Dishwasher W11133227B

KitchenAid Dishwasher W11133227B

The KitchenAid Dishwasher is designed to clean and dry household dishes, glassware, cookware, and silverware using selectable wash cycles and drying options. It includes ProWash sensor-based cleaning, adjustable rack positioning, a two-part filtration system, and controls for wash temperature, sanitizing, delayed startup, and drying.

The dishwasher offers five wash cycles: ProWash, Tough, Normal, Express Wash, and Rinse Only. Additional options include Hi-Temp Wash, Heat Dry, Extended Heat Dry, Sani Rinse, and a delayed-start timer.

This KitchenAid dishwasher user guide covers loading instructions, detergent and rinse aid use, operating controls, cycle selection, cleaning, troubleshooting, and warranty information.

The model and serial numbers are located on a label inside the dishwasher tub along the left outer edge. These numbers should be recorded for future service requests.

Product Overview

The KitchenAid Dishwasher uses a wash system that adjusts cleaning performance according to the selected cycle and load conditions. Its ProWash cycle senses the load size, soil amount, and difficulty of removing food residue to adjust washing.

The dishwasher also includes a filtration system with an upper filter assembly and lower filter. The filters help remove food particles during washing while supporting water and energy conservation.

Main Features

• ProWash Cycle: Uses sensors to adjust washing according to soil level and load conditions.
• Five Wash Cycles: ProWash, Tough, Normal, Express Wash, and Rinse Only.
• Adjustable Upper Rack: Raises or lowers to provide additional space for taller dishes.
• Two-Part Filtration System: Includes an upper filter assembly and lower filter.
• Hi-Temp Wash: Raises the main wash temperature for difficult food residue.
• Heat Dry: Uses heat to improve drying performance.
• Extended Heat Dry: Provides additional heated drying time.
• Sani Rinse: Provides a sanitizing option meeting the specified NSF/ANSI 184 requirements when completed successfully.
• Delay Start: Allows the wash cycle to start later.
• Control Lock: Prevents unintended control panel operation.
• Start/Resume: Restarts a cycle after the door has been opened or operation interrupted.
• Rinse Aid Dispenser: Supports improved drying and reduced water spotting.
• Cycle Status Indicators: Show Washing, Drying, Clean, and Sanitized conditions.

Parts and Components

The dishwasher includes components for loading dishes, distributing detergent and rinse aid, spraying water, filtering food particles, and monitoring wash progress.

Upper and Lower Racks

The dishwasher has an upper and lower rack to accommodate different types of dishware.

The upper rack is suitable for glasses, small plates, and dishwasher-safe plastic items. The lower rack accommodates larger plates, pots, pans, and other suitable cookware.

The loading diagrams provide examples of 10-place and 12-place dish arrangements.

Adjustable Upper Rack

The upper rack can be raised or lowered to create room for taller items in either rack.

Adjusters are located on both sides of the upper rack.

Two-Part Filtration System

The filtration system contains:

1. Upper filter assembly.
2. Lower filter.

Both parts must be installed correctly before operating the dishwasher.

Important: Do not operate the dishwasher without properly installed filters.

Control Panel and Button Guide

The dishwasher control panel provides buttons for selecting wash cycles, changing options, starting or canceling operation, and locking the controls.

Cycle Status Indicators

Important Control Functions

Important Safety Instructions

The KitchenAid Dishwasher must be installed and operated according to the manufacturer’s safety instructions to reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, injury, and property damage.

General Safety Precautions

• Read all operating instructions before using the dishwasher.
• Use the appliance only for its intended purpose.
• Use only detergents and rinse agents recommended for dishwashers.
• Keep dishwasher detergents and rinse agents away from children.
• Do not tamper with the control panel.
• Do not operate the dishwasher unless all enclosure panels are properly installed.
• Do not sit, stand, or place excessive weight on the dishwasher door or racks.
• Do not allow children to play inside or on the dishwasher.
• Do not touch the heating element during or immediately after operation.
• Remove the door or lid from the washing compartment when disposing of an old dishwasher.

Sharp Utensil Safety

Sharp items must be loaded carefully.

• Position sharp objects so they cannot damage the door seal.
• Load sharp knives with their handles facing upward to reduce the risk of cuts.
• Keep sharp utensils separated where possible.

