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Dishwashers Buying Guide
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.
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Things to know
Energy Rating
A dishwashers energy rating will tell you how energy efficient the model is. Ratings range from A – G, and a more efficient appliance means you’ll save more money on your energy bills. Look out for a washing machine with an energy rating of C or above, these will be some of the most energy efficient models on the market.
Warranty
Dishwashers are built to last, but sometimes things can go wrong. That’s why the warranty is so important, it keeps you safe from any nasty surprises. The standard length is usually one or two years, but check the warranty section on our product pages to know exactly what you’re entitled to.
Number of place settings
Dishwasher capacity is measured in place settings. As a rough guide, a place setting consists of a large dinner plate, dessert plate, glass, bowl, teacup, saucer, two knives, forks and spoons. Sizes range from 6 place settings on a small dishwasher, to over 15 on larger models. The more place settings, the more cookware can go in.
Noise level
Nobody wants the dinnertime conversation disrupted by the noisy rattle of a dishwasher. So, if you have an open-plan kitchen or want to put a programme on at night, look for a model with the quiet mark. This means they’re less noisy than standard dishwashers, so you’ll get to enjoy your evening in peace.
Number of programmes
The number of programmes on dishwashers vary but can be from as little as four to around eleven for the higher-end models. If you have lots of different types of cookware, or you like the choice of different temperatures and times, a machine with a wider range of settings might be the one for you.
Fit type
Freestanding dishwashers don’t have a cupboard door attached to them and they can be popped into any standard kitchen unit space. Semi integrated dishwashers are hidden behind a cupboard door but will have the control panel exposed for easy access. And fully integrated dishwashers are completely covered by a cupboard door to match the rest of your kitchen.
Key Features
Quick wash
Dishwashers are one of the most helpful appliances you can have in the kitchen. But you don’t always want to have to wait around for those dirty knives and forks to be sparkling again. This is where a quick wash setting comes in. It’ll clean a load in a much shorter space of time, making it great if you have a busy schedule.
Automatic detergent dosing
Not having to do the washing up is one of the best things about a dishwasher. But how do you know how much detergent or rinse aid to use for different loads – one that’s smaller than usual for example? That’s where automatic detergent dosing comes in. Here we’ll learn more about this clever tech and all the benefits that go with it.
Easy Loading
With easy loading, filling the dishwasher becomes a breeze. From flexible spaces to moveable baskets, popping in all those plates, pots, and pans will be a chore no more.
Super quiet
Say goodbye to the background buzz of the dishwasher as it runs through the wash cycle. With the latest super quiet designs, whether it’s a silent programme or a quiet inverter motor, you’ll barely notice your appliance is on.
Smart connected
Washing up after dinner is even easier when you have a smart-connected dishwasher. Just download an app on your smartphone or tablet and start the wash cycle from the palm of your hand. So, if you’re busy packing school bags, or you’re in the garden enjoying the sun, you can still get the dishes sparkling.
Flexible space
Whether it’s an extra big pasta pot or batter-covered mixing bowls, a dishwasher with flexible space can easily fit everything inside. From raisable shelves to adjustable cutlery trays, these nifty features give everything from your ladles to your frying pans the space they need. Ready to put the scrubber down? We thought so.
Built-in flood protection
With flood prevention tech, you can protect your kitchen from catastrophes. This clever feature uses sensors to keep an eye on the water level and, if there’s too much, it’ll drain the machine before it overflows. Now you can keep those puddles outside, where they belong.
Glass cycle
If you’re tired of spending ages cleaning up after a busy day, a dishwasher is the perfect companion. But what about those lovely glass champagne flutes you got gifted as a wedding present? Well, there's no need to worry. When you choose a dishwasher with a dedicated glass cycle, you can look after them with a delicate wash that leaves them sparkling.
Easy installation
A new integrated dishwasher is an exciting addition to your kitchen, but what about installing it? Nobody wants it to be a hard slog after all. Luckily, they come with handy features that make fitting them into place a doddle.
Machine Clean
You’ve got fifty things on your to do list, but cleaning the dishwasher doesn’t need to be one of them. Because, when you choose a model that has a machine cleaning feature, you can put your feet up knowing your dishwasher is being perfectly maintained, so it’ll perform at its best and it’ll be sparkling ready for the next load.
