Monday, February 4, 2008

Forget The Soap Suds And Regain Your Time With A Dishwasher

If you?re still going into the kitchen and finding a pile of dishes in the sink waiting patiently for you to fill the bowl with water and detergent and get down to washing them by hand, maybe it?s time you did a rethink. There was a time when dishwashers were expensive to buy and expensive to run. They were seen as a luxury. Even if you could afford one, there was the question of space. Dishwashers were bulky, and if your kitchen was small, you were out of luck.

Thankfully, things with dishwashers, as with all things, change. The first thing to know is that dishwashers no longer take up huge amounts of space. You can buy a modern dishwasher which easily fits on the countertop. No need to use up valuable kitchen space. If you have a family of four, one of these small style dishwashers can be just the thing. It can wash a small dinnerware set to perfection in less than an hour. And, as with all dishwashers, the results are much better than you could get doing the dishes by hand.

As for the expense of buying and running a dishwasher, that?s history too. The smaller models, big enough for a small family, can cost just a few hundred dollars. And with the new breed of energy-saving models making more of an appearance, there?s no need to panic when you receive the electricity bill.

But of all the things that having a dishwasher does, the main thing is that it gives you something important. And that thing is time. Since I bought my first dishwasher, I realized how much time it takes to wash, dry and stack dishes. Never again. Once you buy a dishwasher and see how much it frees you from the hassle of dish washing. You?ll never want to wash another dish again.

dishwasherplanet.com has countertop dishwasher articles and compact dishwasher resources

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Sunday, January 20, 2008

What Happens When Your Dishwasher Breaks

When I was a child I remember cleaning up after the family meals and hand washing dishes. I thought it was like punishment most of the time. I complained most of the time, but my father and mother insisted that I learn this "life skill as they called it. I called it washing dishes. None the less my dishwashing career was a long and fruitful one growing up in a middle class family in Colorado.

I remember I was about thirteen years old when the savior of dish pan hands took mercy on me and my mother and father bought a dishwasher. I was overjoyed. All of my friends had one and my family was one of the last ones to purchase one. My parents kept saying "we already have you we do not need a dishwasher." They knew I was growing up and that I would soon be fledging from the nest and they were not going to be doing the dishes by hand. That was for sure. This so called life skill had taken on a light of labor as time went on.

So the day it showed up, my mother was overjoyed. I though my days of hand washing were over and the easy days of slamming and cramming dirty, filthy, dishes had arrived in full force. Well my parents had a different idea. My mother was enamored with her new toy and I actually got a month's reprieve from cleaning up after dinner because my mother wanted to experiment with her new toy.

Well when the time finally came that my mother had experimented enough and found that her method of "using the dishwasher" had actually become more work than actually hand washing the dishes she finally appointed me as the head dishwasher again. With stipulations this time though. She had developed a very arduous process by which all of the dishes had to be rinsed spotless and then placed in the dishwasher in order for it to work properly. That was my mother's assertion anyway.

So I was back at it once again, but this time it was different. I was getting older, I was spending more time away from home and involved in more activities that were not family oriented. So in a way the dish washer's arrival was symbolically my coming of age. I can remember thinking that I could not wait to get out of my parents' house and on my own to never wash dishes again. We all know that is not the case.

I am grown now and have children of my own and yes sometimes they load the dishwasher after dinner, but I cannot seem to break the tie I have to the memory of my mother and father and dinner time together. The discussions, fights, silence, and joy that were had prior to the dish washing lamentation that ultimately holds my memories firm in relationship to dinner time. I actually wonder what families that never spend time together before, during and after dinner do to stay together.

I wonder what happens when the dishwasher breaks.

Find out more about the dishwasher here.

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Friday, January 11, 2008

Freedom to Move-Portable Dishwashers

What if you cannot spare cabinet space to install a built-in dishwasher? That is not a problem with portable or convertible dishwashers. These dishwashers are freestanding with casters that allow you to store the dishwasher in one place and roll it to the sink when you need to use it. Most have a butcher-block laminate top so that you increase your workspace in the kitchen. Several companies offer portable dishwasher models if you need this flexibility.

GE has four convertible models of dishwashers called Nautilus. These can remain portable or they can be converted to an under-the-cabinet dishwasher. They have TouchTap controls and a package to reduce noise. If left as portable, the wood grain laminate top makes an attractive countertop addition to the kitchen for added workspace. All four Nautilus convertible dishwashers are in the $500 range.

