Basic Types of Dishwashers and How to Choose Between Them

Buying a new kitchen appliance can be an overwhelming experience, and the last thing you want to do is purchase the wrong appliance and have to do it all over again. To prevent this from happening you should always research the different types, styles, and models so that you can ensure that the strengths of any appliance match the needs of your family, and dishwashers are no different. As you begin your search for your new dishwasher remember that a kitchen appliance works best when it provides the specific functions that your family needs; what is right for some people isn't necessarily right for your family.

BUILT-IN VS. PORTABLE

When you first begin your search for a new dishwasher, one of the first decisions you will make will be between built-in and portable models. Each of these models will save you time, energy, and are available in the standard 24" and compact 18" sizes, so choosing between them will be a function of your personal preference and how much space you have in your kitchen.

Built-In: The built-in models are more common than portables. They are designed to fit directly underneath your kitchen count and require power and water connections. The advantage of a built-in model is that it is generally larger so their is more loading capacity, they save floor space, and simply, there are more models to choose from.

Portable: You will want to consider a portable model if space in your kitchen is limited. These models are operated by directly connecting a hose to the kitchen sink, and then plugging the dishwasher into a standard electrical outlet. Portable models can either be stored away when not in use or can be designed to blend in with your kitchen's interior depending on your preference. Also, many portable models can be converted into built-in models with the correct conversion kit.

FITTING YOUR FAMILY'S NEEDS: CAPACITY AND FLEXIBILITY

Once you have decided between built-in and portable models you can turn your attention towards other, more specific, features. At this stage in the decision process you want to really consider both your current and future needs so that you can make an informed decision that you won't regret later.

CAPACITY AND FLEXIBILITY

A dishwasher's capacity is usually based on how many place settings can comfortably fit within the tub. Most standard size tubs can hold 12 place settings, which is a great amount for the average family of four or five. At this size, you will have enough space to wash your family's dishes along with some extra pots, pans, or oddly shaped dishes at the same time. Still, don't just assume that because you have a family of four or five that this is the right size tub for you. If you end up purchasing a dishwasher that is too small, you will wast time, money, and energy running multiple loads or rewashing dishes that weren't cleaned the first time.

If you think you might need some more space there are super-capacity models or tall tubs that can hold 16 place settings and still fit underneath your kitchen counter. Just as the name implies, these models are taller than standard units and are designed to fit odd-shaped dishes that may not fit in standard units. Finally, if you have smaller washing demands, you may want to look at compact models that hold 8 place settings.

Another component that can contribute to a dishwasher's loading capacity is its loading flexibility. A dishwasher with adjustable racks can seem larger and hold more dishes than one might originally expect. Most dishwasher models include adjustable tines, cup shelves, stemware holders, and silverware trays to help you organize your dishes to maximize your usable space. You want to choose among these features and find what's most important to you so you can ensure a perfect wash every time.

An idea: Something that you may want to consider when you head towards your local retailer is to bring a clean setting of your dishes and any other oddly shaped or large dishes to insure that their is enough vertical space for them to fit.

Finally, on of the last things that you will want it determine is if any of your dishes are blocking the spray arms or towers within the tub you will want to go to another model. You can't put dishes in the dishwasher that could potentially block the tower's rotation because these dishes won't get washed. If you have a tendency to overload your dishwasher you will run this risk, so keep this in mind when you are choosing a model and make sure that you choose a larger tub.

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