Kitchen Appliances... The Dishwasher! {Dan Vick's Tips}

Of all kitchen appliances, dishwashers take more than their fair share of abuse. A new replacement dishwasher is welcome upgrade for almost any kitchen. If you are currently sink-and-sponging all of your dishes clean, you'll find that a new dishwasher is time-saving and environmentally friendly (modern dishwashers use less water to clean dishes than hand-washing).

Style/Capacity: Dishwashers come in a number of different alignments and capacities. The right dishwasher for your kitchen will depend on the space you have available, the load needs for your household and the individual style of your kitchen.

• 24" Built-In - The most common installation, the 24" fits under a kitchen counter and has space for 10-16 place settings. Washers in this size have the widest range of features, options and prices.
• Compact 18" Built-In - These smaller-capacity models are ideal for smaller kitchens or households with 1 to 2 occupants. The smaller capacity results in more efficient loads.
• Portable - Portable dishwashers connect to the kitchen faucet, and can be stored out of the way when not in use. Available in both 18" and 24" configurations, they have the benefits of standard dishwashers with portable flexibility.
• Two-Drawer Washers - Two-drawer setups allow for increased efficiency and flexibility. Each drawer can be operated separately, or they can be run simultaneously. The ability to run two different cycles at once allows for flexibility, while single-drawer usage allows for increased efficiency when washing smaller loads.

Energy efficiency: The overall efficiency of dishwashers has been greatly improved over the last decade. New dishwashers use less energy and water, saving you money in the long run. Models with the ENERGY STAR label exceed federal energy standards by 25% or more.

Stationary vs. adjustable racks: While most dishwashers have preset rack spaces, those with adjustable configurations allow provide greater flexibility when loading large or irregularly shaped dishes.

Delayed start: Many models allow you to set a delay on the load start time. By running the dishwasher during off-peak hours, you can take advantage of cheaper utility periods. Such units also allow you to maintain a quieter kitchen during the day.

Noise insulation: More insulation around the tub will reduce dishwasher noise, so check for units with thicker insulation.

Built-in food disposers: Many newer models feature food disposers that grind up food particles and flush them out with waste water, preventing food specks from being re-deposited on your dishes.

Cleaning Capabilities: Wash arms with smaller spray holes provide more scrubbing power. In addition, many dishwashers are equipped with multiple tiers and washer arms to better dislodge caked-on food.

Cycle types: In addition to regular wash cycles, many dishwashers allow specialty cycles designed to tackle specific dishes such as pots and pans, crystal, and fine china.

Finish and style: Dishwashers now come in a wide variety of materials, colors and finishes to better match your kitchen décor. Some unites come with fitted wood paneling to perfectly match your cabinetry, while others accommodate fully customizable front panels for an even more unique look.

Article from Dan Vick, RE/MAX of kc, 816-453-7400