KitchenAid Model KDTE254ESS1

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 has proper electrical and plumbing connections.
  2. Remove Shipping Materials: Remove all protective packaging, shipping bolts, and tape from the dishwasher.
  3. Connect Water Supply: Connect hot water supply line to the water inlet valve. Use only new braided stainless steel hoses.
  4. Connect Drain Hose: Route the drain hose to the sink drain or garbage disposal with a high loop to prevent backflow.
  5. Electrical Connection: Connect to a properly grounded 120V, 60Hz, dedicated circuit. Follow local electrical codes.
  6. Level the Dishwasher: Adjust the leveling legs to ensure the dishwasher is level from front to back and side to side.
  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
Power Requirements 120V, 60Hz, 15A
Dimensions (HxWxD) 34.5 x 23.75 x 24.25 inches
Weight 105 lbs
Wash Cycles 6 Wash Cycles

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 clean dishes thoroughly the first time, every time.

Third Level Rack

Additional upper rack provides extra space for utensils, spatulas, and other small items, maximizing loading capacity.

Hard Food Disposer

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

FreeFlex™ Third Rack

Adjustable third rack with fold-down tines provides flexible loading options for various utensil sizes and types.

Stainless Steel Interior

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

Quiet Operation

Advanced sound insulation and precision engineering deliver quiet operation at just 44 dBA.

Wash Cycles Explained

ProWash

Automated cycle that senses soil level and adjusts for optimal cleaning

Heavy

Intensive cleaning for pots, pans, and heavily soiled dishes

Normal

Standard wash cycle for everyday dishes with normal soil

Light

Quick wash for lightly soiled dishes and glassware

Rinse Only

Rinses dishes without detergent to prevent drying of food particles

China/Crystal

Gentle cycle for delicate china, crystal, and fine glassware

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Solution
Dishwasher won't start Power issue, door not closed properly Check power supply, ensure door is latched completely
Poor cleaning results Overloading, wrong detergent, incorrect loading Reduce load size, use correct detergent, ensure proper loading
Water not draining Drain hose clogged or kinked Check drain hose for obstructions or kinks, clean filter
Leaking water Door not sealed, overfilling, loose connections Check door seal, ensure proper detergent amount, check connections
Unusual noises Foreign objects in spray arms, improper loading Check for foreign objects, reload dishes properly
Dishes not drying Rinse aid empty, high humidity, plastic items Refill rinse aid, use heated dry option, separate plastic items

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

KDTE254ESS1

Built-In Dishwasher with ProWash

KDTE254GSS1

Built-In Dishwasher with Third Rack

KDTM354ESS1

Built-In Dishwasher with Top Control

KDTE204KPS1

Built-In Dishwasher with PrintShield

Popular Previous Models

KUDK03CTSS1

Built-In Dishwasher with FreeFlex

KUDE48FXSS1

Built-In Dishwasher with CrystalDry

KDFE104DSS1

Built-In Dishwasher with Hard Food Disposer

KDTE104DSS1

Built-In Dishwasher with Third Level Rack

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