By Brittany Rowland

This Koldfront countertop dishwasher has a capacity of up to 6 place settings. Which is a generous amount for a washer of this size. There are six effective wash cycles and the machine is very easy to hook up and use everyday. It claims to have a sanitizing option with the high heat wash. In reality, the 149°F washing temperature is really not hot enough. I like the simplicity of the design with minimal buttons and knobs. The interior is stylish with stainless steel and various spacing options. At just north of $200.00, it’s a moderately priced model that provides satisfactory cleaning results.

Quick Specs

• Color: White
• 6 Place Settings
• 6 wash cycles
• Energy Star
• 17-3/16″ H x 21-11/16″ W x 19-11/16″ D

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Prices

By Brittany Rowland

Countertop dishwashers are by design smaller and more compact, holding at most six place settings. To select the top 10 dishwashers, we considered capacity, water consumption, durability, color options, wash cycles, and cleaning performance. Countertop dishwashers generally don’t have as many special features as full-size built-in dishwashers, but we found some models with convenient features like a delay start option and automatic detergent or rinse aid dispensers.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Featured Dishwasher Articles

Significant Percentage of Americans Name Their Dishwasher As the Noisiest Thing In Their House

A recent poll reveals that 38 percent of Americans think their dishwasher is the loudest thing in their house, just below squalling children. Most dishwasher manufacturers claim their products are quiet, but that’s often a subjective description. The Bosch 88 Plus model, however, stands out with a mere 39 decibels…[more]

Energy Star will Become Stricter with its Dishwasher Efficiency Standards in January 2012

According to a Consumer Reports article, starting January 20, 2012, Energy Star is changing its requirements. In order for dishwashers to qualify for the Energy Star rating, they’ll have to be 9 percent more energy efficient and use 27 percent less water than the current standards…[more]

How to Choose the Best Dishwasher for your Needs

Depending on your kitchen space and how many dishes you go through each day, you may find one particular type of dishwasher—a regular built-in, an 18 inch, or a countertop—works best for you. Each kind of dishwasher has its pros and cons, but you can typically find a quality performer in any variety…[more]

Features That Improve Cleaning Efficiency in Dishwashers

Most modern dishwashers operate on the same principles: Dishes arranged in a box are sprayed with jets of water to remove grease and food particles. Whether it’s a countertop or a built-in model, leftover water returns to the kitchen drain system. There are standard features that appear in nearly every type of dishwasher: racks for holding dishes, jet systems, and washing arms…[more]

Buying a Dishwasher: Is it Better to Shop Online or at the Store?

As you begin your search for a new dishwasher, you’re probably considering a couple important question: How can I find a high-quality model at a reasonable price? With dishwashers, you tend to get what you pay for, so unless you’re on a tight budget you should consider the performance of the less important models. You may save a couple hundred dollars…[more]

8 Steps to Saving Energy with your Dishwasher

Everyone wants a dishwasher that cleans and sanitizes dishes effectively. In today’s environmentally conscious world, many people also want to save energy with their dishwasher. With just a few minor adjustments to how you operate the machine, you can save considerably on energy costs…[more]

Related Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Dishwashers

To compile our top 10 list for dishwashers, we took several factors into consideration, such as cleaning performance, sanitizing options, attractiveness, size and capacity, ease of use, decibel level, and number of wash cycles. Today’s dishwashers have become increasingly sleek and streamlined in design, often in a variety of colors—primarily white, black, and stainless steel… [more]

According to a Consumer Reports article, starting January 20, 2012, Energy Star is changing its requirements. In order for dishwashers to qualify for the Energy Star rating, they’ll have to be 9 percent more energy efficient and use 27 percent less water than the current standards.

In the meantime, appliance retailers will continue to stock and sell these soon-to-be downgraded models. Shoppers will have to do some research to find out if the dishwasher they plan to buy will still be considered energy efficient under the new standards. A spokesperson for Energy Star says consumers can visit www.energystar.gov for a full listing of qualifying models.

http://news.consumerreports.org/appliances/2011/11/navigating-energy-stars-dishwasher-transition.html

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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Stainless Steel Dishwashers: Stylish and Sanitary

More families today are choosing stainless steel dishwashers because they lend a professional, sophisticated look and imitate the kind that real chefs use. To accommodate this demand, several top dishwasher manufacturers… [more]

Related Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Dishwashers

To compile our top 10 list for dishwashers, we took several factors into consideration, such as cleaning performance, sanitizing options, attractiveness, size and capacity, ease of use, decibel level, and number of wash cycles. Today’s dishwashers have become increasingly sleek and streamlined in design, often in a variety of … [more]

Depending on your kitchen space and how many dishes you go through each day, you may find one particular type of dishwasher—a regular built-in, an 18 inch, or a countertop—works best for you. Each kind of dishwasher has its pros and cons, but you can typically find a quality performer in any variety. The key consideration is space.

