Kitchen Products Review: DishwashersThe latest generation of dishwashers exceeds energy and performance standards.

It's been 20 years since the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act established minimum efficiency standards for the dishwasher along with most other major kitchen appliances. Nearly a decade later, the EPA and DOE embraced this water- and power-guzzling appliance in their joint four-year-old Energy Star program. With its qualification rating system maintained slightly above the national level, Energy Star encourages both consumers and manufacturers to stay one step ahead of increasingly stringent regulations.

Ten years hence, this voluntary partnership among government agencies and industry has been so successful that, as of December, more than 90 percent of the dishwashers sold in the United States were qualified to wear the Energy Star label--meaning they used 25 percent less energy than the minimum federal standard.

This number is about to change somewhat as the bar has been raised for 2007 in anticipation of a federal shift in 2010. However, according to a spokesperson for Energy Star, while the present goal is to capture the top 25 percent of available products for qualification, that figure will likely be higher.

"We qualified for 2007 early last year," says Rene Kan, Bosch product marketing director for dishwashers. At that time the line had been redesigned with a breadth of products, including a full-featured 18-inch model, split into two style groups: Integra, with concealed controls, and Evolution. Each offers a variety of energy-driven features such as the increasingly popular tall tub, allowing for fewer, larger loads; sensor technology, which checks soil levels and adjusts water and temperature levels accordingly, using as little as 3.1 gallons of water; and condensation drying, a system that uses the latent heat of the final rinse stored in the stainless steel walls to hygienically dry the contents.

Phoenix-based builder Ed Gorman of Modus Development selected the Integra dishwasher for the Galleries at Turney, a contemporary residential development boasting the first LEED for Homes certification in Arizona. "Besides the low water use, one of the things that really intrigued me was how quiet it is," says Gorman. Realistically, he adds, "they also had to be good-looking and high-tech like the rest of the [dwelling]. We're trying to promote the green aspects. But I think people are still buying on style."

Mark Englund, vice president of design at St. Paul, Minn.-based Hanson Builders, agrees. "I would love to say that [energy] is an issue. But it's not near the top of our buying decisions for dishwashers right now," he says. "Sound prevention is a bigger factor. That is something my clients ask me about and that is something I have to research. People will spring for quieter ones because they would love to be able to start a cycle without killing the conversation after a meal."

While all current models possess impressive sound packages, the 2007 top-of-the-line Bosch on sale in July will bottom out at 42 decibels. Miele, claiming a 2- to 3-decibel improvement over previous generations, instituted a five-step acoustics rating system for its new G 2000 series from a good Q1 (Avanta and Inspira Series) to a better Q3 (Optima) to the best Q5 (La Perla). Electrolux, meanwhile, wraps the sides, top, and toekick of its Icon Professional and Designer units with insulation then envelops them with a steel shroud.

Turning Point
Indeed, energy is a slow-burn issue, notes Michigan-based Buildings for Life president Richard Witham. "I would say that the look and feel are really more important virtually across the board, except for that one customer out of 20 who actually tries to do the best all the way through from an energy standpoint."

As senior manager of architecture and design marketing Mark Johnson sees it, builders are beginning to embrace the idea of sustainable products and materials. "But it's being driven in large part by consumer demand and progressive builders seeking to differentiate themselves," he says. "Certainly in some of the Western states you've got a large contingency of consumers who are looking for that. They feel good about having a home that embraces green design. And they'll pay for it."

Demand notwithstanding, Johnson says some of KitchenAid's newest models are up to 48 percent more efficient than federal standards. "The trend is just trying to provide more options within a full-size dishwasher to handle everything and anything you might decide to put in there," he explains. KitchenAid's ProScrub targets hard-to-clean items, as does Whirlpool's PowerScour. In terms of styling, Johnson says the big breakthrough is the new ergonomic handle on KitchenAid Architect series II models.