Dishwasher-Safe Items

Plastic items should only be washed when marked dishwasher-safe or with equivalent approval.

For plastic products without such markings, check the manufacturer’s washing recommendations.

Tip-Over Warning

Warning: Tip-over hazard.

• Do not use the dishwasher until installation is complete.
• Do not push downward on the open dishwasher door.

Failure to follow these precautions may result in serious injury or cuts.

Hydrogen Gas Warning

Warning: Hydrogen gas is explosive.

Hydrogen gas may accumulate in a hot water system that has not been used for two weeks or longer.

Before operating the dishwasher after such a period:

1. Open all hot water faucets.
2. Allow hot water to run from each faucet for several minutes.
3. This releases any accumulated hydrogen gas.
4. Do not smoke or use an open flame while the water is running.

Electrical Grounding Safety

The dishwasher must be properly grounded.

For a cord-connected dishwasher:

• Connect the grounding plug to a correctly installed and grounded electrical outlet.
• Do not modify the supplied plug.
• Have a qualified electrician install a suitable outlet if the plug does not fit.
• Contact a qualified electrician or service representative if grounding is uncertain.

For a permanently connected dishwasher, the appliance must be connected to a grounded permanent metal wiring system or an equipment-grounding conductor connected to the appropriate grounding terminal.

Warning: Incorrect grounding may cause electric shock.

California Proposition 65 Warnings

The product carries California Proposition 65 warnings concerning exposure to chemicals identified by the State of California as causes of cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Before First Use

Before operating the dishwasher, check that installation is complete and the appliance is ready for washing.

Initial Preparation

1. Confirm that the dishwasher is completely installed.
2. Check that the appliance is properly grounded.
3. Make sure the water supply is turned on.
4. Check that the upper and lower filters are correctly installed.
5. Confirm that the upper filter assembly is locked.
6. Make sure the spray arms can rotate freely.
7. Load dishwasher-safe items into the appropriate racks.
8. Add automatic dishwasher detergent.
9. Fill the rinse aid dispenser as needed.
10. Select the wash cycle and start operation.

First Cycle Operation

The dishwasher’s first wash cycle may take longer than subsequent cycles because the optical water sensor performs its initial calibration.

Longer cycle times are also a normal part of energy-efficient dishwasher operation.

How to Load the Dishwasher

Proper loading helps water reach dirty surfaces and allows dishes to dry more effectively.

Preparing Dishes

Before loading:

1. Remove leftover food particles.
2. Remove bones, toothpicks, and other hard objects.
3. Remove labels from containers.
4. Check that the items are dishwasher-safe.

Dishes should be scraped to remove food residue. Pre-rinsing is not required.

Loading the Upper Rack

The upper rack is suitable for glasses, small plates, and dishwasher-safe plastic items.

1. Position cups and glasses so their dirty surfaces face downward.
2. Avoid placing items directly against one another.
3. Leave enough space for water to circulate.
4. Secure lightweight items so they cannot move during washing.
5. Make sure taller items do not interfere with the spray arms.

Loading the Lower Rack

The lower rack accommodates larger dishes and cookware.

1. Place plates and cookware with dirty surfaces facing downward and inward.
2. Angle heavily soiled surfaces downward.
3. Leave space between items.
4. Avoid overlapping plates and bowls.
5. Make sure dishes do not block the detergent dispenser.

Loading the Silverware Basket

The silverware basket includes slots and covers that help keep utensils separated.

1. Use the designated slots when possible.
2. Keep utensils separated to prevent nesting.
3. Place sharp utensils with their pointed ends downward.
4. If utensils do not fit in the slots, lift and slide off the covers.
5. Arrange different utensil types so they remain separated during washing.

Check the Spray Arms

Before starting the dishwasher, check that all spray arms rotate freely.

Items extending below or above the racks may prevent the arms from turning.

Proper spray arm movement is necessary for effective washing.

Adjusting the Upper Rack Height

The upper rack can be moved to provide additional clearance for taller dishes.

How to Raise the Upper Rack

1. Locate the rack adjusters on both sides of the upper rack.
2. Press both thumb levers.
3. Lift the rack into the upper position.
4. Make sure the rack is level.

