Thursday, January 17, 2008

Which Are The Best Dishwashers?

There are plenty of dishwashers on the market. In fact so many that choosing one could be a bit overwhelming? So which are the best dishwashers?

The answer to that question is simpler than you might have imagined. The best dishwasher is the one that has the features, size, and warranty that you are looking for. So whether you are in the market for one of the more pricey stainless dishwashers or whether you are looking for economy consider this:

1. Capacity
Do you want the standard 24" size or the compact 18" size? An 18" is a good choice for a household with 2 or 3 people in it. It will hold 8 place settings. A 24" which is standard dishwasher size will hold 14 place settings.

2. Type
Will that be portable, built in, or a counter top models. There is a dishwasher for every kitchen size. The countertop style works great in close quarters and a portable is a smart option if you are renting.

3. Energy
These days we are all much more energy conscious and so besides what the government dictates consumers are dictating that it's important for the dishwasher to conserve water and electricity.

4. Washing Cycles
Dishwashers usually have several cycles and cycle combinations which may include Normal, Light, Pots & Pans, Econo, and Rinse Only. Some cycles work better for glassware while others work better for greasy dishes. Make sure the dishwasher you choose has the cycles you will want to use most often.

5. Performance
How well your dishwasher performs depends on the washing cycle structure, the type of detergent used, and the rinse. The overall performance will be determined by a host of factors including the wash cycle, the load on the dishwasher, and what's being washed.

6. Stacking
Check the design structure inside the dishwasher. The rack layout makes a huge difference on how many dishes you can fit inside. Some will also have special features like a cutlery tray in the door. Some will have a special wine glass rack. This is the place you get to save space with the right layout.

7. Maker
There are plenty of great manufacturers to choose from. If you have a favorite go with it. Not sure? Then do a little research and see who's reputation is the best and who's getting noticed for a superior product. Whirlpool is world known but it isn't the only great manufacturer so do your research.

8. Budget
Start by setting your budget. When it comes to dishwashers you can spend anywhere form a couple of hundred to a couple of thousand. At the end of the day they all wash your dishes clean. The difference is in how they accomplish this and what additional features they offer. So set your budget and stick to it.

The best dishwashers on the market are the ones that do the job you need them to do. Shopping online can provide you with some great buys. So why not start now?

Dan is a part-time appliances repairman and with his dishwasher website at http://www.alldishwashers.com, he gives reviews of both commercial and residential models and states common problems that he encounters with each one, with solutions! To learn more visit the dishwasher reviews website.

Labels: , , , ,

Monday, December 17, 2007

My Dishwasher is Not Starting - What Can It Be?

The dishes are in the dishwasher and you close the door. You hit the start button and nothing happens. What now?

First make sure the dishwasher is getting power. Check your fuse box for blown fuses. If you have circuit breakers, check to see if they are tripped. Make sure plug from your dishwasher is secure in the outlet.

If power is not the problem, take a closer look at some of the electrical parts of your dishwasher. The most common part to fail is the door switch.

A door switch is used to start and stop your dishwasher. It's a safety feature that won't allow water to flow with the door open. With a faulty door switch, there is a chance your dishwasher won't start at all.

Dishwasher door switches are about an inch long. They are usually black but can be red. There are metal prongs on the body of the switch called terminals. Some door switches have two terminals and some have three.

If your door switch is OK, check the timer assembly. This controls when and how long power is sent to other controls on your dishwasher. If these controls don't receive power, they won't work.

The timer assembly contains a motor. Check this motor as well. It is often cheaper just to replace the timer motor rather than the complete assembly.

My last suggestion is to check the cycle selector switches. These switches indicate cycles for washing, drying, and setting the temperature of the water. If one of your switches is the problem your dishwasher may not start.

Dishwasher cycle selector switches tell the timer which cycle to run by opening and closing electrical circuits. Most selector switches are six to eight inches long. They are usually black and have terminals.

By testing each one of these parts with an ohmmeter you should be able to determine why your dishwasher is not working. It is possible for other parts to fail but these are the most common parts to check.

Total Appliance Parts: Helping you repair your dishwasher and other large appliances. Learn how to repair your own appliance and find parts for your dishwasher, refrigerator and more at EasyApplianceParts.com.

Labels: , , , , ,