How to choose a dishwasher

How to choose the right dishwasher

The importance of a dishwasher for the home is not exaggerated. Most housewives know that dirty dishes can cause quarrels in the family. But now it's easy to solve. The main thing is to figure out which appliances will suit your kitchen, fit optimally into the space and highlight the interior.

We will help you and show you what parameters to pay attention to when choosing a dishwasher.

Advantages and disadvantages of a dishwasher

If you have decided why you need a dishwasher, consider the advantages of the equipment:

• saving time and effort;
• the machine can wash the dishes even when you are not at home;
• hot water is not necessary;
• Compared to hand washing, water consumption is reduced by 3-5 times;
• the ability to disinfect dishes at high temperatures.

There are also disadvantages:

• price of equipment;
• use of free space. You need to immediately think about the location of the dishwasher so that the door opens freely;
• high power consumption; in addition, it is advisable to connect via a stabilizer;
• the machine does not wash dishes made of tin, aluminum, wood;
• use of chemical cleaning agents.

We decide on the type and dimensions of the PMM

Start choosing equipment by determining the type of dishwasher. Much depends on your personal preferences, space in the kitchen, and the possibility of embedding.

What types are PMMs divided into:

1. Full size dishwashers . Their dimensions are on average 60x60x85 cm. Such models are quite spacious and can serve 12-16 sets of dishes at a time.
2. Narrow models . The body width starts from 45 cm. In a narrow dishwasher you can wash from 6 to 9 sets per cycle.
3. Compact PMM. Overall dimensions 45x55x45 cm. Despite the fact that the price of compact machines is lower than that of the two previous options, the quality of washing leaves much to be desired. But if there is not enough space in the room to accommodate a full-size model, a compact PMM is perfect.

By installation method:

1. Fully and partially built-in PMMs. Such models are suitable for those who have just begun to equip their kitchen. When ordering a kitchen set, you can provide space for a dishwasher or install it in a free cabinet under the sink.
2. Freestanding machines. Installed in free space. The dimensions of such models are quite large, but their spaciousness is perfect for a large family.

Specifications

Let's look at the main characteristics of dishwashers that may influence your choice.

Washing and drying class

The higher the class, the more expensive the equipment costs. Manufacturers strive to make dishwashers not only convenient to use, but also economical. Equipment with class A can wash even stubborn stains and then effectively dry the dishes.

After washing and drying in a class B and C machine, you will have to rewash the dishes. There may be streaks, drops of water or stains on the plates. Therefore, it is worth paying extra for a high class.

Energy class

The energy consumption class per cycle is indicated in Latin letters:

• A (0.8-1.05 kW/h);
• B (1.06-1.09 kW/h);
• C (2-2.99 kW/h).

As in the first case, class A is the best and most effective. Such models consume 50-80% less energy than class B and C models.

Water consumption

Water consumption depends on the specific model. Inexpensive freestanding machines can use 14-16 liters of water per cycle. Whereas more expensive or tabletop models are 7-8 liters. No matter how much water a dishwasher uses, it is much less than what you use when washing by hand.

Drying type

The dishwasher is equipped with two types of drying. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages.

1. Condensing type. It works by evaporating moisture. The method is effective, but time-consuming.
2. Turbo drying. It works faster because the moisture is dried by blowing hot air from the fan. Models with turbo drying are much more expensive.

Protection

How safe is it to use a dishwasher in the kitchen or garden? To find the answer to the question, pay attention to leakage protection and child locking.

1. Leak protection prevents leaks from occurring in the device. In the event of a malfunction, the AquaStop system will provide protection against leakage, which is especially important when installed in an apartment.

1. Child lock. If there are small children in the house, this function is a must. Protection blocks the control panel from accidental pressing. The bin door will also not open until you disable the protection.

Noise level

Have you had dinner and don't want to leave dirty dishes until the morning? Then run the overnight cycle in your dishwasher. To do this, it is important to know the noise level during PMM operation. Modern manufacturers produce equipment with noise characteristics of no more than 55 dB. There are models with indicators of 42-45 dB.

Built-in dishwashers are less noisy than freestanding ones due to their placement in the kitchen unit.

Programs and modes

Decide what functions you need to conveniently use the PMM. The dishwasher has few main programs, from 5 to 8. Additional features that can be very useful deserve special attention:

1. Pre-soaking. An effective mode when washing dishes with dried food residues. During regular washing, not all contaminants are washed away, but if you pre-soak them, you will end up with clean appliances.
2. Half load. A relevant feature for cars with large capacity. If you only load your equipment halfway, this mode allows you to save up to 30% of water and electricity.
3. Delayed start. If electricity rates are lower at night than during the day, the delay start feature can help you save money. Just set the start of the cycle at a time convenient for you.
4. Alternating water supply. Water is not supplied from two sprayers at once, but first from the top, then from the bottom. This approach allows you to save 15-20% of water while maintaining the quality of washing.