How to Lower the Upper Rack

1. Press the thumb levers on both sides.
2. Slide the rack downward.
3. Position it at the lower setting.
4. Check that both sides are level.

Important: The upper rack must remain level after adjustment.

Adding Dishwasher Detergent

Use only detergent intended for automatic dishwashers.

KitchenAid recommends high-quality premeasured detergent tablets or packs for effective cleaning and reduced film buildup.

How to Fill the Detergent Dispenser

1. Open the dishwasher detergent dispenser.
2. Place the selected detergent into the main compartment.
3. Slide the dispenser lid closed.
4. Press firmly until it clicks.

To open the dispenser, press the OPEN control so the lid slides open.

Detergent Recommendations

• Use automatic dishwasher detergent only.
• Add detergent shortly before starting a wash cycle.
• Follow the product packaging when using powder, liquid, or gel detergent.
• Store detergent in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry place.
• Use an appropriate quantity for the soil level and water hardness.

Premeasured tablets and packs can help reduce white film on dishes.

Important: Never substitute laundry detergent, hand soap, or liquid detergent intended for washing dishes by hand. These products may create excess suds and interfere with dishwasher operation.

Adding Rinse Aid

Rinse aid is important for proper dishwasher drying.

It reduces water droplets on dish surfaces and helps prevent water spots and streaks.

How to Fill the Rinse Aid Dispenser

1. Locate the rinse aid dispenser.
2. Gently push the center of its lid with a thumb while lifting the edge.
3. Open the dispenser.
4. Pour rinse aid into the opening.
5. Continue until the level indicator shows Full.
6. Close the lid by pressing it down gently.

The rinse aid is automatically dispensed during wash cycles.

Adjusting the Rinse Aid Setting

The factory setting provides satisfactory results under most water conditions.

If dishes are not drying properly:

1. Open the rinse aid dispenser.
2. Locate the arrow adjuster.
3. Turn the adjuster to the next higher numbered setting.
4. Close the dispenser.

A higher setting increases the amount of rinse aid dispensed.

Rinse aid used together with Heat Dry or Extended Heat Dry improves drying performance.

Operating Instructions

How to Start a Wash Cycle

1. Prepare and load the dishwasher.
2. Check that the spray arms rotate freely.
3. Add dishwasher detergent.
4. Fill the rinse aid dispenser if needed.
5. Close the dishwasher door.
6. Select the desired wash cycle.
7. Select any compatible washing or drying options.
8. Touch START/RESUME.

The dishwasher will begin operating according to the selected cycle and options.

How to Repeat the Previous Wash Cycle

To repeat the previous washing selections:

1. Close the dishwasher door firmly.
2. Touch START/RESUME.

The dishwasher uses the cycle and option selections from the previous wash.

How to Pause and Resume a Cycle

If the dishwasher door is opened during operation:

1. Add or adjust the dishes as needed.
2. Touch START/RESUME.
3. Close the door firmly within 4 seconds.

If the door is not closed within 4 seconds, the Start indicator flashes and an audible tone sounds.

The cycle will not resume until the required Start/Resume procedure is completed.

This also applies when the door is opened during a delayed-start countdown.

How to Cancel a Wash Cycle

1. Close the dishwasher door firmly.
2. Press and hold CANCEL/DRAIN for 3 seconds.
3. The dishwasher will begin draining if necessary.
4. Allow the drain operation to finish.

The drain process may run for approximately 2 minutes.

Dishwasher Wash Cycle Guide

The dishwasher includes five wash cycles for different cleaning needs.

Actual cycle time and water consumption can vary according to the load, soil level, incoming water temperature, and selected options.

Wash Cycle Comparison

The Rinse Only time above is the duration printed in this guide.

ProWash Cycle

The ProWash cycle detects:

• Load size.
• Amount of food residue.
• Difficulty of removing soil.

It adjusts the washing process based on these conditions.

ProWash is automatically selected when the Start button is first touched.

The cycle includes a heated drying option.

Tough Cycle

The Tough cycle is intended for difficult cleaning loads, including:

• Pots and pans.
• Casserole dishes.
• Heavily soiled cookware.
• Regular tableware with difficult food residue.

The cycle includes a heated drying option.

