KitchenAid Dishwasher Model KDTE254ESS1

User Manual & Installation Guide

Built-In Dishwasher

Installation Guide

Tools Needed:

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

Step-by-Step Installation

  1. Prepare Installation Area: Ensure cabinet opening meets required dimensions and has proper clearance for water and drain connections.
  2. Remove Shipping Materials: Remove all protective packaging, tape, and shipping bolts from the dishwasher.
  3. Connect Water Supply: Connect hot water supply line to the water inlet valve. Use only new braided stainless steel supply lines.
  4. Connect Drain Hose: Route the drain hose through the cabinet opening and connect to the drain system with a high loop to prevent backflow.
  5. Electrical Connection: Connect to a properly grounded 120V, 60Hz, 15A dedicated circuit. Follow local electrical codes.
  6. Position and Level: Slide dishwasher into opening and adjust leveling legs to ensure proper alignment with countertop.
  7. Secure to Countertop: Use mounting brackets to secure the dishwasher to the underside of the countertop.
  8. Test Run: 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 KDTE254ESS1
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 24.25 inches
Weight 105 lbs
Wash Cycles 5 Wash Cycles + 5 Options

Warranty Information

  • Full Warranty: 1 year parts and labor
  • Stainless Steel Tub Warranty: 10 years limited
  • Racks Warranty: 5 years limited
  • 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, amount, and cycle time to the soil level of dishes for optimal cleaning performance.

Third Level Rack

Extra upper rack provides additional space for utensils, measuring spoons, and other small items, increasing loading capacity.

FreeFlex™ Third Rack

Adjustable tines on the third rack allow for flexible loading of various sized utensils and kitchen tools.

Stainless Steel Interior

Stainless steel tub provides superior durability, better drying performance, and resistance to stains and odors.

Hard Food Disposer

Built-in hard food disposer grinds up food particles, eliminating the need to pre-rinse dishes.

Advanced Clean Water Wash System

Multi-filtration system with hard food disposer and fine mesh filter ensures optimal cleaning performance.

Wash Cycles Explained

ProWash

Automated cycle that senses soil level and adjusts for optimal cleaning

Normal Wash

Standard cycle for everyday dishes with normal soil levels

Heavy Wash

Intensive cleaning for pots, pans, and heavily soiled dishes

Light Wash

Quick cycle for lightly soiled dishes and glassware

Rinse Only

Rinses dishes without detergent to prevent drying of food particles

Sanitize

High-temperature cycle that reduces 99.9% of bacteria

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Solution
Dishwasher won't start Power issue, door not closed properly, child lock engaged Check power supply, ensure door is latched completely, check child lock
Poor cleaning results Overloading, wrong detergent, spray arms blocked Load dishes properly, use correct detergent, check spray arms for obstructions
Water not draining Drain hose clogged or kinked, filter blocked Check drain hose for obstructions, clean filter system
Leaking water Door not sealed, overfilling, loose connections Check door seal, ensure proper loading, check water connections
Unusual noises Spray arm hitting dishes, foreign objects in pump Rearrange dishes, check for foreign objects in filter area
Dishes not drying Rinse aid empty, high humidity drying option selected Refill rinse aid, select heated dry option

Error Codes

  • F1/E1: Water supply issue - Check water supply and inlet valve
  • F2/E2: Drain issue - Check drain hose and pump
  • F3/E3: Temperature sensor issue - Contact service center
  • F4/E4: Overflow detected - Check for leaks and water level
  • F5/E5: Heater issue - Contact service center
  • F7/E7: Motor control issue - Contact service center

Manual Downloads

Current Model Manuals

KDTE254ESS1

Built-In Dishwasher with ProWash

KDTE254ESS0

Built-In Dishwasher Black

KDTE254ESS2

Built-In Dishwasher White

KDTM354ESS1

Top Control Dishwasher

Popular Previous Models

KDTE204KPS

Built-In Dishwasher PrintShield

KUDE48FXSS

Elevating Third Rack Dishwasher

KDFE454DSS

Built-In Dishwasher with FreeFlex

KDTE104DSS

Built-In Dishwasher Basic

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