No one likes washing dishes, but thankfully some clever clogs invented the dishwasher, so we don’t have to. Our handy guide will give you the low-down on everything you need to know about dishwashers.
Choose Your Fit
Choose Your Size
Dishwashers come in two different sizes. You have standard full size dishwashers which measure at a width of 60cm and can hold between 120-150 items. Slimline models are usually 45cm wide and can hold between 90-100 items.
Did you know ?
Dishwasher capacity is measured in place settings. One place setting consists of a large dinner plate, dessert plate, glass, bowl, teacup, saucer, two knives, forks, spoons.
Key Features
Eco programme
Eco programmes wash your dishes using 20 to 40% less energy by heating up the water slowly over a longer cycle. This will help you be more energy efficient and save you money too. Winner!
Quiet mark
Dishwashers with a quiet mark are quieter than standard models. They use brushless motors which means they can wash your dishes without making a racket. This is ideal if you have an open plan living space and you want to catch some evening telly in peace and quiet.
Adjustable baskets and racks
A lot of models come with handy adjustable baskets and racks that let you load your dishwasher the way you want. Some top racks can be positioned higher to fit bigger items underneath, or lower to squeeze in those tall wine glasses up top. Look out for models with a third cutlery rack, they let you easily pack in all those knives and forks and give you much more space for pots and pans underneath.
Sensor wash
Why use more water and energy that you need to? The sensor wash feature works out how dirty your plates are after the first rinse phase. It then changes the cycle to use only what’s needed, saving water, energy and most importantly money.
Quick wash
The handy quick wash programme is perfect for when you need dishes in a hurry. It works best with lightly used dishes, and some models can even wash them in just 15 minutes.
Built-in flood protection
A great safety feature, the built-in flood protection function will shut off the water supply automatically if there’s something wrong with your dishwasher. This way you won’t have to worry about any flooding.
FAQ
Do I need a dishwasher?
Dishwashers are very popular appliances. They save you from doing the dishes after tea, all you need to do is pop the dishes in the machine and let it do the rest.
Do dishwashers use more water than handwashing?
No, they don’t, they actually use less water than if you were to wash your dishes by hand.
Can dishwashers save you money?
Yes, they certainly will, especially if you’re on a water meter.
Are slimline dishwashers as good as standard size dishwashers?
Of course, they just can’t fit as much stuff in as they’re thinner than standard models.
Do dishwashers use a lot of electricity?
Dishwashers don’t use too much electricity. Some models will come with handy eco-programmes that while take a little longer, they use a lot less water and electricity.
Can a freestanding dishwasher be built-in?
No, freestanding dishwashers can’t be built in.
Do dishwashers heat their own water?
Yes, like washing machines, they’ll heat the cold water that comes from your mains supply.
Where does a dishwasher drain?
A dishwasher drains water through a drain pump usually at the bottom of the machine and feeds the water through to your sink drain.
What does fully integrated mean?
Fully integrated means the appliance is placed under your kitchen counters and hidden behind a furniture door that matches the rest of your kitchen.
What is a semi-integrated dishwasher?
A semi-integrated model is like fully integrated; however, the dishwasher panel will always be on show.