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The best energy efficient dishwasher is the one that gets your plates clean without guzzling water or running at a roar. For most homes, that means an ENERGY STAR certified machine that pairs a small footprint with flexible cycles—and the models below prove you don’t need a huge 24-inch unit to skip hand-washing.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
You want a dishwasher that cleans well, runs quietly, and doesn’t waste water or energy—whether it’s an 18-inch built-in for a compact kitchen or a drawer-style unit for an RV. This roundup of the best energy efficient dishwasher options covers real cleaning power, quiet operation, and sensible water use.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Energy Efficient Dishwasher
The biggest mistake buyers make is assuming a wider dishwasher is automatically better. An 18-inch model often cleans just as well as a 24-inch one while using less water and fitting into tight galley kitchens, apartments, or under-sink spaces.
Match the capacity to your real dish load
Place settings—not inches—tell you how much fits. A unit with 8 place settings handles daily plates, bowls, and glasses for a couple or small family, while 14–16 settings suits bigger households. If you cook a lot of pots and pans, check the upper rack height adjustment so tall cookware clears the spray arms.
Check the quiet rating before you commit
Noise is measured in decibels (dB), and lower numbers mean a quieter machine. A 45 dB dishwasher runs quieter than a typical conversation, so it won’t disturb nearby rooms. at home, while a 52–54 dB model is fine but more noticeable. If your kitchen is open to the living room, aim for the low-40s range.
Decide between built-in, drawer, and portable
Built-ins slide under your counter and need a water supply. Drawer-style units are half-height, ideal for RVs, boats, or bars. Portables with a faucet hookup and wheels suit rented apartments where you can’t do permanent plumbing. All three can carry the ENERGY STAR label (a government-backed certification for lower water and energy use) when they meet the efficiency standard.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Place Settings | Noise (dB) | Wash Programs | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fisher & Paykel DD24SAX9★ Best Overall | Drawer-style spaces & RVs | 7 | 45 | 6 | Amazon |
| EdgeStar DWP63Countertop Champ | Countertop convenience | 6 | — | 7 | Amazon |
| COMFEE’ 18″ Built-inSmall-Space Star | Small kitchens with heavy loads | 8 | 52 | 6 | Amazon |
| Honeywell 18″ Built-in (White) | Budget compact built-ins | 8 | — | 6 | Amazon |
| SPT SD-9254SSA | Value with heated drying | 8 | — | 6 | Amazon |
| Honeywell 18″ Built-in (Steel) | Stainless look, compact size | 8 | — | 6 | Amazon |
| SUNVIVIPRO 24″ Built-in | Family-size loads | 14–16 | 49 | 8 | Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER BPD8B | Portable apartment use | 8 | — | 6 | Amazon |
| Kenmore 24″ Hybrid Tub | Sensor-driven cleaning | 12 | 54 | — | Amazon |
| Frigidaire 18″ ADA Compact | ADA-compliant small kitchens | 8 | 52 | 6 | Amazon |
| KoolMore KM-DW2445-PR | Panel-ready custom kitchens | 14 | 45 | — | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Fisher & Paykel DD24SAX9 Drawer Dishwasher
Our pick — over 4★ from 100+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
The half-height drawer that slides out at waist level and runs quieter than a chat.
This drawer-style unit holds 7 place settings in a 22.57″D x 23.57″W x 16.13″H body—about half the height of a standard built-in—which is why it slips under bars, theater spaces, and motorhome counters. It weighs 60 pounds, so it’s a substantial piece, but owners say the trade-off is a machine that cleans without pre-rinsing and operates at just 45 decibels, quieter than a normal conversation.
You get 6 cycles, including a Rapid Wash for quick clean-ups, and the ENERGY STAR rating means lower water and energy consumption on every load. Buyers report it’s easy to load thanks to the drawer design—no bending over—and several noted it’s even quieter than the older Fisher & Paykel they replaced. The crowd favorite is strong: owners mention “Replaced 2013 model; original lasted 13 yrs but had intermittent shutdowns from unsoldered door-sensor LED on circuit board,” then confirm the new unit runs perfectly with a rounder filter and a 1.5-hr cycle.
