This Dishwasher buying guide can help you find the best deal on a dishwasher that fits your budget and your needs.

Buying a dishwasher can be an important decision and can actually use less water than hand washing dishes.http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=howTo&p=BuyGuide/ChsDshWsh.html Determining the right brand, size and model of dishwasher can be confusing due to the numerous options available. Most dishwasher units will perform an adequate job of sanitizing and cleaning your dishes and cups. The primary distinction between dishwashers is in special features, soundproofing and energy usage.

When buying a dishwasher, make sure find an energy efficient option. You can compare the EnergyStar ratings for each dishwasher for a good comparison and an estimate of yearly electrical usage. To help keep your kitchen décor uniform, opt for a dishwasher that blends with the rest of your kitchen appliances. Dishwashers tend to last for a long time, so make sure you know how to buy a dishwasher to optimize your purchase experience.

Determine what type of Dishwasher you need. The most important consideration for a dishwasher is size. Measure the space you have available for your dishwasher including height, width and depth. Most dishwashers fit a standard 24 inch wide opening and are installed under a sink or cabinet near a water source. There are portable dishwasher units available if you do not have space or a fixture for a permanent installation.

Decide what dishwasher features are important to you. Here is a list of common dishwasher features:

1. Multiple wash cycles (including soak, scrub, crystal, china)
2. Power-washing features (pot scrubber)
3. Rinse and Hold settings
4. Sanitizing wash
5. Drying options (with or without heat)
6. Extra soundproofing
7. Touch pad or dial controls
8. Hidden controls
9. Progress meter
10. Delayed start
11. Child locks
12. Adjustable racks
13. Silverware slots
14. Clips, baskets and special object containers
15. Stainless steel and plastic tubs
16. Cabinet matching
17. Built-in food disposerhttp://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=howTo&p=BuyGuide/ChsDshWsh.html

Once you know what features and size of dishwasher you need, compare your options on price, brands and features.

Look the following for your research:

1. Online shopping services that help you compare products. Options include Shopper.com, Comparance.com and Yahoo Shopping.
2. Consumer ranking and research guides like Consumer Reports
3. Appliance Retailers like Lowes, Home Depot and Sears.

Another good source of information is Manufacturer Websites. The most common Dishwasher manufacturers and brands include:

1. Electrolux
2. General Electric
3. Whirlpool
4. Jenn-Air
5. KitchenAid
6. Roper
7. Admiral
8. Amana
9. Maytag
10. Hotpoint
11. Frigidaire
12. Asko
13. Bosch
14. Siemens
15. Miele
16. Haier
17. LG
18. Samsung
19. Fisher & Paykel

After you have narrowed down your dishwasher options to a few possibilities, it is time to find the best value for your money.

1. Check for sales, discounts and manufacturer rebates that can help lower the cost of your new dishwasher.
2. Consider purchasing a scratch and dent dishwasher or a dishwasher from an appliance outlet for a discounted price.
3. Look for deals online, where you may find a lower rate than in retail stores.
4. Ask at retail stores for a discount. Many sales associates have some leeway in discounting prices, so you may be able to get a better price on a model you are looking for, even if it is not on sale.