Normal Cycle

Normal is recommended for regular household washing.

It is designed to clean and dry a full load of normally soiled dishes.

The dishwasher’s government energy certifications were based on the Normal cycle with only the Heat Dry option selected, under the specified test conditions.

Express Wash Cycle

Express Wash provides faster cleaning but uses slightly more water and energy.

For better drying after Express Wash, select a heated drying option.

Some detergents are not recommended for short wash cycles. Follow the detergent manufacturer’s package instructions.

Rinse Only Cycle

Rinse Only is intended for dishes, glasses, and silverware that will be washed later.

Do not use detergent with the Rinse Only cycle.

Wash Options and Settings

Additional options allow the washing temperature, drying process, sanitizing function, and startup time to be adjusted.

Hi-Temp Wash

Hi-Temp Wash increases the main wash temperature to improve cleaning of difficult, baked-on food residue.

Heat Dry and Extended Heat Dry

Heat Dry activates the heating element at the end of a cycle to improve drying.

Rinse aid and Heat Dry used together provide better drying results.

These options do not add water.

Heat Dry is enabled by default for selected cycles except Express Wash and Rinse Only.

Heat Dry can be turned off for air drying.

Important: Dishwasher-safe plastic items are less likely to deform when placed in the upper rack.

Sani Rinse

Sani Rinse is designed to sanitize dishes and glassware according to NSF/ANSI Standard 184 for residential dishwashers.

The Sanitized indicator illuminates when Sani Rinse completes successfully.

If the sanitizing conditions were not achieved, the indicator may flash.

The sanitizing feature is intended for residential dishwashers, not licensed food establishments.

Delay Start

The Delay option allows a wash cycle to begin later.

The control panel provides a 2-4-8 Hr. Delay function.

How to Set Delay Start

1. Load the dishwasher.
2. Select the wash cycle.
3. Select any desired options.
4. Touch the Delay keypad to choose the delay.
5. Touch START/RESUME.
6. Close the door firmly.

If the door is opened during the delay period, START/RESUME must be touched again to continue the countdown.

Control Lock

Control Lock prevents unintended control panel selections.

How to Activate Control Lock

1. Locate the Control Lock keypad.
2. Press and hold it for 3 seconds.
3. The Control Lock indicator will illuminate.

While the controls are locked, keypad selections are disabled.

If a keypad is touched, the lock indicator flashes three times.

The dishwasher door can still be opened or closed.

How to Deactivate Control Lock

Press and hold Control Lock for 3 seconds.

The lock indicator will turn off.

Turning Audible Tones On or Off

The dishwasher allows keypad confirmation sounds to be enabled or disabled.

1. Locate the Hi-Temp Wash button.
2. Press and hold it for 3 seconds.
3. The keypad confirmation tone setting will change.

Important warning tones, including those indicating cycle interruption, cannot be disabled.

Understanding Dishwasher Status Indicators

The display communicates the progress and completion of wash cycles.

Clean Indicator

The Clean indicator illuminates when the dishwasher has completed its wash cycle.

Flashing Sanitized Indicator

A flashing Sanitized indicator may mean:

• The cycle was interrupted.
• The water did not reach the required sanitizing temperature.

The indicator turns off when the door is opened and closed or Cancel is touched.

Dishwasher Filtration System

The dishwasher uses an upper filter assembly and lower filter to remove particles from wash water.

The filtration system must be correctly installed to prevent damage and maintain performance.

When to Clean the Filters

The filters may need cleaning when:

• Food particles or other debris are visible on the upper filter assembly.
• Dishes feel gritty after washing.

How to Clean the Filter

1. Check the upper and lower filter assemblies.
2. Follow the correct filter removal procedure for the appliance.
3. Rinse the filter under running water.
4. Remove accumulated food residue.
5. Use a soft brush if necessary to remove stubborn deposits or calcium buildup.
6. Reinstall the filters correctly.
7. Check that the lower filter is securely positioned.
8. Make sure the upper filter assembly is locked.

Important: Do not use a wire brush, scouring pad, or other abrasive cleaning tools on the filters.

If the upper filter assembly turns freely after installation, it is not locked correctly.

