Energy Efficient Dishwashers

Energy efficient dishwashers made since 1994 have reduced hot water use by almost 30 percent. In fact, replacing a 10-year-old dishwasher with a new Energy-Star rated model can save more than $30 a year. An important feature to look for in new models is a booster water heater.

Models with these built-in heaters bring the water temperature to that recommended by the manufacturers (about 150 degrees). This allows you to keep your primary water heater at an energy-saving 120 degrees and still get your dishes clean.

Another new feature on many energy efficient dishwashers is "smart sensors" that detect the amount of food left on the dishes. The sensors automatically program the dishwasher to run the most appropriate cycle, eliminating the need for pre-rinsing. This can save most users another gallon or two of water per load. It adds up in a hurry.

Other new features include:

* A built-in food disposer and secondary water filter to prevent food particles from re-depositing on dishes.
* A built-in rinse aid dispenser. Some models come with a small window on the dispenser so you can easily see when a refill is needed.
* Nylon-covered racks and extra padding.
* A delayed-start feature to run the unit at night when hot water isn't needed for showers, laundry, etc.
* A sanitizing cycle that kills germs and bacteria with super-heated water.
* An added bonus of investing in a new appliance is the noise level. Sound insulated models can be up to 75% quieter than a unit that's 10 years old.

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If you have a tiny kitchen, or if you have a wet bar, or a butler's pantry, take a look at the new countertop models. These units plug into a standard outlet and hook up to a standard faucet. Most styles are about 2 feet wide by 2 feet high, and can hold 2 or 3 place settings or up to 24 glasses.

For an upscale kitchen, the new dish drawers might fit in nicely. Instead of one large door that opens from the top, dish drawers slide in and out just like a standard drawer. These are energy efficient dishwashers, and good for people who don't want to look at appliances in their kitchens.

You can choose from one or two drawers. Each drawer will hold about 30% more than a standard rack. If you choose 2 drawers, you can run one at a time, or both together.

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GreatCleaners.com - Home of OxiClean, Orange Glo, Kaboom, Arm & Hammer, Brillo, Cameo, Lambert Kay & more.

If you have a question, about energy efficient dishwashers, click here.

Energy efficient dishwashers made since 1994 have reduced hot water use by almost 30 percent. In fact, replacing a 10-year-old dishwasher with a new Energy-Star rated model can save more than $30 a year. An important feature to look for in new models is a booster water heater.

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