Kenmore has only one portable dishwasher model. This model has a butcher-block laminate top to increase your workspace in the kitchen. It offers two wash levels in four cycles, including a pots and pans setting. It has a standard insulation package, so it will not be the quietest dishwasher. This Kenmore portable dishwasher comes in a sleek black design.

Frigidaire has two portable dishwashers. The 24-inch portable dishwasher is a standard size. Holding 12 place settings, this portable dishwasher has a 5-level wash system including a high-temperature wash/rinse cycle and a pots and pans cycle. It includes up to a 6-hour delay option and an UltraQuiet III sound reduction package. The 18-inch portable model can save space in smaller kitchens. Because it is smaller, this model can only hold an 8 place setting. It does include a sanitizing rinse cycle and a pots and pan setting. With five wash cycles, it has a 2-level wash system. It does have a basic sound reduction package, but no delay setting. Both of these models retail around $447.

Whirlpool also offers two portable dishwashers, both with EnergyStar ratings. The first model is a 24-inch white model that can hold a 12 place setting. With a PowerClean system, it has five wash levels and five wash cycles including settings for pots and pans, china, and sanitizing rinse. It can have custom panels. It also has a self-cleaning filter and a 2, 4, 6-hour delay setting. This portable dishwasher has the basic sound reduction package. The second portable Whirlpool dishwasher has 3 levels of wash and a sound blanket. It holds a 10 place setting and can wash pots and pans. It comes in black but can have a custom panel. This model is priced at $398 while the first retails for $498.

Maytag has two portable models that are both EnergyStar rated. These are Jet Clean II models that hold 14 place settings. They have more jet spray nozzles on 3 spray arms than any other dishwasher for better cleaning on four wash cycles. A fully electronic control pad complements the sound reduction package to make this portable dishwasher perfect for any kitchen. The upper rack is removable to allow for tall pots and pans. Both models retail for $48.

Portable dishwashers allow more choices in kitchens that may need to maximize cabinet space. With the same power to clean as built-in dishwashers, portables can offer some flexibility in tight spaces. If you move and have room in your new house, some portable models can be converted to a built-in model.

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.

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Thursday, January 10, 2008

A Look at Portable Dishwashers

Portable dishwashers are just the ticket for those with less than enough space for a more permanent and heavier dishwasher. They range in widths from a slim 18 inches to a maximum of about 24 inches for the “larger” portables. In general, they are also less expensive. They usually run anywhere from $200 to $500, rather than to $600 or more as with permanent units.

Portable dishwashers have wheels on them. You can roll your portable dishwasher to the storeroom if you don’t plan on using it for a while (and would rather opt for hand-washing). It’s also much easier to maneuver, for those who plan on moving to a new home in the near future.

They usually contain two rolling baskets for placing dishes into. They don’t usually boast the usual whistles and bells of large units, but they do have enough settings to choose from. For example, many units have a super-powerful cycle for pots and pans. Some also offer an option for boosting the water temperature when the house’s hot water supply is low.

To operate a portable dishwasher, you must roll it over to the sink and connect it to a hose. That part is easy. Just screw the hose to the sink’s plumbing. Make sure you won’t be using the sink during the machine’s cycles, and also be sure to unclog the sink first, if necessary. Drano or Liquid Plumr should do the trick. Also, be sure to rinse dishes before putting them in the machine. This will prevent the number of cases of clogging and grime buildup. If it ever does get plugged up, emitting a black gunk that ends up on your dishes, try scrubbing the walls down with vinegar and running the machine with a cup of vinegar.

Almost all manufacturers of standard, full-size dishwashers also offer a portable model. This includes Bosch, KitchenAid, Maytag, Whirlpool, GE, and Kenmore.

A portable dishwasher’s top acts as a countertop in many households, a godsend when space is at a premium. Alternatively, some portable dishwashers are made to sit atop an existing countertop in your kitchen. These have smaller capacities, as one might guess. But their performance is every bit as good as a floor-bound unit.

Perhaps the best part about portable dishwashers is that they are simpler machines than standard dishwashers. This means less repair work is needed, and less often.

You can purchase your new portable dishwasher at Sears, Menards, Target, ABC Warehouse, or any other large appliance retailer. They usually offer 1-year parts and labor warranties. But with care and attention, your new dishwasher can last for years.

Dishwashers Info provides detailed information on standard and portable dishwashers, dishwasher parts and repair, and reviews of the best dishwasher manufacturers and products. Dishwashers Info is the sister site of Water Softeners Web.

