Dishwasher Features Explained (Best Buyers Guide)

Today you will get all the dishwasher features explained in full detail!

Dishwashers are among the household appliances that one would like to do without. There are different types of dishwashers, and there are also some differences between these appliances.

What these are and what you should know and pay attention to when buying a dishwasher, we will explain in our dishwasher features guide.

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Dishwasher Features Explained

Today, just about every dishwasher does its main job – cleaning the dishes – well. Nevertheless, there are differences between the dishwashers that show these characteristics:

• Cleaning performance
• Program selection
• Drying capacity
• Safety equipment
• Water consumption
• Power consumption
• Processing
• Volume
• Additional functions

Cleaning performance

Most dishwashers now clean at a high level. Ordinarily dirty dishes can be cleaned well by all dishwashers.

Only in border areas, i.e. heavily burnt pots or dishes with firmly dried food remains, the plates do not get cleaned.

Program selection

Before buying, you should consider when, how often and how much dishes you need to wash. For example, if you often have guests and you need fresh dishes during the party, you should choose a dishwasher with an excellent quick program.

You can find out more about the individual programs in the “Programs” section further down in the article.

In principle, however, all currently available dishwashers have several programs on board.

In the individual test reports, you will find more information on the strengths and weaknesses of the own dishwasher programs.

Drying capacity

You may remember this from old dishwashers: the dishes come wet from the dishwasher. Modern dishwashers still dry the dishes in the machine.

In particular, we can recommend the devices with auto-open function, where the steam can again escape easily.

Safety Features

Every dishwasher in our test had a Water Stop function to prevent the kitchen from flooding.

Higher models often still have a child lock that prevents the door from being opened during the rinsing process or the setting buttons from being changed slightly.

If you have children, make sure you buy an appliance with this function.

Water Consumption

The values for water consumption differ. Manufacturers always specify the water consumption per year, sometimes also per rinse cycle.

The annual costs effectively are based on the standard value of 280 rinsing cycles. So if you want to know how much water a dishwasher uses per cycle, you have to divide this number by 280.

By the way: the values based on the standard program for average dirty dishes defined by the manufacturer. Most manufacturers take a very energy-efficient program.

Energy Consumption

In our test, no dishwasher did not have at least the energy efficiency class A+, because, since December 2013, all new dishwashers must have at least the energy efficiency class A+.

In practice, however, the differences between the individual energy efficiency classes are no longer significant.

Only if you use the dishwasher very often can the extra investment in a dishwasher with a higher energy class be worthwhile? Read more about this in the section “Is it worth buying a new one?

Processing

The dishwashers listed here are all well processed. Especially the joints of the door should be well treated because they are exposed to higher loads.

The castors on which the dish baskets are inserted can also give up their ghost but are relatively easy to replace.

Volume

The decibel numbers of the dishwashers we tested are close to each other, but 1 decibel makes a difference inaudibility.

While 42 decibels are almost noiseless, 44 decibels are audible, especially in homes with high hearing levels.

Adjustable Racks

Adjustable racks are another essential feature to look out for. These racks can be moved up or down to accommodate different sizes of dishes and cookware.

This can be especially useful if you have large pots and pans that don’t fit in a standard dishwasher. Some dishwashers also have fold-down tines, which can make it easier to load and unload dishes.

Delay Timer

A delay timer is a useful feature that allows you to set the dishwasher to start at a later time.

This can be useful if you want to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates, or if you want to ensure that the dishwasher runs when you’re not at home.

Some dishwashers also have a time remaining display, which can be useful if you need to plan your day around the dishwasher cycle.

Display & Sensors

A good dishwasher should have a clear and easy-to-use display. The display should show you the current status of the dishwasher, such as the remaining time and the selected program.

Some dishwashers also have sensors that can detect the level of dirt and adjust the cleaning accordingly. This can help save water and energy, and ensure that your dishes come out clean every time.