What wins people over is performance—it’s the most-praised aspect by far—with cleaning coming in second.
What Owners Rave About
- Runs at 45 dB—quieter than a typical conversation
- Waist-high drawer loading saves your back
- Cleans well without prewashing
The Fair Warning
- Premium price for drawer-style engineering
- Ships heavy at 60 pounds, so plan your install
The right fit: Small households, RV owners, and anyone who wants a quiet, accessible drawer at counter height.
Think twice if: You’re on a tight budget—this is a premium pick, not a bargain.
2. EdgeStar DWP63 Countertop Dishwasher
The 21-5/8-inch portable that tackles greasy cafe loads without a permanent install.
This countertop model holds just 6 place settings—fewer than the 8-setting built-ins above—but it makes up for it with a stainless steel interior and 7 wash cycles: heavy, normal, light, glass, baby care, speed, and rinse. A child lock and delayed start let you run it on your schedule, and the freestanding design means no plumbing work.
Customers note it’s exceptionally effective and sturdy—one owner’s three-year-old unit “still performs great, even with heavily oiled dishes, so I decided to order another for home use.” That’s the durability that earns this pick its loyal following. The most-praised aspect is performance, with fit getting more mixed feedback because regular-sized cups don’t always slot in comfortably.
The catch: some owners find the drying leaves dishes wet, and a few have hit control-panel issues after a few weeks of heavy cafe use. For a light-duty home or office setup, it’s a capable, space-saving workhorse.
Why It Wins
- 7 wash cycles including baby care and glass
- Stainless steel interior resists stains
- No permanent installation needed
Watch For
- Regular cups may not fit well
- Drying is hit-or-miss for some owners
Best for: Apartments, dorms, offices, or anyone who wants a dishwasher without calling a plumber.
Look elsewhere if: You need to wash large pots or tall glasses—this one’s compact by design.
3. COMFEE’ 18″ Built-in Dishwasher
An 18-inch built-in that packs 8 place settings and a sanitize cycle into a slim frame.
This is the rare compact that doesn’t feel cramped. The 22.6″D x 17.6″W x 32.4″H body fits a 6-rack layout with an adjustable upper rack (up to 1.97 inches of lift) so deep pots clear the spray arms, and the lower rack takes oversized plates up to 13.78 inches tall.
Six wash cycles cover Heavy, Normal, Eco, Delicate, Quick, and Rinse, plus Heated Dry, Hi-Temp, and Sanitize functions. The NSF-rated sanitize function is the standout for anyone washing baby bottles or cutting boards. Reviewers point out it’s quiet at 52 dB and cleans spotlessly, with a “premium stainless tub” and “solid build” being the recurring praise—and one owner clarified “18” not 24″” for anyone expecting the standard width.
The thing everyone raves about is how quietly it runs for a budget built-in. Just remember no power cord is included—you’ll buy that separately—and stick to dishwasher-specific detergent since regular liquid soap causes problems.
Standout Strengths
- NSF Sanitize function for baby gear
- Adjustable upper rack clears tall cookware
- Quiet 52 dB operation
Heads Up
- Power cord not included
- Only dishwasher detergent—no liquid dish soap
Reach for this if: You want a compact built-in with hospital-grade sanitizing at a sensible price.
Consider another if: You need a 24-inch standard-width unit—this one is strictly 18 inches.
4. Honeywell 18″ Built-in Dishwasher (White)
The value pick that squeezes 8 place settings into a tiny 18-inch opening.
This Honeywell built-in fits the exact 18″ openings found in older apartments and small homes, and it’s ADA-compliant, meaning it meets accessibility standards for reach and operation. Inside, you get a stainless steel tub for better efficiency, a top cutlery rack, and two lower racks with a removable cutlery basket.
