Aside from the water-saving benefits, dishwashers are convenient, easy to use, and efficient. They can be a godsend when it comes to keeping up with today’s fast-paced lifestyle, which is why these days a dishwasher is an essential component to any kitchen.
But before you buy your dishwasher, consider the size, energy rating, water rating, and features and functions. Aside from the obvious water-saving benefits, dishwashers are convenient, easy to use, and efficient.

Sizes
There are two main sizes of dishwashers available, ranging from a full-size unit that is approximately 60cm wide and typically suitable for the average family home or office with space for twelve or more cutlery, to a compact unit that is approximately 45cm wide and holds eight or nine place settings, which is far less than most full-size units.

Energy Ratings
The energy rating stars determine the energy efficiency of the dishwasher. You need to be careful with these when shopping for a dishwasher. The more stars the dishwasher has, the less energy the dishwasher will consume on a day-to-day basis. For more information on energy ratings, do a Google search for the Australian government’s energy rating site.

sage in the water
Select dishwasher models offer water saving options and incorporate anti-flooding systems to ensure the safety of your home. Total water consumption has been found to be four (4) times less in a dishwasher than when washing dishes by hand (UK Government Market Transformation Program report BNW16: A comparison of washing by hand with a dishwasher Domestic, 2004. The WELS Scheme Approved dishwashers use on average half the water of a standard model dishwasher.

For more information on the highest star rating on a dishwasher and how it relates to efficient water use, visit the Water Efficiency Labeling and Standards Scheme (WELS) website.

Dishwasher programs and settings
The settings of a dishwasher depend on the type of model you choose. Generally, a standard dishwasher has three (3) wash settings ranging from light, normal, and heavy. More expensive dishwashers have features for cleaning pots and pans or larger items that can be useful if you’re a cooking enthusiast.
Some programs and settings to consider when choosing a dishwasher include:

• Water temperature: the water must reach the right temperature for a more efficient wash cycle. Sensors are built into the dishwasher to ensure the water is heated correctly.
• Dirt Sensors – This ensures that dirty water cannot be recirculated during the wash cycle.
• Wash Options – Select the correct cycle from pre-programmed wash cycles for each load for best results.
• Noise reduction. – Quiet dishwashers are useful because they typically reside near other living areas.

Dishwasher Rental and Installation

All dishwashers must be installed by a licensed plumber to ensure services are located close enough and meet the manufacturer’s requirements. A freestanding dishwasher usually comes with a suitable top that can then be used as a work space. The location is very important, if the dishwasher will be placed freestanding (not under a work table), consider the models suitable for a freestanding location. Noise from a dishwasher can spread throughout the house, so you may prefer a noise-reduced model or consider rooms near your installation location and what they are used for before deciding on a noise-reduced or non-noise-reduced model. .

Glossary

adjustable racks
Customize the shelf to fit your everyday needs and make it fit more in the dishwasher.

Self-cleaning
The wash cycle setting automatically uses a sensor to monitor the rinse water until your dishes are clean.

Temperature control
Make sure you reach the right temperature for best performance – most models automatically add the correct amount of hot and cold water.

Control type
Electronic controls are usually of the touch button sensor type with an audible tone when pressed.
Mechanical controls are usually push buttons, dials, or a combination of both.

Cutlery holder
Models often include a separate cutlery tray that is particularly useful for larger items like carving knives, soup ladles, and other large cooking or serving utensils.

child lock
Dishwashers can get very hot internally, so it’s a great safety feature if a child lock prevents a child from opening the dishwasher door during the wash cycle.

cycles
Some models vary in wash speed, water pressure, and water temperature. Each cycle differs in the number of washes and rinses.

Cycle progress indicators
This is how you know the status of the cycle through a screen.

late start
The dishwasher will start at a convenient time or when off-peak electricity rates are available.

Elimination of hard foods
This feature can eliminate the need to rinse dishes before washing. Some dishwashers have a hard food removal unit, capable of breaking down solid food into smaller particles to pass through the filter.

isolation
It can be used to increase energy efficiency and can also reduce noise.

plate warmer
This is a feature that allows you to heat your dishes before serving food.

rinse aid dispenser
A solution known as a rinse aid can help improve drying results and prevent staining and filming.

Rinse and hold cycle
This is useful when you want to wait for a full load, as you can rinse and leave the dishes in the dishwasher.

Super Hot Final Rise
Some models offer a super hot final rinse of 150+ degrees or higher that helps kill bacteria.

stainless steel inner
A stainless steel inner liner is available on some models, which increases efficiency and allows the water to reach a higher temperature more quickly.