Thursday, May 7, 2009

organizing: the kitchen

Besides following the tips from yesterday, it's also important for your dishwasher to be ENERGY STAR rated. Click on the link to see how your current model or the new one you want to buy measures up. ENERGY STAR rated dishwashers must exceed the minimum federal standard (NAECA standard) by at least 25%. So for example, if the rating is 30% its just barely over the cutoff and not as good as one that is rated 100%.

Here is a review about dishwashers from Consumer Search. It doesn't mention energy efficiency so I looked them up. I added it with the review. And since most of us don't buy new dishwashers very often, this is probably more for future reference.

Best Basic Dishwasher: Whirlpool DU1055XTVQ

This low-cost Whirlpool DU1055XTVQ dishwasher can clean as well as some more expensive models, but it's not nearly as quiet, and it has no extras such as a quick-wash cycle or a cutlery rack. This dishwasher does have adjustable tines, a sani-rinse option and a self-cleaning filter. It is also Energy Star-rated. There are four wash cycles, a delay start and a one-year warranty. It comes in white, black on black, bisque, silver and stainless steel (for about $100 more). Estimated price $400 *my additions: The Energy Star rating is 313 kilowatt hours per year and it exceeds the NAECA standard by 48%. It's good, but not super awesome.


Best Value Dishwasher: Kenmore 13742
Kenmore 13742

This mid-price Kenmore dishwasher receives high scores for excellent cleaning ability and very low noise, but it doesn't have quite as many extra features as more expensive models. The Kenmore dishwasher skips the stainless-steel tub in favor of a plastic tub, which helps to reduce costs. It has a delay start and a quick-wash cycle, along with extra sound insulation for lower noise. The Kenmore 13742 comes in white, bisque, black or stainless steel (which costs $100 more). All models meet Energy Star standards. As with all dishwashers, we found a smattering of complaints about long-term durability, but most owners are very satisfied. Estimated price $670 *my addition: The Energy Star rating is 320 kilowatt hours per year and it exceeds the NAECA standard by 48%. Not that awesome either.

Best Luxury Dishwasher: Bosch SHX98M09UC

In recent appliance-reliability surveys, Bosch dishwashers are the quietest and most reliable dishwashers overall. The top-rated Bosch SHX98M09UC is widely viewed as the quietest (42 decibels) and most energy-efficient dishwasher available in the United States. Although some less expensive dishwashers clean just as well, the Bosch SHX98M09UC has extra features for the most flexibility. Adjustable racks with fold-down tines and a cup shelf make for loading flexibility. A quick-wash cycle is handy for lightly soiled loads, and a special half-load cycle is helpful for small loads. A soil sensor keeps water usage to a minimum. The Energy Star-rated Bosch SHX98M09UC features a stainless-steel design and stylish hidden controls. Estimated price $1,550 *my addition: The Energy Star rating is 190 kilowatt hours per year and it exceeds the NAECA standard by 147%. Now that's awesome.

I was sad to see that my dishwasher wasn't mentioned on this list and, while energy star rated, wasn't nearly as high as MANY others. I could definitely do better. My mom's dishwasher, however, is both highly rated as a dishwasher and very highly rated as far as energy-efficiency goes. She owns a Bosch. Way to go Mom!

2 comments:

Best Deals on Home Appliances said...

Nice description of the washing machines and I think that Whirlpool is amongst the best brands in the business but what I would like to find is some real good deals or bargains on the best brands because that will be a smart buy.

Amelia said...

Ha ha... so funny! I looked at the last one and thought is that mom's dishwasher then I kept reading. Good to know it's highly rated in both areas cause it's not my favorite when it comes to the drying cycle. Although it makes a little more sense now why its best if you air dry them. :-)