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Buying a dishwasher for your home will save you a significant amount of time by not having to hand wash your dishes. What is the best dishwasher for your home? Here are some tips that will help guide you on buying the right dishwasher:
Consider the size of your kitchen and the amount of space it will allow for a dishwasher. The standard size for a dishwasher is 24” (under the counter). For smaller kitchens you can get a slimmer model at 18”. You can even get a portable model small enough to fit in a large cupboard. Consider these compact dishwashers for an RV or if you live alone and don’t produce many dirty dishes.
Pay attention to the features that the dishwasher offers. A good feature to look out for is the amount of spray levels the dishwasher contains. Higher spray levels allow for water to go in more directions, making the dishes much cleaner. You also want a dishwasher that dries dishes by at least 140 degrees. Look for models with a food grinder or heavy-duty disposal if you are looking to stick your dishes in without rinsing. Food grinders often make the dishwasher noisier but you can get a sound-dampening package to combat this. Also look for a model with several settings that modify the cycle’s intensity (delicate, pots/pans, regular wash, etc.).
Check the Energy Guide label to check for the dishwasher’s energy efficiency. The center of the label should show the amount of energy the appliance uses per year (measured in kilowatts). Review the scale below that number to see how the appliance’s energy efficiency compares to its competition. The further left the marker is the more energy efficient it is compared to the competition. Paying attention to the Energy Guide label can save you a great deal of money each month and will also help the environment!
Good brands to check out are Kenmore, Whirlpool, and Bosch (high end). Make sure to get a dishwasher that offers a good warranty or consider buying an extended warranty. Also look for a model that can be service locally.
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