How to Choose a Dishwasher

Your dishwasher is one of the most utilized appliances in kitchens today. However, when it comes time to replace that old dishwasher, people walk into the purchase with no knowledge of how to choose the right dishwasher for them. This can be a costly mistake that can cause many headaches down the road. So by taking the time to consider a few things, you will be able to make a smart dishwasher purchase that you will be able to enjoy for years to come.

Price

When you are choosing a dishwasher, the first thing you need to look at is price. Everyone has a limit to how much they can spend on an appliance and the dishwasher is no exception. Inexpensive dishwashers start at around $250 and go up from there. Extras like stainless steel will quickly drive up the price. So know what it is that you need in a dishwasher when you set your budget for a dishwasher.

Size

Once you have set a budget for your dishwasher, you need to look at the dishwasher size that you need. First, measure the space you have for your new dishwasher. Write down the dimensions of the opening where you dishwasher will be going and use them to make sure that any dishwasher you will be looking at will fit. Never assume that an appliance will fit in your home, because the headache of returning it is much worse than the time it takes to make a few measurements.

After you are sure that a dishwasher will fit in your kitchen, take a look at the inside of the dishwasher to ensure it has the room you need. If it is just you in your home, you may want to choose a smaller dishwasher to save water and electricity. However, if you have a family of 3 or more, bigger is typically the way to go. Look for a silverware basket that hangs on the door, as this will free up space in the rack for larger items. Then visually compare that dishwasher to other dishwashers in your same price point to find the one with the most space possible.

Energy Efficient

You will also want to look to see if the dishwashers you are considering are Energy Star rated. Simply look for the Energy Star logo to see if your potential dishwasher is energy efficient. The more energy efficient a dishwasher is, the less money it is going to cost you to run down the road. With the cost of energy going up and the push for more Earth-friendly option, this is an important feature for many people looking for a new dishwasher.

Noise Level

We have all had to yell over a noisy dishwasher a time or two and no body wants to have to do that. With today's technology, you have the option to purchase a dishwasher that is whisper-quiet. If your budget allows you to spring for this feature, it is definitely a nice thing to have when you are trying to have a conversation in your kitchen.

Color

The color of your dishwasher may not make it run any better, but it certainly can add to it's appeal. If you can afford it, consider purchasing a stainless steel dishwasher to help the resell value of your home. Otherwise, simply choose a dishwasher color that will match your kitchen's style and your existing appliance colors. For example, if you are only replacing your dishwasher and already have 2 other black appliances, it is probably best to stick with a black appliance. However, if you are getting all new appliances, look at the style of your kitchen and make sure that your dishwasher color will work well with it.

Brand

A dishwasher is a long-term investment and you want to make sure you are purchasing the best brand for your money. If you can afford it, stick to trusted brands like GE, Whirlpool, Kenmore and Maytag. These brands typically give you the best quality appliances, but it is at a larger cost. If price is an issue, however, you can purchase lower cost brands like Frigidaire and Roper, which offer a good quality product for a lower price. So choose the best brand that your budget will allow to ensure that you get as much use out of your dishwasher as possible.

Extras

Though we all know we want a dishwasher to get the dishes clean, there are other options available on some dishwasher that can make life easier. Some of these include adjustable racks, time-delay setting, pots and pans settings and water-saving technology are all extras you may want to consider if you have room in your budget. Take a look at the features you would most like to have on your dishwasher and see if there is a way to spring for them. You will be living with this dishwasher for many years, you want to make sure it can serve you to the best of it's ability.

So when it comes time to choose a dishwasher, you no longer have to be clueless. Worth through each of these step and eliminate potential options based on your family's needs and wants. In the end, you will have chosen the best dishwasher you can get for your money and know you have made a good decision.