"The industry has made a huge leap forward since the last buying cycle, which would have been eight to 10 years ago for most consumers," says Miele head of product development Matthew Kueny. "There's a huge change in what dishwashers do."

Miele, also exceeding 2007 standards, re-engineered its entire line with a cutting-edge tub technology used in the automobile industry called hydroforming. The resulting seamless construction of the G 2000 series is said to be leak- and rust-resistant. Additionally, says Kueny, "The hydroforming process makes a very rigid drum, which eliminates a lot of the vibration noise." As for operation, an improved circulation pump distributes heated water more efficiently and effectively.

Likewise, Fagor, a recent import from Spain with national distribution here, has incorporated hydroforming. Alternating spray arms are said to provide more efficient and quiet operation, while an Eco Sensor--available in its LFA19, LFA73, and LFA75ITX models--adapts water consumption and time according to the dirtiness of the dishes. The latter is available on the top-end machines of many manufacturers under different monikers.

Ariston, another newcomer from Italy with U.S. headquarters in Las Vegas, is notable for its true Eco Wash that uses slightly more water at lower temperatures for a longer time period to consume the least energy possible.

This brings up what may be one of the only caveats in regard to these performance- and energy-driven machines, one that comes as a surprise to many homeowners. "Most take upwards of two or more hours to complete a cycle," says Kueny. "When you're making that change in the amount of water [or temperature] you're using, you have to compensate with time in order to achieve the four quadrants of cleaning."

Details that Count
Ultimately, says Kueny, "The dishwasher is a utilitarian product, not something people want to show off." Therefore, appliance makers attempt to distinguish their brands with convenient, flexible functions to meet a variety of lifestyles.

Size-wise, the LG LDF8812 accommodates 16 place settings in its LED-lit tall tub. The Dacor 30-inch Epicure fits more than 20. Conversely, KitchenAid and Kenmore offer dishwasher drawers in single and stacked configurations for small loads and alternative installations. Similarly, a number of manufacturers feature half-load-only settings on their full-size models.

To make things easy, Bosch, Gaggenau, and Thermador all feature a small light at the bottom of their flush doors that beams a red dot on to the floor when the machine is operating; GE's Profile dishwasher with SmartDispense technology holds and accurately dispenses a 45-fluid-ounce bottle of detergent; and automatically height-adjustable top racks--some full extension--facilitate loading of a selection of higher-end brands.

Models with innovative cleaning solutions include the Asko D3232XL with temperature settings up to a sanitizing 170 degrees F; Kenmore Pro with TurboZone rotating spray jets said to target tough jobs from every angle; Küppersbusch IGVS 669 with a special spray for items like baking trays; and built-in water softeners from both Ariston and Miele, said to ensure spotless results.

For builders and remodelers, Asko, Fagor, Küppersbusch, and Miele units allow for rear leg adjustment from the front. Ariston outfits theirs with an adjustable toekick and Fast Fix system for the addition of custom panels after the dishwasher has been installed.

Of course, at the end of the day manufacturers agree that energy should never compromise performance. "We want people to be able to scrape their plates, throw them in the dishwasher, and get the cleaning results that they expect," says Kueny. "If you end up doing something by hand you're going to use a lot more water and energy."

--BUILDING PRODUCTS

More Finishes
According to St. Paul, Minn.-based Hanson Builders' vice president of design, "Everyone asks me, what's new? What can we put in our house that we've never seen before?" After years of stainless steel, Mark Englund says high-end homeowners are ready for something different.

Needless to say, Englund was thrilled to learn of Jenn-Air's new oiled bronze finish. "We've already got oil-rubbed bronze hardware and faucets so I think it will be well received," he says. In particular, he's looking forward to combining this textural fingerprint-resistant surface with the cherry cabinetry so popular with his clients.

On a contemporary note, Jenn-Air's Floating Glass and Gaggenau's DI29l in scratch- and fingerprint-resistant aluminum-behind-glass, are both ideal alternatives to heavy metal.

