An average family spends up to 250 hours per year washing-up and 33% of homes have a
dishwasher, but
which dishwasher is the right dishwasher!
Which dishwasher?
Which dishwasher you need depends on the amount of washing-up you do. Before you buy the dishwasher, take a few days just to see how much washing-up you have to do on an average sitting. Do not overdo the size of your dishwasher as running a half empty washer is expensive.
Photo: Draw dishwasher
On average, dishwashers actually use less water than washing-up by hand so used properly they can be more environmentally friendly and save you money.
Dishwashers have several programs - as with washing machines, the more you pay, the more you get. Programs can include:
Normal - 65 degrees centigrade and the norm for most loads
Timed - allows you to take advantage of low cost electricity at night
Economy - uses the minimum amount of water and power
Intensive - a very hot wash for pots and pans
Quick - for a quick rinse down
Glass - for delicates which could damage in very high temperatures
As with other kitchen appliances, the Eurolabel system is used to determine the efficiency of dishwashers.
When choosing a dishwasher the internal rack is as important as the machine itself. Check that the dishwasher rack will take the number of plates you use and has space for your pots etc. Racks should be removable, wholly, or in part, to allow for washing bigger items.
Check whether the dishwasher has indicators to tell you if the dishwasher salt content is low. Dishwasher salt is used to make the water as soft as possible and together with a rinse aid make the washing-up cleaner and able to dry more easily without smearing.
Top tips for buying a dishwasher
sit wet appliances close to the water supply and drains
for noise check out decibel rating - 41b is like quiet talking
2 draw dishwashers - so you can wash in one and store in the other
eco-friendly dishwashers use as little as 8 litres per wash
Take time when deciding which dishwasher to buy as it a decision that will save time and money in the long run.