A Dishwasher Buying Guide: 9 Features You Shouldn't Overlook

A dishwasher is no longer a luxury appliance but a necessity in modern kitchens. Not only does it spare you time and effort, but it even conserves water and energy compared to manually washing dishes. However, with countless dishwasher models and features available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect one for your needs. 

To help you have an informed decision, we have compiled a list of top features to consider when purchasing a dishwasher.

1.Size and Capacity

Dishwashers come in various sizes and capacities, so measuring the available space in your kitchen before purchasing one is essential. Standard dishwashers are usually 24 inches wide, while compact models are 18 inches wide. Ensure enough clearance for the dishwasher door to open and close without obstructions.

The capacity of a dishwasher refers to the number of place settings it can accommodate. A standard dishwasher can hold up to 12-14 place settings, while a compact model can hold 8-10 place settings. Consider a dishwasher with a higher capacity if you have a huge family or frequently host gatherings.

2. Interior Flexibility

A dishwasher's interior layout and flexibility are essential factors to deal with when choosing the perfect model for your needs. Look for a dishwasher with adjustable and foldable racks that accommodate various sizes and shapes of dishes, pots, and pans. Some dishwashers have specialised features such as dedicated knife holders, bottle wash jets, or stemware holders.

A third rack is another valuable feature found in many modern dishwashers. This additional rack at the dishwasher's top is perfect for flat items such as utensils, small bowls, and lids, freeing up valuable space on the lower racks for more oversized items.

Additionally, check out these other features that you might also consider: 

• Height-adjustable Upper Rack: You can raise or lower the rack to make room for tall items on the bottom or top rack.
• Stemware Holders: Securely hold wine glasses and other delicate stemware during the wash cycle.
• Utensil Basket or Tray: Provides dedicated space for utensils, helping to prevent nesting and ensuring proper cleaning.

3. Noise Level

A quiet dishwasher is essential, especially if your kitchen is adjacent to your living or dining area. Dishwasher noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). The average noise level for dishwashers ranges from 40 to 60 dB. 

For reference, a quiet conversation is about 50 dB, while a whisper is around 30 dB. A difference of 3 dB in the noise level is usually noticeable. Find a dishwasher with a noise level of 45 dB or lower for a quieter operation.

4. Energy Efficiency

An energy-efficient dishwasher saves you money on your utility bills and helps reduce your carbon footprint. Dishwashers that are designed to be more energy-efficient and use less water than standard models. 

These dishwashers use innovative technologies like soil sensors, improved water filtration, and efficient jets to minimise water and energy consumption. 

5. Wash Cycles and Options

Different dishwashers offer various wash cycles and options, allowing you to customise the cleaning process based on the dishes type and amount you need to clean. 

Some typical wash cycles include:

• Auto or Smart Wash: Adjusts the water temperature, pressure, and duration based on the load's soil level.
• Heavy or Pots & Pans: Designed for heavily soiled items, like pots, pans, and casserole dishes.
• Normal: Ideal for everyday loads with an average amount of soil.
• Quick or Express: Cleans lightly soiled dishes in less time.
• Delicate or Glass: Uses lower water pressure and temperature for fragile items like glassware and fine china.

Additionally, many dishwashers offer extra options like:

• Delay Start: You can set the dishwasher to start later, which can help take advantage of off-peak energy rates.
• Sanitize: Increase the water temperature during the final rinse to kill bacteria and ensure a thorough cleaning.
• Half-load: Ideal for washing smaller loads without wasting water and energy.
• Extra Dry: Increases the drying time and temperature to ensure dishes come out completely dry and ready to put away.