Nevertheless, while some are seeking options, Whirlpool's Mark Johnson insists that stainless steel is not going away and in fact is still gaining in popularity. Not surprisingly, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel fronts as well as complementary metallic finishes have become a reality for those who love the look but dread the maintenance. These include Asko's "TouchProof" stainless steel door on model D3232 XLSS and Frigidaire's metallic nickel finish on its Elements dishwasher.

Such innovative finishes are essential to builders of custom and spec homes, notes Englund. "We have to attract buyers with the freshest design ideas possible."

--L.C.L.

Electrolux

Electrolux. Whether one prefers the look of the Professional series with its industrial-style pull or the svelte handle of the understated Designer line, all Energy Star-qualified Icon dishwashers feature integrated stainless steel or custom panel-ready doors, 24-inch-tall tubs, a Smart Soil Sensor, a two-stage filtration system, and UltraQuiet Plus insulation. 877-435-3287. www.electroluxusa.com.

Frigidaire

Frigidaire. A Lowe's exclusive, the Energy Star-rated Elements boasts a new fingerprint-resistant metallic nickel finish with platinum trim said to be as durable as it is attractive. Premium features of this fully- or semi-integrated model include a tub said to hold as many as 14 place settings; technology that adjusts wash pressure to suit the job; a SpeedClean cycle; and quiet operation. 866-208-3616. www.frigidaireelements.com.

KitchenAid

KitchenAid. Capable of washing two loads simultaneously at different cycle settings, these Energy Star-qualified Architect series Drawer Dishwashers are said to be ultra-quiet and efficient in that homeowners can wash small loads in a single drawer. Available in single- and double-drawer configurations in stainless steel, black, white, and panel-ready, each unit is large enough to hold an average-sized cookie sheet. 800-422-1230. www.kitchenaid.com.

Thermador

Thermador. The Energy Star-qualified HD64 Dishwasher has six programs, including PowerBoost that speeds up cleaning time; Sens-A-Dry for optimal energy-efficient drying; and a shining red laser that reflects on the floor when the machine is running. The flush door with hidden controls is available in stainless steel or panel-ready with professional-style or curved designer pulls. 800-656-9226. www.thermador.com.

LG

LG. Four jewel-like LED indicator lights on the door alert users as to the cycle status of the LDF8812, while the unit's soft touch controls remain out of sight on its top edge. Said to have one of the largest capacities in the market, the stainless steel tub accommodates 16 place settings. Features include noise reduction at 46 decibels, a food disposer, a soil sensor, and a half-load option for upper or lower rack. 800-243-0000. www.lgusa.com.

Fagor

Fagor. New to the United States, this Spanish appliance manufacturer has re-tooled its dishwashers to take advantage of the latest technologies. Thus its Energy Star-rated models feature the likes of a seamless stainless steel tub with reduced depth to ease installation and hydroformed to reduce noise and the potential for leaks and rust. An Advanced Intelligent System regulates water, energy, and time, and rear legs simply adjust from the front. 800-207-0806. www.fagoramerica.com.

GE

GE. Engineered for convenience and efficiency, the Profile dishwasher with SmartDispense technology automatically holds and dispenses a 45-fluid-ounce bottle of liquid or gel dishwasher detergent as needed. Additional features include: noise reduction; a CleanSensor that monitors water temperature, soil levels, and load; single-rack wash selection; and an angled-rack dry system so water can drain off cups, mugs, and bowls, reducing water residue and spots. 800-626-2000. www.geappliances.com.

Ariston

Ariston. One of 18 models from this Italian manufacturer, the Energy Star-rated LI700X sports a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel door with concealed controls and a built-in water softening system. Efficient Half-Load and Eco Wash cycles conserve electricity, while an adjustable toekick and Fast Fix system simplify installation. 888-426-0825. www.aristonappliances.us.

