A countertop dishwasher has a small profile that fits under counters or in limited spaces. These compact and portable dishwashers require no permanent installation, and they are very intuitive to operate. These types of dishwashers clean dishes effectively with less water and energy, making them a green choice for eco-friendly households. Many brands offer consumers a wide choice in models, capacity and features.
The portable dishwasher can handle four–six complete place settings, depending on the place setting countertop model selected. Built-in pumps can help in homes with low water pressure. The water temperature range should be 130–149-degrees Fahrenheit for best results.
Benefits of a Portable Countertop Dishwasher
There are many advantages to choosing a space-saving dishwasher for the home, including the following benefits.
- Small kitchens may have limited space, and these machines fit on a countertop, under a counter, or in a small cubbyhole.
- The portable dishwasher is affordable.
- The countertop dishwasher can be used after each meal. Larger machines must fill up with dishes, or considerable energy and water are wasted.
- Portability allows people to change locations easily.
- Many sizes are available to accommodate most families.
- Permanent mounting is not required, saving expensive installation and allowing renters to move the machine to a new apartment or home easily.
- Portable dishwashers are very energy efficient, saving on operating expenses.
Popular Brands
Popular brands include Danby, Koldfront, Premia, Whirlpool, EdgeStar, Haier, Sunpentown and Avanti. Prices generally range from $200 to $400, while full-size dishwashers might cost $1000 or more. Basic cleaning ability reflects current technology, and most models perform adequately. Efficiency, however, varies considerably. Most brands are Energy-Star compliant, but capacity, water usage, appearance, and electricity consumption can be important factors in consumer decisions.
The Danby countertop dishwasher comes in several sizes for four or six place settings. Freestanding portable models are also available. Consumers can choose from stainless steel, white, and other colors to match kitchen décor. The four place setting countertop dishwasher operates very quietly, uses very little water and energy, and offers five wash cycles to get dishes clean with the greatest efficiency. These wash cycles are prewash for heavy soil or very light duty, economy, rapid cycle for quick washes, normal cycle, and an intensive setting for stubborn food residue. The machine has an automatic dispenser for rinsing agents, and it is easy to hook up for true portability.
The Koldfront six place setting dishwasher uses only 200 kilowatts of electricity per year and stands only 17-inches high. The low profile makes it an ideal choice for under-the-counter installation. This machine uses very little water, making it convenient to wash dishes after every meal, eliminating food odors, mold and mildew. This model has an easy faucet adapter and five foot hose to allow many options for placement.
The EdgeStar DWP45ES compact countertop dishwasher comes only in silver, but the interior is stainless steel, which prevents odors from lingering. This countertop dishwasher can be used portably or installed permanently, distinguishing it from other brands. A viewing window allows owners to check on the progress of the wash cycle.
Compact Dishwashers Run on Electricity or Water Pressure
These convenient appliances usually run on electricity and water pressure, but models are available that operate solely on the water pressure from the sink. These are very eco-friendly models for environmentally aware consumers, but may require substantial home water pressure to clean effectively. Electric models often have heat boosters and pumps to enhance dishwasher performance.
Consumers should research a portable dishwasher before choosing a brand. Investigate the number of wash levels, whether the appliance has a delay start function, the type of cleaning agents required, and the overflow control situation. Most of these dishwashers are about the size of microwave ovens. A compact countertop dishwasher fits in small kitchens, offices, garages, or upstairs rooms for convenience. These models may lack capacity for large parties and sport fewer features. However, many people cannot resist the lure of automatic dishwashing at an affordable price, and compact models facilitate installation anywhere.