The 6 programs—pots & pans, normal, china, quick wash, rinse only, and energy saver—cover the essentials, and the up-to-24-hour delay start lets you run it on off-peak hours. Owners call it “excellent value” and say it cleans and dries better than their old dishwasher, with one buyer noting it arrived undamaged and installed easily. The most-discussed strength is its quiet noise level, followed by value for money.
What to know: cleaning performance gets mixed feedback, so very stuck-on food may need a pre-scrub. A few shoppers say a lower basket wheel occasionally falls off the rail, and the unit doesn’t include a water supply hose or power cord—check what you have before install.
What Shines
- Fits standard 18″ cabinet openings
- ADA-compliant for accessible use
- Stainless tub for efficiency
The Catch
- Cleaning is mixed for baked-on messes
- No hose or cord included
Who it suits: Bargain hunters with an 18-inch opening who want a quiet machine for everyday dishes.
Who should pass: Anyone who regularly cooks with heavy, baked-on grease.
5. SPT SD-9254SSA 18″ Built-in Dishwasher
The 18-inch built-in that quotes its own energy use at 234 kilowatt hours per year.
SPT puts a specific number on efficiency: 234 kilowatt hours per year, with ENERGY STAR certification confirming it meets federal guidelines for year-round savings. The stainless steel tub holds 8 place settings, and the 6 wash programs include a heated drying cycle plus a rinse-aid warning indicator so you never run out mid-cycle.
What owners praise most is cleaning performance—dishes come out “spotless,” and the unit heats water to sanitize. Quality is the second most-praised aspect, with one long-term owner saying the previous SPT lasted 6 years and noting the new model improved the door latch. The 1-24 hour time delay lets you schedule around energy peak rates.
The honest caveats: drying gets mixed feedback, so some dishes stay damp, and the included 3-foot power cord may be short for your outlet location. A few owners also flag durability as a concern, so treat the door latch gently.
Why It’s Worth It
- Published energy use of 234 kWh/year
- Heated dry cycle included
- Rinse-aid refill reminder
Know Before Buying
- Drying is inconsistent for some
- Short 3-ft power cord
Pick this for: Two-person households that want a proven, efficient 18-inch without paying premium prices.
skip it if: Spotless air-drying matters more than anything else—you may need to leave the door open.
6. Honeywell 18″ Dishwasher (Stainless Finish)
A stainless-look Honeywell with 8 place settings and a 24-hour timer for flexible scheduling.
This 18-inch unit stands out for its full stainless steel look—the basket, rack, and tub are all stainless—plus a bar handle that gives it a premium feel. It holds 8 place settings across 2 racks with a removable cutlery basket, and the 6 wash programs include heavy, normal, eco, glass, rapid, and rinse.
The 24-hour delay start is the big convenience feature, letting you wash when energy rates drop or when the kitchen is quiet. Buyers report it runs quietly, cleans reliably, and the sanitize function works great for baby bottles. Several used it for over two years “without any problems,” calling it a good value for a compact 18-inch.
The recurring issue to know about: E4 error codes. A few owners hit this on first use or in the first 18 months, and the well-documented fix is cleaning the bottom pan filter regularly and unplugging the unit for 24–48 hours to clear the error memory. Honeywell is a licensed brand here, so support runs through BHRS Group.
What Impresses
- Full stainless construction inside and out
- 24-hour delay start
- Sanitize cycle handles baby gear
What You’ll Manage
- E4 error needs regular filter cleaning
- Licensed brand—support runs through BHRS
Choose this if: You want the stainless look and a reliable dishwasher for small daily loads.
Reconsider if: You’re not up for periodic filter maintenance to avoid error codes.
7. SUNVIVIPRO 24″ Built-in Dishwasher
The 24-inch big-boy with 14–16 place settings and an Express cycle that finishes in 35 minutes.
When you need serious capacity, this SUNVIVIPRO delivers the most for the money with 14–16 place settings across three racks—two large ones plus a top third rack for silverware. The 8 wash programs include Auto, Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Express (35 min), Soak, and Self-Clean, so you match the cycle to the mess.