It is worth paying attention to the quality of the material from which the dish baskets are made. Check if the top basket can be adjusted in height to accommodate large pots and bowls.

You need to choose the right dishwasher based on the parameters we presented above. Ask how the dishwasher notifies the user when the program ends. This could be a sound signal or a beam on the floor. The last method is typical for built-in machines. The red indicator focuses a red beam on the floor, after which you can open the door.

Clearing a clogged filter

The garbage filter is rightfully considered one of the main components of a dishwasher. Its functional task is to prevent food debris and dirt waste from penetrating the main working elements. Dirt gradually collecting in the filter cavity prevents normal water circulation in the device, so the heating element turns off and the dishwasher does not heat the water. To normalize the operation of the machine, it is necessary to clean the filter.

The bottom line is that when you turn on the washing program, water should communicate well between the storage tank and special containers. At this time, the heating element maintains a constant temperature necessary for high-quality washing. If the filter is partially or completely clogged with debris, circulation becomes far from normal. Water accumulates in the tank, and the system will be forced to replenish reserves using cold tap water. Ten won't be able to heat it up.

It is important for the consumer to remember that in order to avoid this malfunction, it is necessary to thoroughly clean the dishes before placing them in the dishwasher.

It would also be a good idea to look into the storage tank while working. If it fills with water, it is necessary to promptly clean the filter. As a result, normal circulation will be restored and the problem with water heating will disappear, unless the heating element fails due to a blockage or the thermistor does not burn out synchronously.

Company manufacturer

There are quite a few companies that manufacture dishwashers. But if you are interested in the best ones, see the list below.

AEG is a company known for its build quality and reliability and occupies a leading position in the market. But you have to pay dearly for high performance. It is the price that turns off most consumers.

ARDO - Italian design, soft, rounded lines of technology. The cost of Ardo products is affordable for most consumers. Despite budget prices, manufacturers maintain build quality at a decent level.

BOSCH - dishwashers from this company are in great demand not only in Germany, but also in Russia. The cost of models for every taste - from budget options to expensive luxury cars. The assembly technology of Bosch dishwashers allows them to work for decades.

ELECTROLUX - listen to the advice of experts, pay attention to the place where Electrolux products are assembled. Although the company itself originated in Sweden, today many countries are engaged in the production of equipment under the brand name. It is better not to buy PMM made in China.

INDESIT - the quality and service life of machines also depends on the place of assembly.

SIEMENS - a German concern produces PMM models with a stylish, modern design. I am pleased with the wide functionality and new technologies that Siemens introduces in its equipment.

Dishwasher rating

Now you know what parameters to choose a dishwasher by. Below we will present a rating of the best models, according to customer reviews and expert recommendations.

Bosch SPV40E40RU

Narrow built-in dishwasher, measuring 44.8x55x81.5 cm. This model takes first place in the rating, as consumers rated it 99.5 points out of 100 possible. What is remarkable about the Bosch SPV40E40RU?

Useful features:

1. The glass washing function adjusts the water hardness. The fact is that too soft water promotes glass corrosion. But now you don’t have to be afraid to wash delicate items in PMM.
2. ActiveWater function - 5 levels of water supply. The upper and lower rocker arms can operate separately, and water can also be supplied from the ceiling of the chamber. So, the dishes are doused with water from all sides and washed well.
3. The AquaStop system now 100% protects equipment from leaks during the entire warranty period.
4. The load sensor determines the amount of dishes to save water and energy.
5. IntensiveZone technology delivers pressurized water to the lower basket. Therefore, baking sheets and pans are washed effectively.

Additionally, protection is provided against accidental pressing of keys on the panel and opening of the hopper door.

The dishwasher belongs to drying and washing class A. Water consumption per cycle is 9 liters, and electricity consumption is 0.78 kW/h. Noise level - 48 dB. Price from 25,000 rubles.

Customer Reviews

Elmira

A good, budget option from Bosch. If you have nothing to compare it to, this dishwasher will seem like a miracle. The machine runs quietly, but for a long time. On average, a cycle lasts about 3 hours. I use the Eco mode all the time and I like it. But dishes don’t always wash well, especially dried ketchup. A lot depends on the detergent. When I use an inexpensive one, the result is not impressive; I have to wash the dishes. Despite this, I really like PMM, I’ve been using it for a year now, I recommend it.

HOTPOINT/ARISTON ELTF 11M121C EU

The fully built-in model is completely hidden behind the door of the kitchen unit. Dimensions 82x60x57 cm. The machine holds 14 sets of dishes. Electromechanical control allows you to choose from 11 washing programs. Among them are night, delicate, and fast modes.

