Dishwasher

buying guide

It’s no secret that dishwashers save you time and effort, but did you know they can also save you money on your energy bills? Using less electricity than you may think and as little as 9 litres of water per cycle (as opposed to at least 50 litres required for hand washing!), it's no wonder they're so popular!

With this buying guide, we’ll help you to discover which dishwasher is right for you, your family, and your home.

Types of dishwashers

Choosing the right dishwasher begins with understanding which one will be most suitable for the space you have, the volume of use it will get, and where it will be installed. Fortunately, there are a number of solutions to suit the smallest of kitchens and the largest of families. To start, let us guide you through the types of dishwasher you can choose from.

Freestanding dishwashers

Freestanding dishwashers are exactly as described; they are a freestanding unit, easy to remove, and not hidden within a cupboard. Freestanding dishwashers are a popular choice as they are simple to install.

These dishwashers aren’t concealed, so choosing the right colour for your kitchen is important- we’re proud to stock a wide range of different colours, such as blacksilver, and white.

Integrated dishwashers

Unlike freestanding dishwashers, integrated dishwashers are fitted with a kitchen cabinet door, blending them seamlessly with the rest of your kitchen. This is the perfect option for those who don't want to change their kitchen too drastically.

Integrated dishwashers take slightly longer to fit than freestanding dishwashers, but this is still an easy task, even if you're not an expert.

Slimline dishwashers

Slimline dishwashers are becoming increasingly popular for smaller households; they're perfect for those who don't need a larger dishwasher but still want to avoid the washing up by hand.

Slimline dishwashers are 45cm wide compared to a standard dishwasher's 60cm, fitting into smaller kitchen spaces at the expense of fitting fewer dishes. These are perfect for solo homeowners, couples, and even smaller families.

Freestanding dishwashers

Freestanding dishwashers are exactly as described; they are freestanding within a unit, easy to remove, and not hidden within a cupboard. Freestanding dishwashers are a popular choice as they are simple to install.

These dishwashers aren’t concealed, so choosing the right colour for your kitchen is important- we’re proud to stock a wide range of different colours, such as blacksilver, and white.

Integrated dishwashers

Unlike freestanding dishwashers, integrated dishwashers are fitted with a kitchen cabinet door, blending them seamlessly with the rest of your kitchen. This is the perfect option for those who don't want to change their kitchen too drastically.

Integrated dishwashers take slightly longer to fit than freestanding dishwashers, but this is still an easy task, even if you're not an expert.

Slimline dishwashers

Slimline dishwashers are becoming increasingly popular for smaller households; they're perfect for those who don't need a larger dishwasher but still want to avoid the washing up by hand.

Slimline dishwashers are 45cm wide compared to a standard dishwasher's 60cm, fitting into smaller kitchen spaces at the expense of fitting fewer dishes. These are perfect for solo homeowners, couples, and even smaller families.

What size dishwasher do I need?

The size of your dishwasher depends on how often you use it and how frequently you load it. The bigger the dishwasher, the more it'll take to fill to maximise the running time. On the other hand, though, a smaller dishwasher may not be economical if used multiple times a day.

Fortunately, we’re here to show you an easy system for choosing the right size. Dishwasher capacity is measured in place settings, so you can quickly decide which crockery and cutlery you use and whether the size is right for your home.

12-16 place setting:

This place setting is typical of larger families or those who like to regularly entertain guests. If this sounds like you, you'll most likely need a full-size dishwasher.

9-10 place setting:

With fewer items to clean, this place setting is the typical capacity of a slimline dishwasher, which is perfect for smaller households or single-occupancy properties.

12-16 place setting:

This place setting is typical of larger families or those who like to regularly entertain guests. If this sounds like you, you'll most likely need a full-size dishwasher.

9-10 place setting:

With fewer items to clean, this place setting is the typical capacity of a slimline dishwasher, which is perfect for smaller households or single-occupancy properties.

How to measure a dishwasher

Whatever dishwasher you choose, it's important to know the dimensions of your appliance before purchasing. Although dishwashers are mostly standardized (with the exception of slimline) older kitchens may differ in dimensions when compared to newer builds. Even if you're replacing your dishwasher with a similar model, measuring is still important. Taking the time to measure the space will save you time and effort in the long run.

Height

Measure the height of your chosen space to ensure your new dishwasher will fit correctly. Standard freestanding dishwashers should fit beneath your countertop, but it is still important to check the height of your space to ensure it is not too small.

Width

Dishwashers typically have a width of 60cm for a full size and 45cm for a slimline; it's important to make sure that the space you have allows clearance for fitting and removing the appliance should there be any issues or a replacement down the line.

Depth

Most dishwashers are standard depth, but you should still measure your space to check against the dimensions of your chosen appliance. Remember to also leave adequate space (approx 7cm) to attach waste and water pipes. Generally speaking, the waste connection and water inlet pipe should be up to 50cm from either side of where the dishwasher will be positioned.