Countertop

If you live in a small apartment or an RV, then you know you have minimal kitchen space. Or, if you’re single or retired, you don’t use many dishes throughout the day. In these cases, a countertop dishwasher is the best choice. Only 17 inches tall, it fits on the counter, usually squeezed in under a cabinet. A countertop dishwasher includes all the basic functions of a regular dishwasher but in a much smaller box-like structure. They typically hold 4 place settings and can wash a full load with about 2 gallons of water—that’s much more efficient than washing them by hand.

Pros

• Washes a small volume of dishes efficiently
• Takes up little space
• Portable

Cons

• Requires you to hook it up to sink with a hose each use
• Still pricey—could be more cost effective to go with larger model

Built-in

The standard form of dishwasher, the built-in models are permanently installed under a countertop and are typically 24 inches wide. Couples and families who go through a lot of dishes each day will appreciate the large capacity of built-in dishwashers, which can hold up to 16 place settings. Tall tub dishwashers in particular have great capacity because they maximize the space for dishes inside the outer “box.”

Pros

• With several cycle options, dishes are cleaned in the most efficient manner
• Typical lifespan is 9 to 12 years
• Come in a variety of colors and styles to match any kitchen décor
• Many offer sanitizing cycles that eliminate bacteria

Cons

• More special features can mean more mechanical problems
• Professional installation may or may not be offered with purchase

18 inch

People who like the convenience of a full-size dishwasher but don’t have a lot of kitchen space may be happiest with an slimline 18-inch dishwasher. They’re essentially the same as a standard 24-inch dishwasher, but narrower by 6 inches. Even if you don’t have space under the cabinets for a built-in model, portable dishwashers are also available. They can be easily stored in a closet and rolled out for use.

Pros

• Innovative features squeeze a lot of dish space in to a small package
• As effective at cleaning dishes as full-size dishwashers
• Portable option

Cons

• Washing pots and pans leaves no room for other dishes—may double number of loads

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Related Articles

Stainless Steel Dishwashers: Stylish and Sanitary

More families today are choosing stainless steel dishwashers because they lend a professional, sophisticated look and imitate the kind that real chefs use. To accommodate this demand, several top dishwasher manufacturers… [more]

Buying a Dishwasher: Is it Better to Shop Online or at the Store?

As you begin your search for a new dishwasher, you’re probably considering a couple important question: How can I find a high-quality model at a reasonable price? With dishwashers, you tend to get what you pay for, so unless you’re on a tight budget you should consider the performance of the less important models. You may save a couple hundred dollars…[more]

8 Steps to Saving Energy with your Dishwasher

Everyone wants a dishwasher that cleans and sanitizes dishes effectively. In today’s environmentally conscious world, many people also want to save energy with their dishwasher. With just a few minor adjustments to how you operate the machine, you can save considerably on energy costs…[more]

Related Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Dishwashers

To compile our top 10 list for dishwashers, we took several factors into consideration, such as cleaning performance, sanitizing options, attractiveness, size and capacity, ease of use, decibel level, and number of wash cycles. Today’s dishwashers have become increasingly sleek and streamlined in design, often in a variety of … [more]

Top 10 Countertop Dishwashers

Countertop dishwashers are by design smaller and more compact, holding at most six place settings. To select the top 10 dishwashers, we considered capacity, water consumption, durability, color options, wash cycles, and cleaning performance… [more]

Most modern dishwashers operate on the same principles: Dishes arranged in a box are sprayed with jets of water to remove grease and food particles. Whether it’s a countertop or a built-in model, leftover water returns to the kitchen drain system. There are standard features that appear in nearly every type of dishwasher: racks for holding dishes, jet systems, and washing arms. However, there are other special features that can enhance the cleaning performance. You may find that these convenient features are worth the extra price.

Tub material

Older dishwasher models were typically made of enamel-coated metal. The enamel would crack over time, however. Modern dishwashers have either plastic or stainless steel tubs. The plastic is fairly durable, but stainless steel looks nicer, causes fewer vibrations, and allows for super-hot sanitizing cycles.

