Basically dishwashers all perform the same function, they wash dishes. Some do it more expensively and with more bells and whistles than others do. A basic dishwasher will cost less than $300.00. If you're into higher quality appliances for you home you can spend $600.00 or more.

A basic dishwasher will come without any frills. A basic dishwasher will tend to be louder than the more expensive models and have plastic tubs. Your dishes will get a good wash with a basic dishwasher.

A mid-priced dishwasher will give you a few more frills. These dishwashers are more stylish in design than cheaper ones. They'll run quieter and have more flexibility in loading. In the lower end you'll still find plastic tubs.

A high end dishwasher will sometimes have the electronic touch panel hidden which keeps the dishwasher looking sleek. It will have removable top racks and generally will have stainless steel tubs. The wash your dishes will receive from a high end dishwasher will be excellent. Newer models allow you to load a month's worth of dishwasher detergent at one time.

Most dishwashers have at least three wash cycles, light, normal and heavy. This is generally more than enough for most consumers. With higher end dishwashers you'll have a larger selection of wash cycles available. Some include pot scrubber, soak/scrub and china/crystal. Some allow for drying with or without heat.

Some dishwashers are now self-cleaning. Any food that is lifted from dishes is washed into a filter to keep it from being re deposited on dishes. Rinse options can include a sanitizing wash. This does not have any affect on cleaning of the dishes. It raises the water temperature to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

There are several things you'll want to consider before you make your dishwasher purchase. One, is the money you'll want to spend. As discussed above, a lower end dishwasher will run around $300.00 and a higher end $600.00 or more.

Will your dishwasher be going under your cabinets? That's where most are placed today. Perhaps you'll need a compact model which will fit into a smaller kitchen, or even a portable unit that can be rolled over to the sink and connected to the faucet.

What is the cost to use the dishwasher? Check the manufacturers specifications. Water usage can run between three and a half gallons up to twelve gallons a load depending on the manufacturer. An energy efficient dishwasher will save you a lot of money during it's years of service.

Also, depending on the type and amount of dishes you routinely wash you may need a more flexible dishwasher. If you are washing platters, large bowls and pans on a daily basis you will want to make sure your dishwasher has flexible loading ability.