How to Choose a Dishwasher for an Australian Home: Complete Guide 2025
Buying a dishwasher is one of the best investments you can make in your kitchen. It saves time, reduces water use compared to hand washing, and keeps your dishes sparkling clean. But with so many models on the market, how do you choose the right one? This guide covers everything you need to know.
Step 1: Decide on the Type of Dishwasher
There are three main types of dishwashers available in Australia:
- Freestanding Dishwashers — Standalone units that sit on the floor. Easy to install and move. Most popular in Australian homes.
- Integrated/Built-In Dishwashers — Built into your cabinetry for a seamless look. Requires a kitchen panel to match your cabinets.
- Benchtop/Countertop Dishwashers — Compact units that sit on your benchtop. Great for small apartments, studios, or couples.
Step 2: Choose the Right Size
Dishwasher capacity is measured in place settings:
- 14+ place settings — Large families of 4–6 people
- 12–13 place settings — Average families of 3–4 people
- 9–10 place settings — Small households of 1–2 people
- Benchtop (4–6 place settings) — Singles, couples, or small apartments
Standard Australian dishwashers are 60cm wide. Slimline models at 45cm are available for tighter spaces.
Step 3: Check the Energy and Water Rating
Australian dishwashers carry two star ratings:
- Energy Star Rating — More stars = lower electricity bills. Look for 4–5 stars minimum.
- Water Star Rating — More stars = less water used. Modern dishwashers use as little as 7–12 litres per cycle, far less than hand washing.
A dishwasher with high water and energy ratings will pay for itself in savings over time.
Step 4: Look at the Wash Programs
Most modern dishwashers offer:
- Quick wash (30–45 minutes) — for lightly soiled loads
- Eco mode — uses less energy and water
- Intensive/heavy wash — for pots, pans, and heavily soiled dishes
- Delicate/glass wash — gentle cycle for fragile items
- Auto sensor wash — adjusts water and time based on how dirty the load is
Step 5: Consider Noise Levels
Dishwasher noise is measured in decibels (dB). The lower the number, the quieter it runs:
- Under 44 dB — Very quiet, barely noticeable
- 44–48 dB — Quiet, suitable for open-plan kitchens
- 48–52 dB — Average, fine if the kitchen is separate from living areas
- Above 52 dB — Louder, better suited to separate laundry or utility areas
Step 6: Check the Key Features
Features worth looking for include:
- Adjustable upper rack — Allows you to fit tall glasses and large pots
- Delay start — Run the dishwasher overnight on off-peak electricity
- Half load function — Useful for smaller loads between full cycles
- Third rack/cutlery tray — Frees up space in the lower basket
- Wi-Fi connectivity — On premium models, allows remote start from your phone
Top Dishwasher Brands in Australia
- Bosch — Known for quiet operation and German reliability
- Miele — Premium quality with long lifespan
- AEG — Great energy efficiency and innovative features
- Fisher & Paykel — Australian-designed, great for families
- Smeg — Stylish retro designs
- Electrolux — Good value mid-range option
What About Certified Refurbished Dishwashers?
Oceania Appliances stocks certified refurbished dishwashers that have been professionally inspected, cleaned, and tested. You get a fully working dishwasher from a quality brand at a fraction of the retail price, backed by a 3-month warranty. It's a smart, sustainable choice for Australian homes.
Ready to Buy?
Browse our range of certified refurbished dishwashers at oceaniaappliances.com.au. Free delivery anywhere in NSW.