KitchenAid Dishwasher KDTE254ESS2

User Manual & Installation Guide

Built-in Dishwasher

Installation Guide

Tools Needed:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Level
  • Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
  • Pliers
  • Tape measure
  • Pipe cutter

Step-by-Step Installation

  1. Prepare Installation Area: Ensure cabinet opening meets required dimensions and is level, clean, and dry.
  2. Remove Shipping Materials: Remove all protective films, tapes, and shipping bolts from the dishwasher.
  3. Connect Water Supply: Connect hot water supply line to the water inlet valve using approved water supply line.
  4. Connect Drain Hose: Route drain hose to drain connection with high loop to prevent backflow into dishwasher.
  5. Electrical Connection: Connect to dedicated 120V, 60Hz, 15-amp circuit with proper grounding. Follow local codes.
  6. Position and Secure: Slide dishwasher into opening, level the unit, and secure to countertop and cabinets.
  7. Test Operation: Run the dishwasher through a complete cycle to check for leaks and proper operation.
Warning: All installations must be performed by a qualified installer to ensure proper operation and maintain warranty coverage.

Specifications

Model Number KDTE254ESS2
Type Built-in Dishwasher
Color Stainless Steel
Place Settings 14 Place Settings
Noise Level 44 dBA
Control Type Hidden Touch Controls with LED Display
Energy Rating ENERGY STAR® Certified
Water Consumption 2.9 gallons per cycle (Normal Wash)
Power Requirements 120V, 60Hz, 15A
Dimensions (HxWxD) 33.75 x 23.56 x 22.56 inches
Weight 95 lbs
Wash Cycles 5 Wash Cycles + 5 Options

Warranty Information

  • Full Warranty: 1 year parts and labor
  • Extended Warranty: 5 years on stainless steel tub and door liner
  • Additional Coverage: Optional extended warranty available

For warranty service, contact KitchenAid Customer Service at 1-800-422-1230 or visit KitchenAid.com

Key Features

ProWash™ Cycle

Automatically adjusts water temperature, wash time, and spray arm motion to deliver optimal cleaning performance for each load.

Third Level Rack

Additional top rack provides extra space for utensils, small plates, and cooking tools, increasing loading flexibility.

FreeFlex™ Third Rack

Adjustable third rack with fold-down tines allows for customized loading of various sized items and awkward shapes.

Stainless Steel Interior

Durable stainless steel tub resists stains, odors, and chipping while providing superior cleaning performance.

Hard Food Disposer

Built-in hard food disposer eliminates the need for pre-rinsing by grinding up food particles during the wash cycle.

Quiet Operation

Advanced sound insulation and precision engineering deliver quiet 44 dBA operation for peaceful kitchen environment.

Wash Cycles Explained

ProWash

Automatically adjusts for optimal cleaning of everyday loads

Heavy

Intensive cleaning for pots, pans, and heavily soiled items

Normal

Standard cleaning for everyday dishes and tableware

Light

Quick wash for lightly soiled dishes and glassware

Rinse Only

Rinses dishes without detergent to prevent drying

Sanitize

High-temperature wash that reduces 99.9% of bacteria

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Solution
Dishwasher won't start Power issue, door not latched properly Check power supply, ensure door is closed completely and latched
Poor cleaning results Overloading, wrong detergent, spray arms blocked Rearrange load, use recommended detergent, check spray arm rotation
Water not draining Drain hose clogged, filter blocked Check drain hose for obstructions, clean filter assembly
Leaking water Door not sealed, overfilling, loose connections Check door gasket, ensure proper detergent amount, check connections
Unusual noises Foreign objects in pump, spray arms hitting dishes Check for foreign objects, rearrange load properly
Dishes not drying Rinse aid empty, high humidity drying option selected Refill rinse aid, select heated dry option

Error Codes

  • F1E1: Water supply issue - Check water supply and inlet valve
  • F2E1: Drain issue - Check drain hose and pump
  • F3E1: Heating issue - Check heating element and thermostat
  • F4E1: Temperature sensor issue - Contact service center
  • F5E1: Door switch issue - Ensure door is fully closed
  • F7E1: Motor control issue - Contact service center

Manual Downloads

Current Model Manuals

KDTE254ESS2

Built-in Dishwasher with ProWash

KDTE254ESS1

Built-in Dishwasher with Third Rack

KDTE254ESS0

Built-in Dishwasher Stainless Steel

KDTE254ESS3

Built-in Dishwasher with FreeFlex Rack

Popular Previous Models

KDTE204ESS2

Built-in Dishwasher 24-inch

KDTM354ESS2

Top Control Dishwasher

KDFE104ESS2

Front Control Dishwasher

KDTE334ESS2

Built-in Dishwasher with Hard Food Disposer

Note: For models not listed here, please visit the KitchenAid Support Website for complete documentation.