KitchenAid KDTE334G - User Manual

Questions and Answers

W
Wesley RyanSep 10, 2025
Why are my dishes dirty, there are suds in my KitchenAid KDTE334G Dishwasher, and the cycle is not complete?
- A
  Andrew MitchellSep 10, 2025
  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 dish detergent for hand washing dishes, laundry detergent, or hand soap. Not replacing the rinse aid dispenser cap after filling (or refilling) the rinse aid. Using an excessive amount of dishwasher detergent. Inadequately rinsing off detergent from dishes washed by hand before loading them into the dishwasher. Call for service. If no water was present in the machine at any time during a heated wash cycle, the cycle will end and the Clean indicator will not come on. See “Will Not Fill” in the “Troubleshooting” section.
L
Linda HoltAug 22, 2025
Why is my KitchenAid Dishwasher leaking water?
- E
  Elizabeth LynchAug 23, 2025
  Ensure the dishwasher has been installed properly and is level. Suds can cause the dishwasher to overflow. Measure the detergent accurately and use only detergents designed for use in a dishwasher. Less detergent is needed in soft water. Try another brand of detergent if sudsing continues. To avoid rinse aid leaking from the dispenser, ensure the lid is securely attached and avoid overfilling.
C
Chad ChandlerAug 25, 2025
What do blinking lights on my KitchenAid KDTE334G mean?
- J
  Jason CampbellAug 25, 2025
  Blinking indicators will occur when the cycle is paused or when the cycle has been interrupted by opening the door. If the Start/Resume light is blinking, press the START/RESUME keypad and close the door within 4 seconds. If the Clean light or any other lights are blinking and the dishwasher will not run, call for service.
J
Jennifer FowlerAug 26, 2025
Why are there food soils remaining on dishes in my KitchenAid KDTE334G?
- J
  Jennifer ContrerasAug 26, 2025
  Food soils remaining on dishes may be due to improper loading, so be sure the dishwasher is loaded correctly. Check the filter to ensure it is properly installed and clean it if needed. Select the proper cycle and option for the type of soils; the Tough cycle with the Hi-Temp Wash option can be used for tougher loads. Ensure the incoming water temperature is at least 120°F (49°C). Use the proper amount of fresh detergent, using more for heavier soiled loads and hard water conditions. Scrape food from dishes prior to loading; do not prerinse.
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Pamela BlackAug 27, 2025
How to improve drying in my KitchenAid KDTE334G Dishwasher?
- C
  Courtney LittleAug 28, 2025
  Plastic and items with nonstick surfaces are difficult to dry because they have a porous surface which tends to collect water droplets, so towel drying may be necessary. Use of rinse aid along with the Heat Dry or ProDry™ option is needed for proper drying. Proper loading of items can affect drying; glasses and cups with concave bottoms hold water, which may spill onto other items when unloading. Unload the bottom rack first. Locate these items on the more slanted side of the rack for improved results.
S
Sarah HernandezAug 29, 2025
Why does the KitchenAid Dishwasher cycle run too long?
- M
  mfergusonAug 29, 2025
  To use less water and reduce energy consumption, cycles can run for up to 3 hours. A water heater setting of 120°F (49°C) is best; the dishwasher will delay longer while heating cooler water. Some options will add time to the cycle. The Heat Dry or ProDry™ option adds approximately 45 minutes. Try the Express Wash cycle. Running the hot water at a faucet close to the dishwasher before starting the cycle may also help.
J
John CharlesSep 18, 2025
What does it mean if my KitchenAid Dishwasher did not sanitize?
- A
  Angela CainSep 18, 2025
  If the Sanitized light is blinking, the load is NOT sanitized. The cycle was interrupted in the final rinse or the temperature for your water heater is set too low. Set your water heater to 120ºF (49°C).
D
danielcannonSep 12, 2025
How to deal with hard water issues in my KitchenAid KDTE334G Dishwasher?
- J
  Johnny BaileySep 12, 2025
  Extremely hard water mineral deposits can cause damage to your dishwasher and make it difficult to achieve good cleaning. A water softener is strongly recommended if your hardness is 15 grains or more. If a water softener is not installed, the following steps may help: Use a commercial cleaner designed for dishwashers once per month. Clean the upper and lower filters at least once per month. Always use a rinse aid. Always use a high-quality, fresh detergent. Use a detergent booster/water softener additive designed for dishwashers.
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Richard BaldwinSep 8, 2025
How to prevent etching (permanent cloudiness) on glassware in my KitchenAid KDTE334G Dishwasher?
- G
  garciacassandraSep 8, 2025
  Etching is an erosion of the surface of the glassware and can be caused by a combination of water that is too hot, using too much detergent with soft water, or pre-washing. Detergent needs food soil to act upon. If etching has occurred, the glassware is permanently damaged. To avoid further etching, adjust the detergent amount to match the water hardness, stop pre-washing, and use water heating options only when incoming water temperature is below 120°F (49°C).
S
Steven McfarlandSep 5, 2025
Why is my KitchenAid Dishwasher so noisy?
- F
  fosterkathrynSep 5, 2025
  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 and when the door is opened at the end of the cycle. Improper installation will affect noise levels. Ensure 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.