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Tuesday, January 8, 2008

5 Commercial Dishwashers To Consider

There are dishwashers designed for home use and for commercial use. Not only is the price significantly different the level of work they perform is too! So what are your choice? Here are 5 commercial dishwashers to consider.

1. Jet Tech 747 High Temp Dishwasher
This dishwasher comes in around the $6000 mark and it is completely automated. The wash cycle occurs at 150F and the rinse at 185F so it meets all the health regulations. It has a dual thermostatic control and it is capable of 50 racks per hour so this will keep up with your demands.

It has double wash motor pumps which give it the extra strength. All components are stainless steel including the wash tank and hood and it is thermically sealed. The insulation will keep the heat confined in the dishwasher and it also keeps it quiet. It has a 6000 watts booster element.

2. CMA Under Counter Low Temp Dishwasher
This dishwasher has 24 racks with as much as 96 covers per hour. It's extremely economical to use because it uses only 1.7 gallons of water each cycle. The stainless construction will offer a long life with trouble free operation.

It has a unique spray arm system that has a reinforced end cap. All the electric components are found in the drawer and the pump drain is designed for flexible installation.

3. CMA High Temperature Under Counter Dishwasher
This high temp dishwasher costs around $3500 and it will sanitize as it washes and rinses with the built in 6 kw booster. It has an external scrap accumulator, pumped drain, filters and traps for debris, and it all lands in a drawer that is very easy to remove and clean.

It has an upper and lower rotating wash arm so your dishes get excellent coverage. There are no plastic parts to break. This one is definitely designed to last.

4. Fargo Under Counter Glass Washer
This high temperature glass washer has a built in boost. You can wash up to 30 racks per hour so this is a great choice for the smaller demands. And it costs only around $2500 which is considerably less than some of the slightly larger models.

It is made from heavy duty stainless steel with sanitizing wash, and a cool water rinse system. The drain pump is built in and there is a valve to prevent overflowing. It comes with an electric tank heater and low water protection so you won't damage it when the water stops flowing. The wash and rinse cycles are automatic

5. Fagor Commercial All Purpose Dishwasher
Sells for around $3400 and this heavy duty stainless construction won't let you down. It has a built in detergent pump, electric booster heater, and it has a hot water rinse. The electric tank heater will ensure an optimum hot water supply at all times.

It has a built in rinse dispenser, door safety, and it can do as many as 280 trays per hour or 1400 cups and glasses so this will meet the needs of a medium size venture.

These 5 commercial dishwashers are definitely worth considering. Of course there are plenty of others that are worth looking at so set your budget and start shopping online.

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.

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Friday, January 4, 2008

Run Out Of Dishwashing Detergent?

No matter how much we stock up on household items when catching sales or buying products in bulk, there's always those awkward times where we run out of something. It's always neat to be aware of little tricks just to get by during those times, and I thought I would share a few ideas for when you might run out of dishwashing detergent and can't run to the store right away.

Actually, in all honesty, I don't even bother with purchasing actual dishwashing detergents. Being a soapmaker, I normally use my soaps that haven't lived up to my satisfaction and tend to be less moisturizing. (Different soapmakers have different styles and tastes- I usually aim my main focus on my recipes being more moisturizing than any other characteristics and can be a little picky when it comes to my own soaps in that aspect!) I find the ones that don't meet my personal expectation are great for washing dishes by hand without leaving residue or spots behind. They definitely last longer than a bottle of dishwashing detergent and I find they're even better with cleaning up extra grimy and greasy messes. If in a pinch, or just trying to save money here and there, any bar soap that's not heavily moisturizing can be an alternative to dishwashing detergents. Using natural based soaps are even better because you're also doing the environment a favor.

Another alternative is shampoo. If you read the labels, shampoos and dishwashing detergent don't really have a whole lot of differences in them. The key is "cheap" shampoos usually seem to work best and are actually cheaper in the long run in comparison to regular dishwashing detergents. From my experimenting in the rare times I resort to this method, my favorite for using it this way was VO-5's Kiwi Lime Clarifying shampoo. It only cost me about 79 cents for a nice sized bottle, doesn't contain extra silicones and junk in it that could leave a residue, and the citrus and rosemary extracts in it is great for cleaning and is also naturally antibacterial. (Not to mention it smells simply heavenly!)