6. Drying Performance

Drying performance is essential to a dishwasher, as nobody wants to put away wet or damp dishes. Various drying methods are used in dishwashers, including:

• Heated Dry: Uses a heating element to evaporate the moisture. While effective, this method can consume more energy and potentially damage plastic items if placed too close to the heating element.
• Fan Dry: Uses a fan to circulate air and evaporate moisture. This method is more energy-efficient than heated dry and is less likely to damage plastic items. However, it may not be less effective at drying dishes ultimately.
• Condensation Dry: Relies on the heat generated during the wash cycle to evaporate moisture. This method is energy-efficient and gentle on delicate items, but it may take longer for dishes to dry, and not all dishwashers offer this option.
• Door-assisted Dry: Open the dishwasher door slightly after the wash cycle to allow moisture to escape. This method can be combined with other drying options to improve drying performance.

7. Smart Features

Many modern dishwashers come with smart features that can make your life easier. Some dishwashers can be connected to your smartphone or smart home system, allowing you to start, stop, or monitor the progress of your dishwasher remotely. Other smart features include soil sensors, which can automatically set the wash cycle based on the dirt on your dishes, and leak sensors, which detect and stop potential water leaks before they become a significant issue.

Although these smart features can be convenient and helpful, they may also increase the overall cost of the dishwasher. Consider your preferences and budget when deciding whether smart features are necessary for your dishwasher.

8. Price and Warranty

Dishwasher prices can range from a few hundred dollars for basic models to over a thousand dollars for high-end models with advanced features. Know your budget and the features that are most necessary to you when choosing a dishwasher. 

Additionally, check the warranty guaranteed by the manufacturer, as this can ensure you peace of mind in case of any problems with the appliance. Most dishwashers come with a one-year warranty, but some manufacturers provides extended warranties for an additional cost.

9. Customer Support

Customer support is an vital factor to consider when purchasing a dishwasher. A responsive and helpful customer support personnel can make the process of installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting much more manageable.

Check the manufacturer's reputation for customer service, read customer reviews, and ensure they have a dedicated support team available through phone, email, or chat to support you with any dishwasher queries. A good customer support system can save you money, time, and stress in the long run.

The Different Types of Dishwashers 

With many available options, choosing the suitable dishwasher for your home can be daunting. 

Here is a quick guide to the various types of dishwashers, their features, and their advantages and disadvantages.

Built-In Dishwashers

The most typical type of dishwasher is the built-in dishwasher, which is permanently installed under the kitchen countertop. These appliances are hooked to the plumbing system and are always ready to use. 

Built-in dishwashers come in two standard sizes - 24 inches and 18 inches. The 24-inch dishwasher is the most popular size and can accommodate 12-16 place settings, while the 18-inch dishwasher is smaller and is suitable for smaller kitchens or households with fewer people.

Advantages:

• Seamless integration into your kitchen cabinetry
• Wide range of models, features, and price points
• No need to connect and disconnect hoses before and after use

Disadvantages:

• Requires professional installation
• Takes up valuable cabinet space in your kitchen

Portable Dishwashers

Portable dishwashers are an excellent option for those who need more space for a built-in dishwasher or for those who rent and cannot make permanent modifications to their kitchen. These freestanding units are equipped with wheels, allowing you to roll them in and out of storage as needed. Portable dishwashers connect to the kitchen faucet using a hose and adapter, and the wastewater is drained directly into the sink.

Advantages:

• No professional installation is required
• Can be moved and stored effortlessly when not in use
• Can be quickly taken along when moving to a new home

Disadvantages:

• Takes up floor space when in use
• Limited capacity compared to built-in models
• May not match the aesthetics of your kitchen

Countertop Dishwashers

Countertop dishwashers, or compact or tabletop dishwashers, are small appliances that sit on your kitchen counter and connect to your kitchen faucet for water supply. They are perfect for small kitchens, apartments, or offices with limited space. 

Countertop dishwashers typically hold around six place settings and are available in tons of designs and finishes to complement your kitchen décor.

Advantages:

• Space-saving design
• Easy installation and setup
• Energy and water-efficient

Disadvantages:

• Limited capacity compared to larger models
• Takes up valuable counter space
• May require frequent refilling of detergent and rinse aid

Drawer Dishwashers

Drawer dishwashers are a relatively new addition to the dishwasher market and are designed for flexibility and convenience. They are available as single or double-drawer units and can be installed at distinct heights to suit your needs. 