The most-discussed strength is noise level—it’s “extremely quiet” and “the most silent ever” for several owners. But quality and functionality get mixed reviews: a few received dented units with high return costs, and one found it very noisy. Remember to press start before closing the door.
The Big Plus
- 14–16 place settings for family loads
- 149°F sanitize temperature
- Half-load mode saves water
Weigh This
- Mixed quality control on delivery
- Press start before closing the door
Grab this for: Big families who cook at home and want a full-size machine without a full-price tag.
Think twice if: You’re wary of lesser-known brands and want the safest delivery experience.
8. BLACK+DECKER 18″ Portable Dishwasher
The wheeled countertop companion that hooks to your faucet and rolls away when dinner’s done.
This portable 18-inch dishwasher sits on wheels and connects to your faucet with a Quick Connect assembly—no plumbing or permanent install required, which is a lifesaver for renters. The 59-inch hose reaches most sinks, and the stainless steel tub holds up to 8 place settings with an adjustable upper rack for taller glasses.
Six cycles—Normal, Heavy, Rapid, Glass, Eco, and 90-min—make it flexible, and the Eco cycle pairs with the ENERGY STAR rating to keep water use down. The most-praised aspect is cleaning performance: dishes come out properly clean, and the heated dry function works well. Owners love that it’s “great for small kitchens” and easy to set up with an existing hookup.
The catch is the “Quick Connect” itself: some owners find the faucet adapter awkward or needing a hardware-store fix, and leakage is the most-flagged negative theme—the drain pipe can drip, so plan for a catch basin. Durability also gets mixed notes, so treat it as a capable but not bulletproof unit.
Why It Works
- Wheeled portability for apartments
- Quick Connect—no permanent install
- Eco cycle for lower water use
The Trade-Off
- Faucet adapter can be finicky
- Drain pipe may leak—use a catch basin
Best for: Renters and small kitchens that can’t do permanent plumbing but want real dishwasher cleaning.
Not for: Anyone wanting zero maintenance—the drain setup needs occasional attention.
9. Kenmore 24″ Hybrid Tub Dishwasher
The sensor-driven Kenmore that adjusts water, heat, and time to the mess on every load.
Kenmore’s SmartWash cycle uses soil sensors to detect how dirty your dishes are and automatically adjusts water temperature, pressure, and cycle time—so a light load doesn’t waste water on a heavy wash. The UltraWash system runs 2 pressurized spray arms and a 3-stage filter that captures particles as small as a grain of fine sand, then drains them away.
The interior fits 12 place settings with a MoreSpace Adjustable Upper Rack you can lift, lower, or remove entirely for awkward items. It’s ENERGY STAR certified with a UL-certified Sani Rinse option, and the Heated Dry function speeds up evaporation. At 54 dBA, the sound level is conversation-friendly, and the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish keeps it looking clean.
The most-discussed aspects—quality and noise—both get mixed feedback, so the experience varies by unit. Some owners call it “very quiet” and “great,” while others hit an internal leak that triggered an error code. The fingerprint-resistant finish is a genuine plus for busy kitchens, but this is a mid-tier-reliability pick among the premium group.
Smart Features
- Soil sensors auto-adjust the wash
- 2 spray arms blast stuck-on food
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel
Consider This
- Mixed reports on long-term reliability
- 54 dBA is louder than the 45 dB picks
Choose this if: You want sensor-based washing that tailors water use to each load.
Weigh options if: Reliability is your top concern—some owners hit defect issues.
10. Frigidaire 18″ ADA Compact Dishwasher
The ADA-compliant 18-inch compact with dual spray arms and an NSF-certified sanitize cycle.
Frigidaire’s 18-inch compact cleans 8 place settings with a dual spray arm system that covers both racks, and the NSF-certified Sanitize cycle removes 99.9% of common household germs. The 6 cleaning cycles include Energy Saver, Heavy Wash, and Rinse, plus a heated drying element that helps dishes come out dry the first time.