Jet Sprays and Wash Arms

All dishwashers have jets that stay in place and shoot out water during a cycle. There are also washing arms under each rack that spin around to spray water in all directions, ensuring that every dish is reached. A dishwasher may have one to three washing arms. Other models instead have a central tower that comes out of the upper rack and rotates. The downside to the tower is that it takes up space in the upper rack, and it’s frustrating to try to fit glasses around it.

Wash Cycles

Different dishwasher models offer different wash cycles. Some people are content with just the most basic wash cycles: light, normal, and heavy. However, you may be interested in additional wash programs that specially handle loads of pots and pans, fine china, and glassware. If you’re particular about how your dishes are cleaned, you may spring for a dishwasher that has a gentle wash for wine glasses and a heavy wash for really dirty pots and pans. Sophisticated wash cycles can eliminate wine stains, streaky glasses, and baked-on food residue. Just be honest with yourself: If you typically mix all those types of dishes together into one load, you probably shouldn’t pay extra for special wash cycles you won’t use.

Sanitizing Cycles

Many dishwasher models proudly advertise their NSF-certified sanitizing cycles. These dishwashers can heat water up to 160° to 165°F; that’s hot enough not only to clean dishes but also to kill the most common bacteria. If you’re a parent of small children, you’ll appreciate a sanitizing cycle for your little one’s germ-covered sippy cups and pacifiers.

Delayed Start

If you’ve ever had a noisy dishwasher, you know it’s best to run it during the night or some other time of day when it won’t disturb the family. Many dishwasher brands have designed delayed start features that hold off a wash cycle for varying lengths of time. This way you can program the cycle whenever and be assured that it runs when it’s supposed to.

Single Rack Wash

We all know that running a less-than-full load is a waste of water and energy. But with the new single rack wash cycle, you can still get a smaller amount of dishes clean with the appropriate amount of water. This is very handy because sometimes it’s just not feasible or convenient to wait for a full load of dishes to run.

Automatic Soil Sensors

Dishwashers aren’t just becoming better at cleaning dishes, but they’re also getting smarter. With soil sensors, the dishwasher automatically detects how clean or dirty the water splashing around the tub is. If it’s too dirty, the dishwasher will drain it and spray clean jets of water. If the water isn’t very soiled, the dishwasher will shorten its wash cycle, saving you water and energy costs. With this highly efficient system, a household can save up to 600 gallons of water a year.

Flexible Racks

Without adjustable racks, it can be a real challenge fitting in that extra-large pot or those baking sheets. If you can adjust the height of the upper rack or remove it all together, you’ll have much more flexibility in arranging dishes to maximize space. Many dishwashers today also offer fold-down tines, moveable silverware baskets, and stemware holders to make securing special items easier. The more space options you have, the easier it will be to fully load the dishwasher, saving you time, power costs, and frustration.

Rinse Aid Dispensers

Many people add rinse aids to cut down on detergent residue. Some dishwasher models make it even easier to add rinse aids with a dispenser that stores up to a full bottle at a time and releases the appropriate amount per load. This feature saves you the time and hassle of adding rinse aids every time you run the dishwasher.

Two Water Pumps

Dishwashers with two water pumps, one for washing and one for draining, are quieter, more efficient, and typically last longer.

Selecting a new dishwasher doesn’t have to be a bewildering, confusing ordeal. If you do your homework and know in advance which features you want, you can narrow down your choices and pick the dishwasher that’s perfect for you and gives you years of satisfactory performance.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Related Articles

Stainless Steel Dishwashers: Stylish and Sanitary

More families today are choosing stainless steel dishwashers because they lend a professional, sophisticated look and imitate the kind that real chefs use. To accommodate this demand, several top dishwasher manufacturers… [more]

Buying a Dishwasher: Is it Better to Shop Online or at the Store?

As you begin your search for a new dishwasher, you’re probably considering a couple important question: How can I find a high-quality model at a reasonable price? With dishwashers, you tend to get what you pay for, so unless you’re on a tight budget you should consider the performance of the less important models. You may save a couple hundred dollars…[more]

8 Steps to Saving Energy with your Dishwasher

Everyone wants a dishwasher that cleans and sanitizes dishes effectively. In today’s environmentally conscious world, many people also want to save energy with their dishwasher. With just a few minor adjustments to how you operate the machine, you can save considerably on energy costs…[more]

Related Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Dishwashers

To compile our top 10 list for dishwashers, we took several factors into consideration, such as cleaning performance, sanitizing options, attractiveness, size and capacity, ease of use, decibel level, and number of wash cycles. Today’s dishwashers have become increasingly sleek and streamlined in design, often in a variety of … [more]

Top 10 Countertop Dishwashers

Countertop dishwashers are by design smaller and more compact, holding at most six place settings. To select the top 10 dishwashers, we considered capacity, water consumption, durability, color options, wash cycles, and cleaning performance… [more]

As you begin your search for a new dishwasher, you’re probably considering a couple important question: How can I find a high-quality model at a reasonable price? With dishwashers, you tend to get what you pay for, so unless you’re on a tight budget you should consider the performance of the less important models. You may save a couple hundred dollars but end up with less-than-pristine dishes. Rewashing them by hand will only cost you more with the energy bill and increase your dish washing time.