Additional Functions

Many devices still have additional functions that should make your life easier. Manufacturers install them to differentiate themselves from other manufacturers.

In most cases, however, they are not needed and are rather a nice bonus. But you don’t necessarily need to spend more money.

Examples of such additional functions are the automatic detection of the degree of soiling or the detection of the load condition.

How Does A Dishwasher Work?

A dishwasher works like this:

1. Water is pumped into the machine; The amount of water is regulated via sensors. The water is passed over the softening unit and then warmed up. The rotating arms of the dishwasher spray hot water onto the dishes to soak and remove the coarse dirt.
2. The wastewater gets filtered and mixed by the dosing tank with the cleaner. The water is again spread over the dishes and serves to dissolve stubborn dirt. The water is filtered and placed over the plates for a while, and then it is filtered and pumped out.
3. Freshwater is now pumped in and heated higher than before. A little rinse aid is added, and the water is then added again over the dishes. The rinse aid has the effect that the surface tension of the water is reduced and thus it runs much more accessible from the plates.
4. The film of water left over evaporates either through the heat of the dishes or the devices own mechanisms.

The dishwasher makes itself the Sinner circle, a mechanism of action first described by chemist Herbert Sinner.

The mechanism states that there are four factors for cleaning that affect the outcome:

1. Time (duration of the wash cycle)
2. Mechanics (crockery spitting)
3. Temperature (heating of the water)
4. Chemistry (dishwasher cleaner)

While in the past the mechanical factor played an important role (manual rubbing off of the dishes with the sponge).

This factor is compensated for by dishwashers through time and chemistry: the rinsing process takes much longer and the cleaners used are more aggressive than hand detergents. The correct operation of your dishwasher

Dishwashers are relatively easy to clean, but you should pay attention to a few things in use, then you will benefit much longer from your dishwasher.

1. Using programs with higher temperature

Eco programs sound good and suggest clean and economical energy consumption. The low temperatures, however, also cause fat, which is washed off the dishes.

These lumps can clog the lines in the water cycle and cause the machine to deteriorate significantly or not at all.

Therefore, you should occasionally run your machine with the hottest program. When it’s time for your dishwasher to stop working correctly, you can try pouring boiling water into the pump sump to release the grease drops.

2. Cleaning nozzles and sieves

Dirt residues get caught in the screens and nozzles. For most machines, you can remove the arms with the nozzles for cleaning without tools.

The cleaning of the sieves should be done regularly. Leftovers that are in the strainer otherwise begin to rot. The consequence: The dishwasher starts to spread bad smells.

3. Use of Regenerating

Dishwasher salt serves to regenerate the ion exchange resin after each rinse. Ion exchange resin? The ion exchange resin helps to soften the water by binding alkaline earth metal ions – a natural softener.

Unfortunately, many cleanser manufacturers praise their cleaners by replacing the regenerating salt. Although these cleaners soften the water, the absence of regenerating salt causes the resin to calcify.

This calcification is difficult to undo. Therefore you should always use sufficient regenerating salt in your dishwasher!

The different programs of a dishwasher

Normal program

The standard program works with temperatures up to 65 degrees Celsius. It is used on typical dirty dishes, but can also remove dried food particles.

Intensive Program

The intensive program of a dishwasher is usually the hottest program with up to 75 degrees Celsius. It is suitable for burnt or heavily soiled pots and pans.

Saving Program / Eco Program

The savings program consumes the least water and electricity but requires more time. The cleaning results are worse than in the standard program since a lower water temperature of 45 to 55 degrees Celsius is used.

Short Program

This program works much faster than the conventional programs. It is not suitable for dried dishes, as there is no soak phase in this program.

Gentle Program

The gentle program works similar to the Eco program with low temperature; also, water pressure is reduced.

Automatic Program

The automatic program automatically determines the degree of loading and contamination. Temperature sensors, aqua sensors and motor sensors calculate the optimum plan.