Bosch

Bosch. Part of a complete line overhaul, the Energy Star-rated 18-inch Integra from the 800 series is ideal for areas where a full-size dishwasher is not necessary or possible, even as an auxiliary appliance for serious cleanup needs. Available in stainless steel or ready to accept a custom panel, this flexible unit is as robust as its larger counterparts with the same high performance, convenience, and energy-saving features. 800-921-9622. www.boschappliances.com.

Asko

Asko. Designed for homes with multiple dishwashers, the Encore has been configured with special racks and cycles to accommodate typical "hand washables," thereby eliminating that time-, water-, and energy-wasting process. Wash temperatures up to 170 degrees F handle all manner of pots and pans. A special glass cycle with a gentle dry cycle limits the temperature for fine crystal, glassware, and china. 800-367-2444. www.askousa.com.

Küppersbusch

Küppersbusch. The Energy Star-compliant IGVS 669 fully integrated dishwasher from this German manufacturer features an efficient flow-through water heater plus power-saving features such as condensation drying and Eco/Saver and top-rack-only cycles. In regard to performance, it can accommodate 12 place settings, has an easily adjustable top rack, and has a special spray for the likes of baking trays. For installation ease, the rear legs can be adjusted from the front. 800-459-0844. www.kuppersbuschusa.com.

Gaggenau

Gaggenau. Decked out with a scratch- and fingerprint-resistant aluminum-behind-glass door and shot-blasted aluminum moldings, the DI 291 dishwasher features a spacious interior with foldable spines for loading flexibility; a pushbutton height-adjustable top basket; a lower basket with dividable support for glasses and stemware; two sensors to detect degree of soiling, volume of dishes, and dirt residues; and a PowerLight that projects a red dot onto the floor while on. 800-828-9165. www.gaggenau.com.

Whirlpool

Whirlpool. Claiming hand-saving properties, this company's Energy Star-qualified Gold dishwasher with a PowerScour option is said to clean dishes with baked-on food together with delicate dishes and stemware due to 32 targeted jets that scour without necessitating pre-soaking or scrubbing. Selling points include a large-capacity slate-colored plastic tub able to hold 14 five-piece place settings, temperature and soil sensors, and an "EZ-2-Lift" adjustable top rack. 800-446-2574. www.whirlpool.com.

Miele

Miele. Said to be the most popular model of the company's newly upgraded G 2000 dishwasher lineup, the Energy Star-rated Optima offers maximum flexibility as to style and finish with hidden or visible digital controls. Acoustically, it is quieter than this high-end manufacturer's former top-of-the-line models. 800-843-7231. www.miele.com.

Jenn-Air

Jenn-Air. Offering a warmer, distinctive alternative for kitchens that beg for something other than stainless steel, black, white, biscuit, or a custom panel, this trend-setting company's new fingerprint-resistant oiled bronze dishwasher is just one of a full suite of kitchen appliances that comprises refrigeration, wall ovens, ventilation hoods, cooktops, and warming drawers. 800-536-6247. www.jennair.com.

Kenmore

Kenmore. Packed with the latest requisite features, the Energy Star-rated Pro dishwasher features a commercial-grade stainless steel door and an extra-large tub designed to accommodate items up to 13 inches tall in the lower rack and 11 inches up top. Smooth-glide racks, a Smartwash soil sensor, heavy-duty sound insulation, and TurboZone rotating spray jets--said to attack the toughest jobs from every angle--complete the package. 800-349-4358. www.kenmore.com.

Dacor

Dacor. Capable of cleaning 40 percent more than standard models, the 30-inch Epicure accommodates more than 20 place settings as well as oversized cookware. Available in stainless steel or ready to fit a 3/4-inch custom panel, this workhorse features an in-line water heater, stainless steel tub, triple water filtration, and sensor technology to monitor cleanliness of the water. Energy-wise, the large capacity minimizes the necessity of multiple loads. 800-793-0093. www.dacor.com.