Dishwashers
The green-conscious can finally hang up those rubber gloves, guilt-free. The dishwasher, which used to be high on the list of wasteful luxury items, is now more efficient than hand-washing, making it an exemplar for home technology.
In 2008, Canada’s Office of Energy Efficiency reported that dishwashers used, on average, 66% less energy than they did in 1990.
Today’s top performers have Energy Star symbols and are at least 9% more efficient than the federally regulated standard. That means annual energy consumption is under 324kWh, while water consumption is less than 22 litres per load. Maximize your savings by shopping for a clean, green machine with low EnerGuide and water use ratings.
And don’t forget to look for eco-friendly features. Some dishwashers now have sensors to determine how dirty a load of dishes is, in order to adjust water and heat usage accordingly. No-heat or air-dry options save even more energy, as do light or economy cycle options. Delay starts are now common and make off-peak electricity use simple. Dishwashers are most efficient when run fully loaded, so small households, and take-out lovers, should shop for Energy Star qualified, compact dishwashers. Buyers with less predictable schedules will be interested in half-load options to clean only one instead of both racks.
When looking for a dishwasher, find the right combination of features for your lifestyle—and the planet!
Samsung 24” DMT400RHS
Sep 2011
This dishwasher features a Smart auto-wash cycle and has a turbidity sensor which minimizes water and energy consumption. The condensation drying system reuses heat from washing to dry dishes efficiently. In 2007, Samsung joined the Electronic Industry Citizenship Coalition, whose code of conduct holds high standards for ethical and environmental responsibility within the supply More >
Whirlpool Tall Tub
Aug 2011
This dishwasher by Whirlpool, the 2011 Energy Star Manufacturer of the Year, is energy efficient and especially water efficient. Features include an automatic soil sensor and an indicator that suggests an optimal wash cycle. EPA certification of SmartWay vehicles and LEED certification of some warehouses are among efforts Whirlpool has made to green its supply More >
Miele Inspira G2141 SCU
Aug 2011
This dishwasher features a large capacity for dishes, as well as a CleanAir drying system that allows dishes to dry without extra energy usage. The economy wash is also an excellent energy saving option. Miele is a member of, and abides by the principles of the UN Global Compact, which promotes human rights and More >
Maytag Jetclean Plus
Aug 2011
The Energy Star qualified Maytag Jetclean Plus is an affordable and efficient dishwashing option. Maytag’s Precision Clean™ turbidity sensor can adjust the automatic cycle to meet the cleaning needs of the load, minimizing unnecessary water or energy use. For added savings, users can skip the heated dry option or use a light wash cycle More >
Kitchen Aid Superba Series EQ
Aug 2011
This dishwasher is not just “exceptionally quiet” — it’s exceptionally efficient. KitchenAid claims this machine’s advanced variable motor works with its soil sensor to determine how dirty a load of dishes is, in order to get desired results with minimal energy and water consumption. This dishwasher is manufactured by Whirlpool and ships to Toronto More >
Kenmore Elite 24” Built-In with 360° PowerWash™ 1392
Aug 2011
This highly economical machine has many of the same features as other Elites, like a new spray arm called the 360° PowerWash™. When combined with High Efficiency detergent, the spray arm effectively cleans dishes with less water and energy. Kenmore appliances can be found at Sears, who have made sustainable choices such as the use More >