Manual for KDFM404KPS

Manual for KDFM404KPS

Brand: KitchenAid

Category: Dishwasher

Document Type: Manual

Language: EN

Available Languages: EN , ES

Uploaded: Nov. 21, 2025, 7:39 p.m.

Manual Publish Date: 2019-07-01

Warranty Information

This limited warranty covers parts and labor for the first year, and specific parts for the next four years, with a lifetime warranty on the stainless steel tub and inner door liner.

Preparing and Loading the Dishwasher

  1. Remove food scraps, bones, and other hard items from dishes. Remove labels from containers.
  2. Ensure no items block the detergent dispenser when the door is closed.
  3. Load items with soiled surfaces facing down and inward towards the spray arms. Angle dirtiest surfaces downward, allowing space for water flow.
  4. Avoid overlapping items. Place plastics, small plates, and glasses in the upper rack.
  5. Wash only "dishwasher safe" items.
  6. Load items so they don't touch to avoid rattling. Secure lightweight items.
  7. Use slots and suggested patterns for silverware separation.

Checking Spray Arms

Ensure items in the rack do not block the spray arms.

Adding Detergent

  1. Use pre-measured tablets or packs for best results.
  2. Add detergent just before starting a cycle.
  3. Use automatic dishwasher detergent only. Store tightly closed in a cool, dry place.
  4. To open the dispenser lid, push OPEN and slide it open.
  5. Place detergent in the dispenser, close the lid firmly until it clicks.

Adding Rinse Aid

  1. Rinse aid is essential for good drying performance.
  2. Open the dispenser lid by gently pushing the center and lifting the edge.
  3. Pour rinse aid until the indicator shows full.
  4. Close the dispenser lid.
  5. Adjust the arrow adjuster to a higher number if drying performance is poor.

Selecting a Cycle

Dishwashers run longer to save water and energy. Select a cycle appropriate for your load. Close the door firmly and touch START to repeat the same cycle or select a new one.

Selecting Options

Customize cycles by selecting desired options. Touch the option keypad again to turn it off. Not all options are available for every cycle.

Starting or Resuming a Cycle

  1. If needed, run hot water at the nearest sink until hot, then turn off water.
  2. With the door firmly closed, touch START.
  3. If the door is opened for more than a few seconds after the cycle starts, touch START again after closing the door to resume.

Following Dishwasher Progress

The display indicates cycle progress (Washing, Drying, Clean, Sanitized). The Clean light will be lit when the cycle is complete.

Troubleshooting and error codes

IF YOU EXPERIENCE RECOMMENDED SOLUTIONS
The Clean light is flashing Check the following: Was the cycle interrupted? Touch START/RESUME and close the door within 4 seconds. Is the overfill protection float able to move up and down freely? Press down to release. Be sure the water supply is turned on to the dishwasher. Check for suds in the dishwasher.
Dishes do not dry completely NOTE: Plastic and items with nonstick surfaces are difficult to dry. Towel drying may be necessary. Use of rinse aid along with the Heat Dry option is needed for proper drying. Proper loading of items can affect drying. For improved results, place items on the more slanted side of the rack. Glasses and cups with concave bottoms hold water. Unload the bottom rack first.
Spotting/Filming NOTES: Liquid rinse aid is necessary for drying and to reduce spotting. Use the correct amount of detergent. Confirm that the cloudiness is removable by soaking the item in white vinegar for 5 minutes. If it disappears, it is due to hard water. Adjust detergent and rinse aid. If it does not come clear, it is due to etching. Be sure the incoming water temperature is set at 120°F (49°C). Try using Hi-Temp Wash or Sani Rinse.
Dishwasher does not clean completely Be sure the dishwasher is loaded correctly. Check filter and water intake screen. Select the proper cycle. Ensure incoming water temperature is at least 120°F (49°C). Use proper amount of fresh detergent. Scrape food from dishes. If foam or suds are detected, the dishwasher may not operate properly. Suds can come from: Incorrect detergent type. Not replacing rinse aid dispenser cap. Excessive detergent.
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