The temperature sensor measures how quickly the temperature in the interior heats up and can thus detect how much dishes are inside the dishwasher.

Which dishwasher functions are necessary?

Before purchasing, think about which functions you will use more often and decide accordingly. Spending money on functions that you do not use makes no sense.

You can then better invest the saved money in a good set of dishes or cooking utensils.

Types

There are several construction variants for dishwashers. This usually has nothing to do with the flushing performance, but with the aesthetics in the kitchen.

Depending on which type you choose, your kitchens will more or less show that there is a dishwasher.

Built-in appliances

Built-in appliances can be integrated into the kitchen unit.

Fully integrated Dishwashers

With these devices, you do not recognise from the outside that a dishwasher hides behind the cover. The controls are located at the top of the door and cannot be reached when the door is closed.

This also means that there is usually no remaining time display.

However, there are also fully integrated dishwashers such as the Siemens SN65M037EU, where the remaining time is projected by light on the ground in front of the device.

Semi-Integrated Dishwashers

In semi-integrated dishwashers, the door also has a decorative panel. However, the control panel is integrated in the front, so the machine still recognisable as such.

Understanding Dishwasher Place Settings

A place setting is a standard DIN EN 50242 set of dishes, with which the capacity of dishwashers is specified in Europe.

A standardised place setting consists of one piece each:

• Dinner plate 26 cm
• Soup plate 23 cm
• Dessert plate 19 cm
• Saucer 14 cm
• Cup 0.2 l
• Drinking glass 250 ml
• Knife 203 mm
• Fork 184 mm
• Soup spoon 195 mm
• Teaspoon 126 mm
• Dessert spoon 156 mm

A dishwasher which accommodates 8 place settings, would therefore have enough space for 8x the items on list above.

In addition to the specified place settings, the following items will still be given to check the loading capacity:

• An oval plate 32 cm. (for dishwashers with a capacity of seven or more place settings: 1x oval plate 35 cm)
• A serving bowl ø 16 cm
• A serving bowl ø 13 cm
• Two serving spoons 260 mm
• A serving fork 192 mm
• A sauce spoon
• For dishwashers with a capacity of seven or more place settings: 1x serving bowl 19 cm

Checklist For Buying A Dishwasher

When buying a dishwasher, pay attention to:

• Dishwasher Type
• Additional functions
• Width (place settings)
• Energy Efficiency

The different types of dishwashers

Freestanding Dishwashers

Freestanding dishwashers are the most common type of dishwasher. They are designed to be placed anywhere in your kitchen, as they do not require any installation.

These dishwashers come in various sizes and can hold a large number of dishes. They are also easy to move around if you need to rearrange your kitchen.

Integrated Dishwashers

Integrated dishwashers are designed to be installed into your kitchen cabinets. They are hidden behind a cabinet door, giving your kitchen a seamless look.

These dishwashers are great for small kitchens or for those who want a more streamlined look. Integrated dishwashers come in different sizes, so you can find one that fits your kitchen perfectly.

Semi-Integrated Dishwashers

Semi-integrated dishwashers are a combination of freestanding and integrated dishwashers. They have a visible control panel, but the rest of the dishwasher is hidden behind a cabinet door.

These dishwashers are great for those who want the convenience of a freestanding dishwasher, but the seamless look of an integrated dishwasher.

Compact Dishwashers

Compact dishwashers are designed for those who have limited space in their kitchen.

They are smaller than regular dishwashers, but they can still hold a decent amount of dishes. Compact dishwashers are also great for those who live alone or have a small family.

Which functions does a dishwasher need?

An essential function in dishwashers is the Aqua Stop. It prevents water from escaping uncontrollably when, for example, a hose bursts.

The water control system is useful to control the water inlet in the device. The inlet automatically stops, once the water reaches normal levels.

The system also reacts to leaks. Further development is a waterproof system. Here there is as a supplement for a double solenoid valve, which closes the water inlet with a defective valve.