For more articles on health, beauty, crafts, and home visit http://www.chambersessentials.com

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Wednesday, January 2, 2008

The Dishwashing Domain

Dishwashers are the ultra-convenient, time saving kitchen appliance you need to own. Once you’ve owned your first dishwasher, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without one. Meal times are much more pleasant when they aren’t followed by the monotony of hand washing and drying a mountain of dirty dishes. UK studies have shown that owning a dishwasher saves you 2 to 3 weeks of laborious kitchen work every year. Just think of the extra leisure time you could enjoy!

The history of the dishwasher began way back in 1850. The first dishwasher patent was applied for by American Joel Houghton for a wooden machine with a hand turned wheel which simply splashed water on to the dishes. However, the first practical dishwasher was invented in 1886 by Josephine Cochran. It made a big splash with restaurants and hotels at the 1893 World Fair. But it wasn’t until the 1950s that electronic washing machines became efficient enough to make them attractive purchases for the average family.

Modern units are also becoming increasingly popular because of the positive health spin-offs of their use. Thanks to their multiple rinse cycles and the fact that the water is heated to a temperature much higher than the human hand can stand, dishwashers are far superior to traditional hand washing. High temperature washing kills more germs than hand washing and the fact that you don’t have to use dirty, unhygienic hand towels to dry the dishes also means a safer wash every time.

Today there are dishwashers to suit every lifestyle, kitchen design and personal taste. From full size built in under-counter models that can deal with 14 place settings, through to tiny countertop models perfect for small kitchens, and even the new independent drawer style dishwashers – the choice is getting better by the day. But, with so many different brands around the globe offering so many different appliances boasting a confusing range of options, you need independent advise to find the dishwasher that will suit your needs best.

It’s important to realize that the most expensive dishwashers do not necessarily do the best job. Neither are they the most energy and water efficient, or the quietest running.

Guide4Home dishwasher review - countertop and drawer style models.

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Thursday, December 27, 2007

How To Choose A Dishwasher That Will Go Well In Your Kitchen When You Are Remodeling

Did you recently deicide to start remodeling your kitchen? If you do then do you already know everything you need to do. If you don't then you might want to think about buying a dishwasher, if you don’t already own one. Even if all your kitchen remodeling plans have already been made, you should still be able to buy one. That is why you might want to think about buying a dishwasher before you go further in your plans.

One of the most frequently asked questions in remodeling is how is it possible? To some it might be a little bit more difficult, but to others it may be easier, even if you plan on buying new kitchen cabinets. When time comes to install a dishwasher properly, most homeowners either take out a piece of the cabinet or a chunk of the countertop. This will eliminate any problems you had for the space of the dishwasher. Even if you have already planned your remodeling project you can still have your dishwasher that you might still want.

If you didn’t already find out, there are so many benefits to owning your own dishwasher. One of the benefits is time saved instead of washing by hand, even if your family is really big. Average families go through three sets of dishes daily; one for breakfast, one for lunch, and one for dinner. If you don’t like washing dishes by hand and always feel like the sink is full of dishes, you could well use a dishwasher in the kitchen every day. What is nice to know about dishwashers is all you have to do is load the dishes up, put your soap in and then start washing. With most dishes and full sinks it only takes five minutes to load the dishwasher up.

As the benefits stated above, you might also not know that dishwashers come in a wide variety of styles, even thought they are all the same size, the styles are what set them all apart. It is not uncommon to see the old white dishwashers, black dishwashers, black and white dishwashers, silver, as well as stainless steel dishwashers. This will mean that it will probably be easier to find the matching piece, even after you have finished remodeling. For the best results you should just buy all the necessities you need right when you buy your dishwasher so everything matches in the long run.

The price is something else you might be happy about. Even if you are changing your kitchen in a set price range, you should be able to find the dishwasher you want at an affordable cost. Standard model dishwashers, which most come in white or black, go for as low as $150. If you aren’t buying your things in a preset budget, but looking for the dishwasher to compliment your kitchen, you might be looking to pay a bit more. High quality dishwashers sell for $1000.

Maybe it would be easier to add your own dishwasher if you were going to install it yourself as well. Many homeowners are able to install their own simply because the dishwasher is bought with directions. If you are using assistance from an expert be sure they could find the time to help you install it if you couldn’t do it yourself. Some find it the same cost whether they use help or not, but it isn’t guaranteed; you may have to pay more. Even if these payments exist depends on who you are working with.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about kitchen remodeling as well as kitchen dishwashers at http://www.kitchenthingsplus.com

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Friday, December 21, 2007

Cascade Dishwasher Detergent - What You Need To Know

Clean dishes are about more than just the dishwasher. It's about the detergent too! And with so many on the market we decided to tell you about our favorite - Cascade Dishwasher Detergent - here's what you need to know.