Automatic Washing
A dishwasher with an automatic cycle will take the guesswork out of washing up. From creating shortcuts to your favourite programmes, to starting a full wash and dry cycle in just a touch of a button – this nifty tech cuts down on the cleaning chaos. Ready to make your life easier? Silly question – of course you are.
Floor indicator light
We can all agree that dishwashers are a fantastic appliance. No more washing up? Yes please. But did you know they also have some very handy features, including some with a floor indicator light that tells you when the washing cycle has finished?
Intense clean
Not only are dishwashers brilliant for helping us with the day-to-day washing up, but those with an intense cleaning programme really take the hard work out of cleaning heavily stained dishes. So, you can enjoy your Bolognese or Tikka Masala, and still have sparkling kitchenware.
Energy Saving Technology
Some dishwashers come with specialist cycles designed to run really efficiently. Whether they use sensors to detect dirt and reduce waste, or they run at lower temperatures with less water, they'll save you energy while still getting everything sparkling clean. Ready to save the planet and a few pennies? You're in the right place.
Antibacterial
If you have little ones in the house and are looking to get your cookware extra clean, an antibacterial programme means there's no lingering nasties on their plates. Read on to discover some of the benefits of this handy tech.
Sensor-controlled wash
Getting a dishwasher can take a real load off your plate – but did you know that some models come with a sensor-controlled wash? These special sensors detect how dirty your dishes are before accurately adjusting the amount of water and pressure needed, so all you need to do is pop your pots and pans in before sitting back with a cuppa. Aaah.
Dish drying
Want a hand with those everyday chores? A dishwasher with a self-drying setting will be your new best friend. No more damp tea towels and no more standing in the kitchen for hours after a long day – just sit back and relax, while the dishwasher ticks off your to-dos for you. Bliss.
Measure, delivery & Installation
Kitchen & Home Delivery
We deliver 7 days a week and have flexible delivery options, but for a little extra you can pick a timeslot. Get everything from fridge freezers to dishwashers delivered exactly when you want them
Features We Love
A-Rated Dishwashers
This guide covers all you need to know about dishwashers with an A energy rating.
Beko WiFi connected dishwasher
Check out this WiFi connected dishwasher with AutoDosing technology from Beko
Bosch Serie 6 dishwashers
Discover the amazing features included in Bosch's Serie 6 dishwashers
Dishwashers with sanitising cycles
Our handy guide will tell you everything you need to know about dishwasher sanitising cycles
FAQs
- 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. Take a look at our range of integrated dishwashers here.
- Do dishwashers heat their own water?
Yes, like washing machines, they’ll heat the cold water that comes from your mains supply.
- Do tabletop dishwashers need to be plumbed in?
They can either be plumbed in like a traditional dishwasher, or they can be connected to your sink taps.
- How long is an average dishwasher cycle?
This can vary depending on the cycle and the manufacturer.
- 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.
- Which are the quietest dishwashers?
The quietest dishwashers are models with the Quiet Mark symbol.
- How much does it cost to run a dishwasher?
This can vary depending on the size of the model. But a standard 12 place setting dishwasher cost around £50 a year to run.
- How long should a dishwasher last me?
On average, a dishwasher should last at least 5 years.
- Do dishwasher dry dishes?
Dishwashers generally do dry your dishes through a few different methods. Some models use a heating element to dry your dishes while others use the more hygienic and eco-friendly condensation method.
- Do I need to clean my dishwasher?
You certainly do. Manufacturers usually recommend cleaning your dishwasher once a month, so make sure you check your product manual for the best advice. Get some more top tips on how to use and look after your dishwasher with our how to guide.
- Where can I find the serial number on my dishwasher?
You’ll find it on a label that’s usually on the edge of the door when you open the dishwasher.
- How much is a dishwasher?
It all depends on what kind of model you’re looking for. Standard models are typically more expensive than slimline ones. We’ve got loads for you to choose from - our current cheapest is £209 and our most expensive is £1,599.
- Which dishwasher should I buy?
It depends what you’re looking for. Some models are quite basic, and others come with loads of great tech. There’s also design to bear in mind – so if you’ve not got much space in the kitchen, you might want to opt for a slimline model.
- Where can I buy a dishwasher?
You’ve come to the right place. We’ve got loads of dishwashers for you to choose from, so have a browse here and see what takes your fancy.
- What’s the difference between a silver and a stainless steel dishwasher?
It’s just a style thing. They’re different metals, so they look slightly different – stainless steel can tend to last a little longer than silver too, because it’s more durable.
