How to Find the Best Dishwasher

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How to Find the Best Dishwasher
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Caring for a Dishwasher

• When buying a dishwasher, there are decisions to
  be made regarding stacking features and wash
  cycles, as well as installation versus portable
  options to choose from. I'll take you through
  some of the decision-making steps so you can find
  the best dishwasher for your kitchen.

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Tips Before Buying Dishwasher

• Dishwasher Capacity
• Type of Dishwashers
• Energy Saving Considerations
• Dishwasher Washing Cycles
• Dishwasher Performance Features
• Dishwasher Stacking Racking Features
• Dishwasher Cutlery or Flatware Trays

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1. Dishwasher Capacity

• An 18" dishwasher generally is adequate for 2 -
  3 persons and can hold up to 6 or 8 standard
  place settings.
• A regular 24" dishwasher has a capacity for 12
  to 14 standard place settings and is sufficiently
  family-sized.

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2.Types of Dishwashers

• Dishwasher standard size 24" model that is
  available as either an installed (electrical and
  plumbing) unit within your cabinetry.
• Pros
• Best for convenience, features, style and offers
  best value
• Cons
• Requires plumbing and electrical hook-up, uses
  cabinet space which could be for storage

I. Built-in Models
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• If you rent, move a lot or installing is not
  possible, a portable dishwasher is the way to go.
• Pros
• Good variety of features, best non-permanent
  option, can wheel out of sight, top adds to
  workspace
• Cons
• Must be wheeled to faucet for hook-up, faucet
  inaccessible while dishwasher is running

II. Portable Models
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• It also uses only half the space of a standard
  model and that may be a consideration if you lack
  cabinet storage space.
• Pros
• Space saver, best for condos, apartments,
  cottages or where space is limited, enegy saver
  for small loads, stylish
• Cons
• Smaller capacity, limited features, costly

III. Drawer Models
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• The countertop dishwasher is an economical choice
  that offers dishwashing convenience with a
  temporary hook-up.
• Pros
• Ideal for a couple or very small family,
  cheapest models, easy to use, temporary hook-up
• Cons
• Bulky, heavy and needs counter space and faucet
  hook-up

IV. Countertop Models
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3. Energy Saving Considerations

• Some dishwashers have low water features or
  'quick wash' options which are handy if you're on
  metered water use.
• Another energy saver is a 'delay start' if your
  electricity usage is calculated on time-of-use
  rates - you set the dishwasher to wash later when
  energy is cheaper.

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4. Dishwasher Washing Cycles

• The econo cycle will air dry dishes saving on
  heating element energy costs.
• Enhanced cycles such as Glass or Stemware, Rinse,
  Quick Wash, Pots Scrub and Sanitize Wash are
  features you want to have, but expect to pay more.

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5. Dishwasher Performance Features

• Dishwasher detergent and rinse agent dispensers
  are usually standard features and a detergent
  dispense system ensures the right amount to clean
  the load.
• Electronic dirt sensors are definitely
  nice-to-have features.

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6. Dishwasher Stacking Racking Features

• Special dishwasher features can also include
  adjustable or removable tines, shelves, racks
  built to accommodate tall glasses or stemware,
  odd shaped and tall items, or convertible racks
  for multi uses.

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7. Dishwasher Cutlery or Flatware Trays

• The position of the silverware tray is usually a
  matter of preference, and is generally not
  influenced by washing performance.

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Important Dishwasher Features

• Built-in food disposal
• Adequate racking, stacking options
• At least a two tier wash spray action but three
  is better
• Quick wash cycle
• Pots and pans or heavy scrub wash cycle

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• Delay start if on time-of-use electricity rates
• Econo or air dry
• Energy Star qualified
• Self-cleaning filters
• Quiet sound package
• Child safety lock

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Dishwasher Bells and Whistles

• Enhanced racking, stacking, adjustable shelving
• Enhanced filtration system
• Enhanced wash and spray system
• Special racking for stemware, tall items

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• Sanitize cycle
• Rinse cycle
• Dirt sensors
• Enhanced quiet operation
• Basket for small items
• Low water use features

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Energy Efficiency - A Must to Save Money

• Buying an Energy Star dishwasher assures you that
  it meets certain energy efficiency targets, but
  the best in terms of energy efficiency is Energy
  Star combined with a CEE Tier certification.
• When water use is a concern, go for a dishwasher
  that maximizes efficiency while reducing the
  average amount of water most dishwashers use.

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What Not to Buy

• When trying to decide on a portable versus
  installed dishwasher, if you can sacrifice the
  cabinet space and handle the plumbing and
  electrical set-up, go for an installed model.
• Wheeling a portable to the kitchen sink and
  having to hook it up each time can be very
  inconvenient, unless installing is not an option
  and you don't mind this type of set-up.

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Dishwasher Price Ranges and Compare Prices

• Expect to pay around 500 for an Energy Star
  dishwasher with nice racking options and
  features, though basic models can be had much
  cheaper.
• A counter dishwasher unit will cost around 200 -
  300 and is a great option if you move a lot.
• High end models with stylish integrated fronts,
  quality finishes and loads of features will run
  you closer to 1000.

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Dishwasher Reviews

• With different types and features, it can be
  difficult to find the right dishwasher.

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Dishwasher Care and Use

• Dishwasher care is minimal compared to some other
  large appliances, but it should not be neglected.
• Bacteria and mold can also begin to grow in damp
  interiors. For this reason, you should give your
  dishwasher interior a regular cleaning with
  dishwasher cleaners and wash/wipe the door and
  gasket areas regularly.
• Proper dish and cutlery placement can improve
  washing results.

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General Appliance Tips

• What to do if your appliance has been recalled
  or you've upgrade to a new model.
• Remember to review your product manual and keep
  it handy - it has lots of use information, as
  well as key tips on how to properly care for your
  new appliance.

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• Shop online for home and kitchen appliances from
  all major brands at appliancesconnection.com