Buying Guide - Dishwashers

Dishwasher Types

Dishwashers are great timesaving devices but did you know that they could also save energy and water better than hand-washing the dishes yourself?

Capacity

Make sure your dishwasher has the capacity to hold the dishes for your family's typical washing needs.

• Will the racks be able to accommodate your bigger pots and pans?
   
• Dishwasher capacities are given in numbers of place settings the unit can hold.
   
• Tall-tub dishwashers are offered, increasing the storage capacity of standard-sized dishwashers up to 14 place settings.
   
• Standard tub dishwashers can hold up to 12 place settings.

Style & Design

Whether you just want a dishwasher that matches your other kitchen appliances or you want one that seamlessly blends with the rest of your interior, the choices offered are varied with different features and functions.

Efficiency

Make sure it will fit!

Feature Glossary

How Quiet?  Advanced models use insulation and other sound-dampening technologies to greatly reduce the noise of the dishwasher.  Often noise levels are given in Decibel (dBA) ratings. The higher the Decibel level, the louder the unit is.

Adjustable Racks can be moved to accommodate your particular loading needs and use space more efficiently.  Great for oversized pots and pans.

Stainless steel dishwasher tubs. These are quieter, easier to maintain and more efficient because the metal reflects heat better than plastic tubs.  Stainless tubs also require lower wattage heating elements and can allow for higher water temperatures.

Electronic controls offer one-touch options for ease of use.

Digital displays clearly show dishwasher functions and progress.

Special Cycle Settings.  Many models offer multiple settings such as normal cycle, light wash, heavy wash, temperature boost, start delay and more depending on the needs of your particular wash.

Sensor Technology.  Some advanced models can actually sense how dirty your dishes are and will automatically run the appropriate cleaning cycle.

Spray arm holes/pressure. Smaller holes can create a finer more powerful spray for greater scrubbing action.  Some models increase the water pressure for more scrubbing power.

Water filtration.  A system that filters water through a very fine mesh helps keep food particles from re-depositing onto clean dishes.

Food Disposer.  Some models eliminate the need for pre-washing by using a disposer to chop foods into tiny particles that are removed with the drain water.

Door/Control lock.  A popular option in homes with small children

Temperature Control - Water temperature is properly balanced ensuring that the detergent dissolves properly and the dishes are washed thoroughly.

Water heating system.  Dishwashers employ a variety of technologies to heat the water to the desired temperatures quickly and efficiently.

Insulation is added to the dishwasher to reduce noise and to improve efficiency.

Rinse Aid. This feature helps improve drying results and reduces spotting an filming

Sanitary Wash Rinse.  This option heats water to temperatures above 150 degrees to remove 99.999% of food soil bacteria from the dishes.

Silverware baskets/drawers.  Sometimes these are moveable allowing you to fit all of your dishes into one load.

Adjustable Tines can accommodate tall glassware or different sizes of cookware and prevent your dishes from getting scratched.

Shop Built-In Dishwashers

Shop Portable Dishwashers