How to Buy an Eco-Friendly Dishwasher

Whether your machine is a few years old or constructed decades ago, it may not be environmentally friendly. An eco-friendly dishwasher offers both high function and environmental consciousness. Keep in mind exactly what you need for your kitchen when looking for the right green dishwasher.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Measure the space for your dishwasher. Dishwashers come in all different sizes and enlarging a space makes the installation process difficult.

2. Determine a budget for your eco-friendly dishwasher. Some prices are expensive.

3. Choose a color. The most common colors for dishwashers are black, white and stainless steel.

4. Look for an on and off switch for the drying feature. Drying is not a necessary function on an eco-friendly dishwasher and it is a feature that uses extra energy.

5. Consider dishwashers with a booster heater. Booster heaters heat the water for the dishwasher with little help for your hot water heater.

6. Decide on a motor size. Large motors save energy and clean more effectively.

7. Contemplate brand names. Some brand names have features that are not available on other brands.

8. Shop for and purchase your eco-friendly dishwasher; compare prices on the Internet and in local retail stores to find the best buy.

Tips & Warnings

• Always run your dishwasher when it is full; dishwashers use the same amount of water for small loads as they do large loads.
• Be sure to look for the Energy Star label from the United States Environmental Protection Agency. It ensures the dishwasher's energy efficiency.