Dishwasher Buying Guide
Choosing a dishwasher involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Types of Dishwashers
Built-in Dishwashers: Installed under the kitchen counter, these are the most common type.
Portable Dishwashers: Freestanding units that can be moved around. Ideal for homes without built-in spaces.
Drawer Dishwashers: Have one or two drawers that open like kitchen drawers. They can be installed in various locations.
Countertop Dishwashers: Compact and sit on the countertop. Suitable for small kitchens or apartments.
2. Size and Capacity
Standard Size: Typically 24 inches wide and can hold 12-16 place settings.
Compact Size: About 18 inches wide and can hold up to 8 place settings.
Measure Your Space: Ensure the dishwasher fits in the designated space in your kitchen.
3. Energy Efficiency
Look for Energy Star rated models, which use less water and energy.
Consider water consumption and energy use to save on utility bills and reduce environmental impact.
4. Features and Functions
Cycles and Options: Common cycles include normal, heavy, eco, quick, and rinse. Additional options may include sanitizing, steam cleaning, and delicate wash.
Noise Level: Measured in decibels (dB). Quieter models are below 45 dB.
Third Rack: Some models come with a third rack for cutlery and small items, increasing capacity.
Adjustable Racks: Allow flexibility to fit larger pots and pans.
5. Build Quality and Materials
Stainless Steel Tub: More durable, quieter, and resistant to stains compared to plastic tubs.
Exterior Finish: Choose a finish that matches your kitchen decor, such as stainless steel, black, white, or custom panel-ready.
6. Budget
Dishwashers range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Determine your budget and balance desired features with cost.
Consider long-term savings from energy-efficient models.
7. Installation
Professional installation may be required for built-in models. Factor in the cost of installation if not included.
Portable and countertop models typically have simpler installation processes.
8. Special Considerations
Smart Features: Some models offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing remote operation and monitoring via smartphone apps.
Hard Water Compatibility: If you have hard water, look for a model with built-in water softeners.
Summary
Choosing the right dishwasher involves balancing your needs, space, budget, and desired features. By considering the points above, you can find a model that fits well with your kitchen and lifestyle.
The Cycles & Options of Dishwashers
Dishwashers come with various cycles and options designed to handle different types of dishwashing needs. Here are some of the common ones:
Common Dishwasher Cycles
1. Normal Wash
– Suitable for everyday loads with typical amounts of soil. It balances energy and water use.
2. Heavy/Duty/Pots & Pans
– Designed for heavily soiled items like pots, pans, and casserole dishes. It uses higher temperatures and longer cycles.
3. Quick/Rapid Wash
– Provides a faster wash cycle for lightly soiled dishes. Useful when you need clean dishes in a hurry.
4. Eco/Energy-Saving
– Uses less water and energy. It may take longer to complete but is more efficient.
5. Rinse Only
– Rinses dishes to prevent food from drying on them. It doesn’t include a full wash and is used when you plan to run a full load later.
6. Delicate/China
– Uses lower temperatures and gentler washing action for fragile items like china and crystal.
7. Sensor/Auto Wash
– The dishwasher automatically adjusts the cycle time and intensity based on the soil level detected by sensors.
Additional Options
1. Sanitize
– Raises the water temperature to kill bacteria and sanitize dishes. Ideal for baby bottles and cutting boards.
2. Steam Clean
– Uses steam to loosen tough, baked-on food before the main wash cycle.
3. Half Load
– For smaller loads, using less water and energy. You can typically choose whether to wash the upper or lower rack.
4. Extra Dry/Heat Dry
– Enhances the drying performance by increasing the temperature and drying time.
5. High Temperature Wash
– Uses hotter water for better cleaning of heavily soiled dishes.
6. Delay Start
– Allows you to set the dishwasher to start at a later time, which can be useful for running it during off-peak hours.
7. Extra Rinse
– Adds an additional rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is removed, useful for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
8. Top Rack Only
– Washes only the upper rack, conserving water and energy when you have a smaller load.
9. Child Lock
– Prevents the dishwasher from being accidentally opened or the cycle from being changed by children.
10. Smart Features
– Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring and control via smartphone apps, as well as diagnostic and maintenance alerts.
Summary
Dishwasher cycles and options vary by model, so it’s essential to consider what features will be most useful for your household’s specific needs. Look for a dishwasher that offers the flexibility to handle a range of loads and soil levels efficiently.
How to choose the right size of your dishwasher?
Choosing the right size of dishwasher depends on your kitchen space, household size, and dishwashing needs. Here are the key considerations:
Standard Dishwasher Sizes
1. Full-Size Dishwashers
– Width: Typically 24 inches
– Height: Standard height is about 35 inches, adjustable to fit under most countertops
– Depth: Around 24 inches
– Capacity: Can hold 12-16 place settings
– Best for: Medium to large households with ample kitchen space and regular dishwashing needs.
2. Compact Dishwashers
– Width: Typically 18 inches
– Height: Standard height is about 35 inches, similar to full-size dishwashers
– Depth: Around 24 inches
– Capacity: Can hold up to 8 place settings
– Best for: Small households, apartments, or kitchens with limited space.
3. Portable Dishwashers
– Width: Usually 24 inches (some models might be smaller)
– Height: Varies but often around 36 inches including the wheels
– Depth: Around 27 inches
– Capacity: Similar to full-size models, can hold 12-16 place settings
– Best for: Homes without built-in spaces for a dishwasher, where mobility and flexibility are important.
4. Countertop Dishwashers
– Width: Usually 22 inches
– Height: About 17 inches
– Depth: Around 20 inches
– Capacity: Can hold 4-6 place settings
– Best for: Small kitchens, dorms, or RVs where space is very limited and portability is needed.
Measuring Your Space
1. Measure the Width
– Measure the width of the space where the dishwasher will go. Ensure there is enough clearance on either side for installation.
2. Measure the Height
– Measure from the floor to the bottom of your countertop. Standard height is around 35 inches, but check if your countertop height is different.
3. Measure the Depth
– Measure from the back wall to the front edge of the space. Ensure that there is enough clearance for the door to open fully.
Considerations for Capacity
1. Household Size
– 1-2 People: A compact or countertop dishwasher may be sufficient.
– 3-4 People: A standard 24-inch dishwasher is typically ideal.
– 5+ People: A standard 24-inch dishwasher with a higher capacity or multiple cycles might be necessary.
2. Dishwashing Frequency
– If you run the dishwasher daily or have many dishes, a full-size model is more efficient.
– For infrequent use or small loads, a compact or countertop model might be more appropriate.
3. Dish Types
– Consider the types of dishes you use. Larger pots, pans, and serving dishes might require a full-size model with adjustable racks.
Summary
– Measure Your Space: Ensure the dishwasher fits the designated area.
– Consider Household Size: Match the capacity to your dishwashing needs.
– Evaluate Kitchen Layout: Ensure the dishwasher size complements your kitchen layout and workflow.
– Think About Usage Patterns: Choose a size that matches how often and how many dishes you wash regularly.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a dishwasher size that fits your kitchen space and meets your household’s needs.
Explore Hanyi's Oven, Microwave Oven, and Dishwasher
Oven, microwave oven, and dishwasher are essential tools in the kitchen, providing convenience and efficiency in meal preparation. These appliances not only save time but also ensure that cooking tasks are completed with ease. If you are interested in learning more about the advanced technology behind these kitchen essentials, feel free to contact us for further details. Our team is ready to assist you in exploring the innovative features that make cooking a seamless and enjoyable experience.