At a Glance:
Cycle Lengths: How Long Does a Dishwasher Take?
Signs You Might Need to Replace Your Dishwasher
How long does a dishwasher take? And what are all those different cycles best for? Getting a new dishwasher means more powerful cleaning performance, better drying functions, and more energy efficient operation, but it also means learning how to use a new appliance. In this guide to modern dishwasher cycles, we’ll cover the top features of newer dishwasher models, common cycle types, and how long each of those cycles will take. We’ll also highlight 4 signs you might need to replace your dishwasher and recommend our top 6 picks from quality brands like Thermador, KitchenAid, Bosch, and JennAir.
Find Your Next Dishwasher at FBS Appliance!
Explore Factory Builder Stores' extensive selection of dishwashers. With over ten brands to choose from, and a variety of styles and features, find the perfect fit for your dishwashing needs..
Discvoer a New DishwasherModern Dishwasher Features
Before we dive into the specifics of how long does a dishwasher take to wash a load of dishes, let’s take a look at the must-have features you’ll enjoy if you choose to upgrade to a modern dishwasher. Dishwasher technology keeps advancing, so investing in a newer model means better cleaning performance and energy efficiency.
Whether your dishwasher just went kaput, you know it’s on its last leg, or you’re in the middle of a kitchen renovation, here are a few key features to look out for:
- Advanced Wash Systems with Multiple Spray Arms: Modern dishwashers feature advanced wash systems with multiple spray arms that ensure thorough cleaning by reaching every corner of the dishwasher. These spray arms often rotate in multiple directions, providing better water coverage and eliminating the need to pre-rinse dishes.
- Advanced Drying Systems: Upgraded dishwashers come with advanced drying systems, such as fan-assisted drying or heated drying, that ensure dishes come out perfectly dry and ready to use. This reduces the need for manual towel drying, saving time and effort.
- Sensor Wash Technology: Sensor wash technology in modern dishwashers adjusts the water temperature and cycle duration based on the level of soil detected on the dishes. This leads to more efficient cleaning and water conservation, as the dishwasher uses only the necessary amount of resources.
- Multiple Cycles: Modern dishwashers offer multiple cycles, such as quick wash, heavy-duty, and eco-friendly options, catering to different cleaning needs. This versatility ensures optimal cleaning performance whether you have a lightly soiled load, dirty pots, and pans, or a slew of messy plates from a dinner party. Keep reading to find out how long does a dishwasher take for different dishwasher cycles.
- Smart Features and Wi-Fi Connectivity: Many newer dishwashers offer smart features and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to control and monitor their dishwasher remotely via a smartphone app. This can include starting and stopping cycles, receiving notifications when a cycle is complete, and even diagnosing issues before they become major problems.
- Sleek (and Fingerprint Resistant) Finishes: Modern dishwashers often come in sleek, stylish finishes that are fingerprint-resistant, keeping the appliance looking clean and new with minimal maintenance. These finishes complement modern kitchen designs and add a touch of elegance to the space.
- Panel Ready Designs: Panel ready dishwashers can be customized to match the cabinetry in your kitchen, providing a seamless and integrated look. This design flexibility allows you to maintain a cohesive aesthetic in your kitchen.
- Quiet Operation: New dishwashers are designed to operate much more quietly than older models, with some producing noise levels as low as 40 decibels. This makes them ideal for open-plan living spaces, where a noisy dishwasher can be disruptive.
- Adjustable Racks and a Third Rack: Modern dishwashers often feature adjustable racks and a third rack, offering greater flexibility in loading various types and sizes of dishes. This maximizes the dishwasher's capacity and efficiency, making it easier to clean larger loads in a single cycle.
- Leak Detection Systems: Upgraded dishwashers come with built-in leak detection systems that can sense when a leak is occurring and automatically shut off the water supply to prevent flooding. This feature provides peace of mind and protects your kitchen from potential water damage.
