· Maggie · Reviews/Home · 7 min read
Top 7 Energy-Efficient Dishwashers of 2025 Compared and Reviewed
Upgrade your kitchen with the 7 best energy-efficient dishwashers that save energy and cut costs. Explore top models offering superior cleaning performance and eco-friendly features for every home.
Introduction
Let’s face it—choosing a dishwasher can feel overwhelming. You want something that’s not only going to make your life easier but also save you money and help the planet. Energy-efficient dishwashers are a game-changer, offering a way to cut down on utility bills while keeping your dishes sparkling clean. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one’s right for you?
I’ve spent weeks testing and comparing seven of the best energy-efficient dishwashers on the market. From compact models perfect for small spaces to feature-packed machines for big families, I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking to save water, reduce energy use, or just want a quieter machine, this guide will help you find the perfect fit. Let’s get into it!
Midea MDF18A1AWW Built-in Dishwasher
If you’re tight on space, the Midea MDF18A1AWW is a lifesaver. This compact dishwasher is perfect for smaller kitchens or even RVs. During my testing, I was blown away by how quiet it is—seriously, you’ll forget it’s running. It comes with six washing programs, including a quick wash and an eco-friendly option, so you can tailor it to your needs. The heated dry feature works like a charm, leaving dishes spotless and dry.
The stainless steel tub is a nice touch—it’s durable and easy to clean. Plus, the adjustable racks make it a breeze to fit larger items like baking sheets. That said, I did notice the control panel lettering started to fade after a few weeks, which was a bit of a letdown. Still, if you’re looking for an eco-friendly option that won’t break the bank, this one’s a solid pick.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Super quiet operation | Control panel lettering fades |
| Energy Star certified | Not ideal for large households |
| Adjustable racks for flexibility | Some users reported leaks |
Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place Settings
The Honeywell 18-inch dishwasher is another great option for smaller kitchens. I tested this one side-by-side with the Midea, and it definitely holds its own. The stainless steel finish gives it a sleek, modern look, and the control panel is super intuitive. It also comes with six washing programs, so you’ve got plenty of flexibility.
One thing I loved about this model is how quiet it is—it’s barely noticeable, even during heavy cycles. The stainless steel tub not only looks good but also resists stains and odors better than plastic tubs. That said, the drain hose is a bit short, which can make installation a hassle. And while it cleans well overall, you might need to pre-rinse heavily soiled dishes. Still, for the price, it’s a reliable and space-saving choice.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and stylish design | Short drain hose may need extension |
| Quiet operation | Drying could be more effective |
| Energy Star certified | Pre-rinse needed for tough messes |
Kenmore 24” Built-In Stainless Steel Dishwasher with SmartWash
If you’ve got a bigger household, the Kenmore 24-inch dishwasher is worth a look. The SmartWash and UltraWash features are a game-changer—they adapt to how dirty your dishes are, so you get the perfect clean every time. I also loved the SmartDry Plus technology, which ensures your dishes come out completely dry without any extra effort.
The adjustable MoreSpace rack is another standout feature, making it easy to fit larger items like cutting boards or tall glasses. It’s Energy Star certified, so you know it’s efficient, and the Leak Detect feature adds peace of mind. My only gripe? The front panel doesn’t have backlighting, which can be annoying in low light. But overall, it’s a reliable and efficient choice for busy families.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| SmartWash adapts to dish dirt | Front panel lacks backlighting |
| Energy Star certified | Utensil tray could be sturdier |
| Adjustable MoreSpace rack | Some users report minor defects |
EdgeStar BIDW1802 18 Inch Dishwasher
The EdgeStar BIDW1802 is a compact, energy-efficient dishwasher that’s perfect for smaller kitchens or even RVs. It’s surprisingly efficient for its size, with an 8-place setting capacity and a stainless steel tub that ensures better drying performance. I found it easy to operate, with straightforward controls and a handy countdown timer.
That said, the lower rack’s design can be limiting for larger dishes, and the rinse aid dispenser occasionally acts up, requiring frequent refills. While it’s quieter than expected, the noise level does increase over time. Still, if you’re tight on space and budget, this one’s a decent option.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact design for small spaces | Lower rack design limits capacity |
| Energy Star certified | Rinse aid dispenser issues |
| Stainless steel tub for better drying | Noise increases over time |
SPT SD-9254SSB 18″ Built-In Dishwasher
The SPT SD-9254SSB is a compact yet powerful dishwasher that’s perfect for smaller kitchens. It comes with six wash programs, including a heavy-duty cycle, so it’s versatile enough for everyday use. The stainless steel tub not only looks sleek but also ensures durability and efficient cleaning.
One standout feature is the heated drying option, which leaves dishes spotless and ready to use. Like the Midea and Honeywell models, it’s ENERGY STAR certified, making it an eco-friendly choice. However, it’s slightly louder than some competitors, which might be a drawback for open-concept spaces. Still, if you’re looking for simplicity and efficiency, this one’s a solid pick.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ENERGY STAR certified | Slightly louder operation |
| Heated drying for spotless dishes | Limited advanced features |
| Compact design for small spaces | Smaller capacity than full-size models |
Kenmore 24” Built-In Stainless Steel Tub Dishwasher with EasyFlex 3rd Rack
If you’re looking for a dishwasher with all the bells and whistles, the Kenmore 24-inch model with the EasyFlex 3rd Rack is a winner. This rack is perfect for toddler dishes, utensils, and even larger items like spatulas. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish is a nice touch, keeping the exterior looking clean despite daily use.
The SmartWash and UltraWash Plus cycles deliver consistent cleaning performance, though I did notice it struggles a bit with heavily baked-on food. The TurboDry feature works well for most loads, but some plastic items retained moisture, even with the Extra-Dry option enabled. Still, it’s a solid choice for its price, especially if you value quiet operation and a sleek design.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| EasyFlex 3rd rack for versatility | Struggles with baked-on food |
| Fingerprint-resistant finish | Plastic items may not dry fully |
| Quiet operation | Top rack lacks adjustability |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right dishwasher doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you’re looking for something compact, feature-packed, or budget-friendly, there’s an energy-efficient option out there for you. My top picks? The Midea MDF18A1AWW for small spaces, the Kenmore 24” Built-In Dishwasher with SmartWash for big families, and the Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher for energy efficiency. Each of these models has been tested and proven to deliver exceptional results, so you can’t go wrong with any of them. Happy dishwashing!
Affiliate Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on one of the product links above and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my work.