Summary

Dishwasher Safety

DANGER

Safety alert for immediate hazards that can kill or hurt you.

WARNING

Safety alert for potential hazards that can kill or hurt you.

Important Safety Instructions

Essential precautions for using the dishwasher safely.

Tip Over Hazard

Warning about potential injury from tipping the unit.

California Proposition 65 Warnings

State-specific warnings about chemicals in the product.

Whats New in Your Dishwasher

Energy

Details on water and energy efficiency of the dishwasher.

Rinse Aid

Explanation of rinse aid's role in drying and performance.

Detergent

Information on detergent regulations and recommendations.

Filtration System

Overview of the triple filtration system and its maintenance.

Parts and Features

CULINARY RACK (on some models)

Description of the optional culinary rack.

Start-Up;Quick Reference

Clean EQ Wash System removable filters

Importance of cleaning filters for peak performance.

Drying - Rinse aid is essential

Explanation of rinse aid's role in drying.

Express Wash

Information on the Express Wash cycle for fast results.

ProWash cycle for optimal cleaning

Details on the ProWash cycle for sensing soil amount.

Touch Start;Resume every time you add a dish

Instruction to press Start/Resume after adding a dish.

Proper Detergent Dosing

Guidance on detergent usage to avoid etching.

Dishwasher Use

Prepare and Load the Dishwasher

Instructions for preparing and loading dishes for washing.

Add Detergent

Guidance on adding detergent, including premeasured options.

Add Rinse Aid

Instructions for filling the rinse aid dispenser.

Rinse Aid Setting

How to adjust the rinse aid dispenser setting.

Select a Cycle

Guidance on selecting wash cycles and options.

Start or Resume a Cycle

Instructions for starting and resuming a wash cycle.

Cycle and Option Descriptions

ProWash

Details on the ProWash cycle for automatic soil sensing.

Tough

Description of the Tough cycle for heavily soiled items.

Normal

Information on the Normal cycle for daily use.

Express Wash

Details on the Express Wash cycle for fast results.

Rinse Only

Use of the Rinse Only cycle for rinsing dishes.

Option Selections

Explanation of various optional features and their effects.

Controls and Cycle Status

Canceling a Cycle

Procedure for canceling an active wash cycle.

Changing a Cycle After Dishwasher Is Started

How to interrupt and restart a cycle.

Adding a Dish After Dishwasher Is Started

Instructions for adding dishes mid-cycle.

Dishwasher Features

Silverware Basket

Details on the silverware basket and its lids.

Easy-to-Remove Third-Level Rack (on some models)

Instructions for removing and using the third-level rack.

Cup and Stemware Holder

Description of the holder for cups and stemware.

Premium Adjustable 2-Position Top Rack

How to adjust the height of the top rack.

Removable Top Rack

Instructions for removing the top rack for larger items.

Filtration System Maintenance

Filter Reinstallation Instructions

Steps for correctly reinstalling the filters.

Dishwasher Care

Cleaning the Exterior

How to clean the exterior of the dishwasher.

Cleaning and Maintaining the Interior

Methods for cleaning the interior and removing residue.

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

Steps to take when not using the dishwasher.

Troubleshooting

DISHWASHER DOES NOT RUN

Solutions for when the dishwasher fails to start.

DETERGENT REMAINS IN THE DISPENSER OR TABLET IS ON BOTTOM OF TUB

Troubleshooting detergent dispenser issues.

CYCLE RUNS TOO LONG

Reasons for extended cycle times and solutions.

WILL NOT FILL

Solutions for when the dishwasher does not fill with water.

