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 breaks down the most important features for this appliance, and when you're ready to start shopping, you can be sure that P.C. Richard & Son will have the perfect dishwasher for you at the guaranteed lowest price!

Size

The standard dishwasher size is 24" wide x 24" deep x 35" high, but there are some variations available for different sized spaces:

  • Some models are built slightly smaller - usually between 17" and 18" wide - as a way to save space in smaller kitchens.
  • Some models are built slightly larger to accommodate heavier dish loads.
Dishwashers

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 options 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!

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 qualified 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 feature

  • An "Energy-Saver" cleaning cycle is available on many models, which means dishes dry with an air dry cycle instead of drying by use of 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.
Dishwashers Decibel Ranges

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, while some higher-end models 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 have their decibel rating included in the product information, allowing you to easily 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? Are bottle jets included? Would you prefer a model with three racks instead of 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. 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 d‚cor is certainly an important step.

Dishwashers Tedchnology

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 types of dishwashers that are custom-panel ready, if you want it to blend in with existing cabinetry in your kitchen.

Dishwasher handle styles are also something to take into consideration:

  • A bar handle 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 on the front of the door that offers the sleekest and most low-profile look.

Look at the handle styles on your other kitchen appliances and find the one that matches best.

There are also different control panel styles to choose from:

  • 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. Get started now!