Energy-saving appliances Energy-saving dishwashers
Some dishwashers use less water than washing by hand
Buying an electrical appliance to wash your dirty pots may seem a backwards step if you're trying to be energy efficient, but dishwashers can use less water than washing by hand.
Using special energy-saving programs, some dishwashers use as little as 7.5 litres of water to wash a full load of 132 items. That’s less than a standard washing-up bowl.
Top energy-saving dishwashers
Though most dishwashers are A-rated for energy efficiency, our tests show there can be significant differences in electricity and water use, equating to extra pounds on your electricity bills each year (and, for water-meter customers, on your water bills too). We've awarded our Energy Saver logo to models that combine Best Buy performance with low energy and water consumption. Which? members can log in to reveal our recommendations in the table below.
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| Model | Type | Why we rate it |
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Falling dishwasher energy use
Our 2001 dishwashers test revealed that average energy consumption for full-sized dishwashers that hold 12 place settings was 1.42kWh. Today, that amount has been reduced by 13% to 1.23kWh for the same size of dishwasher.
And the most energy-efficient dishwashers today use 43% less energy than the least efficient models in 2001. Over the lifetime of a dishwasher, that works out to be a difference of £198 in average running costs.
Using your dishwasher efficiently
The best way to be energy efficient with your dishwasher is to use the energy-saving eco program. Eco programs clean just as well but can use about 35% less water and 30% less electricity than the main program, by washing at lower temperatures but taking longer. Filling the dishwasher is also important – it’s far more energy efficient than washing fewer items on a half-load program.
- Save money and energy with our dishwasher tips
- Find the best dishwasher for you
- Top tips on switching energy supplier