- Improved Energy Efficiency: Compared to older models, many new dishwashers use less water and heat more efficiently. Look for ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers for those that meet the strictest water and energy usage standards.
Cycle Types
Here’s a quick breakdown of common dishwasher cycle types and what type of load they’re best for:
|
Cycle Type |
Description |
|
Light Cycle |
Ideal for delicate glassware and plates. This cycle uses lower water pressure and gentler cleaning methods to protect fragile items. |
|
Normal Cycle |
Designed for everyday plates and cutlery. It provides a balanced cleaning performance, using moderate water temperature and pressure to handle typical dishwashing needs. |
|
Heavy Cycle |
Suitable for items that need a more intense clean, such as pots, pans, and heavily soiled dishes. This cycle uses higher water pressure and temperature for a thorough cleaning. |
|
Eco-Wash |
A slow, energy-efficient cycle that minimizes water and energy consumption. It may take longer to complete but is environmentally friendly and cost-effective. |
|
Quick Wash |
A speedy cycle designed for lightly soiled dishes. It completes the wash quickly but typically requires pre-rinsing of dishes to ensure good cleaning results. |
|
Sanitize |
Utilizes high temperatures to kill bacteria and sanitize dishes, providing an extra level of cleanliness and hygiene. Ideal for items that require thorough disinfection, such as baby bottles or cutting boards used for raw meat. |
|
Auto Clean |
Utilizes sensor technology to automatically adjust water and temperature settings based on the soil level of the dishes. This cycle provides optimal cleaning performance with minimal user input. |
|
Half Load |
Designed for smaller wash requirements. This cycle uses less water and energy, making it ideal for smaller loads of dishes, typically when the dishwasher is not full. |
Cycle Lengths: How Long Does a Dishwasher Take?
How long does a dishwasher take for each of those dishwasher cycles? Depending on the cycle you choose, a load may take anywhere from 1.5 to 4 hours.
How dirty your dishes are, how long it takes to heat water between cycle phases, and whether or not your dishwasher has sensor wash technology all contribute to how long your dishwasher takes. What cycle you choose and whether or not you select heat dry also factor into how long your cycle will take.
Here’s a summary of how long each cycle type takes to run:
|
Cycle Type |
Typical Run Time |
|
Light Cycle |
1 - 1.5 hours |
|
Normal Cycle |
1.5 - 2.5 hours |
|
Heavy Cycle |
2 - 4 hours |
|
Eco-Wash |
2.5 - 4 hours |
|
Sanitize |
2.5 - 3.5 hours |
|
Quick Wash |
30 - 60 minutes |
|
Auto Clean |
2 - 3.5 hours |
|
Half Load |
1 - 1.5 hours |
Looking at these cycle times, you might be wondering if the cycles on newer dishwashers take longer. You’re right. Because modern dishwashers use less water and energy, they’re more efficient, but it also takes them longer to get the same level of cleanliness and allow sensors to monitor your dishes to get a proper clean.
Signs You Might Need to Replace Your Dishwasher
How do you know when it’s time to replace your dishwasher? Dishwashers typically last 9 to 10 years, so that’s a general rule of thumb for when you’ll need to upgrade. Here are 4 signs you might need to replace your dishwasher:
1. Your dishes aren’t clean.
This is a big problem since this is the point of your dishwasher! If your dishes are coming out with food residue, you may need to clean your dishwasher filter—or you may need a new dishwasher with a more powerful wash system.
2. Your dishes are cold.
This is a sign that your dishes aren’t getting clean enough. Dishwashers spray water at temperatures you wouldn’t be able to tolerate if washing by hand, so when you open your dishwasher when a load is finished, your dishes should be uncomfortably hot to the touch. Instead, find a model with a sanitization cycle.
3. Your dishes don’t dry.
If you want to avoid wasting time by drying your dishes by hand, you might want to upgrade to a dishwasher with a better drying system.
