Rinse Aid Dispenser: Rinse aid facilitates dish drying. The dispenser should be filled when its dark optical indicator becomes transparent. Open the dispenser by pressing and pulling up the lid, pour in up to 110 ml of rinse aid, and close the lid until it clicks. Avoid pouring rinse aid directly into the appliance tub. If drying results are unsatisfactory, the rinse aid dosage can be adjusted. To do this, switch the dishwasher on and off, press 'P' three times (a beep will be heard), switch it on again, and the program indicator light will flash. Press 'P' to select the desired rinse aid quantity, then switch it off. Setting the rinse aid level to 1 (ECO) will disable rinse aid supply. Adjusting to lower numbers (2-3) can help if bluish streaks appear, while mid-range numbers (4-5) are suitable for water drops or limescale marks.
Detergent Dispenser: To open the detergent dispenser, use the opening device. Introduce detergent into the dry dispenser 'E', referring to the quantity information provided in the manual. Any pre-washing detergent can be placed directly inside the tub. Remove any detergent residues from the edges and close the cover until it clicks. The detergent dispenser opens automatically during the program. Using detergent not specifically designed for dishwashers may cause malfunction or damage.
Programs Table and Descriptions
The dishwasher offers a variety of programs tailored for different soiling levels and types of dishes:
- ECO (50°C): This program is suitable for normally soiled tableware and is the most efficient in terms of combined energy and water consumption, aligning with EU Ecodesign legislation. It has a duration of 3:20, consumes 12.0 liters of water, and 1.04 kWh of energy.
- Intensive (65°C): Recommended for heavily soiled crockery, especially pans and saucepans. Not suitable for delicate items. It runs for 2:30, uses 16.0 liters of water, and 1.50 kWh of energy.
- Mixed (55°C): Designed for mixed soil and dishes with dried food residues. This program lasts 2:25, consumes 16.0 liters of water, and 1.35 kWh of energy.
- Fast&Clean 28' (45°C): Ideal for a half load of lightly-soiled dishes with no dried food residues. This program does not include a drying phase. It completes in 0:28, uses 9.0 liters of water, and 0.60 kWh of energy.
- Push&GO (50°C): An everyday wash and dry cycle that ensures great cleaning performance in a short time without pre-treatment. It runs for 1:25, consumes 11.5 liters of water, and 1.10 kWh of energy. To select, switch on the appliance, press the 'P' button for 3 seconds (until the corresponding indicator light illuminates), and close the door within 4 seconds.
Program data is measured under laboratory conditions according to European Standard EN 60436:2019. Pre-treatment of dishes is not needed for any program. Values for non-ECO programs are indicative and may vary based on factors like water temperature, pressure, room temperature, detergent amount, load quantity, load balancing, selected options, and sensor calibration. Sensor calibration can extend program duration by up to 20 minutes.
Loading the Racks
Proper loading is crucial for optimal cleaning and drying.
Upper Rack: This rack is designed for delicate and light dishes such as glasses, cups, saucers, and low salad bowls.
Adjusting Upper Rack Height: The upper rack's height can be adjusted to accommodate bulky crockery in the lower basket or to create more space in the tip-up compartments. The upper rack height adjuster allows lifting the rack by simply holding its sides until it stabilizes in the upper position. To lower it, press the levers (A) at the sides and move the basket downwards. It is strongly recommended not to adjust the rack height when it is loaded, and never raise or lower it on one side only.
Foldable Flaps: The side foldable flaps can be folded or unfolded to optimize crockery arrangement. Wine glasses can be placed securely by inserting their stems into the corresponding slots. Depending on the model, flaps can be unfolded by sliding them up and rotating or releasing them from snaps, then pulling them down. To fold, rotate and slide them down or pull them up and attach them to the snaps.
Lower Rack: This rack is for pots, lids, plates, salad bowls, cutlery, etc. Large plates and lids should ideally be placed at the sides to avoid interference with the spray arm.
Cutlery Basket: The basket comes with top grilles for improved cutlery arrangement and should be positioned only at the front of the lower rack. Knives and other sharp utensils must be placed with points facing downwards or horizontally in the upper rack's tip-up compartments.
Daily Use
- Check Water Connection: Ensure the dishwasher is connected to the water supply and the tap is open.
- Switch On: Open the door and press the ON/OFF button.
- Load Racks: Arrange crockery as described in the "Loading the Racks" section.
- Fill Detergent Dispenser: Add the appropriate amount of detergent.
