Don Vandervort, Head Homeboy, has written more than 30 DIY home improvement books, been a segment host on HGTV, served as MSN.com's home improvement expert and written countless magazine articles.
A key emerging trend is stainless-steel dishwasher interiors. Many manufacturers now make—or are introducing—models that have durable stainless-steel tubs.
Stainless-steel dishwashers can’t compete in price with models utilizing plastic tubs, but they are quieter, easier to maintain, and more efficient during drying cycles because the metal reflects heat better.
This also means they can employ a lower-wattage heating element for drying, which saves energy and helps protect heat-sensitive items on the lower rack. For example, by combining a stainless- steel interior with good insulation, KitchenAid dishwashers can use a 450-watt element instead of the 600-to-750-watt type needed for dishwashers with plastic tubs.
Stainless-steel tubs also allow higher water temperatures than the typical 140 degrees Fahrenheit suitable for plastic. Some, such as Amana’s, operate in excess of 165 degrees F., which is hot enough to sanitize dishes.
