For the busy urbanites in Hong Kong, coming home to a pile of dirty dishes can be overwhelming. Dishwashers have become their lifesaver, solving a significant domestic challenge. With a variety of models and types available in the market, which one is the best? This article will guide you through the key considerations when purchasing a dishwasher and provide the latest recommendations and reports from the Consumer Council to help you choose the most suitable model.
Content Summary
8 Reasons to Buy Dishwasher
1. Dishwashers are cleaner than hand washing
Traditional hand-washing dishes involves using a dishcloth and adding dishwashing detergent. However, the dishcloth itself can harbor bacteria and be contaminated from previous washes, making it difficult to achieve true cleanliness. Dishwashers have the ability to heat and sanitize, effectively killing bacteria such as E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Hepatitis B virus. These bacteria require high temperatures to be eliminated, which is challenging to achieve with hand washing. Additionally, there are often small crevices on dishes that are difficult to clean by hand, whereas dishwashers provide comprehensive cleaning.
2. Water-saving
Numerous studies have shown that dishwashers are much more water-efficient than hand washing. For example, a study conducted by the University of Bonn in Germany compared the efficiency of hand-washing dishes with dishwashers. It found that hand washing consumed an average of 103 liters of water to wash 12 sets of dishes, while the same quantity of dishes washed in a dishwasher only required 15 liters of water. This means that dishwashers can save up to six times (88 liters) the amount of water. In a year, a dishwasher can save approximately 32,000 liters of water.
3. Energy-saving
The same German study also found that when using hot water, dishwashers consumed a total of 1.05 kWh of electricity, while hand washing consumed as much as 2.5 kWh. This means that dishwashers use only half the amount of electricity compared to hand washing.
4. Time-saving
This is often a significant reason why people in Hong Kong purchase dishwashers. The process of using a dishwasher primarily involves loading the dishes and starting the machine. Meanwhile, you can continue with your work or enjoy quality time with your family. Once the dishwasher completes its cycle, you can simply unload the clean utensils. The entire process takes only a few minutes, saving you a significant amount of time compared to the various steps involved in hand washing (which typically takes several minutes or even over half an hour for larger households).
5. Environmental friendly
In addition to water and energy efficiency, modern dishwashers have incorporated various technologies to automatically detect the amount and degree of dirt on the dishes, allowing for optimized water usage and cleaning time. Moreover, they require less detergent, contributing to a more eco-friendly approach.
6. Safety and Health
When hand washing dishes, prolonged exposure to chemicals in cleaning agents can harm the hands, leading to dry and rough skin. Additionally, the repetitive movements involved in hand washing can strain the back, neck, and hands, and there is also a risk of accidentally breaking dishes. Using a dishwasher can reduce these risks.
7. Quiet Operation
The noise level of a dishwasher is a concern for many, especially in open-plan kitchens where low noise appliances are desired. Many modern dishwashers are designed to operate with ultra-quiet performance, generating a noise level of around 40 decibels, which is lower than the typical conversation noise of 50 decibels. They are much quieter than the sounds produced by dishes clattering during hand washing or the sound of running water from the faucet.
8. Harmonious Family Life
Dishwashers have become increasingly popular in Hong Kong households. However, there is often a lack of information available, leaving many customers unsure about choosing the right dishwasher. It's important to pay attention to certain factors when selecting a dishwasher, and at the end, we will recommend some quality dishwasher brands.
Types of Dishwashers: Built-in Vs. Freestanding
In general, household dishwashers in Hong Kong can be primarily categorized into two types based on their installation: built-in and freestanding. The choice between the two depends largely on your kitchen design and available space. If your kitchen allows for it, built-in dishwashers offer several advantages.
Freestanding Dishwashers
Freestanding dishwashers can be placed almost anywhere in the kitchen as long as there is a flat surface that can support their weight. The installation of a freestanding dishwasher is relatively simple, requiring only plugging it into a power source and connecting the water hose. They can also be easily moved if needed. If you are renting a property, a freestanding dishwasher can be a good choice as it offers convenient installation and removal. However, we recommend installing the dishwasher near the sink to ensure smooth plumbing connections.
Built-in Dishwashers
Built-in and semi-integrated dishwashers are designed to be fixed in place and are installed within custom cabinets, rather than being standalone appliances. Fully integrated dishwashers are designed to blend seamlessly with your kitchen cabinets, while semi-integrated models retain a visible control panel. Opting for a built-in dishwasher offers not only aesthetic benefits but also the advantage of utilizing cabinet insulation to reduce noise levels.
Sizes of Dishwasher
Dishwashers come in various sizes and capacities. It is crucial to accurately measure your kitchen space, including length, width, and height, to ensure you choose a dishwasher that fits properly. The standard size for a dishwasher is 60 centimeters wide. This is commonly referred to as a full-size dishwasher and typically has a capacity between 12 and 14 standard place settings. Compact dishwashers, on the other hand, are 45 centimeters wide and have enough capacity for 9 to 10 standard place settings.