In the case of a damaged hose, the water in the double hose is transferred to the floor pan. Electronic monitoring systems with alarm and solenoid valve functionary equipped with humidity sensors.

Leaking water is registered and reported to a central processing unit. Then the corresponding solenoid valve can be closed.

The meaning of place settings in dishwashers

The capacity measurement for a dishwasher is often given in “place settings”. This is approximately the same as one-person crockery for a 3-course meal.

1-2 people should expect 9-12 place settings, which fit into a small dishwasher of 45 cm width. A medium-sized household needs a diameter of 60 cm to accommodate 12-14 place settings.

Energy efficiency classes of dishwashers

Buying a dishwasher is a long-term commitment. Therefore, the energy consumption is an crucial purchase argument.

The device accounts for about 7% of the electricity consumption annually. The different classes are divided from A +++ to D. You should generally not be purchasing a product with an A rating or worse.

Smart Dishwashers and Upgrades

If you’re in the market for a new dishwasher, you may want to consider upgrading to a smart dishwasher.

Smart dishwashers come with a range of features that make them more convenient and efficient than traditional dishwashers.

One of the most significant benefits of a smart dishwasher is its ability to connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network.

This feature allows you to control your dishwasher from your smartphone or tablet, so you can start or stop a cycle, change settings, or monitor progress from anywhere.

Another advantage of a smart dishwasher is its flexibility options. Many smart dishwashers come with voice controls, which allow you to operate your dishwasher using an enabled virtual home assistant.

This hands-free feature is especially useful when you have your hands full or are busy doing other tasks.

Smart dishwashers also come with a range of other features that make them more efficient and effective than traditional dishwashers.

For example, some models come with sensors that detect how dirty your dishes are and adjust the cycle accordingly. Others have automatic detergent dispensers that ensure you use the right amount of detergent for each cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

My Dishwasher Does Not Dry – Why Is This?

Many reasons can cause your dishwasher to stop drying correctly. Most of the time, this problem occurs suddenly, and at a time that is more than inappropriate.

Even if the dishwasher, or just at his for many years service did always work correctly, this problem might occur. Outdated technology can be a reason.

If your machine has gotten old, then it can be due to the heating oil, for example. This is located in the interior of the dishwasher under the harness.

Today, the devices no longer have a heating coil but a water heater. Of course, a burnt-out heating element must be replaced.

The components can be ordered, provided they are still available, or you have to contact a technician who comes by. If nothing else helps, then you have to think about a new purchase.

The reason may be a defective thermostat. Also, this device can be bought separately and either obstructed by yourself or by a technician.

It gets hard when you are entirely inexperienced regarding craftsmanship.

What are the essential features to consider when purchasing a dishwasher?

When purchasing a dishwasher, there are several essential features to consider. These include:

• Capacity: The number of place settings a dishwasher can hold is an important consideration, especially for larger families.
• Energy efficiency: Look for dishwashers with a high energy efficiency rating to save on your energy bills.
• Noise level: Dishwashers can be noisy, so look for models with a low decibel rating.
• Wash programs: Different wash programs are designed for different types of dishes and levels of dirtiness.
• Drying options: Some dishwashers have built-in drying options, while others require you to dry dishes manually.

What are the top-rated dishwasher brands in 2023?

In 2023, some of the top-rated dishwasher brands include:

• Bosch
• Miele
• Samsung
• LG
• Whirlpool

What are the must-have features for a modern dishwasher?

• Wi-Fi connectivity: This allows you to control your dishwasher remotely and receive notifications when your dishes are clean.
• Sensor technology: This adjusts the wash cycle based on the level of dirtiness of your dishes.
• Automatic detergent dispensing: This ensures that the correct amount of detergent is used for each wash cycle.
• Quiet operation: Look for dishwashers with a low decibel rating to ensure quiet operation.