ABOUT DISHWASHERS

The main types of dishwasher are free-standing, built-in (ie built into work units, but with visible front), integrated (with a front section matching the rest of the kitchen units), and semi-integrated (with a visible control unit, and part of the front matching the rest of the kitchen units). It is possible to buy slimline dishwashers (narrower than a normal dishwasher) and tabletop modes that can rest on a work surface.

The key performance features to consider when buying a dishwasher are capacity, energy efficiency, and noise. More sophisticated features include anti-flood systems and adjustable racks. Some manufacturers offer an auto clean feature, where the machine automatically detects the size and dirtiness of the load, and adjusts the program time and temperature accordingly.

SPONSORED LINKS

CONSUMER ADVICE ON DISHWASHERS

John Lewis publishes a good guide to buying dishwashers. It covers choosing the right size of dishwasher, dishwasher programmes, energy efficiency, and care and maintenance. There is also a section on delivery and disposal of dishwashers.

Which? publishes an online report of its tests on more than 50 top selling dishwasher models. The report includes a free features guide, and the following subscriber-only content: best buys; frequently asked questions about dishwashers; and reports of product tests. Which? offers a 30-day online free trial.

Energy Saving Trust has a certification scheme for energy efficiency, and also has links on its website to recommended products and retailers.

The EU Energy Label scheme, described in Wikipedia, certifies the energy efficiency of dishwashers and other household appliances.

Reevoo publishes a useful short guide to buying dishwashers, covering dishwasher designs, energy efficiency, size, capacity, noise and programs.

LEADING MANUFACTURERS OF DISHWASHERS

AEG Electrolux. AEG of Germany, which is part of the Electrolux Group, describes a range of dishwashers on its website. These include fully integrate dishwashers, built-under dishwashers, free-standing dishwashers, and semi-integrated dishwashers with a visible control panel and a short furniture door.

Bosch. The Bosch UK website has a section covering dishwashers. The special features include Auto Clean, Flex Basket, Quick Wash, and Multi A Wash. Auto Clean automatically selects the right program time and temperature, depending on load soiling, using HydroSensor technology.

Hotpoint. Hotpoint is part of the Zanussi Group. There is a dishwasher section on its website. This covers regular and slimline dishwashers finished in white, graphite, and satin aluminium. Brochures can be downloaded.

Miele. The Miele website has a section on dishwashers. There is a selection questionnaire, which enables you to find the most appropriate model by ticking boxes for type, size, warranties, features, and baskets and inserts. Most Miele dishwashers have a five year warranty.

Zanussi. Zanussi is part of the Electrolux Group. There is a dishwasher section in its website. Zanussi offers full size, slimline and table-top dishwashers. It does not make built-over or integrated dishwashers.

LEADING ONLINE RETAILERS OF DISHWASHERS

John Lewis is a trusted firm selling through its department stores and online. Its website has a section on dishwashers. These can be selected online by brand, finish, size, and price. The website covers compact dishwashers, full size dishwashers, integrated dishwashers, and slimline dishwashers. John Lewis provides a free second year service guarantee, and free standard delivery for orders over £100.

Tesco Direct. Tesco Direct is the online arm of Tesco supermarkets. Its easy-to-use website has a section dealing with dishwashers. Dishwashers can be searched for by brand, and by feature, such as child proof door lock, overflow protection, quick wash, and timer delay. Tesco Direct offer a home delivery service within 3-10 days for a small charge; for a further charge the old appliance can be removed.

PRICE COMPARISONS FOR DISHWASHERS

The following websites supply UK price comparisons for dishwashers: Dealtime UK; Kelkoo UK; Price Runner UK. Ciao UK and provides price comparisons for dishwashers together with user reviews. Reevoo provides user reviews.

OTHER USEFUL LINKS RELEVANT TO DISHWASHERS

Wikipedia article on dishwashers.

Appliance Aid. US website providing repair and maintenance advice for washing machines, refrigerators, dryers and dishwashers.

Diyfixit. UK website with hundreds of articles providing advice on DIY tasks.

Part Select. US website with troubleshooting advice on dishwashers, dryers, ranges, stoves, ovens, refrigerators and washing machines.

Epinions. User reviews on dishwashers from the US-based Epinions website.

How Stuff Works. Article at the How Stuff Works website on how dishwashers work, including illustrations.

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