Admiral Dishwasher: Accessing Soft Water Settings Hidden... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The dishwasher's MCU (Microcontroller Unit) controls the amount of salt used in the water softening system (if equipped) or adjusts the detergent release and wash cycle parameters based on the programmed water hardness setting. Incorrect settings lead to suboptimal cleaning. Voltage paths through the control board determine functionality of the UI buttons.

Symptoms:

Dishes are coming out spotty, cloudy, or with a white film even after using rinse aid. Soap residue may be present on dishes. Dishwasher may not be cleaning effectively.

Possible Causes:

Incorrect water hardness setting for your local water supply.
Faulty water hardness sensor (if equipped).
Control board malfunction.
Software glitch preventing proper adjustment.

Solution:

1

Locate the dishwasher's control panel. It's usually on the top edge of the door.
2

Enter Service Mode: Press and hold the 'Start/Resume' button, then simultaneously press the 'Heated Dry' button three times within 6 seconds. The display should show a service mode code.
3

Navigate to Soft Water Settings: Use the 'Cycle Select' or 'Options' buttons to navigate through the service menu until you find the 'Water Hardness' or 'Soft Water Setting' option. Refer to your owner's manual for specific button functions.
4

Adjust the Setting: Use the 'Start/Resume' or 'Heated Dry' buttons to increase or decrease the water hardness level. Consult your local water utility for your water hardness level in grains per gallon (GPG) or parts per million (PPM).
5

Save the Setting: Press and hold the 'Start/Resume' button for 3 seconds to save the new setting.
6

Exit Service Mode: Turn off the dishwasher at the breaker for 30 seconds and then turn it back on. This resets the control board.
7

Run a test cycle: Run a normal wash cycle to ensure the dishwasher is functioning correctly with the adjusted water hardness setting.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect the dishwasher from the breaker panel before performing any repairs. High voltage is present when the appliance is powered. Follow proper Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures.

Prevention:

Periodically check your local water hardness level with your water company. Adjust the dishwasher settings accordingly. Use a quality dishwasher detergent and rinse aid. Clean the dishwasher filter regularly.

Expert Tip:

If you cannot access the service mode, try unplugging the dishwasher for 10 minutes to reset the control board. Some models also have a diagnostic cycle you can initiate by pressing a specific button combination (check your owner’s manual or the tech sheet inside the dishwasher door).

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I find out the water hardness level in my area?

Contact your local water utility company. They can provide you with the water hardness level in grains per gallon (GPG) or parts per million (PPM).

•What happens if I set the water hardness incorrectly?

If the setting is too low, you may experience spotty or cloudy dishes. If it's too high, you may use excessive detergent, potentially causing residue and corrosion.

•My dishwasher doesn't have a water hardness setting. What should I do?

If your dishwasher doesn't have a water hardness setting, consider using a dishwasher detergent with built-in water softening agents or a separate water softening device for your entire home.

Admiral Dishwasher: Accessing Soft Water Settings Hidden Menu - A Step-by-Step Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I find out the water hardness level in my area?

•What happens if I set the water hardness incorrectly?

•My dishwasher doesn't have a water hardness setting. What should I do?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: