If you're shopping for a dishwasher for the first time in a few years, you're in for a treat. There are so many options available—from size, configuration, finish, and wash options—that it can actually be fun to shop for a new dishwasher. The models available today can do just about everything but decide whose turn it is to do the dishes.

Built-In Versus Portable

The majority of dishwashers on the market are built-in models. But if a built-in is not an option for your space, there are several portable versions to choose from. Portable models are operated by directly connecting a hose to the kitchen sink, and then plugging the dishwasher into a standard electrical outlet. Portable models have wheels on the bottom so they can be stored away when not in use. Also, many portable models can be converted into built-in models with the correct conversion kit. Haier, Danby, and Frigidaire all make portable units that range in price from $270-$490 MSRP.

Another portable option is a countertop dishwasher. They are small enough to sit on top of a work surface and typically hold up to four place settings. Both Danby and Edgestar make countertop models that range from $199-$270 MSRP.

Size Matters

When shopping for a built-in model, one of the first decisions you will need to make will be size. How big of a space is available in your kitchen? Will you have to remodel in order to make room for a dishwasher? Is this a replacement for one that is already built into the kitchen cabinetry? The answers to these questions will narrow down your possible choices.

The most common type is the standard 24-inch built-in dishwasher that sits under your countertop. There are also slimmer18-inch models available. The built-in models are designed to fit directly underneath your kitchen counter and require power and water connections. The advantage of a built-in model is that it is generally larger so there is more loading capacity, they save floor space, and there are more models to choose from.

Capacity Counts

Capacity is a concept that is closely related to size. Choosing the right tub size, or capacity, for your needs will help you save time, money, and energy. If your dishwasher is too small for your daily use, you will waste water and time running multiple loads or re-washing dishes that did not get clean in the over-loaded tub.

A super capacity, or tall tub, model is a good option for households with a high volume of dishes (best for families with 4 or more people). The tall tub is larger than a standard wash tub; some are capable of cleaning 14 five-piece place settings at a time. The added height of the tub makes it possible to hold tall and odd-shaped dishes—such as cookie sheets or tall pots and vases that may not fit into a standard size tub. This is particularly true if the tall tub is combined with adjustable racks. Tall tubs are also designed to fit underneath countertops that are standard height. GE, Maytag and ASKO all manufacturer tall tub models and they range from $380-$1,879 MSRP.

If you have lighter washing demands, consider a standard tub configuration. Many standard tubs offer enough capacity for 12 five-piece place settings and tub features that make it easy to load. Standard size tubs are available in undercounter and portable dishwasher models.

The placement of spray arms and spray towers in the machine will also increase or decrease your tub capacity. If you cover the spray tower or block the rotation of the spray arms with dishes, your dishes will not get clean. So, look for a dishwasher with a direct feed spray system, which distributes water without a spray tower.

Your Wish List

Next comes your wish list. Obviously, any dishwasher is going to clean your dishes, but beyond that, there are many different features that are available in today's dishwashers that will make life easier and maybe even quieter. Here is a selection of some of the dishwasher features from which to choose:

• Loading flexibility. A dishwasher with adjustable racks can hold more dishes. Most dishwasher models include adjustable tines, cup shelves, stemware holders, and silverware trays to help you organize your dishes to maximize your usable space.
• Internal food grinders (or food disposers) break down any food residue from the dishes and allow them to be drained away with the water. This avoids the need to regularly clean and unclog filters.  The Maytag Jetclean II offers a food processor and a tall tub configuration for $875 MSRP.
• Multiple wash programs with various wash cycles. Some are designed specifically for china, or glassware, or pots and pans, or plastics. The variety is endless and seems wonderful, but be honest and decide if you really will take the time and effort to learn how to operate all of these programs because they add to the price of the model.
• Delay start, so you can set the dishwasher to begin at a specified time.
• Soil sensors, to "sense" how dirty your dishes are and set the appropriate wash cycle for you. The sensors make sure that dirty water is not re-circulated through the wash and soil is not re-deposited on dishes. Soil sensors improve the efficiency of the dishwasher by helping to ensure that dishes get clean the first time, eliminating the need to run the cycle twice. For example, the Electrolux Designer Series with Smart Soil Sensor, MSRP $1,149.
• Temperature sensors that ensure that your water heats properly for an optimal wash every time you run a load. This is especially true if your home water supply does not reach at least 120 degrees. (To check your water temperature at home, run hot water at the faucet closest to your dishwasher for at least 1 minute. Place a candy or meat thermometer in a glass measuring cup. Then, check the temperature on the thermometer as the water is running into the cup.)
• An integrated control panel is located on the top of the dishwasher door and not on the front of the unit, which ensures that no little fingers accidentally start or interrupt a wash cycle and also allows for cabinetry panels to be added so the dishwasher disappears from site.
• No Heat dry will turn off the heat during the drying segment of the cycle. Your dishes may need to air dry with the door slightly open, but this feature will save you energy and money. Short cycle selections for lightly soiled dishes use significantly less water.
• Control lock is a popular option in households with small children. The controls can be deactivated to prevent little fingers from adjusting the settings.
• Quiet running. This is perhaps the most popular feature on a new dishwasher: running it without hearing it. Sound insulation will make sure that you don't hear your dishwasher, but think about how much you want to spend and whether a quiet dishwasher is a priority. Typically, the more quiet the dishwasher, the more costly. Consider where the dishwasher is located and at what time of day you run it. If your kitchen is near a bedroom or home office, for example, and you typically run a cycle in the evening to keep energy costs low, a quiet model is probably a good choice. Among the brands known for ultra-quiet units are ASKO, Bosch, and Miele.

 Dishwasher Drawers

One of the latest trends in dishwashers are dishwasher drawers. Dishwasher drawers deliver the same powerful performance of a standard built-in, with more design flexibility. They can be installed in both single- and double-drawer configurations, allowing for delicate crystal in one drawer and soiled pots in the other. If bending over to load the washer is an issue, you can install a single-drawer on both sides of your sink. They are also ideal for secondary installations in an island or a Butler's Pantry. Dishwasher Drawers are manufactured by Fisher Paykel, KitchenAid, Kenmore and range in price from $697 (for a single drawer) to $1,400 (for double drawers).

Enjoying Life Without Dishes

There are many more features available on dishwashers that will make it fun to buy and even better to own. So get out there and buy the best dishwasher that matches your own individual needs and start enjoying life away from the sink!

Do You Have Hard Water?

It's important to check the hardness of your water before you buy a dishwasher, because the quality of your water will affect the results and performance of any dishwasher. High heat and a rinse aid will help you minimize white calcium deposits and spotting from hard water. If you have hard water, select a model with a water-softener or with a high-temperature scrub/wash option and an adjustable refillable rinse aid dispenser.

If you don't know your water hardness level, ask your local water department, water softener company, or county extension agent. Hard water is generally defined as 7 to 12 grains, very hard water as 13 grains and above.