Dishwashers generally have capacities ranging from 6 to 14 standard place settings. Here is a rough estimation based on the number of household members:
| Number of household members |
Required capacity (standard place settings) |
| 1-2 |
6-9 sets |
| 2-4 |
9-12 sets |
| More than 4 |
More than 12 sets |
However, if you have a sufficient budget and kitchen space, we still recommend choosing a larger capacity dishwasher. This is because it can handle the occasional need for washing a larger number of dishes when you have guests. Nowadays, many large-capacity dishwashers also offer a half-load washing function, which allows you to use the dishwasher efficiently even when you have fewer dishes to wash.
Recommended Dishwasher Functions
Dishwashers offer different features and efficiencies depending on the brand and model. Here are some notable points to consider:
Wash Cycle Options
Most dishwashers have at least three cycle options: normal, light, and heavy. Some models offer specialized options such as a high-temperature sanitize function (useful for cleaning baby bottles) or a quick wash cycle (for quickly cleaning a small load of lightly soiled dishes).
While it's true that more wash cycle options can provide better cleaning results, they can also consume more water and electricity. Many customers end up using the same wash cycle option consistently because of the overwhelming number of options available. However, dishwashers equipped with smart sensor technology can address this issue by automatically determining the appropriate wash cycle, eliminating the need for manual selection and improving efficiency.
Drying of Dishes
After the wash cycle is complete, some higher-end dishwasher models have a separate drying function to dry the dishes. This allows you to immediately return the clean and dry dishes to the cupboard. However, please note that most drying functions require additional energy. If you want to save electricity, you can choose to use the residual heat for drying. The residual heat drying method utilizes the heat retained within the dishwasher's interior to evaporate moisture. Simply open the dishwasher door slightly after the wash is complete, and within approximately 15 to 25 minutes, the dishes will be almost completely dry.
Filters and Food Disposal
Most dishwashers can rinse off any food residue from your dishes before the wash cycle begins, saving you the trouble of pre-rinsing in the sink. However, you will need to clean the dishwasher's filters regularly to prevent the buildup of food particles that can cause unpleasant odors. Some higher-end dishwashers feature self-cleaning filter systems, which are important for convenience and improved hygiene.
Electronic Delay Start
Smart dishwashers allow you to set a delayed start time, so you can schedule the dishwasher to automatically begin the wash cycle when you're away or asleep, ensuring that noise doesn't disrupt your activities. Additionally, once the program is activated, the display screen will indicate the exact countdown time, making it easier to manage household chores.
4 Key Considerations Before Purchasing a Dishwasher
When choosing the capacity and type of dishwasher, it depends on factors such as the size of your kitchen, the number of dishes you have, your electricity budget, and other specific requirements. Different dishwashers can provide you with different experiences. Here are four considerations before purchasing a dishwasher:
1. Size
The size of the dishwasher you need will depend on the quantity and size of dishes you wash daily. For small households of 1-2 people, a compact countertop dishwasher should be sufficient. If you have a family of 4 or more, it is recommended to choose a model between 45cm and 60cm.
2. Noise Level
The noise level of a dishwasher depends on its type, materials, size, and additional features (such as automatic cleaning mode). Generally, single-rack dishwashers have noise levels ranging from 50 to 60 decibels, while double-rack dishwashers range from 45 to 55 decibels. Before making a purchase, you may want to inquire with the store if they allow you to try out the dishwasher and assess its noise level.
3. Features and Options
Some dishwashers come with special features such as automatic cleaning, rotating spray arms, quick wash cycles, high-temperature sanitization, or quiet mode. Depending on your cooking needs and lifestyle habits, you may consider selecting a model with features that suit you, such as a self-cleaning function to save time on manual cleaning.
4. Energy Efficiency
Dishwashers come with energy labels ranging from the highest A+++ rating to the lowest D rating, indicating their energy and water consumption levels. The specific water and electricity usage will also vary based on the model's size and performance. As a general guideline, standalone dishwashers typically use around 4 to 6 liters of water per cycle, while compact models may use around 10 to 17 liters.
Latest Consumer Council’s Report on Dishwashers
The Consumer Council tested 25 models of dishwashers in 2019 and rated their performances according to their cleaning and drying capacity, noise level, convenience of use, manufacturing quality, and other factors (5 points being the highest). Here are the best 10 models with the highest ratings:
Dishwasher Brand Recommendations (Latest for 2024)
FISHER & PAYKEL
The Fisher & Paykel embedded dishwasher from New Zealand is designed with a user-centric approach, featuring only a few buttons on the control panel for easy operation.