Condensation drying allows devices to dry naturally. After the end of the cycle, the PMM emits a sound signal and also lights up a red beam on the floor. The indicator lights up specifically because the equipment operates quietly (41 dB).

Functions and technologies:

1. Turbidity sensor. Determines the degree of contamination of the water, giving a signal for repeated rinses.
2. Delay start. Ability to set the start time of the cycle.
3. Complete protection against leaks.

The machine belongs to the high energy consumption class A++, washing and drying class is also A. Price from 28,000 rubles.

User reviews

Marina

We were moving to a new apartment and decided to order a dishwasher. "Ariston" suited us in all respects for installation. We ordered at random because we couldn’t find any reviews for the model. I can highlight the following advantages:

• quiet operation;
• the delayed start mode was very useful, especially during night use;
• presence of a display and clear controls.
• At the beginning of the cycle, you can report the devices.
• unloads and frees up time.

Minuses:

• Doesn't wash plates well enough.
• scratches glass;
• I’m not happy with washing baking sheets and pots, so I have to wash them.

Bosch SKS41E11RU

A small and compact machine is ideal for an apartment or cottage. The PMM is placed on the table. Dimensions 55.1x50x45 cm. Equipped with a quiet inverter motor, noise level 54 dB.

The capacity of the bunker is designed for 6 sets. 4 programs handle washing. The VarioSpeed ​​mode allows you to cut the washing program in half, while maintaining high-quality results. The following technologies are built in:

• five levels of ActiveWater water supply for effective washing;
• the load sensor automatically determines the amount of loaded dishes in order to save water and electricity;
• Possibility of gentle washing of fragile items.

The dishwasher uses 8 liters of water in one cycle. Has class A for drying and washing. Price from 22,500 rubles.

Consumer Reviews

Tatiana

This is our first dishwasher that we bought for a family of 4 people. The machine fits comfortably on the table, because we don’t have room for a large model. I mainly use the “Eco” mode and set it to a night wash. The sound of operation does not interfere. Among the advantages I can highlight is the good quality of washing. Even pots and pans are washed, and if something remains, it is due to improper installation of the appliances. I didn’t like that there was no display or sound signal at the end of work.

Miele G4960SCVi

Fully built-in premium model. The dishwasher belongs to class A for washing and drying. Consumes energy economically (class A++). The equipment not only effectively washes dishes, but also dries them quickly thanks to the “Turbo” mode.

The baskets hold 14 place settings. There are 5 built-in washing programs, including delicate and fast. The automatic closer facilitates the accurate closing of the door. The display on the panel shows the time until the end of the program, after which a sound signal sounds.

The equipment received complete protection against leaks. Thanks to the delay timer, you can delay the start of the program by 24 hours. PMM dimensions 81x60x57 cm. Noise level 47 dB. Price from 70,000 rubles.

Customer Reviews

Sergey

After the birth of the child, my wife began to experience irritation on her hands from water. I had to wash the dishes. When I got tired of washing mountains of dishes, I took Millie's dishwasher. The quality of washing is satisfactory, the front legs can be adjusted. True, there are some discrepancies with the instructions during installation. It was this model made in Germany, there was another, similar, but made in the Czech Republic. Therefore, pay attention to the build quality.

After reading our recommendations, you can safely go shopping for a dishwasher. Carefully read the labels on the case and the operating instructions.

Optimal washing temperature

Most modern machines are capable of operating at different temperatures, which depend on the amount and degree of contamination of the loaded kitchenware and the selected washing program. To reliably determine at what degree the equipment copes with its duties most effectively, you need to try all modes of its operation.

Standard

The program is basic and is provided in all PMMs, regardless of manufacturer and price. The mode runs when water is heated to 45–65 °C.

This is quite enough for high-quality and quick washing of slightly and moderately soiled kitchen utensils. Suitable for daily use.

Intensive

A useful function, but, alas, not every home assistant can “boast” of having it. The equipment washes at temperatures of 70 °C and above, so it can easily cope with heavy stains (grease, dried food debris) even on frying pans and pots.

Plus, this program ensures the disinfection of kitchen utensils, as well as the sterilization of cans for preservation. But you shouldn’t abuse it, since it takes longer and is more energy-consuming than any other washing program.

Delicate

To carefully handle items made from fragile materials (porcelain, crystal), dishwashers use the delicate program. In this case, t values ​​do not rise above 40 °C, and the cycle itself lasts from 30 to 100 minutes (depending on the model). For example, in Siemens PMM it takes at least 1 hour and 10 minutes, and in Bosch it takes only 44 minutes.

Do not use delicate mode without a special product that can completely dissolve at 30 °C. Also, do not use it on heavily soiled kitchen appliances. Otherwise, the quality of cleaning will be unsatisfactory.