A dishwasher is a large purchase, and doing some comparisons ahead of time can be a good way to ensure you are getting the best product for your money. Some of the most basic ways to compare dishwashers, such as by size, price, and overall brand reliability, can be a good place to start since it can give you an idea of what you will get for your budget. You may then compare dishwashers by looking for different features, such as adjustable racks or a number of different wash levels, which can help to get dishes cleaner. Other features such as a timer or various washing cycles can also be helpful additional options for a dishwasher.
When you are trying to compare dishwashers, it is helpful to first measure the space you have for the dishwasher, and determine the capacity you are looking for. Once you have a capacity in mind, you can look at different price ranges and see how much you want to spend; be sure to shop around and compare dishwashers at different stores, since sales and rebates are common. Doing some research online, and checking into overall brand reliability based on surveys, or even customer reviews based on specific models, can help you narrow down your search even further.
Most new dishwashers are fairly energy efficient, but it is a good idea to look for energy efficiency certification from a third-party company to be sure. This will help to save money on utility bills and is better for the environment. Also consider how many washing levels a dishwasher has; a dishwasher that sprays water from the side, top, and bottom of the dishwasher has three levels, for example, and will be better at getting dishes clean than one that simply sprays from the top or bottom. Of course, additional levels will increase the price, as will the added feature of adjustable racks, which can help to accommodate larger dishes.
It is also important to consider the noise levels when trying to compare dishwashers. Less expensive dishwashers tend to be noisier than other, more expensive models. Features such as different wash cycles, that may allow you to choose either a light wash for a small load, or a heavy wash for a larger load of dishes, can be another great feature as well. It may be helpful to make a list of the most important features for yourself, and then try to purchase the dishwasher in your price range that meets as many of those features as possible.