When choosing a dishwasher, look for quietness, quality of wash, reliability, economy, and durability. Here are six abbreviated dishwasher reviews to look over; each brand has its unique features.
Bosch Dishwashers
Weighing in at 49 dBA (a decibel measure), this is one quiet machine. It’s efficient and features a variety of settings, including a “delicate” setting for china plates, and a tougher setting for pots and pans. It washes completely, and dries totally. However, a Bosch dishwasher costs about $1000, which is a bit on the pricey end, and the control panel tends to break down easily. Also, their service technicians are a bit standoffish, by some accounts. If you run into problems with your Bosch dishwasher, check out the Aquastop function at the back of the machine. Pull the machine back to drain it, and then tighten the water inlet valve.
KitchenAid Dishwashers
KitchenAid dishwashers are unique in that they offer four levels of quietude, depending on how you want to wash your dishes. For a more vigorous, faster wash, you won’t mind the louder settings. On the other hand, if you’re having an intimate candlelit dinner, you will want to opt for the quieter settings. Fun fact: in 1949, KitchenAid became the first brand name to introduce dishwashers.
Maytag Dishwashers
Maytag dishwashers are quiet – about the same noise level as the clothing section in a department store. The bottom shelf is big enough for the largest kitchen items, and the top shelf is big enough for large glasses. It has four settings for different types of washes, also features a timer that automatically turns the machine on at a pre-set time. (A good time to set the timer is when energy rates are lower – usually at night.) Best of all is its ease of use -- the buttons are touch-sensitive.
Whirlpool Dishwashers
Whirlpool dishwashers offer “SaniRinse” and “AntiBacterial” cycle options, which help to do that extra bit of cleaning for the germ-conscious consumer. This brand is also known for its more economical price points. Their “Quiet Partner” option is sometimes touted in dishwasher reviews as the quietest dishwashing mechanism ever.
GE Dishwashers
GE dishwashers are known as one of the quietest. Note that GE dishwashers use a solenoid to drain the water. If this gets stuck, try loosening it by hand. If that doesn’t work, you’ll have to replace the pump assembly.
Kenmore Dishwashers
Kenmore dishwashers were recently named by Consumer Reports as one of the two best overall dishwashers, along with Whirlpool. Both of these models are available at Sears.
