Having a dishwasher is almost like having a personal fairy godmother in your kitchen. You simply pop all your dirty cutlery and crockery into this gleaming machine, press a button or two and presto! A little while later, you’ve got sparkling clean dishes.
When considering which dishwasher to buy, there are several things to consider, such as size, energy consumption and dishwasher specifications. To help you with this decision, we’ve mapped out essential points to consider before purchasing your new dishwasher.
Full-size, slimline or integrated?
Getting a dishwasher is a dream come true for many. Being able to pop all your dirty cutlery and crockery into this machine and have it come out sparkling clean is magical.
When choosing your dishwasher, you need to think about the amount of space you have available in your kitchen, how often you think you’re going to be using it, and what type of aesthetic you are going for in your kitchen.
When it comes to sizing, both a slimline and full-size dishwasher have a height of 55cm and a depth of about 55-60cm. The main size difference comes in with the width. Slimline dishwashers are typically 45cm wide whilst full-size sit at 60cm wide. In other words, slimlines can hold approximately eight or nine place settings. On the other hand, full-size dishwashers, with their larger dimensions, are able to hold at least twelve place settings - some can even hold fifteen!
Lastly, you’ll want to think about whether you want to create a chic, stylish feel in your kitchen. For example, integrated dishwashers are usually installed into a kitchen unit and have a door covering that matches your other kitchen door. This is a great way to maintain a certain aesthetic in your kitchen.
You can choose between a fully and semi-integrated dishwasher. The only difference is that the control panel of a fully-integrated washer is located on the top lip of the dishwasher's door, keeping it out of sight. In comparison, semi-integrated ones have the control panel exposed with the remainder of the dishwasher exterior covered by a panel.
Do you want an energy-efficient dishwasher?
Today, most dishwashers are highly efficient, saving on water and power. However, dishwashing cycles tend to be longer too.
When considering which dishwasher to buy, do take a look at their economical grading. This ranges from A+++ to G, with A+++ being the most economical.
All in all, you’ll need to take the above grading into account, but also think about how often you’re running your machine, which cycles you’re running it on and what temperature the water is being heated up to.
Dishwasher settings and cycles
With continuous enhancements in technology, dishwashers are becoming more sophisticated by the day. So, before choosing your dishwasher, take some time to think about what type of settings and washing cycles you will be using most frequently.
Normal cycle
When your dishes are dirty or stained, this is the best cycle setting to use as the water generally heats up to around 60-65°C, leaving your crockery spotless.
Eco cycle
As the name suggests, this is a more economical dishwashing cycle as they use less water (and cooler) and generally air dry the dishes instead of using heated air. Due to this, an eco cycle typically takes a little longer, and it’s best only to use this setting for lightly soiled cutlery and crockery.
Quick wash
This dishwashing cycle is perfect for when your dishes aren’t filthy, and you need to get them cleaned as quickly as possible. Generally, the water temperature used will be similar to a normal washing cycle (around 60°C).
Delicate wash
This is the setting to use when washing glasses or other delicate kitchen items such as china. In a delicate wash cycle, the water temperature will be lower than in a normal cycle.
Sanitisation wash
This cycle uses high-temperature water to wash your dishes while sterilising them too.
Auto wash
Also known as ‘Sensor Wash’ or ‘Smart Wash’ on different dishwasher brands, this is a very popular washing cycle. Integrated dishwasher sensors scan and detect how dirty the cutlery and crockery is, and then adjust the water temperature, cycle duration and intensity accordingly.
Get your dishwasher at Wellingtons Electrical
Installing a dishwasher in your kitchen will be the best decision you’ve ever made. Whether you’re looking for a full-sized, slimline, integrated or even a compact dishwasher, we stock several brands and models.
We also have a range of filter specifications, such as price, dimensions and energy ratings, to make your search for your dream dishwasher as seamless as possible.
Another bonus of shopping at Wellingtons Electrical is that we offer price match comparison, so you can easily weigh up the pros and cons of several different dishwashers. Now, if you think the cost might be an issue, don’t worry, we have a range of financing options to help you get your new dreamlike dishwasher.