4. Your dishwasher isn’t energy efficient.
In this case, your dishwasher isn’t broken, but you’re paying higher utility bills and using more water and energy than is necessary. An ENERGY STAR certified dishwasher will use far less water, clean more effectively, and offer quieter operation.
6 Featured Modern Dishwashers
Keep reading for our 6 top dishwasher recommendations from Factory Builder Stores.
Monogram Statement 24” Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
Monogram Statement Built-In Dishwasher
This built-in dishwasher is powered by over 90 jets so that every inch of your dishwasher is covered and your dishes come out sparkling every time. This dishwasher can handle all your most frequently used items. Four bottle jets keep your bottles clean, the deep clean silverware jets make your cutlery shine, and the third rack is perfect for all those stray utensils. The hard food disposer grinds food particles down and leaves your dishes clean. Not only is this dishwasher powerful, but it’s also beautiful.
What Customers Are Saying:
“The drying and cleaning ability of this dishwasher is very good. Even plastic container tops come out almost or completely dry. Very quiet operation. Also wireless connectivity means you can use Google Assistant or similar platforms to remotely start the dishwasher. The top shelf is adjustable, one slight improvement would be to have an intermediate height level. Otherwise we are very pleased.”
Thermador Emerald 24” Custom Panel Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Thermador Custom Panel Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
For a truly custom kitchen design, panel ready appliances allow you to integrate your appliances with your cabinetry. This Thermador panel ready dishwasher fits your aesthetic and washes like a dream. It features Sens-A-Wash to ensure the water in the dishwasher is as clean as possible, and it features an adjustable rack system with a third rack for your culinary tools. You can also connect it to the Home Connect app to remotely control your cycles. For a seamless look and a user-friendly experience, this is an excellent dishwasher.
KitchenAid 24” Stainless Steel with Printshield Built In Dishwasher
KitchenAid Printshield Built-In Dishwasher
This KitchenAid dishwasher is the quietest dishwasher in its class, perfect for an open floor plan. It has all the features modern homeowners expect—a third level utensil rack, a PrintShield Finish, and a Heat Dry option. In terms of dishwasher cycles, there are plenty to choose from. The ProWash Cycle uses sensor technology to adjust to the soil level of your load, the Express Wash Cycle saves you time, and the Sani-Rinse option eliminates 99.999% of food soil bacteria thanks to a high-heat final rinse. For a sleek look and powerful cleaning performance with plenty of cycles to choose from, this KitchenAid dishwasher is the ideal choice.
What Customers Are Saying:
“Great dishwasher! We have had it for a month now, it is very quiet when running, looks beautiful in our kitchen and most of all: sparkling clean dishes! No complaints at all, I would buy this again if I needed to.”
JennAir 24” Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher
This ENERGY STAR certified JennAir dishwasher can hold up to 14 place settings, making it ideal for larger families. The third rack is convenient for utensils and smaller items while the TriFecta Wash System delivers a powerful—but quiet—clean. You can choose from Cookware, Crystal, Normal, Refresh, and Sensor and selection options like Bottom Rack Wash, Delay, Extended Dry, Sani Rinse, and Top 2 Racks Wash for a half load. If you have a full house and need a dishwasher that can stand up to frequent use, check out this JennAir built-in dishwasher.
Bosch 800 Series 24” Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Bosch 800 Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
Depending on the occasion, you may need to reconfigure your dishwasher to accommodate a unique load. Whether you have tall items, bulky items, mostly plates and bowls, or dirty pots and pans, the RackMatic easily adjusts to 3 heights and 9 positions. And CrystalDry ensures that your dishes are ready to put away the minute the cycle ends. Choosing a Bosch dishwasher means you’re investing in a quality appliance. Every dishwasher must pass 485 quality checks before it makes its way to your home. This is the perfect dishwasher for someone who loves to cook and frequently hosts friends and family.