WATER REMAINS IN THE TUB;WILL NOT DRAIN

Troubleshooting water remaining in the tub.

HARD WATER (WHITE RESIDUE ON DISHWASHER INTERIOR OR GLASSWARE)

Addressing hard water issues and white residue.

ODORS

Solutions for eliminating odors in the dishwasher.

NOISY

Troubleshooting sources of unusual noise.

FOOD SOILS REMAIN ON DISHES

Tips for ensuring food soils are removed.

DISHES DIRTY;SUDS IN DISHWASHER;CYCLE NOT COMPLETE

Troubleshooting dirty dishes, suds, or incomplete cycles.

DID NOT SANITIZE

What to do if the sanitize indicator is blinking.

BLINKING LIGHTS

Meaning and resolution of blinking indicator lights.

CLOUDY OR SPOTTED DISHWARE (AND HARD WATER SOLUTION)

Resolving cloudy or spotted dishes, often due to hard water.

ETCHING (PERMANENT CLOUDINESS)

Understanding and preventing permanent etching on glassware.

LEAKING WATER

Troubleshooting water leaks from the dishwasher.

TUB IS DISCOLORED

Causes and cleaning for a discolored tub.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Limited Warranty

IF YOU NEED SERVICE

Information on obtaining warranty service.

LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY

Details on lifetime coverage for specific parts.

DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES

Legal disclaimers regarding implied warranties.

DISCLAIMER OF REPRESENTATIONS OUTSIDE OF WARRANTY

Legal disclaimers for representations outside the warranty.

LIMITATION OF REMEDIES: EXCLUSION OF INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES

Limitations on remedies for damages.

Summary

Dishwasher Safety

DANGER

Safety alert for immediate hazards that can kill or hurt you.

WARNING

Safety alert for potential hazards that can kill or hurt you.

Important Safety Instructions

Essential precautions for using the dishwasher safely.

Tip Over Hazard

Warning about potential injury from tipping the unit.

California Proposition 65 Warnings

State-specific warnings about chemicals in the product.

Whats New in Your Dishwasher

Energy

Details on water and energy efficiency of the dishwasher.

Rinse Aid

Explanation of rinse aid's role in drying and performance.

Detergent

Information on detergent regulations and recommendations.

Filtration System

Overview of the triple filtration system and its maintenance.

Parts and Features

CULINARY RACK (on some models)

Description of the optional culinary rack.

Start-Up;Quick Reference

Clean EQ Wash System removable filters

Importance of cleaning filters for peak performance.

Drying - Rinse aid is essential

Explanation of rinse aid's role in drying.

Express Wash

Information on the Express Wash cycle for fast results.

ProWash cycle for optimal cleaning

Details on the ProWash cycle for sensing soil amount.

Touch Start;Resume every time you add a dish

Instruction to press Start/Resume after adding a dish.

Proper Detergent Dosing

Guidance on detergent usage to avoid etching.

Dishwasher Use

Prepare and Load the Dishwasher

Instructions for preparing and loading dishes for washing.

Add Detergent

Guidance on adding detergent, including premeasured options.

Add Rinse Aid

Instructions for filling the rinse aid dispenser.

Rinse Aid Setting

How to adjust the rinse aid dispenser setting.

Select a Cycle

Guidance on selecting wash cycles and options.

Start or Resume a Cycle

Instructions for starting and resuming a wash cycle.

Cycle and Option Descriptions

ProWash

Details on the ProWash cycle for automatic soil sensing.

Tough

Description of the Tough cycle for heavily soiled items.

Normal

Information on the Normal cycle for daily use.

Express Wash

Details on the Express Wash cycle for fast results.

Rinse Only

Use of the Rinse Only cycle for rinsing dishes.

Option Selections

Explanation of various optional features and their effects.

Controls and Cycle Status

Canceling a Cycle

Procedure for canceling an active wash cycle.

Changing a Cycle After Dishwasher Is Started

How to interrupt and restart a cycle.

Adding a Dish After Dishwasher Is Started

Instructions for adding dishes mid-cycle.

Dishwasher Features

Silverware Basket

Details on the silverware basket and its lids.

Easy-to-Remove Third-Level Rack (on some models)

Instructions for removing and using the third-level rack.

Cup and Stemware Holder

Description of the holder for cups and stemware.

Premium Adjustable 2-Position Top Rack

How to adjust the height of the top rack.

Removable Top Rack

Instructions for removing the top rack for larger items.