The 52 dBA rating means it’s quiet enough to run while you’re in the same room, and it’s ADA compliant, meeting the appliance standards in the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Architectural Barriers Act. The 22.5″D x 18″W x 35″H body fits spaces where a standard 24-inch won’t, and adjustable legs help it match cabinet height. A power cord is included, which simplifies install.
Owners describe it as a “great little machine” that cleans and dries well for everyday loads, with the size being “perfect” for small kitchens. The catch: some owners find the drying less effective than older Frigidaire models, noting the heat coil is smaller than before. A few also hit warranty-repair headaches, so check your coverage carefully.
The Highlights
- NSF-certified sanitize removes 99.9% of germs
- ADA compliant for accessible use
- Power cord included
The Reality
- Drying can be inconsistent
- Warranty support gets mixed reviews
Pick this for: Accessible kitchens and anyone who wants a name-brand compact with sanitize power.
Look beyond if: You demand perfect drying on the first try—you may need to crack the door.
11. KoolMore 24″ Panel-Ready Dishwasher
This 45 dB (about as loud as a quiet library) panel-ready dishwasher hides behind your cabinet door for a smooth kitchen.
This 24-inch KoolMore is designed to vanish into your cabinetry—it’s panel-ready so you can attach a custom door front and make it look like another cabinet. Inside, it holds 14 place settings across two ergonomic racks with pop-up and pop-down holders, plus a space-saving top utensil rack for long spatulas and turners.
At 45 dB, it’s one of the quietest picks here—quieter than a typical conversation, and the stainless steel tub resists stains.. The 8 cubic foot capacity is generous, and the low-profile touch controls keep the front clean. The Auto Program and Extra Dry features let you set it and trust the machine to handle the rest.
The biggest praise is the heating element that dries dishes without water spots, and the customizable racks fit “a tall blender jar easily.” The catch is significant if you want a fully hidden look: it ships without a door panel, and the manufacturer doesn’t sell one. Owners DIY a custom panel, which requires woodworking skills and extra expense—plus a few hit door-mechanism issues after light use.
What Stands Out
- 45 dB—quieter than normal conversation
- Heating element dries without spots
- 14 place settings in a full-size frame
The Honest Catch
- No door panel included—you build your own
- Mixed reports on door durability
Choose this if: You’re renovating a custom kitchen and want the dishwasher to disappear behind a cabinet front.
pass on it if: You want a plug-and-play install—this pick demands DIY woodworking.
Understanding the Specs
ENERGY STAR Certification
An ENERGY STAR label means the machine meets or exceeds federal guidelines for energy efficiency, saving year-round energy and money. Look for this on any model you’re considering—it’s the clearest signal that a dishwasher uses less water and power than a standard unit.
Noise Level in Decibels (dB)
Decibels measure sound, and lower numbers are quieter. A 45 dB dishwasher is quieter than a typical conversation, while 52–54 dB is more noticeable but still acceptable in most kitchens.. If your space is open-plan, aim for the low 40s.
FAQ
What does ENERGY STAR mean for a dishwasher?
How many place settings do I need for a small family?
Is an 18-inch dishwasher as good as a 24-inch one?
What does the decibel (dB) rating actually tell me?
Can I install a countertop dishwasher without a plumber?
What is a sanitize cycle and is it worth having?
Do I need to pre-rinse dishes before loading?
What should I check before installing a built-in dishwasher?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
The best energy efficient dishwasher for most people is the Fisher & Paykel DD24SAX9 because its drawer design, 45 dB operation, and ENERGY STAR rating deliver convenience and efficiency in one premium package. If you want a budget-friendly compact that sanitizes, the COMFEE’ 18″ Built-in is the crowd favorite for value. And for renters who can’t do permanent plumbing, the BLACK+DECKER portable is the one to reach for.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of August 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, Gardening Beyond earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.