EnerGuide Appliance Directory 2005

Appliance Energy-saving Tips and Distributors by Brand Name

Dishwashers

Today's dishwashers use about 95 percent less energy than those built in the early 1970s, so replacing your old dishwasher may save you a lot of money over the life of the appliance.

Most new dishwashers offer energy-saving features such as short, light or economy cycles. These cycles clean your dishes in one detergent wash followed by two or three rinses. You're also given the option of heat or no-heat drying.

Some new dishwashers feature sensors that measure the amount of dirt on your dishes. As a result, these appliances can determine exactly how much water will be required to clean your dishes efficiently – no wasted energy, no wasted water.

Changes to Canada's Energy Efficiency Regulations

As a result of a 2004 amendment to Canada's Energy Efficiency Regulations, dishwashers are now rated to a new energy consumption standard. This standard reduces the amount of energy these appliances may consume each year. Dishwashers are also subject to new energy consumption testing procedures. Previously, these appliances were rated according to an average of 264 loads per year. However, new data indicates that Canadians have reduced dishwasher use, so the test average is now 215 loads annually.

The new ratings take into account standby power consumption (the energy used while the appliance is idle) and continue to include the energy required to heat the water. Soil-sensing dishwashers are also subject to a new test procedure that reflects the average energy used when tested under light, medium and heavily soiled loads.

ENERGY STAR qualified dishwashers

The best energy performers are ENERGY STAR qualified dishwashers, which must achieve energy efficiency levels that are at least 25 percent higher than the minimum regulated standard in Canada. Presently, only standard-size dishwashers qualify for the ENERGY STAR mark. A star () in the right-hand column indicates the ENERGY STAR qualified dishwashers listed in this directory.

Dishwasher categories

Dishwashers are available in various sizes, which affect energy consumption. That's why EnerGuide groups dishwashers according to three categories, enabling you to compare the energy consumption of similar models.

Built-in dishwashers

This category includes all standard-size dishwashers that are permanently connected to household water and electrical supplies. Remember that only standard-size dishwashers can qualify for the ENERGY STAR symbol.

Portable dishwashers

This category includes all standard-size dishwashers that are not permanently connected to household water and electrical supplies. Lightweight and free-standing, these models include countertop and caster-mounted dishwashers that can be easily moved from one place to another. Remember that only standard-size dishwashers can qualify for the ENERGY STAR symbol.

Compact dishwashers

Compact dishwashers include all models with capacities of less than eight place settings and six serving pieces. These have been divided into built-in and portable models.

Energy- and money-saving tips

• Be sure to read your new appliance's owner's manual; it's full of hints to help you operate your dishwasher at optimum efficiency.
• Regularly clean the filter at the bottom of your dishwasher to keep the machine running efficiently.
• Run your dishwasher only when it is full and use the setting that offers the best wash in the least amount of time. Check your dishwasher's manual for the settings that work best for you.
• When you use your dishwasher's drying cycle, an electric element heats the interior of the unit and evaporates all water. To save energy, select the dishwasher's no-heat drying cycle (also called "air drying").
• Some people rinse their dishes in the sink before putting them in the dishwasher. Don't bother! You'll save more water – and energy – by scraping all excess food off plates and cutlery. Your dishwasher will do the rest.

Listing of Dishwasher Distributors by Brand Name

Table of Contents