Because an estimated two-thirds of U.S. households have dishwashers, it’s likely that you are already well-acquainted with the joys of using one. If so, you know that a dishwasher cuts valuable time off your chores, minimizes kitchen clutter, and uses less water to do a better job than does hand-washing.

The vanguard of today’s dishwashers have really come of age. They do their job quietly and efficiently, using much less energy and water than models made just a few years ago. And they have intelligent controls that maximize the ease of using them. Indeed, features abound. When shopping for a new dishwasher, the trick is knowing which features are worth paying for and which may be a bit over the top.

In this section of HomeTips, you will find helpful information on buying the dishwasher that is right for you, as well as tips on installing and maintaining the appliance. Because dishwashers are used consistently week after week for years, they can occasionally suffer breakdowns. What do you do if your dishwasher ceases to work properly? You’ll also find repair and care help with the most common types of problems and how to prevent them.