So you want a satisfactory dishwasher, but you don’t know whether it’s better to shop for one online or in person at the store. There are advantages and disadvantages to both approaches. The first step you should take, however, before shopping anywhere, is to do your homework: Figure out how much space you have for a dishwasher and what features you must have. This way, you’ll be less easily swayed to purchase a model with flashy features you don’t need and won’t use.

Visiting the Store

When you actually visit an appliance store, you have the advantage of looking at, touching, and examining dishwasher models up close. There are qualities you may find that you wouldn’t notice on a computer screen, such as how the door latches shut, how easily the racks slide out, and whether the tines fold down easily. Do the controls look like they’re easy to navigate, or are they overwhelmingly complicated?

Salespeople are also available at stores to answer your questions. Their expertise and knowledge about the product can be hit-or-miss, depending on the store, but you should be able to tell if they truly know what they’re talking about or if they’re just trying to sell you something you don’t need. Some tips to make the store experience easier:

• Don’t be intimidated by salespeople; they genuinely want to help you find something.
• If you know in advance what you’re looking for, you’re less likely to be talked into buying something you won’t like.
• Be prepared with questions and specific features you’re looking for.
• Examine the models yourself or ask for a demonstration. Don’t simply listen to the salesperson’s spiel.
• Find out about warranties, returns, delivery and shipping methods.

Remember, if you’re not satisfied with the salesperson’s help or information, consult another person or try another store.

Shopping Online

While it’s beneficial to go to stores and look at dishwasher models in person, you should hold off buying one right away. Go home and give yourself time to think over your options. This is also the time to look up models you liked online and read more about them. Confirm what the salespeople told you about their features and performance and read consumer reviews to get an idea of the pros and cons.

Consumer reviews can be very useful, but take them with a grain of salt. People may rave about their purchase and have nothing negative to say. These reviews sound encouraging, but consider that people tend to justify their purchases, especially for high-end models. Also check to see how long they have had the machine. Some models work great for the first year or so, then start to have mechanical problems. It’s difficult to know how durable a dishwasher will be and how long it will work properly; if there are several reviews highlighting design flaws, take caution.

There are certain advantages to shopping online. For instance:

• There are no salespeople pressuring you to make up your mind and buy something.
• You can take your time to review all the specifications and features and compare models.
• Online stores have a wider selection of brands, models, and color options, some that you can’t find at your local appliance store.
• Online sites frequently offer special deals, discounts, and rebates.
• Some have 24-hour support lines with representatives that can answer your questions.

It’s crucial to research, ask questions, and shop around before making a final decision. The more informed you are, the more likely you’ll find a dishwasher that satisfies all your requirements and provides years of quality performance.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Related Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Dishwashers

To compile our top 10 list for dishwashers, we took several factors into consideration, such as cleaning performance, sanitizing options, attractiveness, size and capacity, ease of use, decibel level, and number of wash cycles. Today’s dishwashers have become increasingly sleek and streamlined in design, often in a variety of … [more]

Top 10 Countertop Dishwashers

Countertop dishwashers are by design smaller and more compact, holding at most six place settings. To select the top 10 dishwashers, we considered capacity, water consumption, durability, color options, wash cycles, and cleaning performance. Countertop dishwashers generally don’t have as many special features… [more]

By Brittany Rowland

The NewAir countertop dishwasher is great for small apartments and office breakrooms, and the fact that it requires only a hose to hook up make it easily portable. With a capacity for six place settings, it’s a spacious model with a durable stainless steel interior. The design is basic and uncomplicated, although a digital display would have been nice. While it’s not Energy Star rated, for an inexpensive dishwasher at $209, it’s a diligent performer.

Quick Specs

• Color: White
• 6 Place Settings
• 5 wash cycles
• 19.7” x 21.7” x 17.25”

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Prices

By Brittany Rowland

The Premia countertop dishwasher holds up to 6 place settings, a generous amount, and has five effective wash cycles. It claims to have a sanitizing option, but at only 149°F, which is not exactly hot enough. I like the simplicity of the design, and the interior is stylish with stainless steel and various spacing options. At $313, it’s a moderately priced model that provides satisfactory cleaning results.