Door drop

Before choosing your appliance, it's important to review the rest of your kitchen and understand the space needed for the door drop when loading your dishwasher. Drawers, other cupboards, and appliances may obstruct the opening or become unusable if poorly planned. Ensure that your chosen space leaves plenty of room for your dishwasher to open.

Height

Measure the height of your chosen space to ensure your new dishwasher will fit correctly. Standard freestanding dishwashers should fit beneath your countertop, but it is still important to check the height of your space to ensure it is not too small.

Width

Dishwashers typically have a width of 60cm for a full size and 45cm for a slimline; it's important to make sure that the space you have allows clearance for fitting and removing the appliance should there be any issues or a replacement down the line.

Depth

Most dishwashers are standard depth, but you should still measure your space to check against the dimensions of your chosen appliance. Remember to also leave adequate space (approx 7cm) to attach waste and water pipes. Generally speaking, the waste connection and water inlet pipe should be up to 50cm from either side of where the dishwasher will be positioned.

Door drop

Before choosing your appliance, it's important to review the rest of your kitchen and understand the space needed for the door drop when loading your dishwasher. Drawers, other cupboards, and appliances may obstruct the opening or become unusable if poorly planned. Ensure that your chosen space leaves plenty of room for your dishwasher to open.

Energy efficient dishwashers

As time has passed, technology has become more energy efficient. This makes it not only kinder on the planet but also kinder on your wallet. Sensors take the guesswork out of the wash cycle by making automatic, cost-effective adjustments.

In 2021, EU energy labels were updated to a simpler scale of A to G to help them adapt to more environmentally friendly industry standards. For a more energy-efficient dishwasher, look for machines that use less energy by running for longer with specialist eco-cycles, and check the average water consumption per wash cycle to help keep water and electricity costs low. Discover more detail in our Guide to Energy Labels.

Energy efficient dishwashers

As time has passed, technology has become more energy efficient. This makes it not only kinder on the planet but also kinder on your wallet. Sensors take the guesswork out of the wash cycle by making automatic, cost-effective adjustments.

In 2021, EU energy labels were updated to a simpler scale of A to G to help them adapt to more environmentally friendly industry standards. For a more energy-efficient dishwasher, look for machines that use less energy by running for longer with specialist eco-cycles, and check the average water consumption per wash cycle to help keep water and electricity costs low. Discover more detail in our Guide to Energy Labels.

Dishwasher features

Dishwasher features can make a big difference depending on the time of day it's running, the differences in efficiencies, and the variety of cleaning options. We're here to give you all the details on what to look for, and support your buying decision.

Lower water consumption

Compared to washing up by hand, dishwashers often use less water. Although there are many variables, such as the size of your household, how often you need to wash up, and the age of your dishwasher, recent research has found that households with dishwashers use 50% less water and 28% less energy on average than the households that don't. However, it's crucial that you note the water consumption and capacity of your chosen appliance to ensure it meets your needs and won't skyrocket your water bills!

Choice of programmes

Dishwashers usually have several programmes to tailor temperature, cycle times, and more to your needs. The "normal" wash setting is suitable for most everyday items, but there are plenty more programmes to choose from. Opt for "intensive" wash for heavily soiled pots and pans, "quick" wash for dishes that require light cleaning, or "half load" if you haven't fully filled the dishwasher. Similarly, an "economy" wash utilises low temperature and minimum water usage, for a much longer wash cycle.

Noise emissions

No one likes a noisy machine, so comparing the noise output of appliances definitely pays off. The higher the decibels (dB), the louder the operating noise. For reference, a noise level below 50 dB is very quiet, and manufacturers continue to make huge advances in technology to minimise this issue. All of our products have a decibel rating, so you'll always know the noise levels you're committing to. Whether you run your dishwasher first thing in the morning or late at night, there wont be any noisy surprises.

Lower water consumption

Compared to washing up by hand, dishwashers often use less water. Although there are many variables, such as the size of your household, how often you need to wash up, and the age of your dishwasher, recent research has found that households with dishwashers use 50% less water and 28% less energy on average than the households that don't. However, it's crucial that you note the water consumption and capacity of your chosen appliance to ensure it meets your needs and won't skyrocket your water bills!

Choice of programmes

Dishwashers usually have several programmes to tailor temperature, cycle times, and more to your needs. The "normal" wash setting is suitable for most everyday items, but there are plenty more programmes to choose from. Opt for "intensive" wash for heavily soiled pots and pans, "quick" wash for dishes that require light cleaning, or "half load" if you haven't fully filled the dishwasher. Similarly, an "economy" wash utilises low temperature and minimum water usage, for a much longer wash cycle.

Noise emissions

No one likes a noisy machine, so comparing the noise output of appliances definitely pays off. The higher the decibels (dB), the louder the operating noise. For reference, a noise level below 50 dB is very quiet, and manufacturers continue to make huge advances in technology to minimise this issue. All of our products have a decibel rating, so you'll always know the noise levels you're committing to. Whether you run your dishwasher first thing in the morning or late at night, there wont be any noisy surprises.

Rent with Hughes

Did you know that we have a rental service for dishwashers? Renting your white goods from Hughes can take the stress out of buying a new product. Learn more here