What Customers Are Saying:
“Absolutely adore our new dishwasher. Replaced our old one from 1986 when house was built. Difference is like night to day. No more trying to figure out where to load item based on how dirty it is. Old washer had spots where things would not get clean, kinda get clean, or for sure get clean. No more. Bosch machine gets EVERYTHING clean and we don't even hear it running. Only hear a little something when water drains. So happy we finally took the leap.”
Whirlpool 24” Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher
Available in stylish Black, Black Stainless Steel, Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel, and White, this Whirlpool dishwasher has plenty of cycles to choose from. There’s Heavy, Normal, Quick Wash, Sensor Wash, and Soak & Clean with options for 1-24 Hour Delay, Extended Dry, Heated Dry, Hi-Temp Wash, and Sani-Rinse. Not only that, but there’s an adjustable second rack, folding tines for small items, and a 3-piece silverware basket that can be separated and rearranged depending on what your load holds. It can hold up to 13 place settings. For large and busy households, this Whirlpool dishwasher will help you clean your dishes with ease.
What Customers Are Saying:
“Just bought this dishwasher a couple weeks ago, and I am very impressed! It's so quiet and really gets the dishes clean with no water spots. I love the top 3rd rack for large utensils. Definitely recommend!”
Modern dishwashers offer better energy efficiency and impressive washing systems. You can save on your monthly utility bill and enjoy sparkling clean dishes. When the cycle ends, you’ll find your dishes are dry and ready to put away. Newer dishwashers offer several cycles to choose from so you can find a setting that matches that day’s load. At Factory Builder Stores, we make it the whole process easy—from featuring a wide selection of quality brands to offering professional delivery and installation. Stop by one of our Texas locations to compare dishwasher models in person today.
FAQ
How long does a normal dishwasher cycle take?
A normal dishwasher cycle typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours.
Is a 1-hour dishwasher enough?
A 1-hour quick wash cycle is a time-saving load that can be convenient when you want your dishes washed quickly. It’s ideal for normally soiled dishes but may not be able to handle caked-on food, and the increased speed means you’ll sacrifice energy efficiency. It’s great in a pinch, but it shouldn’t necessarily be your new go-to cycle.
Why does my dishwasher take 3 hours?
Dishwasher cycles typically last 1.5 to 4 hours, so a 3-hour cycle is fairly normal. To maximize energy efficiency and utilize sensor wash technology, modern dishwashers actually take longer than older models.
Why Factory Builder Stores?
Factory Builder Stores, established in 1988 and proudly locally owned and operated, stands as the premier contract distributor in Texas. Our extensive inventory boasts a comprehensive range of name-brand appliances, ensuring ample choices for our valued customers. In addition to our vast selection, we offer competitive pricing, making us the ultimate destination for all your appliance needs.
Why Trust FBS?
FBS Appliance, formerly known as Factory Builder Stores, was formally established in 1988 and is proudly locally owned and operated. It stands as the largest contract distributor in Texas with nine showrooms spanning Austin, College Station, Corpus Christi, Dallas, Fort Worth, Grapevine, and Houston areas. Our extensive inventory features over 40 different name-brand appliances, including premium refrigerators, professional-grade ranges, energy-efficient dishwashers, stylish wall ovens, versatile cooktops, powerful ventilation systems, compact microwaves, and innovative laundry equipment.
Built on a foundation of repeat business, we combine competitive pricing with expert knowledge and a commitment to industry excellence through partnerships with NKBA, ASID, IDS, and HBA organizations. From concept to completion, our professional team goes above and beyond to get it right the first time, making us the ultimate destination for all your appliance needs.
Shop Dishwashers at FBS Appliance
At FBS Appliance, we are dedicated to providing the ultimate appliance sales experience. Whether you're upgrading your kitchen or outfitting a new home, our expert team is here to guide you through the process, offering personalized recommendations. Give us a call to learn more about dishwashers or visit one of our Texas showrooms today!