How to choose a dishwasher: expert advice

Every housewife dreams of a good dishwasher. A mind-boggling variety of models offer incredible features, benefits and amazing capabilities. The following useful information will help you understand how to choose a dishwasher and take into account all the necessary nuances.

Types and sizes of dishwashers

First, it’s worth understanding the classification of models. Depending on the features of placement in the kitchen, the following are distinguished:

1. Fully built-in - this option does not violate the integrity of the interior at all and is considered the most practical among all existing ones. Thanks to the overlay decorative panel, matched to the color of the kitchen, the equipment can be completely hidden from prying eyes. The control panel is located on the upper part of the door end, and some manufacturers also offer electronic projection on the floor. A convenient function allows you to navigate the washing cycle and clearly understand when it is completed.The choice of this type of dishwasher is made at the stage of kitchen design or in the case when there is already the necessary space for it.
2. Partially built-in is also a fairly popular choice of users. The machine is still completely located among the kitchen unit, but at the same time it is visually clearly visible, since the control panel and all the necessary indicators are located on the door. Usually this option is chosen when the kitchen is already ready. If you choose the design and color scheme in accordance with the interior, the machine will not be conspicuous, but rather will harmoniously complement the picture as a whole.
3. Freestanding - involves individual placement without interaction with furniture. They are usually small and easily placed on a countertop or in the corner of a room. To choose this type, you need to have extra space. A wide range of color shades for the equipment body will help you choose the appropriate version. For example, you can arrange it to match the color of the refrigerator, microwave or other key accents.
4. Compact tabletop ones are the smallest among existing dishwashers. Actually, apart from this, they have nothing more to boast about, since the small loading volume and poor quality of washing do not allow them to cope with the main problems. Large pots, pans and baking sheets still have to be washed by hand.

No less important is the size of the dishwasher. When thinking about this issue, you should take into account the dimensions of the kitchen, the expected number and size of kitchen utensils. There is such a classification:

1. Full-size - the most voluminous models with a full range of functions and various programs. Their height is 80-86 cm, width - 55 cm, depth - 54-60 cm.They are pleasantly distinguished by their quiet operation and increased capacity (up to 17 sets).
2. Narrow - chosen for small spaces where standard variations do not fit. They can wash up to 13 sets at a time, slightly limited in functionality. An undemanding user will not feel any damage at all. The dimensions of narrow dishwashers are 45 × 60 × 85 cm.
3. Compact or reduced - no larger than a microwave. Their size is 45 × 45 × 50 cm. Usually these are tabletop options with low power. They are chosen for a summer house or a rented apartment.

Dish trays and baskets

Each unit is equipped with special pull-out baskets inside, which allow you to place different cutlery. They consist of a large number of ribs, compartments and holders, carefully designed by the developers, taking into account all the features of the washing process. In smaller models, there is one basket inside, in standard models, there are two: a large one at the bottom for large utensils and a second one, where smaller items are placed. Modern modifications are increasingly equipped with three baskets. An additional upper tray is used to place small items, cutlery. Many users note that the innovation significantly steals space, and large items are now not so easy to fit in the lower section.

It is very good if the height of the baskets is adjustable and the clamps are transformed. This allows you to customize the equipment for each individual case.

Technical characteristics of dishwashers

When choosing, the buyer is guided by the basic technical characteristics.Considering their huge number, first of all, attention should be paid to the resource consumption indicators, noise level, dimensions of the machine and its working volume. And also the type, placement option, drying method, spraying water flows and protection against leaks. Next, we will understand the intricacies of each quality.

Energy efficiency, washing class and water consumption

When evaluating a future dishwasher, it is extremely important to study such aspects as energy consumption and water consumption. According to the first point, the equipment is marked with letters in the range from "A" to "G" in order of deterioration. New equipment is additionally characterized by pluses: "A +", "A ++", etc. The difference in them can reach 25%, respectively, with frequent use, it will be possible to save a lot on electricity. It is not recommended to buy devices with the letters "F" and "G", since they are far from economical.

The highest quality modern machines are classified as class "A".

As for water consumption, it is designated by three letters:

• A — up to 15 l;
• B — 15-25 l;
• C — over 25 l.