One unique feature of Fisher & Paykel is its 60cm drawer-style dishwasher. This design allows it to seamlessly integrate with kitchen cabinets and other embedded kitchen appliances, eliminating the need to bend down like traditional freestanding dishwashers when handling dishes.
The single-drawer design is suitable for households of 3-4 people, while the double-drawer design not only allows for washing a larger number of dishes but also enables separating items that cannot be washed together, such as glasses, for separate cleaning.
>>Check dishwashers from Fisher & Paykel
Bosch
Bosch, a renowned German household appliance brand with a century-long history, offers dishwashers that combine stylish aesthetics with energy-efficient and eco-friendly technologies, making it one of the top brands in the dishwasher market.
One unique feature of Bosch dishwashers is the AquaSensor function. This feature determines the water usage based on the type and level of dirtiness of the dishes. It utilizes beams of light to manage the rinsing process, assessing the presence of food residues, grease, or residual detergent to determine if further cleaning is required. This environmentally friendly approach ensures efficient use of resources.
Additionally, Bosch provides a 10-year warranty on the entire dishwasher, both internally and externally, guaranteeing that it remains rust-free. This warranty applies to the Bosch dishwasher you have purchased from BBE, offering long-term reliability and peace of mind.
>>Check dishwashers from Bosch
Siemens
Siemens, another German brand, is also popular among Hong Kong residents for its focus on quick and efficient cleaning. Their dishwashers are equipped with the turboSpeed feature, allowing you to wash dishes in just 20 minutes. If you choose the extraDry function, you can have clean and extremely dry dishes in just over 10 minutes. With Siemens dishwashers featuring turboSpeed and extraDry, you can enjoy more time for the things that matter in life.
>>Check dishwashers from Siemens
6 Best Dishwashers of 2023
The 60cm Siemens SN27YI03CE dishwasher has the following advantages:
- Made in Germany
- Cleaning capacity for up to 14 sets of dishes
- 7 intelligent sensors to automatically detect the dirtiness level of the dishes with a 360-degree spray arm to accurately remove 99.999% of different bacteria, making dishwashing safer
- Utilize the moisture-absorbing and heat-generating properties of Zeolite technology for top-notch drying results
The SIEMENS SR23EI28ME 45CM Dishwasher has the following advantages:
- Featuring an iQdrive brushless motor for efficient, durable, and quiet dishwashing
- Hygiene Plus function allows for antibacterial cleaning at high temperatures for enhanced hygiene
The Countertop BOSCH SKS68BB008 dishwasher has the following advantages:
- Large cleaning capacity with the ability to clean up to 6 sets of dishes at once
- Stylish black glass surface
- Equipped with BBQ Extra strong decontamination cleaning (maximum temperature up to 72°C) to remove tough stains
The Countertop Siemens SK26E82208 dishwasher has the following advantages:
- Large cleaning capacity with the ability to up to 6 sets of dishes at once
- Featuring an iQdrive brushless motor for efficient, durable, and quiet dishwashing
- Built-in VarioSpeed rapid cleaning program to reduce washing time by up to 50%
The 60cm Built-in Electrolux KEAF7200L dishwasher has the following advantages:
- Cleaning capacity for up to 13 sets of dishes
- Featuring AirDry technology, which triples drying efficiency by using natural airflow to dry dishes. The door automatically opens 10cm at the end of the washing program to provide energy-efficient and effective drying, significantly saving energy
- Adjustable upper basket design significantly increases space for dishes and flexibility for placement, allowing large pots and dishes to be washed inside the dishwasher, enhancing convenience
Top Rated Dishwasher Recommendation 6: ELECTROLUX ESF9516LOX 60cm UltimateCare700 Freestanding Dishwasher
The ELECTROLUX ESF9516LOX 60cm UltimateCare700 Freestanding Dishwasher has the following advantages:
- MaxiFlex drawer accommodates different shapes and sizes of cutlery and utensils. Suitable for anything from cutlery sets to larger kitchen tools
- Featuring SatelliteClean® with a rotating spray arm for thorough washing of different dishes, providing deep cleaning even for large dishes
- Equipped with AirDry technology, tripling the drying efficiency using natural airflow. The door automatically opens 10cm at the end of the washing program for energy-efficient and effective drying, greatly saving energy
- Equipped with XtraDry function for complete drying of dishes
- AutoFlex intelligent cleaning program efficiently saves time, energy, and water consumption
80+ Dishwashers on sale — Find the perfect one for your kitchen today
BBE boasts a wide collection of competitively priced dishwashers and other home appliances from the world’s most renowned brands, including Siemens, Bosch, Fisher & Paykel, Electrolux and Gaggenau. From an entry model under $3000 to a higher-end model over $10000, families with different budgets can all find the ones that best suit their kitchen, whether it’s built-in or portable. If you have any questions about our products and installation services, please visit our stores, or read our Dishwasher Buying Guide to learn more.
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