11CARE AND CLEANINGUSER MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONSClean the control panel with a lightly dampenedcloth. Dry thoroughly. Do not use abrasives orsharp objects on the panel. They can damage it.Clean the outside with a good appliance polishwax. The outside cabinet finish is durable, but itcan scratch. So use no scouring pads, or harsh orgritty cleaners.Appliance Polish Wax & Cleaner (Cat. No.WR97X0216) is available from GE Service andParts Centers.The inside usually takes care of itself. If it shouldever need cleaning, use a mild cleansing powder.Scouring pads and harsh cleaners can mar the finish.What is Dishwasher Safe Care and CleaningNot Using Your Dishwasher in Winter? Protect Against Freezing.If your dishwasher is left in anunheated place during the winter,ask a service technician to:• Cut off electrical power to thedishwasher. Remove fuses or tripcircuit breaker.• Turn off the water supply.• Disconnect the water inlet linefrom the water valve.• Drain water from the inlet lineand water valve. (Use a pan tocatch the water.)• Reconnect the water inlet line tothe water valve.• Remove the plastic pump coverin the tub bottom and use asponge to soak up water inthe rubber boot.Built-in Dishwashers Often Use an Air Gap. Keep It Clean.An air gap is a plumbing device.It protects your dishwasher againstwater backing up into it if a drainclogs. The air gap is not a part ofthe dishwasher. And you may noteven have one. Not all plumbingcodes require air gaps.Check the air gap any time yourdishwasher isn’t draining well.If you have an air gap, check it atleast once a month. IT IS NOTPART OF YOUR DISHWASHER.IT IS NOT COVERED IN YOURWARRANTY.The air gap is easy to clean.With most types, first turn off thedishwasher, then lift off the chromecover. Then unscrew the plastic capand check for any buildup of grit.A toothpick makes cleaning easy.Two Types of Air GapsPump Cover Screws