How to choose the most energy-efficient dishwasher

Did you know that by choosing and using your dishwasher wisely, your current energy bill can be reduced by up to 50%? About 68 per cent of American households have a dishwasher in the kitchen. About 50 per cent of those households use their dishwashers between 1 and 6 times per week, with larger families reporting more frequent use. Dishwasher use saves energy and is simpler than hand washing dishes. Knowing how to spot an energy-efficient dishwasher is essential, but how you use the dishwasher is almost as important. 

Research consistently indicates that dishwashers are more environmentally friendly than handwashing. When considering total carbon emissions, dishwashers come out on top, even when accounting for their embodied emissions. Handwashing typically consumes more water, leading to higher greenhouse gas emissions from distribution and increased energy usage for water heating.

Is dishwashing more energy efficient than handwashing?

Although handwashing may seem cost-free compared to using electricity for a dishwasher, it requires roughly six times more water to clean the same number of dishes. Additionally, heating water in the sink for handwashing consumes nearly double the dishwasher’s annual energy amount. Another benefit of using a dishwasher is the ability to wait several days before running a full load, further enhancing energy and water savings. With handwashing, this is often not feasible due to the accumulating and unsightly stack of dirty dishes beside the sink.

How much water does a dishwasher use?

Thanks to technological advancements, using a dishwasher for cleaning dishes is notably more water-efficient than handwashing. Modern dishwashers, for instance, may feature an integrated reservoir that holds water from the previous rinse cycle for use in the initial rinse of the subsequent cycle. This innovation enables contemporary dishwashers to clean a full load (144 items) with as little as 9L of water, while handwashing consumes an average of 103L. A 2020 study published in the Environmental Research Communications journal provided average water consumption data for handwashing, as displayed in the table below.

What is the dishwasher’s energy usage and running cost?

Surprisingly, using a dishwasher is considerably more energy-efficient than handwashing dishes. This is primarily because most energy consumption during dishwashing comes from heating the water, and dishwashers utilize much less water. On average, most dishwashers consume more than 1 kWh per cycle. If you run the wash cycle on your dishwasher once a week, it will only contribute about $16.38 to your annual electricity bill. While running it more often or using a more intensive cycle can increase this cost, it remains relatively low.

Operating your dishwasher on its default cycle daily will amount to roughly $110 per year in electricity and water expenses. However, these aren’t the only costs to consider. Detergent accounts for a larger portion of the total running costs. Top detergent brands may charge a dollar per wash, which may not seem significant but can accumulate to $365 per year if you use your dishwasher daily.

How do dishwasher size and type affect energy efficiency?

Countertop versus portable dishwasher

Countertop dishwashers are more water and energy-efficient appliances, using only 2 to 3 gallons of water per cycle, compared to the 4 to 6 gallons consumed by full-sized models. They also require approximately half the electricity of full-sized units, which typically use 1800 watts per load. Energy Star-rated models are even more efficient, though they tend to be pricier.

The primary distinction between portable and countertop dishwashers is their capacity. Countertop dishwashers can only accommodate a limited number of place settings and are generally unsuitable for washing pots and pans due to space constraints. In contrast, portable dishwashers can handle the same volume of dishes as built-in models, eliminating the need for handwashing pots and pans.

How many dishes do you need to wash per cycle?

It’s essential to consider both energy and water consumption alongside the dishwasher’s capacity. The efficiency of a dishwasher ultimately depends on the number of dishes it can clean. If a countertop washer saves one gallon of water per load but can only hold fewer dishes or accommodate four place settings, a portable dishwasher may be a more practical option if space permits.

Larger dishwashers are likely to have higher running costs than smaller, equally efficient models. However, purchasing a small dishwasher for a large family is counterproductive, as frequent usage will result in increased wear and tear. To make the best decision, choose a dishwasher that aligns with the volume of items you need to clean on a regular basis.

What energy efficient certification to look for?

Search for the ENERGY STAR® label

When it is time to choose an the most energy efficient dishwasher ever, there are many options, but one label you should look for is the ENERGY STAR certification. This certification ensures that the dishwasher model meets strict energy efficiency standards and, on average, uses 12% less energy and 30% less water than a standard model. But that’s not all; the most energy-efficient models have earned the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation, meaning they are the best for saving energy.

A dishwasher that has earned the ENERGY STAR label has many advantages in addition to using less electricity and water. For instance, it can save a sizable quantity of water—more than 8,000 gallons annually. If the cost of operating an energy-efficient model worries you, you’ll be relieved to learn that a standard-sized dishwasher with ENERGY STAR certification only costs around $35 per year. It can help you save 3,870 gallons of water on average over the course of its lifetime.

Recent years have seen a number of developments in modern dishwasher technology, and ENERGY STAR certified machines include many of these improvements. They might feature soil sensors, for instance, that can gauge how filthy the dishes are and reduce the water usage appropriately. Also, they offer better water filtration and more effective jets, which enhance performance while also using less electricity and water. The designs of dishracks have also been improved to use less water. When there’s time for a dishwasher upgrade, why not make the smart decision to go green?

Check the yellow EnergyGudie label 

You can use this label to calculate the model’s energy usage, evaluate it in comparison to other models of the same kind, and estimate the annual operating cost.

Difference between the ENERGY STAR and EnergyGudie label?

What is the energy saving feature of a dishwasher?