Cascade two in one has been a real hit and I think it goes beyond the great job it does. When you open the package you see these wonderful little bright blue and spring green bubble. They are rather refreshing on their own.

The tablets are rather intriguing to look at. The plastic casing will dissolve with the water and inside the pouch is Dawn dishwashing liquid and Cascade dishwashing powder. That's it. And just in case you might forget whose product you have in bold red letters on the bottom you'll discover the word Cascade.

There are actually two varieties that you can choose from. The Original blue Dawn or the new Citrus Breeze scented orange Dawn. What will you do with two choices?

Now I love Dawn as a dishwashing detergent so the logical deduction would be that I would like the Cascade dishwasher version. And of course I was right.

The packaging that holds the pouches is easy to open. Use your scissors, cut the top, and then it reseals with a zip lock style top. In fact Cascade has gone as far as including a diagram of a pair of scissors at the top. The reseal holds well and since the pouches are water soluble that's important!

It's a good idea to make sure your hands are dry before grabbing the pouches since they could become squishy and start to dissolve in your hands.

They are a breeze to use. No unwrapping, no pouring, no puncturing. Just take the pouch out of the bag, pop it into the dishwasher's soap dispenser, close the door and start the dishwasher. That's it - how simple is that? No fuss no muss!

Both of the scents that are available are nice but if you don't like fragrance or are sensitive to it stick with the original blue. No matter which you choose the strong smell of the dishwasher soap can still be smelled.

Now let's talk about performance. On a scale of 1 to 10 I'd give this product a 10. It works well, cuts grease, no streaks, no spots, and no fogging. The Action Pac works great! There's no reason to rinse the dishes. It cuts through grease without hesitation. And it's easy and convenient to use.

As with any of these cleaners it comes with a warning not to get it on you skin or in your eyes and to keep it away from children. It also lists the first aid treatments clearly on the packaging.

You can buy a pack of 20 pouches for around $4.00 so that works out to about 20 cents a cleaning. Shop on line and you can even save more. I think It's a great buy and with all that cleaning power how can you go wrong?

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.

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Monday, December 3, 2007

Which Bosch Dishwasher Is For You?

 

Bosch is a name you can trust and it's a great choice if you want a dishwasher that's going to get your dishes extremely clean. So which Bosch dishwasher is for you?

Bosch is engineered to be energy smart, consume less water, protect your delicate crystal and glassware, and clean up the nastiest messes.

1. Cleartouch - means that all the cycles are easily available and well marked so that there is never any confusion during operation.

2. Optidry - provides multiple sensors that automatically adjust the wash cycle and water temperature so that there is never any spotting.

3. Infolight - when the dishwasher is running this light beams onto the floor to let you know. Modern dishwashers are so quiet that an indicator is needed.

4. Award Winner - 7 times in a row Bosch has won the award for the top dishwasher of the year.

Not sure which Bosch dishwasher to buy? Here are just a few that are worth checking out.

SHX57C05UC Stainless Steel Built-in Dishwasher

This is one very quiet dishwasher and the flexible loading makes it very attractive. It's built to last and it speaks quality from top to bottom. The biggest complaint is it is so darn quiet you can't tell that it's running. Thank goodness for the little red light.

SHE44C07UC Built-in Dishwasher

Keeping with the Bosch tradition this is another one that's extremely quiet. It loads efficiently and it's got plenty of room. In fact it is recommended by Consumer Reports. One of the best buys around.

SHU33A06UC Built-in Dishwasher

This one has the wonderful stainless steel interior. The cleaning is flawless and it would be hard to beat with any other dishwasher. There is no need to pre soak anymore. Yes this ones a little pricey but worth every dime. It's probably the last dishwasher you'll buy.

SHE66C06UC Dishwasher

This quiet uncluttered panel makes this an easy to operate dishwasher. It's biggest drawback is the small silverware holder but overall you can load it up great and get the best wash in the house.

The beauty of Bosch is you know that the innovative designs just keep on flowing so that you can be comfortable in knowing that the purchase you made will have been for the absolute best that was available at the time.

If you spend some time shopping online you'll be pleased to discover there are some great sites offering Bosch dishwashers at deep discounts. In fact discounts as deep as 75%. Wondering why? Well less overhead and let's face it a more competitive environment. This is great news for you the consumer!

So the only question that remains unanswered is which Bosch dishwasher will you be bringing home?

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.

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