Choose a dishwasher that's an ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR® labeled dishwashers can help save money on energy bills through superior
designs that require less energy to get your dishes clean. These dishwashers include more
effective washing action, energy efficient motors and other advanced technology such as
sensors that determine the length of the wash cycle and the temperature of the water
necessary to clean the dishes.
ENERGY STAR qualified models contain internal water heaters that boost the water
temperature inside the dishwasher. This allows you to turn down the thermostat on
your household water heater to 120 degrees, reducing your water heating costs by
up to 10 percent.
Buying tips
There are two dishwasher classifications: compact capacity and standard capacity.
Compact models use less energy, but they hold fewer dishes. A compact model may
actually result in greater energy use if you have to operate it more frequently.
Choose a dishwasher that provides several different wash cycle selections. If your
dishes are only slightly soiled, you can use a "light wash" or "energy-saving" wash
cycle and save energy by using less water and operating for a shorter period of time.
Look for a dishwasher that allows you to choose between heat-drying and air-drying.
Heat-drying elements draw considerable electricity; circulation fans for air-drying use
very little. Keep in mind that ENERGYGUIDE ratings for dishwashers are based on washing
322 loads annually using the normal settings. If you are considering a model with other
setting options that you would use most of the time, your energy use could vary substantially.
For more information about ENERGY STARlabeled dishwashers and other labeled products,
including new homes, visit
www.energystar.gov.
ENERGY STAR and the ENERGY STAR logo are registered trademarks of the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy.