Drying method

Absolutely all dishwashers are equipped with a drying option. There are 4 known methods. Below is a brief description of each of them:

1. Condensation is a simple but lengthy method in which the dishes are first rinsed with hot water and then ventilated with cold air flows. Moisture naturally condenses on the cold walls, and the resulting condensate flows into the provided holes.The method is used in most standard dishwashers.
2. Turbo drying occurs due to the operation of a fan. It quickly and effectively dries dishes with hot air, but at the same time it is unpleasantly noisy, additional energy consumption and a more expensive unit.
3. Drying with a heat exchanger - combines condensation and turbo drying, enhanced by the operation of a heat exchanger. Its role is played by a special internal compartment that effectively cools the wall and attracts moisture. The process is accelerated by 1.5 times, while ensuring careful handling of dishes and reducing energy consumption.
4. Zeolite is the most modern, economical and effective. It dries due to special minerals - zeolites, which are located in the lower container. They absorb moisture and generate heat. Found exclusively on expensive models.

To characterize drying, manufacturers also use letter designations: “A” corresponds to perfectly dry dishes, and “B” and “C” correspond to slightly damp dishes. Today, modifications with a low drying level are extremely rare.

Noise level

Noise level has long been an important quality indicator. Since the machine will work during those rare moments when the family is at home and relaxing, it is very important to choose an option that will not irritate. It is for this reason that developers install cutting-edge inverter motors in new units. Equally important is the ability to turn off sound alerts at night.

Leak protection

Since the equipment deals with water, a smart leak protection system is wisely built into it. The way it works is very simple: at the bottom of the tray there is a float, which at a certain level rises and turns off the water supply.

The full version of protection includes solenoid valves in the outlet hoses, ensuring safety even if water enters them. In addition, the hoses themselves have a special “double” structure. With this option, you don’t have to worry and leave your equipment running when you leave home. Fortunately, safety hoses can be purchased separately and installed on almost any type of washer.

Water Spray Systems

Each part of the unit is carefully designed and performs a specific useful function. For example, the process of spraying water is carried out with special nozzles along a pre-designed trajectory. The main task is to provide access to the farthest corners with the most dense loading. If this does not happen, the dishes will remain dirty. For such an important function, there are a huge number of attachments used on different types of devices.

The orbital spray system, which consists of large and small rocker arms mounted in different corners of the machine, has proven itself to work well. By rotating, they create a strong water flow that easily cleans dirt even in the most remote and hard-to-reach areas.

The system is equipped with gradual water supply technology, which has a positive effect on the balance between consumption and the result obtained. Today it is considered the simplest and most effective.

Door lock

A very convenient feature that provides additional security.The bottom line is that when the program is turned on, it is impossible to reset the settings on the control panel or open the doors until the cycle is complete. The advantage can be appreciated if there are small children in the house.

There is partial and complete blocking. If this question is relevant, it is better to choose the latter, since it does not allow the door to be opened until it has completely cooled down.

The door lock can be equipped regardless of the type of dishwasher. Unfortunately, it is not a mandatory component, so this issue needs to be clarified.

The importance of brand when choosing a model

For most buyers, belonging to a particular brand plays a major role in their choice. This is quite logical, since the reliability of the equipment and its functionality directly depends on it. Global manufacturers work hard to maintain their own image, desperately compete for the trust of customers and offer many competitive advantages.

Instances of expensive brands have an improved engine, a wear-resistant pump, a wide range of design choices, comfortable operation and the presence of various additional functions.

German brands Siemens, AEG, Bosch and Electrolux offer high quality products. Many years of successful practice in the production of household appliances have managed to prove themselves in terms of reliability and undeniable quality of products. Interesting and good models are produced by Whirlpool, Zanussi, Samsung and Indesit. When it comes to the most logical price-quality ratio, Hotpoint-Ariston and the Turkish company Beko are good. Despite their small dimensions, the equipment they offer is pleasantly distinguished by its good capacity.Among the inexpensive assortment, Gorenje and Hansa deserve attention. They specialize mainly in narrow dishwashers.

China has also managed to establish itself well as a young brand, Midea. It is rapidly gaining popularity among a wide range of users around the world. A characteristic feature is reasonable price, decent assortment and good quality of products.

The inflated price is not just a payment for a well-known brand, it is rather a purchase of one’s own confidence and an investment that will certainly pay off in the future.

Basic modes and programs

The cost and quality of a dishwasher are affected by the availability of various programs. The more there are, the more careful approach to various types of dishes is possible. Many brands develop their own modes that are their distinctive feature.