Detailed removal and maintenance instructions are available from KitchenAid at https://www.kitchenaid.com/customer-service/manuals.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps prevent residue buildup and supports cleaning and drying performance.

Cleaning the Dishwasher Exterior

1. Use a soft, damp cloth.
2. Apply a mild detergent when necessary.
3. Wipe the exterior surface.
4. Avoid abrasive cleaning products.

Some stainless steel finishes may have a fingerprint-resistant coating.

Abrasive products can damage the exterior finish.

Cleaning the Dishwasher Interior

Detergent residue and hard-water deposits can cause white spots or film inside the dishwasher.

KitchenAid recommends using affresh Dishwasher Cleaner monthly to help remove buildup.

Follow the cleaner’s package instructions.

Cleaning the Drain Air Gap

If the dishwasher has a drain air gap and is not draining properly, inspect and clean the air gap.

Maintenance Schedule

Vacation and Extended Non-Use

When the dishwasher will not be used for an extended period, precautions should be taken to reduce the risk of water damage.

Summer Non-Use

If the appliance will not be used during summer months:

• Turn off the water supply.
• Turn off the electrical power supply.

Freezing Conditions

Water supply lines must be protected against freezing.

Ice formation inside supply lines may increase pressure and damage the dishwasher or surrounding property.

Important: Damage caused by freezing is not covered by the warranty.

Winter Storage

For winter storage, have the dishwasher winterized by authorized service personnel.

Troubleshooting Guide

The following troubleshooting instructions address common dishwasher performance problems.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Clean Light Flashing

If the Clean light flashes:

1. Check whether the wash cycle was interrupted.
2. Touch START/RESUME.
3. Close the door within 4 seconds.
4. Check that the overfill protection float moves freely.
5. Press down on the float to release it if necessary.
6. Confirm that the dishwasher water supply is turned on.
7. Check whether excessive suds are present.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Not Drying Dishes

Poor drying performance may result from insufficient rinse aid, loading arrangement, or the selected drying option.

To improve drying:

1. Check the rinse aid dispenser.
2. Use the Heat Dry option.
3. Position items so water can drain away.
4. Place suitable items on the more slanted areas of the racks.
5. Unload the lower rack before the upper rack.

Plastic items and cookware with nonstick surfaces may retain water droplets and require towel drying.

Glasses and cups with concave bottoms may collect water that spills onto other dishes during unloading.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Leaving White Film or Spots

White residue may be caused by hard water or detergent buildup.

The following checks may help:

1. Confirm that rinse aid is being used.
2. Check the detergent quantity.
3. Follow detergent package instructions.
4. Make sure incoming water is approximately 120°F (49°C).
5. Try Hi-Temp Wash or Sani Rinse when compatible with the selected cycle.
6. Clean the dishwasher interior according to the maintenance instructions.

How to Check for Hard-Water Film

To determine whether cloudiness is caused by hard-water deposits:

1. Select an affected item.
2. Soak it in white vinegar for 5 minutes.
3. Check whether the cloudy appearance disappears.

If the cloudiness disappears, hard-water deposits are the likely cause.

If the cloudiness does not disappear, the finish may have become etched.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Not Cleaning Properly

Poor cleaning may result from blocked water circulation, low water temperature, incorrect detergent, or excessive suds.

Check the following:

• Dishes are loaded correctly.
• Spray arms can rotate freely.
• Filters are properly installed.
• The water intake screen at the bottom of the dishwasher is free from food and debris.
• The selected cycle matches the soil level.
• Incoming water is at least 120°F (49°C).
• Fresh automatic dishwasher detergent is used.
• Detergent quantity is suitable for the load and water hardness.

For difficult soil, ProWash may be selected.

Excessive Suds in the Dishwasher

Excess suds can interfere with washing or prevent the dishwasher from filling correctly.

Possible causes include:

• Using laundry detergent, hand soap, or manual dishwashing liquid.
• Leaving the rinse aid dispenser improperly closed.
• Using too much dishwasher detergent.

Only automatic dishwasher detergent should be used.

Warranty Information

The KitchenAid Dishwasher includes a limited warranty with different coverage periods for specified components.

Warranty Coverage

First-Year Limited Warranty

For one year from the original purchase date, KitchenAid covers eligible defects in materials or workmanship that existed when the appliance was purchased.

