Child safety

This appliance is designed to be operated by adults. Children should not be allowed to tamper with the controls or play with the product. Packaging parts may be dangerous for children, who could even be suffocated! You should therefore keep all packaging well away from children. The water in your dishwasher is not for drinking. Detergent residues may still be present in your machine. Keep children well away from your dishwasher when the door is open. Keep all detergents in a safe place out of children's reach.
Your dishwasher in day-to-day use
Items that are contaminated by petrol, paint, steel or iron debris, corrosive, acidic or alkaline chemicals must not be washed in this dishwasher. Under no circumstances should you open the door whilst the appliance is in operation, especially during the washing phase, hot water may escape. However, if the door is opened, a safety device ensures that the machine stops. Only use products (detergent, salt and rinse aid) specifically designed for use in dishwashers. Long bladed knives stored in an upright position are a potential hazard. Long and/or sharp items of cutlery such as carving knives must be positioned horizontally in the upper basket. Ensure that the door of the dishwasher is always closed when it is not being loaded or unloaded. In this way you will avoid anybody tripping over the open door and hurting themselves. When finishing loading or unloading close the door, as an open door can be a hazard. Do not sit or stand on the open door. Isolate the appliance from the power supply and turn off the water supply after use. This product should be serviced by an authorised service engineer, and only genuine spare parts should be used. 3
Economical and ecological dishwashing
Ensure that the water softener is correctly adjusted. Do not pre-wash under running water. Select the wash programme to suit the nature and degree of the soiling on the dishes. Do not use more detergent, dishwasher salt and rinse aid than is recommended in these operating instructions and by the manufacturer of the respective product.
Description of the appliance
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Upper basket stop Water hardness dial Salt container Detergent dispenser Control panel Rating plate Rinse aid dispenser Filters Lower spray arm
10. Upper spray arm 11. Upper basket

The control panel

On/Off button Washing programmes
Programme selection/cancel button

Indicator lights

Programme indicator lights
Programme selection/cancel button (PROGRAM. SELECTION): the selection of a washing
programme occurs by the means of this button, press it until the indicator light corresponding to the desired washing programme illuminates (see "Washing programmes" chart). The END OF CYCLE indicator light flashes. Once the washing programme has been set, close the dishwashers door, the programme will start automatically. With this button it is also possible to: - cancel a washing programme in progress, - set the level of the water softener (see specific paragraph), - deactivate/activate the audible signals.

Audible signals

Audible signals have been introduced to help indicate which operations the dishwasher is performing. - end of washing programme, - the setting of the water softener, - malfunction of the machine.
Deactivation/activation of the audible signals
Factory setting: audible signals activated. 1. With the dishwasher switched off, press the On/Off button. The END OF CYCLE indicator light flashes (setting mode). In case salt and/or rinse aid refilling is necessary the corresponding indicator lights illuminate. If one of the washing programme indicator lights is on, this means that a washing programme has been set. The setting must be cancelled: press for about 3 seconds the programme selection/cancel button; the indicator light of the set programme turns off and the END OF CYCLE indicator light flashes, indicating that the set programme has been cancelled and that the machine is now in setting mode. 2. Press and keep pressed the programme selection/cancel button until the programme indicator light 1 illuminates and programme indicator light 2 flashes. Press the programme selection/cancel button again, the programme indicator light 1 starts flashing and the programme indicator light 2 turns on with a fixed light to indicate that you have activated the function for the deactivation/activation of the audible signals. The constant illumination of the END OF CYCLE indicator light means that the audible signals are activated. 3. To deactivate the audible signals, press the programme selection/cancel button again, the END OF CYCLE indicator light turns off indicating that the audible signals are deactivated. 5. To memorise the operation, switch off the machine by pressing the On/Off button or wait for about 60 seconds, after which the machine will automatically return to setting mode. To activate again the audible signals simply follow the above operations until the END OF CYCLE indicator light illuminates.
Indicator lights: have the following meanings:
END OF CYCLE illuminates when the washing programme has ended. It also has added functions of visual signalling as: - the setting of the water softener, - deactivation/activation of the audible signals, - intervention of an alarm due to the malfunction of the machine. SALT refilling indicator light: illuminates when the salt has run out.
Prior to using for the first time
Before using your dishwasher for the first time: 1. Ensure that the electrical and water connections comply with the installation instructions 2. Remove all packaging from inside the appliance 3. Set the water softener 4. Pour 1 litre of water inside the salt container and then fill with dishwasher salt 5. Fill the rinse aid dispenser

b) Setting electronically
The dishwasher is factory set at level 5. 1. With the dishwasher switched off, press the On/Off button. The END OF CYCLE indicator light flashes (setting mode). In case salt and/or rinse aid refilling is necessary the corresponding indicator lights illuminate. If one of the washing programme indicator lights is on, this means that a washing programme has been set. The setting must be cancelled: press for about 3 seconds the programme selection/cancel button; the indicator light of the set programme turns off and the END OF CYCLE indicator light flashes, indicating that the set programme has been cancelled and that the machine is now in setting mode. 2. Press and keep pressed the programme selection/cancel button until the programme indicator light 1 turns on and programme indicator light 2 flashes, indicating that you have activated the water softener setting function. After a few seconds the END OF CYCLE indicator light starts flashing. The current level is indicated by a sequence of flashes of the END OF CYCLE indicator light, a sequence of intermittent audible signals and a pause of a few seconds (see chart). Example: 5 flashes/5 audible signals + pause + 5 flashes/5 audible signals etc.= level 5 3. To change the level, press the programme selection/cancel button. Each time the button is pressed the level changes. (For the selection of the new level, see chart). Examples: if the current level is 5, by pressing the programme selection/cancel button once, level 6 is selected. if the current level is 10, by pressing the programme selection/cancel button once, level 1 is selected. The END OF CYCLE indicator light remains off for a few seconds and then starts flashing indicating the new selection is set. 5. To memorise the operation, switch off the machine by pressing the On/Off button or wait for about 60 seconds, after which the machine will automatically return to setting mode.

