Dishwashers
Introduction
When they were first developed, automatic dishwashers were something of a domestic luxury designed to save time, but today’s efficient models also save water and energy too, when compared to hand washing in the sink. Dishwashers are also extremely useful for hiding the dirty crockery until it’s cleaned up!
Size & Format
Dishwashers are available in 3 distinct formats; freestanding, semi-integrated and integrated, which in turn are available in a number of sizes to either integrate with, or locate between, the existing units.
Electrical and plumbing connections
Dishwashers require connection to electrical, water and waste water services within a kitchen, as such you should ensure that you can site your dishwasher within easy reach of all three.
- Dishwashers can be plugged into a standard socket, with a 13amp fuse in the plug, or alternatively can be ‘hard wired’ into a 13amp switched fuse connection.
- They will need to be connected to the cold water supply (but not the hot water supply as they heat their own water using an element).
- Waste water will also need to be delivered to either a standpipe or a sink trap via a appliance hose adaptor.
Dishwasher performance
Dishwashers are graded from A to G, where A is the best. This rating is derived from the following measures;
- Cleaning Performance – ability to remove dried grease and food.
- Energy Efficiency – amount of hot water and electricity used during a wash cycle.
- Drying Performance – degree of moisture left on crockery after a wash.
By selecting a high graded machine, you can save money on running costs and get the best performance from your dishwasher.
Noise
Some dishwashers can make a fair bit of noise while they’re running, which can be somewhat bothersome, especially in an open plan living situation. However, some machines do work more quietly than others thanks to greater insulation and some cunning water distribution techniques, so consider selecting a model that has a lower decibel (dB) rating.
Key Features
- Washing Programmes - with anything from a handful to a myriad of different cycles, dishwashers should be able to care for almost any piece of crockery, glassware and cookware. Some items, such as fine patterned china, lead crystal glassware, cast iron cookware and cutlery with wooden or plastic handles, will never be suitable however.
- Energy Saving - in the search for increasingly economical function, the more advanced machines have all sorts of developments allowing you to wash one basket at a time, reuse water or use a heat exchange to keep energy and water usage to a minimum.
- Adjustable Baskets – modern dishwashers will often have a top basket whose height can be adjusted to make room for bulky items placed on the bottom rack.
- Timer - many machines now have the option of a start delay timer, allowing you to use electricity at its cheapest or put the dishwasher on at the most convenient time.
Further information and useful links
- Find a Kitchen Appliances supplier near you
- Find an Electrician near you
- Find a Plumber near you
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