Built-in

Built into the countertop, these are the most popular type of dishwasher in homes. Usually located near the kitchen sink, they require a plumbing connection. Built-in dishwashers come in two sizes: standard or compact. The standard size can accommodate 12 to 16 place settings per wash, while the compact size can accommodate eight to 10 per wash. A place setting typically consists of a large and small plate, a bowl, cup, saucer, and the cutlery one would use for a meal.

Countertop

A countertop dishwasher sits on the kitchen counter or floor. The water intake hose is linked to the kitchen sink faucet, a drain hose discharges the dirty water into the sink, and an electrical outlet is required to provide power. Countertop dishwashers can wash six to eight place settings at a time.

Portable

Portable units are great for renters and people living in smaller spaces. Slightly larger than countertop models, they accommodate up to 12 place settings per wash and are also designed to be stored away when not in use. They will, however, still require access to the kitchen sink for water and drainage.

Three connections are needed to connect a new dishwasher: a power cord, a water supply line, and a drain line.

Don’t forget to plug the appliance cord into a wall outlet for electricity.

Connect the water inlet valve on the dishwasher to one end of a braided steel supply tube and the shut-off valve of the hot-water supply pipe to the other end.

The drain hose connects to the drain trap under your sink to keep wastewater from syphoning back into your dishwasher.

Space

Since the dishwasher shares the same water supply line and drain, you need to place it near the sink when allocating space in your kitchen. It also makes sense to transfer dirty dishes from the sink to the dishwasher nearby for convenience. Consider an ultra-slim dishwasher if your kitchen is small.

Integration

Aside from a visible fascia panel on the front, integrated dishwashers can be finished to blend in with your kitchen
cabinetry. A fully-integrated dishwasher blends seamlessly into your kitchen cabinets without any visible panels. The downside of a hidden control panel is that you cannot see the details of your cycle at a glance.

Exterior Finish

Dishwashers come in a variety of colours and finishes that should match or complement the finishes of existing appliances in your kitchen to unify the look and feel of your decor. Some finishes, such as brush stainless steel, are more resistant to fingerprints.

Tub Material

Dishwasher tubs are either made with stainless steel or plastic. Stainless steel tubs resist stains and odours, dry out faster and are more durable. They are, however, more expensive. Plastic tubs are just as durable but are not as stain-resistant.

Noise Level

The decibel level of a dishwasher indicates how noisy it is. A dishwasher rated at 45 decibels or lower is a virtually silent dishwasher. A decibel level between 45 and 50 is equivalent to the sound level of steady rainfall. Fifty or higher is equivalent to the level of a normal conversation.

Drying Performance

The residual heat from the tub is used to dry the dishes in economical dishwashers. This usually suffices. Certain dishwashers, however, feature options for extra drying and may include a heating element for drier dishes coupled with a fan that circulates hot air to speed up drying.

Filters

The filter keeps the wash water free of leftover food, preventing it from being deposited on clean dishes. There are two types of filters: self-cleaning and manual filters. The latter needs to be removed and cleaned frequently.

Dishwashers differentiate themselves from other appliances by offering features above and beyond the standard options. Here are some of these features to think about.

Adjustable racks allow you to reconfigure the dishwasher’s interior, so you can customise your washer to fit the size of your dishes.

A third rack is a narrower rack that sits above the top rack and may have a separate wash arm.

Soil sensors automatically adjust the cycle’s time and water use to help improve water efficiency.

A rinse/hold cycle option allows you to rinse dirty dishes to reduce odours and prevent food from setting until you have a full load.

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Text: Nikki Andrea Bounaparte/Home & Decor