Dishwasher Buying Guide

Thinking about buying a new dishwasher? Whether you’re simply looking to upgrade your current dishwasher or are planning to remodel your kitchen, you’ll find a fantastic range of dishwashers to choose from. Buying a new dishwasher can be overwhelming, so we’ve developed a dishwasher buying guide to help make choosing the right model for your needs simpler. Discover the different types of dishwashers available, features to keep an eye out for and more.

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• Wash cycles. Many models offer several different wash cycles, such as delicate, regular and heavy wash cycles, allowing you to choose the right setting to match your dish washing requirements. If you often need to wash just a small load at a time, quick wash cycles are worth keeping an eye out for.

• Drying cycles. Some dishwashers not only clean dishes, but also dry them too, shaving time off your daily housework. It’s good to note that while dishwashers with drying cycles are very convenient, they do use more energy than models without the function.

• Noise. The amount of noise produced by a dishwasher varies greatly between models. As a general rule of thumb, cheaper models tend to be louder than their more expensive counterparts. If noise is an important consideration for you when buying a new dishwasher, look for models with specialised quiet or silent modes.

• Child safety features. If you share a home with children or children regularly visit your home, it’s a good idea to look for models with child safety features. Preventing the door from being opened or buttons from being pushed, child locks not only help to ensure the safety of children, but also prevent unwanted interference with your housework.

• Flexible shelving. As every load of dishes that you wash is different, it makes sense to look for a dishwasher with flexible internal shelving. Allowing you to adjust the height of shelves, the position of baskets, and more, a flexible internal layout is a good choice for households of all sizes.

• Delayed start settings. If you prefer to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates or like to get prepared ahead of time, dishwashers with delayed start settings allow you to stack your dishes, choose your preferred wash cycle and then select a start time.

• Filters. Most dishwasher models have a filter that needs to be cleaned regularly. Although some more expensive models have self-cleaning filters, on the most part, they do need to be cleaned manually. To make your life easier, look for a model with a filter that’s easy to reach, remove and clean.

• Anti-flood devices. Offering extra peace of mind, many dishwashers now feature anti-flood devices. Detecting if a leak occurs, these devices stop the flow of water near the water tap connection.

• Concealed heating elements. While exposed elements may be a lot rarer today, it’s always a good idea to check whether a dishwasher has a concealed heating element or not. Concealed heating elements help to prevent food scraps being burnt and items becoming damaged if they were to fall on the element.

• Auto opening doors. Although not an essential feature, auto opening doors can be handy if you find your hands are often full when it comes time to load your dishwasher.

• Energy efficiency. Dishwashers are often used daily, meaning that choosing an energy efficient model could help you to save money on your electricity bills in the long run. Energy efficiency is indicated by a star rating, with a higher number of starts correlating with better energy efficiency.

• Water efficiency. To help save you money on your water bills and to help to conserve water, it’s a good idea to consider water ratings when comparing dishwasher models. Similar to energy efficiency, water efficiency is indicated by a star rating. The higher the rating, the better the water efficiency.

Explore Bing Lee's best dishwashers from leading brands like Bosch, Miele, and Fisher & Paykel. Our range offers efficient, feature-rich, and stylish models for any kitchen. As a premium destination for home appliances, Bing Lee ensures you find the perfect dishwasher for outstanding performance and convenience.

Q: How to clean a dishwasher

To clean your dishwasher, remove and wash the filter, wipe down the door seals, and run an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar on the top rack. For extra freshness, sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and run a short cycle.

Q: How to clean a dishwasher filter

Remove the filter from the dishwasher, rinse it under warm water, and use a soft brush to scrub away any debris. Ensure it’s completely clean before reinserting it to maintain your dishwasher's performance.

Q: How much water does a dishwasher use?

Modern dishwashers use about 12-15 litres of water per cycle, making them more water-efficient than hand washing.

Q: What is the most quiet dishwasher?

The Bosch Serie 8 Freestanding Dishwasher is renowned for its quiet operation, with noise levels as low as 42 decibels, ensuring a peaceful kitchen environment.

Q: How to unclog a dishwasher?

To unclog a dishwasher, check and clean the filter, ensure the drain hose is clear, and inspect the garbage disposal connection. Running a cycle with baking soda and vinegar can also help dissolve minor clogs.

Q: How much does a dishwasher cost to run?

On average, a dishwasher costs around 20-30 cents per cycle, including water and electricity, making it an energy-efficient choice for your home.

Q: Do dishwashers use hot water?

Yes, dishwashers use hot water, typically heated within the machine, to ensure effective cleaning and sanitisation of your dishes.

Q: Is a dishwasher better for the environment than hand washing?

Absolutely! Dishwashers are more water and energy-efficient than hand washing, using less water and reducing your carbon footprint. They save you time and effort while being eco-friendly.