Single-drawer dishwashers are perfect for small households or as a secondary dishwashers. In contrast, double-drawer units can be used independently or simultaneously, allowing you to wash smaller loads more frequently.

Advantages:

• Ergonomic design for easy loading and unloading
• Customizable installation options
• Can wash smaller loads more efficiently

Disadvantages:

• Higher price point compared to other dishwasher types
• Limited capacity in each drawer
• May not be suitable for large or bulky items
• Dishwasher-In-Sink

The dishwasher-in-sink is a unique and innovative appliance that combines a dishwasher and a sink into one unit. This space-saving design is perfect for tiny homes, small apartments, or kitchens with limited cabinet space. The dishwasher-in-sink features a compact washing chamber that fits neatly inside the sink when not in use, and its lid doubles as a cutting board.

Advantages:

• Space-saving design
• Easy to install and use
• Can be used in kitchens with limited cabinet space

Disadvantages:

• Limited capacity compared to other dishwasher types
• May not accommodate large pots and pans
• The sink cannot be used while the dishwasher is in operation
• Integrated Dishwashers

Integrated dishwashers are similar to built-in appliances, but they are constructed to blend seamlessly with your kitchen cabinetry. They come with a custom panel that matches your cabinets, making them virtually invisible when closed. Integrated dishwashers can be fully integrated, with controls installed on the top edge of the door, or semi-integrated, with controls visible on the front panel.

Advantages:

• Aesthetically pleasing, as they blend with your cabinetry
• Wide range of features and options available
• Can accommodate up to 12-14 place settings (standard 24-inch models)

Disadvantages:

• Requires professional installation
• Not portable
• Can be more expensive than traditional built-in models
• Tips to Make the Best Out of Your Dishwasher

Load It Properly

To maximize your dishwasher's cleaning potential, arrange dishes so that they don't overlap or block the spray arms. Place larger items like pots and pans on the bottom rack, facing downward, and smaller items like cups and bowls on the top rack, facing upward. This positioning ensures better water circulation and a more thorough clean.

Use High-quality Detergent

Investing in a good quality dishwasher detergent can make a world of difference in the cleanliness of your dishes. Look for products specifically designed for your dishwasher type (i.e., hard water or soft water) and follow the recommended dosage to avoid residue buildup.

Maintain the Dishwasher

Regularly clean the dishwasher filter, spray arms, and door seals to prevent clogs and odors. Also, run an empty hot cycle with a dishwasher cleaner every few months to keep the interior fresh and free of limescale and mineral deposits.

Use Rinse Aid

Rinse aid not only helps dishes dry faster but also prevents water spots and streaks. Be sure to refill the rinse aid dispenser as needed to maintain optimal performance.

Opt for Energy-saving Settings

Most modern dishwashers offer energy-saving settings such as 'eco' or 'auto' modes, which adjust the water temperature and cycle length to ensure efficiency. Additionally, air-drying your dishes instead of using the heated dry setting can save energy and prolong the life of your dishwasher.

Conclusion

Purchasing a dishwasher can be a significant investment that simplifies your daily life and contributes to a more efficient and eco-friendly home. It is vital to consider factors to ensure that you make a good decision that fits your specific needs and preferences. By understanding the differences between built-in, portable, and countertop dishwashers and analyzing factors like the wash cycle options, loading capacity, and performance, you can make a well-rounded decision to find the perfect dishwasher for your home. A comprehensive dishwasher buying guide is vital to a wise investment in a suitable appliance that will serve you for years while making your home life more convenient, efficient, and enjoyable.

Howards Electrical Ltd has established itself as a trusted and reputable family-run independent retail company since its inception in 2001. With over two decades as one of the appliances shops in the UK, our company has proven its commitment to offering high-quality products and services to its customers. Whether you're considering to upgrade your kitchen appliances or simply browsing for inspiration, check out our impressive collection today.