Modern dishwashers consume less water and electricity thanks to various energy-saving features. By choosing a dishwasher with these features, one can make a wise choice and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

Water connection

Cold water connection: Some dishwashers are designed to connect to cold water sources and use their built-in heating elements to heat the water as needed. This feature helps save energy by only heating the necessary amount of water for each cycle, reducing overall energy consumption. Hot water connection: Other models connect to hot water lines, which can be more energy-efficient if your home has a solar water heater or an energy-efficient water heating system. In this case, the dishwasher takes advantage of the preheated water, lowering its energy usage.

Cycles and options

Eco or energy-saving cycles: Most modern dishwashers offer eco-friendly or energy-saving cycles that consume less water and energy than standard cycles. These cycles generally operate at lower temperatures and longer durations to clean dishes effectively while minimizing resource use. Half-load or small load options. Some dishwashers feature half-load or small load options that adapt water and energy consumption based on the number of dishes in the machine. This feature is ideal for households that don’t produce enough dirty dishes to fill the dishwasher daily.

Sensors

Soil sensors: High-tech dishwashers often include soil sensors that assess the level of dirt on dishes and adjust the water temperature, cycle duration, and detergent usage accordingly. This ensures that the dishwasher employs only the required amount of resources for optimal cleaning results. Water level sensors: These sensors track the water level inside the dishwasher and modify the amount of water used for each cycle, helping to conserve water and decrease energy consumption.

Drying

Heat exchanger drying: Some dishwashers use heat exchangers to capture heat generated during the wash cycle and repurpose it to dry the dishes, reducing the need for additional energy for drying. Auto door-opening or fan-assisted drying: Certain models feature auto door-opening or fan-assisted drying functions that enhance the drying process by circulating air and reducing humidity and moisture inside the dishwasher. These options eliminate the need for energy-intensive heating elements during drying.

How to use dishwashers efficiently to optimise energy saving? 

To maximize energy savings when using your dishwasher, it’s essential to understand the best practices and features that can minimize water and energy consumption. Following these guidelines can optimize energy savings when using your dishwasher. Proper loading, using energy-saving cycles, regular maintenance, and allowing dishes to air-dry are just a few ways to improve efficiency and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

Load dishes efficiently

Properly arrange dishes: Ensure that dishes are placed correctly in the dishwasher for optimal water flow and cleaning. This will help prevent the need for rewashing, saving water and energy. Fill it up: Run your dishwasher only when it’s full to maximize energy and water efficiency. However, avoid overloading the dishwasher, leading to poor cleaning results and rewashing.

Use energy-saving cycles and options

Eco or energy-saving cycles: Choose eco-friendly or energy-saving cycles whenever possible, as these settings use less water and energy than standard cycles. Half-load or small load options: If your dishwasher has a half-load or small load setting, use it when you don’t have enough dishes to fill the dishwasher. This feature adjusts water and energy consumption based on the number of dishes in the machine. 

Maintain your dishwasher

Regularly check and clean your dishwasher’s filters to ensure optimal water flow and cleaning performance, ultimately saving energy by avoiding the need for rewashing. Inspect and replace parts as needed: Regularly inspect your dishwasher’s spray arms, seals, and other components, replacing them to maintain peak performance and efficiency. Regularly maintain and clean your dishwasher plays a bit part to save energy.

Use appropriate water connections

Cold or hot water connection: If your dishwasher has a cold-water connection and an efficient built-in heating element, connect it to the cold-water supply. For those with a hot water connection, connect it to a solar water heater or energy-efficient water heating system to reduce energy consumption.

Allow dishes to air-dry

Skip the heat-dry setting: Turn off the heat-dry setting and let dishes air-dry, either by cracking open the dishwasher door after the cycle is complete or by using the auto door-opening or fan-assisted drying features if available on your model.

Choose the suitable detergent

Follow manufacturer guidelines: Use the recommended detergent type and amount specified by the dishwasher manufacturer. Overusing detergent can lead to poor cleaning results, requiring additional wash cycles and wasting energy.

FAQ

Is repairing a dishwasher worth your while?

Generally, they remain operational for 10 years. So if yours is older than that and giving you grief, investing in an energy-saving model might be the wiser choice. Ultimately, once it has become more of a burden than anything else, replacing it may be the most sensible solution.

Can I handle a dishwasher installation on my own?

Absolutely! Replacing an existing one should be straightforward, as you will use the same connections. However, accuracy is of utmost importance; make sure that both your new and old appliances are in the same size range for optimal results.

How frequently should you run your dishwasher for optimal performance?

Dishwashers are designed to be used frequently. Letting yours sit idle can lead to cracked hoses and seals, grease buildup that clogs pipes, and even insect infestations. Running your dishwasher will save you time and money in comparison with handwashing dishes; plus it is more efficient when filled up before use – but if the contents start smelling unpleasant then turn her on at once!

Will a dishwasher sterilise baby bottles?

Dishwashers sure do come in handy when it comes to cleaning baby bottles and dummies, yet there is an important distinction between sanitizing and simply washing. If your dishwasher doesn’t have a steam-cleaning or sterilization setting, you should be aware that you will need another way to clean the items after they’ve been washed – particularly if your newborn happens to be premature or immuno-compromised during its first three months of life.

Summary 

To maximize energy savings when using a dishwasher, it’s essential to understand the best practices and features that can minimize water and energy consumption. Proper loading, choosing an eco-friendly or energy-saving cycle whenever possible, regular maintenance of filters and other components as well as allowing dishes to air dry are all ways you can optimize your dishwasher usage for maximum efficiency while helping contribute towards sustainability. By considering these tips while selecting the right detergent type in accordance with manufacturer guidelines, you will find yourself on track towards reducing your carbon footprint one wash at a time.