Quick Specs

• Color: White
• 6 Place Settings
• 5 wash cycles
• Energy Star
• 21.65” x 19.7” x 17.25”

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Prices

By Brittany Rowland

A convenient portable countertop dishwasher with a clean, white design, the Danby DDW497W has five effective wash cycles. For the intensive cycle, the water heats up to 156°F for a deep sanitizing cleaning. The viewing window is a nice touch, letting you watch the dishwasher do its job. The electronic controls aligned along the right side are pretty straightforward, although they may take getting used to for people used to dials. Available for as low as $170 online, this Danby dishwasher is a good choice for budget-conscious consumers.

Quick Specs

• Color: White
• 4 Place Settings
• 5 wash cycles
• Energy Star
• 22 7/16” x 18 14/16” x 17”

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Prices

By Brittany Rowland

With a stylish silver finish and a square viewing window, this EdgeStar portable countertop dishwasher goes for $446. For this moderate price, however, I would expect it to hold more than four place settings. Nevertheless, the cleaning performance is quite satisfactory, with rinse aid dispensers that cut down on spots and a sanitizing option. For a couple or a single person, this dishwasher can adequately hold two to three days’ dishes in one load.

Quick Specs

• Color: Silver
• 4 Place Settings
• 3 wash cycles
• Energy Star
• 22 1/4” x 19 1/4” x 17 1/2”

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Prices

By Brittany Rowland

This compact dishdrawer dishwasher from Fisher and Paykel has fully adjustable racks to hold a variety of plates, cups, glasses, and stemware. Foldable tines make the loading job even easier. There’s an eco option available for every wash cycle, so you can save energy and water. The overall design is pleasantly attractive, with a glossy stainless steel exterior and a minimum of exposed buttons. This dishwasher is expensive at $629 but is a high-end model for this appliance category.

Quick Specs

• Color: Stainless Steel
• 6 Place Settings
• 9 wash cycles
• Energy Star
• 23 9/16” x 22 7/16” x 16 3/32”

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Prices

By Brittany Rowland

With an internal heat booster than heats the water up to 149°F, this Koldfront countertop dishwasher washes quickly and gets dishes spotless and sparkling. The shiny black finish is both attractive and unassuming. The console is simple, although it uses tiny pictures, rather than words, for each wash setting. At just $249, you’ll get a hard-working dishwasher that handles light, normal, heavy, glass, speed, and soak cycles.

Quick Specs

• Color: Black
• 6 Place Settings
• 6 wash cycles
• 21 11/16” x 19 11/16” x 17 3/16”

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Prices

By Brittany Rowland

With a sleek silver finish, this EdgeStar model breaks away from the plain blacks and whites and cleans dishes effectively using less water and energy. Its capacity is quite generous, able to fit plates up to 10 1/2” in diameter. The controls are as basic as can be, with a bright LED display that shows the time remaining. Quick to wash and dry dishes, this EdgeStar countertop dishwasher is a smooth operator, a bargain for only $299.

Quick Specs

• Color: Silver
• 6 Place Settings
• 6 wash cycles
• Energy Star
• 21 11/16” x 19 11/16” x 17 3/16”

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Prices

By Brittany Rowland

The Avanti DW6W has a clean, white design and compact, lightweight body perfect for apartments, RV’s, or boats. The control panel rests on a black strip along the top with clearly labeled buttons and pictures. Inside, you’ll find there’s plenty of dish space packed into a tiny compartment, with a convenient silverware basket included. At $354, this Avanti model offers six wash cycles for great cleaning results.

Quick Specs

• Color: White
• 6 Place Settings
• 6 wash cycles
• Energy Star
• 21 3/4” x 19 3/4” x 17 1/4”

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Prices

By Brittany Rowland

Available for as low as $187, this Sunpentown portable countertop dishwasher fits comfortably under most cabinets, making it perfect for kitchens with limited counter space. The interior cavity is very spacious, holding up to six place settings, and the six wash cycles provide effective, versatile cleaning. Automatic detergent and rinse aid dispensers conveniently save you time. The hottest temperature, 148°F, isn’t as impressive as some other comparable models, but it’s adequate for cleaning dishes satisfactorily.

Quick Specs

• Color: Silver
• 6 Place Settings
• 6 wash cycles
• Energy Star
• 21.65” x 19.69” x 17.24”

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Prices