The dishwasher is one of the most important appliances in any modern kitchen. It’s convenient, saves time, and usually guarantees a better clean for eliminating germs. However, dishwashers can waste water—and a TON of electricity.

In fact, the electricity that an average dishwasher uses actually makes a load of dishes $0.63 more expensive to clean than hand-washing.

That’s probably why you aren’t here to research average dishwashers. Instead, let’s have a look at the advantages of energy efficient dishwashers, so that you can make an informed decision about buying one.

Tip #1: Buy a Dishwasher Model Made After 1994

Most dishwashers made after 1994 are ENERGY STAR certified high-efficiency dishwashers. These models save the average home more than $35 a year, and more than 10 gallons of water per wash cycle. Of course, not all new dishwashers are created equal, so you’ll want to do specific research before you settle on the one you want. Next up, we’ll look at some specific energy-saving features that you might want in your new dishwasher.

Tip #2: Compare Features

New energy efficient dishwashers generally include several of the following energy-efficient features. Keep an eye out for these whenever you are dishwasher shopping:

• Soil Sensors: soil sensors will check your dishes at various points throughout a wash cycle and determine how dirty they are. They will then adjust the cycle to achieve an effective clean with the smallest possible amounts of water and electricity.

• Improved Water Filters: some dishwashers have filters that will remove food solids from the water as your dishes are being washed. This makes your washer use detergent and water more efficiently, and ensures that the final rinse will be performed with clean water.

• High-efficiency Jets: most high efficiency dishwashers have jets that use less power to spray your dishes with water and detergent.

• Efficiently Designed Dishracks: the placement of your dishes in the washer is extremely important. Look for a washer that will position your dishes to come in contact with the largest possible amount of water and detergent.

• More Versatile Temperature Control: hotter water is demonstrably more effective at cleaning surfaces, especially when it comes to your dishes. This means dishwashers capable of heating water significantly can use less of it. Look for a dishwasher with temperature control. Some of the best models can be turned up to as much as 140 degrees fahrenheit per wash.

Tip #3: Audit Your Energy Usage

Finding out how much energy your current dishwasher uses is an excellent way to see how much you can save with a new one. Consider using the Homeselfe app to perform a quick self-audit of your energy usage, so that you can see whether your dishwasher has room for improvement.

Our Energy Efficient Dishwasher Recommendations:

One of our favourite energy efficient dishwashers this year is the Beko DDT28430. With 3 wash temperatures to choose from, a removable multi-purpose cutlery drawer, and a 3-way euro filtering system, this washer boasts features that allow it to clean better while using less energy. These features allow it to achieve a gallons/cycle ratio that is 52% better than the US Federal Standard.

We also recommend the Miele G 4948 U. While it is only 25% better than the US Federal Standard, it offers extra versatility with a height-adjustable upper basket and proprietary hot water connection® technology that makes it extremely convenient to use.

Using a regular dishwasher can be more costly than doing the dishes by hand, but a new energy-efficient model can offset those costs and continue to save you time and effort. Use this guide to help you choose one that suits your lifestyle, and enjoy easy, sustainable cleaning in your kitchen.