Just 40 years ago a dishwasher in the kitchen was considered a luxury. In today's busy world it's almost a necessity. Getting the dishes done among all of the other household chores is easily checked off the list more efficiently than hand-washing. By simply loading, unloading, and allowing the dishwasher to do the hard work in between, the dishes are back in the cabinet in as little as 60 minutes while using less water and energy than hand-washing.
Getting Started
Choosing the right dishwasher among the sea of choices can be daunting. Evolving technology and new manufacturers entering the dishwasher market have given consumers more choices than ever. Standard dishwashers are 24" wide, 35" high, and 24" deep. Compact models are as small as 18" wide. The color options are generally black, white, bisque and stainless steel. For a custom look, cover panels for a standard dishwasher in various colors, even chalkboard finish, can add interest or blend in. There are numerous new features available that make a dishwasher indispensable.
The Types of Dishwashers Available
- Built-in These models are the traditional, mounted under the counter, style found in most kitchens. Built-ins offer the most capacity for dishes. They are permanently mounted, therefore require plumbing installation.
- Double or Single Drawer The washer doors pull out like a utensil drawer for easy loading and unloading. They are two independent units making it more convenient to run a small load, but are just as effective as a traditional dishwasher. Drawers also allow for two independent cycles, such as delicate and normal. If space is at a premium, there are single drawer options available.
- Counter-top/Portable These are a great option for renters and travelers because they can be packed up and moved. They are also useful in a kitchen with no cabinet space to install a built-in dishwasher. Surprisingly, they use less water than hand-washing, on average about 2 to 3 gallons per load. They are temporarily connected to a sink, but blast the dishes with similar power as a traditional dishwasher.
- Freestanding/Portable This type of dishwasher is also a great option for small kitchens with limited cabinet space. They feature casters to easily store away when not in use. These washers can offer exceptional efficiency with an array of features similar to built-in models without requiring plumbing installation. A hose from the back of the unit attaches to a sink. While as hard-working as a built-in dishwasher, they can be as expensive, too.
Typical Features
- Add a dish allows you to pause the cycle and add a forgotten item without having to restart the cycle.
- Child lock feature stops someone from starting a cycle or changing the settings.
- Plate warmer cycle warms serving dishes and dinner plates while you are preparing dinner.
- Delicate cycle is a light wash that uses less force so your fine china and crystal aren't damaged.
- Delay start cycle allows you to set the dishwasher cycle, but delay the start from 1-9 hours.
The Brand Names in Dishwashers
Well-known and recommended built-in dishwasher brand names are Bosch, GE Profile, Kenmore Elite, Kitchenaid, Maytag, Miele and Samsung. Fisher Paykel is currently the only company manufacturing drawer style dishwashers. For compact and counter-top dishwashers brands include Danby, Frigidaire, Koldfront, GE and Whirlpool.
Dishwasher Shopping Tips
- Consider new technology such as the waterfall feature that pushes water through the dishwasher in a wall of water rather than with spinning arms.
- Look for the Energy Guide label to learn more about each model's energy savings.
- If efficiency in water usage is important to you, look for a model that uses only 1.5 gallons of water per cycle.
- To save 7% more energy, choose a model that has a no heat drying option.
- Choose a model based on features and reliability rather than brand name to get more for your money and long-term satisfaction.
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