Coverage is subject to proper installation, operation, and maintenance.

KitchenAid may repair the appliance or replace it at its discretion.

Second-Through-Fifth-Year Limited Warranty

During the second through fifth years, coverage applies to specified component parts:

• Nylon dish racks.
• Electronic controls.

This coverage applies to eligible non-cosmetic defects that prevent these components from functioning.

Repair labor is not included.

Lifetime Limited Warranty

The lifetime limited warranty covers specified defects in:

• Stainless steel tub.
• Inner door liner.

Coverage includes factory-specified replacement parts and repair labor for qualifying defects.

Warranty Exclusions

The warranty does not cover:

• Commercial or non-residential use.
• Multi-family use outside the stated warranty conditions.
• Improper installation or maintenance.
• Household plumbing or electrical repairs.
• Consumable components.
• Damage from non-genuine parts or accessories.
• Accidents, misuse, abuse, fire, flood, or other excluded events.
• Unauthorized repairs or modifications.
• Certain cosmetic damage, corrosion, rust, or oxidation.
• Pickup or delivery.
• Travel charges for service in remote locations.
• Removal or reinstallation costs involving inaccessible appliances or surrounding fixtures.
• Appliances with removed, altered, or unidentifiable model or serial numbers.

Warranty Service Requirements

An original proof of purchase is required for warranty claims.

Customers should have the following information ready:

• Name, address, and telephone number.
• Dishwasher model number.
• Serial number.
• Detailed description of the problem.
• Proof of purchase, including retailer information.

Warranty service must be performed by an authorized KitchenAid service provider.

The limited warranty applies in the United States and Canada when the appliance is used in the country where it was purchased.

Other legal rights may apply depending on the state or province.

Customer Support Information

KitchenAid provides product assistance, troubleshooting resources, warranty service, and technical support.

Customer Support Contacts

U.S. Mailing Address

KitchenAid Brand Home Appliances
Customer eXperience Center
553 Benson Road
Benton Harbor, MI 49022-2692

Canada Mailing Address

KitchenAid Brand Home Appliances
Customer eXperience Centre
200 – 6750 Century Ave.
Mississauga, Ontario L5N 0B7

Customers contacting support by mail should include a daytime telephone number.

Finding the Model and Serial Numbers

The dishwasher’s model and serial number label is located inside the tub along the left outer edge.

These numbers are needed when identifying the exact dishwasher and requesting support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start a KitchenAid dishwasher?

Load the dishes, add automatic dishwasher detergent and rinse aid, select the desired wash cycle and options, and touch START/RESUME. The dishwasher door must be firmly closed within 4 seconds of touching Start/Resume for the cycle to begin.

Why is my KitchenAid dishwasher Clean light flashing?

A flashing Clean light may indicate an interrupted cycle, a restricted overfill protection float, a closed water supply, or excessive suds. Check these conditions, touch START/RESUME, and close the door within 4 seconds.

How do I clean the filter in a KitchenAid dishwasher?

The dishwasher has an upper filter assembly and lower filter. Clean the filters when food particles are visible or dishes feel gritty. Rinse the filters under running water, use a soft brush for stubborn deposits, and reinstall both filters securely before operating the dishwasher.

How do I reset the Control Lock on my KitchenAid dishwasher?

Press and hold the Control Lock button for 3 seconds. The Control Lock indicator will turn off, and the control panel can be used normally.

Why are my dishes still wet after using the KitchenAid dishwasher?

Dishes may remain wet because of insufficient rinse aid, drying option selection, or improper loading. Use rinse aid with Heat Dry, position dishes to allow water to drain, and unload the lower rack first. Some plastic and nonstick items may still require towel drying.

What is the difference between ProWash and Normal on a KitchenAid dishwasher?

ProWash uses sensors to adjust washing according to load size and food soil conditions. Normal is intended for everyday washing of normally soiled dishes and is the cycle used for the dishwasher’s stated government energy certification testing.

How do I cancel a KitchenAid dishwasher cycle?

Close the dishwasher door firmly and press and hold CANCEL/DRAIN for 3 seconds. The dishwasher will drain for approximately 2 minutes if necessary. Allow the drain operation to finish.