Dishwasher Buying Guide
Posted on September 10, 2020 By Alison P
Dishwashers are an efficient and convenient way to get your dishes clean, and if you're getting ready to bring a new dishwasher into your home, we're here to help you make the right choice. Our dishwasher buying guide itemizes the most important features for this appliance, helping you to determine exactly what you want and making it easy to choose the perfect model. Let's get started!
Dishwasher Size
The dimensions of a standard 24 inch dishwasher are 24" deep x 24" wide x 35" high, but there are some variations available for different sized spaces:
Even with these variances, there's not a terribly large size range for dishwashers, so it should be easy to find something that fits in your existing dishwasher space.
Be sure to double-check your measurements with a tape measure before you start shopping. Measuring the total size of the space is easiest if your old dishwasher has already been removed, but it can still be done if the dishwasher is still in place. Just measure the front to get the height and width, then find the depth by measuring over the countertop above your dishwasher.
Cleaning Power
Dishwashers offer a variety of cleaning cycles, so think about which ones you'll need most often in your day-to-day life:
- If heavy cooking is something that happens frequently in your kitchen, a dishwasher with "Heavy Soil" and "Pots and Pans" cycles is a total necessity
- If you don't cook elaborate meals that often, or you just live in a small household with a low volume of dishes, a model with a "Top-Rack Only" option is a good choice for taking care of smaller loads
- If you frequently host dinner parties, make sure a "China/Stemware" wash cycle is on the features list
- If you've got a baby or small children in your home, a "Sanitize" cycle will definitely come in handy
A dishwasher only really has one job, so make sure it's got the features you need to get the job done!
Efficiency
In addition to being better for the planet, an efficient dishwasher has a positive effect on your energy costs, and there are many ways to factor efficiency into your dishwasher selection. An Energy Star dishwasher means it's at least 12% more efficient than a non-certified model, and that it exceeds federal efficiency standards. When it comes to water usage, you can make comparisons by checking a model's specs to see average gallons per cycle. In addition to overall efficiency, many dishwashers include additional green features:
- An "Energy-Saver" cleaning cycle is available on many models, which means dishes dry with an air-dry cycle rather than the heating element
- Many dishwashers offer a "Delayed Start" feature, allowing you to go easy on your home's energy consumption by setting it to operate during a time when hot water isn't a hot commodity in your home
Volume
Don't underestimate the importance of noise level when it comes to your dishwasher - a few decibels can make a huge difference. A typical dishwasher usually runs at decibel levels in the 50s, but some higher-end models like Bosch dishwashers can go as low as the 30s. Be sure to take into account the importance of the dishwasher's noise level during a wash cycle. How large is your living space? How close is your living room to your kitchen? Is your home in a location with lots of ambient noise, or is it a very quiet area where a noisy appliance will be noticed? Most dishwashers, including the most quiet dishwashers, have their decibel rating included in the product information to help you make a sound decision.
Load Capacity
Dishwasher capacity isn't just about size - it's about versatility. You'll need to accommodate a variety of different items like dishes, glasses, cutlery, cookware and beyond, so be sure to take a look at the dishwasher's interior features. Are the tines on the racks collapsible to accommodate large pots and pans? Can the cutlery racks be removed? Would you prefer a 3rd rack dishwasher instead of a model with the usual two? Making sure you get what you need as far as capacity means being ready to tackle any volume of dishes for the lifetime of your dishwasher.
Technology
Finding a dishwasher with the latest technology is a great way to future-proof your purchase:
- One feature to look for is WiFi connection, also called a smart dishwasher. Many dishwashers can connect to your home's WiFi network and can be controlled via a smartphone app. You'll be able to monitor the status of your wash cycle, receive notification when a load is done, and get alerts about any technical problems.
- Another great technological feature available on many dishwasher models is a soil sensor. This is an interior light that beams through the water during the wash cycle to measure the density of debris. The dishwasher then self-adjusts time, water volume, and water temperature as necessary for an efficient wash that still gets the job done.
- A simple technological feature that can make a big difference is interior LED lighting. Many models offer this feature for clear viewing of every corner of your dishwasher's interior, making loading and unloading even easier.
A dishwasher is a big investment, and knowing about all the available technological features means getting the most from your purchase for years to come.
Appearance
Once you've decided what you want as far as necessary technical features, it's okay to get superficial. Choosing a dishwasher with a look that blends in with your kitchen decor is certainly an important step. As far as color, dishwashers are available in a range of finishes; the two most popular are white and stainless steel, but there are plenty of other options like black, bisque, or black stainless. There are also panel ready dishwashers, which allow you to customize it and make it blend in with existing cabinetry in your kitchen.
Dishwasher handle styles are also something to take into consideration:
- A towel bar handle dishwasher is the type that's shaped like a regular towel bar and protrudes from the door, while a recessed handle is the type that seems to be carved into the dishwasher's door, usually along the entire width
- A scoop handle is the smallest of all; it's a hand-sized pocket handle dishwasher , also known as a scoop handle, is the smallest and most low-profile on the front of the door that offers the sleekest and most low-profile look
There are also different control panel styles:
- A front-facing control panel means the buttons are right on the front of the door, making the controls very accessible
- An integrated control panel means the buttons are located along the top of the door, keeping them hidden from view for a cleaner look
Once you've made your decisions on style, function and looks, it's time to begin shopping for the dishwasher of your dreams. Shop dishwashers on sale today!