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When choosing dishwashers, the buyer pays attention to the technical characteristics and appearance. Studying the capacity, washing class, efficiency of the model, you can lean towards one or another dishwasher. In this article, you will learn how to choose the best dishwasher and what to pay special attention to.
Features of choosing a dishwasher
Today, everyone uses the Internet – before going to a real store, the user will study the reviews about the product. An important factor when choosing is the dishwasher brand: Bosch, Korting, Hansa, Whirlpool, Siemens, etc. In the Russian market, the most popular is the Bosch PMM. Manufacturers offer a wide selection and different prices.
What to look for after? on the specifications of the model. Here is an overview of the most important features for a dishwasher.
type of instalation
You must decide where you will install the equipment. Is there room for a full-length model, or will only the built-in compact PMM fit?
Embedded type. Perfectly fit into any interior, because it can be hidden behind the facade. A decorative door is hung on the front panel. The built-in PMM can be narrow or full-sized. Partially built-in options are also convenient, but they have their own front door, without hanging. Here you need to consider the external design of the model.
Free standing type. The machine is installed in any convenient place, without reference to furniture. Free-standing PMM are full-sized, narrow, compact.
Dimensions and capacity
These are two very important indicators. Dishwasher classification:
- Full size. They can be mounted separately or between kitchen cabinets. Standard dimensions – 60x60x85 cm. Hopper capacity from 10 to 14 sets.
- Narrow. Embedded in furniture or installed on the floor. Conveniently placed under the tabletop. Case width – from 45 cm. Holds from 6 to 9 sets of dishes.
- Compact. Placed on the countertop or in furniture, niche, under the sink. Standard dimensions are 45x55x45 cm. They can hold from 4 to 6 sets of dishes.
When choosing a model for capacity, consider how many people live in the house. One set of tableware includes 11 items. For a family of 2, a compact PMM will be enough. From 3 to 5 people – narrow or full-size model.
Washing, energy consumption, drying classes
Dishwasher energy classes are divided into 7 types. Classes A, B and C are considered the most economical. Classes D and E – average quality of energy efficiency. Classes F and G are the lowest energy efficiency.
The sink is characterized by classes from A (highest) to E (lowest). According to the amount of water consumption, dishwashers are divided into three classes:
- A – 14-16 liters.
- B – 17-20 liters.
- C – 20-25 liters.
Even the most inefficient machine consumes less water than a human hand wash.
PMM is produced with different types of drying:
- Condensing or natural. The most economical, does not consume electricity. At the end of the wash, the dishes are rinsed with hot water, the door is slightly opened. Drying occurs due to air circulation.
- Turbo dryer. The most efficient. The design includes a fan and an additional heating element. The latter heats the air, and the fan accelerates it through the chamber.
- Heat exchange. A heat exchanger is installed on the side of the housing. There is cold water inside the tank. During washing, hot water heats the tank, which then gives off its heat when rinsing and drying dishes.
Management type
Control types:
- Mechanical. The user independently sets programs, temperature and other parameters.
- Electronic. Assumes the presence of a display, conventional or touch keys. You can set automatic program selection.
Design
In general, users prefer a simple and concise design of technology. Sometimes design solutions are required. Dishwashers are available in standard colors:
- white;
- the black;
- silver.
- stainless steel color.
If the equipment will be installed separately, then the case should be combined with the overall design of the room.
Security
What to pay special attention to? Of course for safety. The models “Ariston”, “Electrolux”, “Bosch” have full and partial protection against leaks “Aquastop”. Complete protection includes a mechanical valve on the inlet hose as well as a float switch in the sump.
Some PMMs are childproof. After starting the program, the control panel and the door are blocked from accidental pressing / opening.
Noise level
An important factor if you like to run the car at night. If you search, you can find a model with a noise level of 44-45 dB. The main series is available with characteristics from 52 dB. Of course, the dishwasher does not vibrate like a washing machine, but the sounds of filling and draining water can also interfere.
Secondary characteristics
Each buyer himself determines what is important for him in technology. We classify these characteristics as a section of secondary importance.
Equipment
Includes the presence of baskets for dishes, as well as the possibility of their adjustment. So, the second basket can be rearranged by levels, have folding holders. This allows you to free up space for bulky appliances (pots, pans).
The holder for glasses, glasses helps to conveniently and safely place fragile items in the chamber. Glassware is better washed and rinsed.
Programs and functionality
Main modes:
- Fast cycle. Suitable for lightly soiled dishes. The water temperature is 35-38 degrees.
- Intensive. Washes dried dirt, burnt parts of pots and pans. Water from the nozzles is supplied under strong pressure at 70 degrees. The program lasts 40-50 minutes.
- Delicate. The reduced force of pressure allows you to gently wash fragile products. Temperature 40-45 degrees.
- Standard. For dishes with medium to heavy soiling. Water temperature up to 70 degrees.
After reviewing customer reviews, we have identified popular additional features:
- Pre-soak. Helps to cope with difficult dried-up pollution.
- Half load. If there is not enough dishes for a full load, place half and turn on this option. Then the machine will consume 30% less water and electricity.
- Start delay. In most models, you can delay the start of the wash by up to 24 hours. For example, you came home from work, and the car wash had just finished. It remains to get clean dishes and place them in their places.
- 3-in-1 application. This means that the technique recognizes different types of detergents. Therefore, you can use tablets and capsules.
- Alternate wash. During washing, water is supplied either from the upper or lower sprayer, which reduces its costs by 15%.
- Sound indicator or beam on the floor at the end of work.
Rinse aid and salt indicators are also handy. You will know when to top up one of the products. The ability to adjust the hardness of the water allows you to protect parts from scale using special salt.
When choosing a dishwasher, be aware that it can have an unlimited number of functions. But not all of them are useful in daily use. Decide what is really important to you and go shopping.