- Choose Program: Select the desired program using the 'P' button, based on crockery type and soiling level.
- Start: Press the START/Pause button (its LED will light up) and close the door within 4 seconds. A single beep will confirm the program start. If the door is not closed within 4 seconds, an alarm will sound; open the door, press START/Pause, and close it again.
- End of Wash Cycle: The end of the cycle is indicated by beeps and the flashing of the selected program's indicator light. Open the door and switch off the appliance using the ON/OFF button. Wait a few minutes before unloading to avoid burns, starting with the lower rack.
The machine will automatically switch off after extended periods of inactivity to minimize electricity consumption. If crockery is lightly soiled or pre-rinsed, reduce the detergent amount accordingly.
Modifying a Running Program: If a wrong program was selected, it can be changed if it has just begun. Open the door, press and hold the ON/OFF button to switch off the machine. Switch it back on, select the new wash cycle and options, then press START/Pause and close the door within 4 seconds.
Adding Extra Crockery: Without switching off the machine, open the door (START/Pause LED blinks, beware of hot steam!), add crockery, press START/Pause, and close the door within 4 seconds. The cycle will resume from where it was interrupted.
Accidental Interruptions: If the door is opened during a wash cycle or if there is a power cut, the cycle stops. Press START/Pause and close the door within 4 seconds to resume the cycle.
Advice and Tips
General Tips:
- Before loading, remove all food residues and empty glasses; pre-rinsing under running water is not necessary.
- Arrange crockery firmly to prevent tipping, with openings facing downwards and concave/convex parts placed obliquely for proper water circulation.
- Ensure lids, handles, trays, and frying pans do not obstruct spray arm rotation.
- Place small items in the cutlery basket.
- Heavily soiled dishes and pans should be placed in the lower basket for stronger washing performance.
- After loading, ensure spray arms can rotate freely.
Unsuitable Crockery:
- Wooden crockery and cutlery.
- Delicate decorated glasses, artistic handicraft, and antique crockery with non-resistant decorations.
- Synthetic materials that cannot withstand high temperatures.
- Copper and tin crockery.
- Crockery soiled with ash, wax, lubricating grease, or ink.
- Glass decorations and aluminum/silver pieces may change color and fade. Some crystal objects may become opaque after multiple wash cycles.
Damage to Glass and Crockery:
- Only use dishwasher-safe glasses and porcelain.
- Use a delicate detergent.
- Collect glasses and cutlery once the wash cycle is over.
Tips on Energy Saving:
- Dishwashers generally consume less energy and water than hand washing.
- Maximize efficiency by running the dishwasher when fully loaded.
- For partial loads, use dedicated wash options (Half load/Zone Wash, Multizone) or fill only selected racks.
- Incorrect loading or overloading can increase resource usage (water, energy, time) and noise, while reducing cleaning and drying performance.
- Manual pre-rinsing is not recommended as it increases water and energy consumption.
Hygiene:
- To prevent odor and sediment buildup, run a high-temperature program at least once a month with a teaspoon of detergent and no loading.
Care and Maintenance
Cleaning the Filter Assembly:
Regularly clean the filter assembly to prevent clogging and ensure proper wastewater flow. Clogged filters or foreign objects can lead to malfunction, reduced performance, noise, and increased resource usage. The filter assembly consists of three filters that remove food residues from the washing water and recirculate it. The dishwasher must not be used without filters or if they are loose.
At least once a month or every 30 cycles, check and thoroughly clean the filter assembly under running water with a non-metallic brush:
- Turn cylindrical filter A anti-clockwise and pull it out.
- Remove cup filter B by exerting slight pressure on the side flaps.
- Slide out the stainless-steel plate filter C.
- Carefully remove any foreign objects (broken glass, porcelain, bones, fruit seeds).
- Inspect the trap and remove food residues. Never remove the wash-cycle pump protection (black detail).
After cleaning, correctly replace the filter assembly to maintain efficient operation.
Cleaning the Spray Arms:
Food residue can encrust onto the spray arms and block the holes. Periodically check and clean them with a small non-metallic brush. To remove the upper spray arm, turn the plastic locking ring anti-clockwise. The upper spray arm should be replaced with the side having more holes facing upwards. The lower spray arm can be removed by pulling it upwards.
