A well-loaded dishwasher will inevitably wear out faster in a household with high usage than under other circumstances. However, small repairs and regular maintenance can help to significantly extend the average lifespan of around 10 to 15 years. There are several well-known brands on the international market that often score well in their ratings.
Top brands for dishwashers worldwide
Bosch is known for high-quality workmanship and reliability. Many models are characterized by their efficient cleaning. Siemens, also from Germany, offers powerful dishwashers that often impress in tests. Miele household appliances are also designed to last a long time. AEG is known for innovative technology and high user-friendliness. Neff offers models with functional design and solid construction.
Whirlpool from the USA is another brand that is particularly known for its reliability and reasonable price-performance ratio. Electrolux dishwashers from Sweden offer a good mix of quality, performance and durability. Each manufacturer usually has its own system of error codes that identify specific problems. Although the codes may vary, they often refer to similar problems such as water supply, drainage problems, heating faults or door locking.
If you hear unusual noises and vibrations, check to see if dishes or cutlery are blocking the spray arm. You may need to descale the drain line if water is standing in the dishwasher. If dishes aren’t drying properly or the water is simply not hot enough, this could indicate a problem with the heating element. However, if you are unsure of the diagnosis, it is often advisable to call in a professional to avoid damage.
This will keep it in perfect condition for as long as possible
Regular maintenance includes cleaning the filter, descaling the spray arm, checking seals for cracks or deposits (replace if necessary) and you must check the salt level regularly. Use high-quality dishwashing detergent and follow the instructions to avoid deposits. Run an empty cycle with a special cleaner at certain intervals to remove deposits and odors from the interior of the dishwasher.
Choosing the right products can make an additional difference in the cleaning performance and longevity of a dishwasher. For example, Finish Quantum Ultimate contains a special cleaner for glasses that prevents tarnishing. Somat Gold is particularly effective on stubborn dirt and is suitable for low temperatures. Ecover dishwasher tablets are recommended as an environmentally friendly option with natural ingredients (especially good for people with sensitive skin or allergies). Fairy Platinum Tabs dissolve quickly and are effective against greasy residues. Lecaflore Eco Tabs are also an environmentally friendly option. These are biodegradable and do not contain any harmful chemicals.
Use useful information from test reports
There are numerous cheap brands that simply cannot keep up in terms of cleaning performance. Very aggressive no-name products will damage your dishes in the long run, especially glasses and sensitive surfaces. Some consumers report that powder and liquid cleaners are less effective than tabs. If they are not dosed correctly, they can leave residues. All-in-one tabs that contain phosphates or other environmentally harmful ingredients are also not good.
Stiftung Warentest is one of the best-known consumer organizations in Germany that regularly examines household products of this type. ÖKO-TEST specializes in testing and evaluating from an environmentally friendly perspective. The online magazine Chip.de regularly publishes test reports with a technical understanding. K-Tipp from Switzerland offers comprehensive product comparisons, including cleaning and washing products. Another good place to start is the consumer advice center with tips and reports on various consumer goods.
