Over time, every housewife begins to think about buying a dishwasher, because thanks to this smart device, the daily routine ritual turns into a five-minute procedure for loading and unloading dishes. Moreover, with the machine method, water is consumed significantly less in comparison with a manual sink. However, before you go to the store for a new assistant in the kitchen, you should determine the desired dimensions of the dishwashing machine, which will largely depend on the free space in your kitchen and the number of people in the family.
The main types of dishwashers
The first dishwasher was invented more than 150 years ago, since then manufacturers have significantly improved washing technology. Now in stores you can find many models of such machines. They differ in the method of installation and connection, water consumption, washing and drying classes, the number of functions and programs, etc. However, depending on the dimensions of the dishwasher, the following types are distinguished:
- Full size. The minimum standard sizes of dishwashers of this type are: height about 85 centimeters, width and depth 60 cm. You can choose freestanding full-size models or built-in. They are the most expensive representatives of dishwashers, but they have the most functions.
- Narrow As the name implies, these machines differ from full-size ones in a smaller width: usually it is 45 cm. They can also be freestanding or hide under the countertop in the kitchen set designed for this purpose.
- Small (compact). The sizes of dishwashers of this type differ from others in their height, it varies from 45 to 55 cm. Their feature is that, if desired, small machines can be placed on the table.
- Combined models in which the dishwashers are combined with an electric or gas stove and an oven should be taken out in a separate view. But at the moment, this option is not very popular with buyers because of the high cost.
Loading chamber capacity
Before discussing the scope of washing machines, the meaning of the term “set of dishes” in which it is customary to measure the capacity of dishwashers should be explained. Usually it consists of ten items needed for one meal (three plates (for soup, hot and salad), a glass, two spoons, a fork, a knife and a cup and saucer for tea). However, for different manufacturers this indicator may differ by one or two subjects.
If the dimensions and design of your kitchen allow you to purchase a full-sized machine, then you can be sure that you can easily wash all the dishes even after a big celebration, as it can accommodate from 12 to 15 sets. However, if the guests do not visit you so often, and your family consists of less than five people, then perhaps you should think about a more compact version or at least make sure that the machine has a half-load mode to save water and dishwashing liquid .
A more compact narrow model perfectly copes with loading ten sets of dishes, which is more than enough for a standard family of four. This property, as well as its small size, make this built-in dishwasher very popular among buyers.
The minimum volume is possessed by small dishwashers. On average, they can wash 5 sets of dishes. It is suitable for a small family of 2 people or for a small kitchen. The number of functions of compact models is not so great, but the quality of the washing is not inferior to the performance of large brothers. The disadvantages of these machines are the lack of the ability to wash large items of dishes, such as a pot or pan.
What to think about when choosing a dishwasher
Before buying new equipment, pay attention to the following:
- During the installation of the dishwasher, it is necessary to take care not only of the dimensions, but also of the length of the hose: it is desirable that it be no more than one and a half meters. It should be noted that if the outlet for the hose is not centered, then its length on each side of the dishwasher will be different.
- Before making a purchase, be sure to independently check the width, length and height of the selected model, as sometimes sellers of household appliances can round this data.
- Most dishwashers are equipped with screw legs, with which you can easily adjust the height of the appliance to the required values so that the machine matches exactly the dimensions of the kitchen set.
- The design of many full-fledged dishwashers allows you to remove the top cover, so you can adjust the height of the washing equipment by a few centimeters. Thanks to this, the dishwasher can be placed under the countertop.
- The same dimensions of dishwashers do not necessarily indicate the same capacity. This indicator should be considered separately.
- Many housewives advise you to purchase a dishwasher with the function of adjusting the height of the basket, thanks to which it will be possible to wash large objects, such as pots.
Today on the market you can find an unimaginable variety of types of dishwashers. Therefore, it will not be difficult to choose the suitable option, the main thing is to understand the main selection criteria, the most significant of which, of course, is size. To determine this indicator, evaluate the free space in your kitchen and, if it allows, then consider buying a full-sized dishwasher. Even on credit, because this equipment is bought for a long time. If the size of your kitchen is not so large, and the number of people in the family is no more than 3, then the best option for you is to purchase a narrow built-in model.
