Dishwashers are not only great time-saving devices, but they can also save water and energy over hand-washing the dishes. Hand-washing uses more water than you might think, as does pre-rinsing before loading the dishwasher. Do a little research before buying your next dishwasher — your dishpan hands will thank you.
Types of Dishwashers
Built-in dishwashers are the traditional 24-inch models that most people own, installed below the kitchen counter.
Double-drawer dishwashers can be installed in a traditional built-in space. They offer extra flexibility for both large and small loads.
Single-drawer and compact dishwashers are perfect for bonus areas, like media rooms, wet bars, secondary kitchens or butler’s pantries.
Portable dishwashers are convenient for small or temporary living spaces.
Dishwasher Features
Water Temperature: The key to getting dishes clean is using very hot water. Some dishwashers have a device that raises the temperature of the water coming out of your water heater.
Tub Material: Interior tubs come in different finishes. Stainless steel resists stains and odors; it also transfers heat better for faster drying. Gray or slate-colored tubs resist rust and minimize the appearance of stains. Plastic tubs, which are often found on more affordable dishwashers, are also very durable.
Noise Level: The amount of insulation around the dishwasher tub reduces the noise, so check the thickness of the insulation. Another factor to consider is the decibel level of the dishwasher. This is a standard measure that rates the intensity of sound. A decibel level of 41 to 52 is virtually silent, while a decibel level of 60 or more may disrupt conversation in the kitchen.
Cleanability: A self-cleaning system uses a three-step filtration process to remove even the finest food particles. This allows for cleaner wash water, resulting in sparkling clean dishes with every load.
Cycles: Make sure the dishwasher offers the cycles you need for the types of dishes you have. From pots and pans to fine china and crystal, there's a cycle for just about anything.
- If you wash dishes only once every two or three days, you'll want a rinse-and-hold cycle to prevent buildup.
- The quick-wash cycle can finish a load of lightly-soiled dishes in 30 minutes.
- A sanitizing rinse option kills 99.9% of bacteria. This is great for households with young children or sick family members.
- Some dishwashers offer a cycle that combines steam with a high-temperature rinse to safely remove spots. The high temperature of steam also kills bacteria and sanitizes dishes.
Flexibility: Make sure the rack system allows you to load the dishes easily. Some dishwashers feature fold-down shelving for greater flexibility.
- Adjust the top rack to make room in the bottom rack for oversized dishes and pans.
- Put dinner plates in the top rack. Some adjustable racks can be lowered to provide enough room.
- Remove the top rack so that you can load the bottom rack with stock pots, oven racks or chest coolers.
Energy Savings
Some dishwashers use sensor technology to detect how dirty the dishes are, adjusting the cycle accordingly. This feature prevents water from being wasted. Start the washer with a touch of a button, or use the delay-start timer to begin the load when energy rates are lower.
Choose an ENERGY STAR® qualified dishwasher to get your dishes clean while using less water and energy. You may be eligible for local rebates when buying ENERGY STAR qualified models. This rating is earned by products that meet energy-efficiency requirements established by the Environmental Protection Agency.
For more ways to save with your dishwasher, check out Six Tips to Make Your Dishwasher More Energy-Efficient.
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