Filtration System Maintenance

Filter Reinstallation Instructions

Steps for correctly reinstalling the filters.

Dishwasher Care

Cleaning the Exterior

How to clean the exterior of the dishwasher.

Cleaning and Maintaining the Interior

Methods for cleaning the interior and removing residue.

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

Steps to take when not using the dishwasher.

Troubleshooting

DISHWASHER DOES NOT RUN

Solutions for when the dishwasher fails to start.

DETERGENT REMAINS IN THE DISPENSER OR TABLET IS ON BOTTOM OF TUB

Troubleshooting detergent dispenser issues.

CYCLE RUNS TOO LONG

Reasons for extended cycle times and solutions.

WILL NOT FILL

Solutions for when the dishwasher does not fill with water.

WATER REMAINS IN THE TUB;WILL NOT DRAIN

Troubleshooting water remaining in the tub.

HARD WATER (WHITE RESIDUE ON DISHWASHER INTERIOR OR GLASSWARE)

Addressing hard water issues and white residue.

ODORS

Solutions for eliminating odors in the dishwasher.

NOISY

Troubleshooting sources of unusual noise.

FOOD SOILS REMAIN ON DISHES

Tips for ensuring food soils are removed.

DISHES DIRTY;SUDS IN DISHWASHER;CYCLE NOT COMPLETE

Troubleshooting dirty dishes, suds, or incomplete cycles.

DID NOT SANITIZE

What to do if the sanitize indicator is blinking.

BLINKING LIGHTS

Meaning and resolution of blinking indicator lights.

CLOUDY OR SPOTTED DISHWARE (AND HARD WATER SOLUTION)

Resolving cloudy or spotted dishes, often due to hard water.

ETCHING (PERMANENT CLOUDINESS)

Understanding and preventing permanent etching on glassware.

LEAKING WATER

Troubleshooting water leaks from the dishwasher.

TUB IS DISCOLORED

Causes and cleaning for a discolored tub.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Limited Warranty

IF YOU NEED SERVICE

Information on obtaining warranty service.

LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY

Details on lifetime coverage for specific parts.

DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES

Legal disclaimers regarding implied warranties.

DISCLAIMER OF REPRESENTATIONS OUTSIDE OF WARRANTY

Legal disclaimers for representations outside the warranty.

LIMITATION OF REMEDIES: EXCLUSION OF INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES

Limitations on remedies for damages.

This document is a user instruction manual for a KitchenAid Dishwasher, model number W11040103A, published in March and July 2017. It provides comprehensive information on the dishwasher's function, features, usage, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Function Description:

The KitchenAid Dishwasher is designed for efficient and thorough cleaning of dishes, glassware, and silverware. It utilizes a water- and energy-efficient system that employs pauses during cycles to allow detergent to soak and release soils, resulting in exceptional cleaning performance. An optical water sensor determines optimal water and energy consumption for effective cleaning. The dishwasher is equipped with various cycles and options to accommodate different soil levels, load sizes, and user preferences, including specialized features for tough soils, fast results, and sanitization. It also incorporates a triple filtration system to minimize sound, optimize water and energy conservation, and ensure optimal cleaning.

Important Technical Specifications:

Water Hardness Compatibility: The manual provides guidance for various water hardness levels (Soft, Medium, Hard, and Extremely Hard), recommending appropriate detergent amounts and the use of a water softener for very hard water (15 grains per U.S. gallon or more).
Water Temperature: For best dishwashing results, incoming water should be at least 120°F (49°C). The Hi-Temp Wash option raises the main wash temperature from 105°F (41°C) to 130°F (55°C) or 140°F (60°C). The Sani Rinse option increases the main wash temperature from 105°F (41°C) to 140°F (60°C) and the final rinse from 140°F (60°C) to 155°F (68°C) to meet NSF International NSF/ANSI Standard 184 for Residential Dishwashers.
Detergent Type: Designed for automatic dishwasher detergent only. High-quality premeasured tablets and packs are recommended for improved performance and reduction of white film.
Rinse Aid Capacity: The rinse aid dispenser holds 5 oz (150 mL) and typically lasts one to three months under most conditions.
Energy Efficiency: The dishwasher is designed to be water- and energy-efficient, with cycles running longer to save resources. Government energy certifications are based on the Normal cycle with only the Heat Dry or ProDry™ option selected.
Filtration System: Features a triple filtration system consisting of an upper filter assembly and a lower filter.

