A dishwasher typically uses between 2.7 and 9 gallons of hot water per cycle, depending on the type of dishwasher and the cycle selected.
The exact amount of hot water a dishwasher uses varies significantly based on factors like the model, energy efficiency rating, and the specific wash cycle you choose. Understanding these differences can help you manage hot water consumption in your home.
Dishwasher Water Usage by Type
Based on information from Maytag, the amount of hot water used varies for different dishwasher types:
- Standard ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers: These models are designed for efficiency and use an average of 3-5 gallons of hot water per commonly used cycle.
- Compact ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers: Being smaller, these compact versions are even more water-efficient, using an average of 2.7 gallons per cycle.
- Powerful dishwasher cycles: Some cycles designed for heavily soiled dishes may require more water. These cycles on certain dishwashers can use up to 9 gallons of water.
Here's a quick look at the water usage:
| Dishwasher Type | Average Hot Water Usage Per Cycle |
|---|---|
| Standard ENERGY STAR certified | 3-5 gallons |
| Compact ENERGY STAR certified | 2.7 gallons |
| Powerful Cycles (on some dishwashers) | Up to 9 gallons |
Note: The reference specifies that standard and compact models use hot water directly, while some dishwashers may also heat water internally. The quantities listed are the total water used during the cycle.
For more details on how dishwashers use hot water, you can refer to sources like Maytag's information here.
Choosing an ENERGY STAR certified dishwasher is generally recommended for lower water usage and energy efficiency.