There are only three standard programs:

1. Economical - is a short cycle, which is enough for not too much pollution. The temperature is about 50 degrees, which significantly saves energy consumption.
2. Standard - regular washing at a temperature of 50-60 degrees. Used for medium contamination. The operating time ranges from 150-180 minutes.
3. Intensive - in a cycle lasting 130-165 minutes, heavy dirt, thick fat and old food residues are washed away. Works great on pots, pans and saucepans. Processing of plastic and thin glass is not allowed, as it may be damaged. Use hot water 70-75 degrees.

In addition to the options listed, there are many additional ones that are very helpful in everyday situations. The most common of them:

1. Delicate cleansing - for gentle washing of extremely fragile items.
2. Express program - accelerated washing of lightly soiled kitchen utensils.
3. Mixed washing - amazingly combines different modes in one washing cycle. The secret lies in the fact that the dishes are placed on different tiers, and for each of them a different option is chosen.
4. Sterilization is a great way to prepare containers for preservation. With the help of ultraviolet light and steam, complete disinfection occurs.
5. For washing plastic, the reduced water temperature does not cause the plastic to release harmful substances. For high-quality products that can be used in the microwave, this function is unnecessary.
6. Baby Care - recommended for small children and sensitive allergy sufferers. The dishes are rinsed even more thoroughly, so detergent particles cannot harm your health.
7. Quiet program - great for use at night.
8. Automatic recognition - found on more expensive models. Built-in sensors determine the degree of contamination of the dishes and, accordingly, select the optimal method for washing.
9. Bio-care - allows you to work with special bioactive detergents, which are considered less harmful.
10. Determining the level of water hardness - sensors instantly react if there is a risk of scale formation and give a signal to reduce the level of salt in the water.

Such basic modes as washing and drying are available in all models, without exception. Depending on the degree of contamination, additional modes are preferred:

1. Rinse is a light, short cycle that “refreshes” relatively clean appliances without detergent.
2. Pre-soaking is very important because it helps remove very old dirt and burnt-on residue. Even super-intensive programs are not able to cope with this task without pre-soaking. In other words, without this wonderful regime, it is impossible to put off washing dishes until later.
3. Partial loading - allows you to wash items in only one of the baskets, which saves a lot of resources. The quality of execution is absolutely not inferior to a full-fledged wash. This option is available only in full-size machine types.

Usually, out of a large assortment of programs, in real life they use one or two, so it’s not worth overpaying for this. It is enough to familiarize yourself with the proposed options in advance and weigh the degree of their importance in accordance with the price. If there are often parties in the house and dirty glasses cause a lot of difficulties, then why not lean towards the appropriate option.

In addition, high-end models are equipped with truly useful functions: delay start, self-cleaning filter, and adjustable basket extension for loading and unloading. All this has a positive effect on the final result of the work, making the process as comfortable as possible.

Dishwasher safety precautions

Each technique requires compliance with basic safety rules. Before you start using them, be sure to familiarize yourself with them.

The dishwasher must meet the stated requirements, which can be studied in the accompanying technical documentation.

First, you should check the proper operation of all automatic elements, clamps, measuring instruments, and the presence of water in the water heater and baths. And also make sure there are no leaks at the hose connections.

All items must be stably placed in baskets. If there is damage, cracks or chips, it is not recommended to wash it in the dishwasher. Delicate devices such as thin-walled glasses, glassware, etc. are washed in the appropriate mode. Cutlery can only be placed in a specially designated compartment.

Absolutely forbidden:

1. Do not open the door while the appliance is operating as this may cause serious burns and contamination.
2. Remove foreign objects and debris while the machine is running.
3. Remove trays, rinsing showers, and washing attachments without turning off the machine and water heater.

The versatility of a dishwasher is great, but there are a number of cutlery that cannot be washed with it. These include wooden objects: boards, spoons and plates. As a result of such manipulations, they quickly lose their external beauty and deteriorate. Silver, aluminum and pewter items also tarnish. Moreover, after this it will be very difficult to return to its former beauty.

Having sufficiently studied the market of proposals, you can choose a model to your liking, which will fully satisfy your technical needs and have suitable external characteristics.

Choosing a dishwasher is a troublesome and pleasant task that must be approached with all responsibility. The equipment will work for many years, performing its tasks every day and bringing joy and comfort to the home.