Appliances Review - Dishwasher

TopTenReview

If you haven't upgraded your dishwasher in a while, you'll be surprised how much better newer models can clean your dishes. Many new dishwashers come with innovative features such as third racks, sanitizing options, adjustable racks and other improvements that have increased their functionality.

Dishwashers: What to Look For

When looking for a new dishwasher, you should choose one with the right combination of features, whether you need just the basics or a whole array of cycles and options. The best dishwashers have, above all, excellent washing performance. 

Functionality
Many different features affect cleaning performance. For instance, the number of spray arms, wash cycles and additional wash options on the dishwasher will make a difference. The more cycles and options a dishwasher has, the more alternatives you get for cleaning, sanitizing and drying your dishes. Additionally, a dishwasher with a high place-setting capacity allows you to clean more dishes in a single load. The sound level of the dishwasher is also important – the quietest dishwashers run between 40-46 decibels and are whisper quiet.

Features
Some dishwashers have an overwhelming number of features, while some only have the basics. The more features a dishwasher offers, the more you can customize wash cycles for different loads. Top-rated dishwashers will have advanced features such as a child lock function, variable spray pressure, a sanitize option and a small-load wash cycle.

Efficiency
Optional eco-friendly washing and drying cycles are becoming the norm on the best dishwashers. The washing features will help to conserve energy by using a lower water temperature to clean your dishes without taking away wash performance. The eco-friendly drying options may include a fan and/or air-dry option so the appliance is not using the heating element, which consumes a lot of energy.

Help & Support
When you buy a major appliance like a dishwasher, you want to be certain that it comes with a good warranty. This will give you the peace of mind that if it stops functioning, the manufacturer will come to your aid. The best dishwasher warranties will cover labor for one year, parts for two years, racks and electronics for five years, and the tub and door for a lifetime.

Be sure to buy from a manufacturer that offers customer support for warranty and technical questions by phone, email and online chat. Online frequently asked questions, tutorials and user manuals are also desirable support features.

Swapping your old dishwasher for a new, energy efficient dishwasher won't only help your pocketbook, it will help the environment as well. And your dishes will come out cleaner thanks to the powerful spray arms and advanced sanitizing technology of a new dishwasher.