Shopping for a dishwasher?
Think about one with a stainless-steel tub. Many dishwasher manufacturers now make–or are introducing–models that have durable stainless-steel tubs. These can’t compete in price with models utilizing plastic tubs, but they are quieter, easier to maintain and more efficient during drying cycles because the metal reflects heat better.
Dishwashers with stainless-steel tubs can employ a lower-wattage heating element for drying, which saves energy and helps protect heat-sensitive items on the lower rack. By combining a stainless-steel interior with good insulation, for example, KitchenAid dishwashers can use a 450-watt element instead of the more normal 600 to 750-watt type. Stainless tubs also allow higher water temperatures than the typical 140 degrees Fahrenheit suitable for plastic. Some, such as Amana’s, operate in excess of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, hot enough to sanitize dishes.
Bob Beisbier, owner of BK Home Inspection, is a Certified Master Home Inspector who has been providing professional and thorough home inspections in southeast Wisconsin for over 12 years. Bob is Infrared certified, DILHR Certified, and provides Home Energy Tune-ups, Environmental Data Reports, Pre-sale Home Inspections and Pre-offer Home Inspections.