The water softener

The dishwasher is equipped with a water softener designed to remove minerals and salts from the water supply, which would have a detrimental or adverse effect on the operation of the appliance. The higher the content of these minerals and salts, the harder your water is. Water hardness is measured in equivalent scales, Clarke degrees, French degrees (TH) and mmol/l (millimol per litre international unit for the hardness of water). The softener should be adjusted according to the hardness of the water in your area. Your local Water Authority can advise you on the hardness of the water in your area. The water softener must be set in both ways: manually, using the water hardness dial and electronically, by the means of the programme selection/cancel button.

a) Setting manually

1. Open the dishwasher door. 2. Remove the lower basket from the dishwasher. 3. Turn the water hardness dial to position 1 or 2 (see table). 4. Replace the lower basket. The dishwasher is factory set at position 2.
Water hardness Clarke TH mmol/l Range
Adjusting the water hardness setting manually electronically level 10 level 9 level 8 level 7 level 6 level 5 level 4 level 3 level 2 level 1 6
Number of flashes of the END OF CYCLE indicator light and of audible signals 2 1

Use of salt

64 - - - - - - - - - 12 <5
91 - - - - - - - - - 18 <7
9,0 - 12,5 7,6- 8,9 6,5 - 7,5 5,1 - 6,4 4,0 - 5,0 3,3 - 3,9 2,6 - 3,2 1,9 - 2,5 0,7 - 1,8 < 0,7
IV IV IV IV IV III III II I/II I
yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes no
Filling with dishwasher salt
Only use salt specifically designed for use in dishwashers. All other types of salt not specifically designed for use in a dishwasher, especially table salt, will damage the water softener. Only fill with salt just before starting one of the complete washing programmes. This will prevent any grains of salt or salty water, which may have been spilt, remaining on the bottom of the machine for any period of time, which may cause corrosion.

Rinse aid

Rinse aid is automatically added during the last rinse, ensuring thorough rinsing, and spot and streak free drying. The dispenser, which is positioned inside the door, holds about 110 ml of rinse aid, which is sufficient for 16 - 40 dishwashing programmes, depending upon the dosage setting.

Filling with rinse aid

1. Open the container by pressing the release button (A). 2. Add the rinse aid until the container is completely full. The maximum level for filling is indicated by "max".

To fill:

1. Open the door, remove the lower basket and unscrew the cap of the salt container by turning it anticlockwise. 2. Pour 1 litre of water inside the container (this is necessary only before filling with salt for the first time). 3. Using the funnel provided, pour in the salt until the container is full. 4. Replace the cap making sure that there is no trace of salt on the screw thread or on the gasket. 5. Replace on the cap tightly turning it clockwise until it stops with a click.

LE SA UT ZO LT SA LZ SA L SE
Ensure that the lid is closed after every refill. Clean up any rinse aid spilt during filling with an absorbent cloth to avoid excess foaming during the next wash.
The salt container will require topping up periodically. You are reminded of this by the salt indicator light on the control panel which comes on when the salt has finished. The salt indicator light on the control panel can remain illuminated for 2-6 hours after the salt has been replenished, assuming the dishwasher remains switched on. If you are using salts that take longer to dissolve then this can take longer. The function of the machine is not affected. Do not worry if water over flows from the unit when filling with salt, this is quite normal.
Only use branded rinse aid for dishwashers. Never fill the rinse aid dispenser with any other substances (e.g. dishwasher cleaning agent, liquid detergent). This would damage the appliance.

Adjusting the dose

According to the finish and drying results obtained, adjust the dose of rinse aid by means of the 6 position selector (position 1 minimum dosage, position 6 maximum dosage). The dose is factory set in position 4. Increase the dose if there are drops of water or lime spots on the dishes after washing. Reduce it if there are sticky whitish streaks on the dishes or a bluish film on glassware or knife blades.
Top up the rinse aid when the indicator (B) becomes clear.

In daily use

Check if its necessary to refill with dishwasher salt or rinse aid Load cutlery and dishes into the dishwasher. Fill with dishwasher detergent. Select a wash programme suitable for the cutlery and dishes. Start the wash programme.
Loading cutlery and dishes
Sponges, household cloths and any object that can absorb water may not be washed in the dishwasher.
Before loading the dishes, you should: - Remove large left-overs. - Soften remnants of burnt food in pans When loading the dishes and cutlery, please note: - Dishes and cutlery must not impede the rotation of the spray arms. - Load hollow items such as cups, glasses, pans, etc. with the opening downwards so that water cannot collect in the container or a deep base. - Dishes and items of cutlery must not lie inside one another, or cover each other. - To avoid damage to glasses, they must not touch. - Lay small objects in the cutlery basket. Plastic items and pans with teflon have a tendency to retain water drops; these items will not dry as well as porcelain and steel items.

For washing in the dishwasher the following cutlery/dishes are not suitable: - Cutlery with wooden, horn, china or mother-of-pearl handles - Plastic items that are not heat resistant - Older cutlery with glued parts that is not temperature resistant - Bonded cutlery items or dishes - