Black Friday Dishwashers: What to Check Before You Buy

Before buying a dishwasher, measure the cabinet opening and the clearance for the door, then compare noise, rack layout, drying method and the controls. Check the water, drain and power connections too. A quiet, well-loaded machine matters less than one that fits. More in the large appliances department.

Measure the opening

Most built-in dishwashers fit a standard gap, but height can vary with the cabinet and flooring. Measure the width, the height under the counter, and the depth from the wall. Then read the installation manual for the model, which lists the opening it needs.

Do not forget the door. Open it fully in your head: it drops down and needs room in front. Check nearby drawers, an island or an oven door that might collide with it.

Noise and what the rating means

If the kitchen opens into the living area, noise matters. Listings sometimes give a decibel rating, and a lower number means a quieter machine. Because brands measure slightly differently, use the figure as a rough guide, not a precise comparison.

Racks and loading

• Adjustable upper racks help with tall glasses and large pans
• Fold-down tines make room for big pots
• A third rack on top handles utensils and flat items
• Removable cutlery baskets are easier to load and empty

Think about what you actually wash. If you cook a lot, space for baking sheets and big pots counts for more than extra cycles.

Dishwashers to compare

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Drying and cycles

Drying methods differ. Heated drying uses an element, fan drying moves air, and condensation drying relies on a hot rinse and a cool tub wall. Plastic items can stay damp in condensation machines, so read how the listing describes drying.

Cycles you will use most are normal, heavy and a quick wash. Extra cycles are nice but rarely used, so do not pay for features that you will not touch. Look at whether filters are easy to remove and clean, since a clogged filter hurts performance.

Connections and installation

A dishwasher needs a hot water line, a drain connection and a power supply. A permanent hardwired connection and a plug-in cord are both common, so check what your home has. Installation is straightforward for many people but a licensed plumber or electrician may be wise, and some warranties ask for it.

Marketplace and open-box checks

Used and open-box dishwashers need extra care. Ask for the model number, photos of the tub and racks, and confirmation that it was tested. Read the seller’s return policy and check feedback before you buy.