Water Softening System:
The water softener automatically reduces water hardness, preventing scale buildup on the heater and improving cleaning efficiency. This system regenerates itself with salt, requiring refilling of the salt container when empty. Regeneration frequency depends on the water hardness level setting; it occurs once per 5 ECO cycles when hardness is set to 3. The regeneration process starts in the final rinse and finishes in the drying phase before the cycle ends. A single regeneration consumes approximately 3.5 liters of water, takes up to 5 additional minutes, and consumes below 0.005 kWh of energy.
Cleaning the Water Inlet Hose:
If water hoses are new or unused for an extended period, let the water run until it is clear and free of impurities before connecting them. Failure to do so could block the water inlet and damage the dishwasher.
Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions for common issues. If problems persist, contact authorized After-sales Service.
Salt indicator is lit:
- Possible Cause: Salt reservoir is empty (may remain lit for several wash cycles after refill).
- Solution: Refill reservoir with salt (see page 2). Adjust water hardness (see page 2).
Dishwasher won't start or doesn't respond to commands:
- Possible Cause: Appliance not plugged in properly.
- Solution: Insert plug into socket.
- Possible Cause: Power outage.
- Solution: For safety, dishwasher won't restart automatically. Open door, press Start button, close door within 4 seconds.
- Possible Cause: Dishwasher door not closed.
- Solution: Push door vigorously until it clicks.
- Possible Cause: Cycle interrupted by door opening for >4 seconds.
- Solution: Press START/Pause, close door within 4 seconds.
- Possible Cause: Doesn't respond to commands.
- Solution: Switch off/on, wait 1 minute, restart program. If problem persists, unplug for 1 minute, then plug back in.
Dishwasher won't drain:
- Possible Cause: Wash cycle not finished.
- Solution: Wait until wash cycle finishes.
- Possible Cause: Drain hose bent.
- Solution: Check drain hose (see INSTALLATION INSTRUCTION).
- Possible Cause: Sink drain pipe blocked.
- Solution: Clean sink drain pipe.
- Possible Cause: Filter clogged with food residues.
- Solution: Clean filter (see CLEANING THE FILTER ASSEMBLY).
Dishwasher makes excessive noise:
- Possible Cause: Dishes rattling against each other.
- Solution: Position crockery correctly (see LOADING THE RACKS).
- Possible Cause: Excessive foam produced.
- Solution: Detergent not measured correctly or unsuitable for dishwashers (see FILLING THE DETERGENT DISPENSER). Restart current cycle by switching OFF dishwasher, then ON, select new program, press START/Pause, close door within 4 seconds. Do not add any detergent.
Dishes are not clean:
- Possible Cause: Crockery not arranged properly.
- Solution: Arrange crockery correctly (see LOADING THE RACKS).
- Possible Cause: Spray arms cannot rotate freely, hindered by dishes.
- Solution: Arrange crockery correctly (see LOADING THE RACKS).
- Possible Cause: Wash cycle too gentle.
- Solution: Select appropriate wash cycle (see PROGRAMS TABLE).
- Possible Cause: Excessive foam produced.
- Solution: Detergent not measured correctly or unsuitable for dishwashers (see FILLING THE DETERGENT DISPENSER).
- Possible Cause: Cap on rinse aid compartment not shut correctly.
- Solution: Ensure rinse aid dispenser cap is closed.
- Possible Cause: Filter soiled or clogged.
- Solution: Clean filter assembly (see CARE AND MAINTENANCE).
- Possible Cause: No salt.
- Solution: Fill salt reservoir (see FILLING THE SALT RESERVOIR).
Dishwasher does not fill water:
- Possible Cause: No water in water supply or tap closed.
- Solution: Ensure water supply and tap are running.
- Possible Cause: Inlet hose bent.
- Solution: Check inlet hose (see INSTALLATION), reprogram, and reboot.
All LEDs are blinking rapidly:
- Possible Cause: Sieve in water inlet hose is clogged; needs cleaning.
- Solution: After verification and cleaning, turn off/on dishwasher, restart program.
Dishwasher finishes cycle prematurely:
- Possible Cause: Drain hose positioned too low or siphoning into home sewage system.
- Solution: Check drain hose height (see INSTALLATION). Check for siphoning into home sewage system, install air admittance valve if necessary.
- Possible Cause: Air in water supply.
- Solution: Check water supply for leaks or other issues letting air inside.
For further assistance, users can download Safety Instructions, User Manual, Product Fiche, and Energy data from docs.indesit.eu or by scanning the QR code. Alternatively, contact After-sales Service, providing the product's identification plate codes.