Dishwashers

It's a rare household that doesn't have a dishwasher today. The question is not, "Should we buy a dishwasher?" but rather, "Which dishwasher should we buy?" That's a good question and one that is not easy to answer.

Types of Dishwashers

These are the various types of dishwashers:

Traditional Built-in

We will start with these because the built-in dishwasher is by far the largest selling type of dishwasher. Regardless of brand or model, these are built to a standardized size. Whether you need a new dishwasher in an older kitchen or are getting a new kitchen built, a new built-in dishwasher will fit into the same 60cm space.

Compact Built-in

These are ideal for singles or couples who wash a limited amount of dishes or for small kitchens where space is at a premium. They are roughly half as tall as a traditional built-in. Most kitchen designers add a pot drawer below the dishwasher to fill in the space.

Under Bench

Under Bench dishwashers fit into a similar 60cm space as built-ins. The difference is that these rest on the floor and are portable. These are preferred by renters and apartment dwellers who anticipate moving frequently.

Drawer

The drawer style dishwasher is a variation on the traditional built-in. Instead of just having one dishwasher door, it has two drawers. This clever innovation gives the dishwasher more versatility. Instead of wasting resources washing a small load in a large dishwasher or waiting until it has been filled, you can wash a small load in a single drawer.

Counter Top

These are economical dishwashers that stand on the countertop. They have the same capacity as a compact built-in. They must be attached to the sink faucet before use. These are becoming increasingly popular with renters, since they are even more portable than under bench models, but many homeowners with smaller families choose them, too.

Features

There are three basic kinds of dishwashers on the market - inexpensive, more expensive and expensive. Inexpensive dishwashers do not do an inferior job of cleaning - they just have fewer features. If you want quieter performance or a stainless steel interior, you will need a more expensive dishwasher. If you want these plus digital electronic controls and displays, lots of washing cycle options and other customizable features, then you will be looking for an expensive dishwasher.

Aside from convenience, dishwashers in every price range have advantages over washing by hand. For one thing, they wash dishes at scalding temperatures up to 74 degrees Centigrade (165 Fahrenheit). For another, and this comes as a surprise to many people, they use less water than hand washing requires. As for energy conservation and efficiency, whatever the price range, some are more energy efficient than others. Look for the ratings star labels and get an energy efficient model if possible.

These are some of the features to look for in dishwashers:

Adjustable/flexible racks and holders

All dishwashers should at least come with some customizable features. Adjustable and removable silverware holders, adjustable racks, folding tines and other features allow you to more efficiently fill the dishwasher.

Filters

Every dishwasher will have a filter. Look for a self-cleaning filter if you can find one or make it a point to clean the filter regularly.

Rinse/Wash/Hold Cycling

Most dishwashers come with some flexibility in their wash cycling options. Look for at least light, medium and heavy duty load options. Even better, a Hold feature allows you to give pots and pans or a few dishes accumulated during the day a rinse in order to eliminate odours. Then the cycle starts again when the dishwasher is full. Another handy feature to look for is the Fast Wash cycle for lightly soiled or pre-rinsed dishes. 

Interior Liners and Tubs 

Dishwashers come with plastic, porcelain or stainless steel liners and tubs. Stainless steel and porcelain interiors are more expensive than plastic. If you choose a dishwasher with a plastic liner, try to avoid the lighter coloured models. These become discoloured over time. Speckled grey plastic will retain a better appearance over time and not look faded, discoloured or stained. If you like to use very hot water, then choose stainless steel or porcelain: they stand up to hot water better than plastic.

Other, more advanced features include quick dry fan assistance, electronic controls, delayed start timers, cycle indicators and others features that will appeal to some consumers. Dirt sensors are available on some models, as well. These automatically detect how dirty the dishes are and make adjustments to the water temperature and volume accordingly.

Dishwasher Styles

Even if you are purchasing an inexpensive dishwasher, you are not limited to a standard white dishwasher front. They now come in a variety of colours and styles. Even sleek stainless steel look front panels are available in less expensive models, though you will pay more for genuine stainless front panels. Also available on more expensive dishwashers is the increasingly popular titanium finish.

Integrated front panel dishwashers are a very popular choice today. These are designed to house a full length panel that matches your kitchen door and drawer fronts. There are also semi-integrated models that have a facility for integration below the controls. It is best to choose one of these only if you are building a new kitchen or having your existing kitchen refaced. Otherwise you may have trouble getting an exact colour match.

If you like a sleek, modern dishwasher front, then look for controls that are hidden in the lip of the dishwasher door. Expect to pay more for these controls.

Some Final Tips

You don't need to pay more for a dishwasher in order to get a machine that will give you sparkling clean results. Even models in the $400 range wash dishes efficiently, look great and are long lasting. If you want more features, a quieter wash or stainless steel, then you will have to pay more. Let your budget be your guide. With so many brands and styles to choose from, you will find a dishwasher that will serve you well, no matter what its cost.