Usage Features:

Loading: Detailed instructions are provided for proper loading of dishes, silverware, and other items to ensure water spray reaches all surfaces and to prevent items from blocking spray arms or the detergent dispenser. Sharp items should point down, and silverware should be separated.
Cycles:
- ProWash™ (Soil - Sense): The most advanced and versatile cycle, sensing load size, soil amount, and toughness to adjust for optimal cleaning. It includes a heated drying option. Estimated wash time: 2:30 to 3:30. Water usage: 3.8 to 7.7 gallons (14.4 to 29.3 liters).
- Tough: Recommended for hard-to-clean, heavily soiled pots, pans, casseroles, and tableware. Includes a heated drying option. Estimated wash time: 2:20 to 3:30. Water usage: 8.4 gallons (31.7 liters).
- Normal: For daily, regular, or typical use with normally soiled dishes. Government energy certifications are based on this cycle with Heat Dry or ProDry™ option. Estimated wash time: 1:50 to 3:30. Water usage: 2.7 to 7.9 gallons (10.4 to 30.0 liters).
- Express Wash: For fast results, using slightly more water and energy. Requires Heat Dry or Extended Dry option for automatic drying. Estimated wash time: 0:55 to 1:05. Water usage: 6.2 gallons (23.5 liters).
- Rinse Only: For rinsing dishes, glasses, and silverware not washed right away. No detergent needed. Estimated wash time: 0:15 to 0:20. Water usage: 2.4 gallons (9.0 liters).
Options:
- Extended ProDry/ProDry™: Dries dishes with heat and a fan for best drying performance. Plastic items are less likely to deform. ProDry™ defaults to On for most cycles.
- Extended Heat Dry/Heat Dry: Activates the heating element at the end of a wash cycle to speed drying. Heat Dry defaults to On for most cycles.
- Bottle Wash: Uses flip-up spray nozzles in the upper rack to clean deep items like sports bottles and baby bottles.
- Hi-Temp Wash: Raises main wash temperature for tough, baked-on food.
- Sani Rinse: Sanitizes dishes and glassware by increasing main wash and final rinse temperatures, meeting NSF/ANSI Standard 184.
- 2-4-8 Hr. Delay: Delays the start of a cycle.
- Sound On/Off: Toggles audible tones for keypad touches.
Start/Resume: Requires pressing the START/RESUME keypad and closing the door firmly within 4 seconds to start or resume a cycle.
Adding a Dish: Possible at the beginning of a cycle by slowly opening the door, adding the item, pressing START/RESUME, and closing the door within 4 seconds.
Rack Features:
- FLEXI-FOLD DOWN™ Adjustable Tines: Tines on the top rack can be adjusted to accommodate various dish sizes.
- Premium Adjustable 2-Position Top Rack: The top rack can be raised or lowered to fit tall items in either the top or bottom rack.
- Removable Top Rack: Allows for washing larger items like pots and roasters in the bottom rack.
- Easy-to-Remove Third-Level Rack (on some models): Provides additional space for low-profile items like serving utensils and silverware.
- Cup and Stemware Holder: Extra shelf on the top rack for cups, stemware, or long utensils.

Maintenance Features:

Filtration System Cleaning: The upper and lower filters should be cleaned regularly to maintain peak performance. Recommended cleaning frequency varies based on load frequency and pre-loading practices (every 2 to 4 months for scraping only, every 4 months to once per year for scraping and rinsing, or once per year for washing before loading). For very hard water, monthly cleaning is recommended.
Exterior Cleaning: Clean with a soft, damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaning products, especially on stainless steel exteriors.
Interior Cleaning: Use a dishwasher cleaning product like affresh® Dishwasher Cleaner monthly to remove white spots or residue. Alternatively, a vinegar rinse (2 cups white vinegar in a glass on the bottom rack, run Normal cycle with air-dry/energy-saving dry option, no detergent) can be used, but not too often due to vinegar's acidity.
Drain Air Gap: Check and clean if the dishwasher is not draining well.
Vacation/Extended Time Without Use: Turn off water and power supply. Protect water supply lines from freezing. Damage from freezing is not covered by the warranty.
Warranty: Includes a First Year Limited Warranty (parts and labor), Second Through Fifth Year Limited Warranty (certain component parts only, labor not included), and a Lifetime Limited Warranty (stainless steel tub and inner door liner only).