The "Universal" Dishwasher Buying Guide: What To Look For In A Dishwasher

Today’s dishwashers come in a wealth of sleek and stylish designs.

Today’s kitchens are modern and advanced spaces that help you craft creative, home-cooked dishes with ease. But after every culinary execution it’s time for the less fun task of clean up. This is where the modern dishwasher does its job.

The contemporary home requires an effective dishwasher to keep plates, glasses, utensils, and more, ready for repeated use. There is no shortage of premium dishwashers available today, and discovering the right choice for your home can be a challenge. With that in mind, the experts at Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center have crafted this helpful dishwasher-buying guide to ensure you have the information you need before investing in a new dishwasher.

Types Of Dishwashers

Before beginning your dishwasher search, it’s important to understand the different types of dishwashers. There are a host of dishwasher designs available for the modern home, and naturally you’ll want to find the proper design for you home.

For an integrated feel that exudes modern style, consider a built-in dishwasher. Built-in dishwashers are installed flush to your kitchen cabinetry, offering a seamless and space-saving feel that often boasts a combination of traditional and advanced wash functions. Built-in dishwashers are a traditional design, but today’s offerings feature exceptionally stylish exteriors for truly elevated designs.

A built-in dishwasher installed flush to kitchen cabinetry.

Dishwasher drawers offer the same functionality you’d find in a traditional built-in dishwasher with a unique design. These washers also take advantage of built-in installation, but feature a sliding drawer compartment as opposed to an outward opening door. These units are smaller than their traditional counterparts, but still offer powerful cleaning functions in sleek designs.

If you’re unable to install a built-in unit, you may want to invest in a portable dishwasher. These units are freestanding dishwashers that typically attach to your sink through a hose to draw water for the wash cycle. Portable dishwashers are often compact, and many feature built-in rollers for easy movement. For an even more versatile design, you can invest in a countertop dishwasher.

Consider Dishwasher Noise Level

The dishwashers of the past were noisy appliances that frequently intruded on daily life. Modern sound proofing innovations allow most of today’s dishwashers to operate at significantly lower dB levels, but you still need to make sure you choose a quiet appliance.

Low-end dishwashers typically have sound ratings around 50 to 55 dBs. This range in noise level is barely noticeable from another room, but if you’re near the dishwasher you’ll definitely hear it operating. If your dishwasher is installed near a gathering place in your home, its operation could intrude on conversations or relaxation.

Mid-range dishwashers often feature sound ratings in the 40s. You’ll notice these dishwashers while in use, but they can be easily talked over. If quiet appliance operation is your top concern, you’ll want a high-end dishwasher with sound between upper-30s to lower-40s dBs. These levels will barely be heard, even if you’re right next to the appliance, providing added luxury to your kitchen space.

Dishwasher Tub Types

Most dishwashers either feature plastic tubs or stainless steel tubs, providing the interior storage space for all your dishes, utensils, and cookware. While the tub material will not impact cleaning performance, it will make a difference when it comes to durability.

Lower-end dishwashers typically feature plastic tubs, while high-end models offer stainless steel tubs. As you would expect, stainless steel tubs are more durable than their plastic counterparts, while also offering more energy efficiency. Be sure to weigh your options between plastic and stainless steel before choosing your next dishwasher.

Dishwasher Energy Efficiency

Energy efficient dishwashers are ideal for the modern homeowner, providing an eco-friendly appliance that also lowers your power bills.

To ensure efficiency, you should research ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers. These washers are certified by the Environmental Protection Agency for their energy efficiency. That said, ENERGY STAR dishwashers still offer various degrees of efficiency. You can find a dishwasher’s estimated energy use and cost per year on the yellow energy guide paperwork attached to its exterior. Be sure to consult with an appliance professional for more information.

Smart & Powerful Dishwashers For The Contemporary Home

For added cleaning power, consider installing two dishwashers.

Today’s dishwashers provide an array of powerful features and smart technology that automatically adjust to your every need. Finding the ideal unit for your home can be a challenge, but with careful research and consideration you’re bound to find the perfect choice. The right dishwasher will bring exceptional cleaning power to your kitchen, providing a superior level of convenience and comfort.

For a host of creative choices, browse this online collection of premium dishwashers.