Dishwasher buying guide

Dishwasher buying guide

6 minute read |

Electrolux’s dishwasher buying guide will help you choose the dishwasher you need to get an everyday job done - effectively and quietly. Capacity, performance, efficiency, and design are key things to consider, so let this buying guide help make the right choice simple for you.

 

1. Kitchen design & layout


The work triangle is considered the gold standard of kitchen layout design. This refers to the sink (and therefore dishwasher), fridge and stove placement for efficient cooking and cleaning. Taking a bird’s eye view can help plan your work triangle (most are U or L shaped). Also consider storage options, strategically placed appliances and map out how you’ll move around.

2. Cutlery drawer versus basket

 

Cutlery drawer versus basket


Some dishwashers come with your typical cutlery basket, where you stand your knives, forks and spoons up vertically, while others come with a horizontal removable 15 setting cutlery drawer. The more flexibility in the design means the greater options you have for stacking and loading, so you don’t have to hand wash a thing.

3. Dishwasher capacity


Dishwasher capacity is measured in ‘place settings’ a load can fit. A place setting counts as what you’d need to serve a three-course meal in dishes, cutlery and glassware. Here’s a guide.

  • 1 - 2 people: A 6-9 place settings model is well suited to small households, especially if you dine out frequently, or have limited space.
  • 3 - 4 people: A 9-12 place settings model is ideal for a medium-sized household or couple who works from home. Also comes in slimline.
  • 5+ people: A 12+ settings model is best for large families, households who entertain frequently, or those with the kitchen space.

4. Types of dishwashers

 

Types of dishwashers


Built-in Dishwasher


Most commonly installed, this dishwasher slides perfectly into the allocated kitchen space, typically under the benchtop to create a specifically designed custom-built look. Built-in dishwashers can be integrated (concealed behind cabinetry) or semi-integrated (concealed with the front control panel visible).

Spotless glassware every time


Let your special occasion glasses become any occasion glasses, with Electrolux’s SoftGrip rubber clamps that gently secure wine glass stems, while the SoftSpikes support against unwanted tilting. Combined with a dedicated glass washing program, sparkling glassware is guaranteed.

Save washing time


Electrolux dishwashers come with the TimeManager function that can reduce the duration of a selected program by approximately 50%. This is achieved by increasing the pressure and temperature of the water to deliver great results in half the time. 

Status check from a distance


Beam-on-Floor informs the status of your wash program so that you can easily see when it's time to unload. A red spot means that the program is still in progress, while a green spot means that it is completed. 

Energy efficiency


The AutoFlex feature adjusts wash settings by using sensors to deliver a tailored cycle for the load according to soil level. This saves times, energy, and water. 

Freestanding Dishwasher


With an exposed exterior and control panel, these standalone designs don’t need to be built into your kitchen. The moveable design means they can be placed anywhere with water and drainage access. Available in three finishes (stainless steel, white or black), freestanding dishwashers also come in multiple size variations suiting most allocated kitchen dishwasher spaces.


Blast bacteria


Electrolux’s ExtraHygiene setting blasts the dishwasher contents with a final rinse cycle temperature known to kill 99.99% of bacteria, for clean and sanitised dishes, glasses, pots, pans and more.

Pack away your tea towels


Maximise your drying performance with the natural airflow offered by Electrolux’s AirDry technology. At the end of the wash cycle, the door automatically opens by 10cm, allowing moist, hot air to escape and fresh airflow to enter, aiding items in drying faster and spotlessly.

Run your dishwasher whenever it suits you


With the Delay Start function, you can get your dishwasher to work whenever you want it to and program it to start at the time that suits your schedule. The start can be delayed by up to 24 hours.

Tailored cycles


Depending on the dirt level of the dishes, you can choose one of many preset cycles, such as Eco 50°, Quick Plus 60°, and Intensive 70°. These dedicated wash cycles ensure perfect cleaning efficiently, bringing you a cleaner kitchen.

Improved efficiency


The Eco Program is the most efficient program for water and energy consumption, which is optimal for cleaning normally soiled tableware.

Add more during the cycle


The height of the upper basket can be easily adjusted so that you can clean any tall and bulky items of any height.

5. Dishwasher connection


You’ll need to consider three connections as part of the installation process. Your dishwasher will need a power supply, washing water supply, as well as wastewater drainage. If this is outside your remit, having yours installed and connected by a professional is the best option.

6. Dishwasher installation


The standard size for a dishwasher is 600mm wide, 820mm high and 600mm deep, but it’s critical you measure both the space you have available and the dimensions of the dishwasher precisely. Also consider rear ventilation and your ‘air gap’, the most effective method to protect your dishwasher from flooding with wastewater, something professional installers or plumbers can help with.

 

  • AirDry for 3x better drying performance*.
    • Dedicated programs for specific cleaning needs.
    • Delay start of the program to suit your schedule.
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  • ComfortLift makes it easy to load and unload.
    • SoftGrips and SoftSpikes delicately hold glasses.
    • Removable cutlery tray for easy unloading.
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  • ComfortLift makes it easy to load and unload.
    • SoftGrips and SoftSpikes delicately hold glasses.
    • Removable cutlery tray for easy unloading.
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  • SatelliteClean reaches all items with water jets.
    • SoftGrips and SoftSpikes delicately hold glasses.
    • AirDry for 3x better drying performance*.
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  • AirDry for 3x better drying performance*.
    • TimeManager gives you great wash in half the time.
    • SoftGrips and SoftSpikes delicately hold glasses.
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>>> Read more: How to use a dishwasher

7. Noise


For a truly whisper quiet set and forget model, opt for one with sound levels at 45 dB or under - the noise equivalent of light rain. If that’s still not peaceful enough for you, look for models with an Extra Silent program which runs at a virtually silent 37dB.

8. Energy efficient


If wanting to save on your bills and help the environment, consider dishwashers with special features like half load settings and delayed starts (which run during off peak utility periods).

9. Cleaning


For appliance longevity and performance, a general rule is to clean the filter after each wash. When it comes to odours, wipe door seals, clean the filter and run an empty hot wash with a dishwashing cleaning product. Blockages are dealt with by long hot washes and clearing potential clogs in the filter, spray arm, air gap and drainage hose, while replacing the door seal can help leaks.

10. Water rating


Modern designs use around six times less water than hand washing, so if you’re wanting to save on one of our most precious resources, choose a high-performance model that delivers a superior clean without any pre-rinsing needed.


Our Frequently Asked Questions are here to help you know all you need to about the use, maintenance and care of your Electrolux appliances.

Top FAQs about Dishwashers

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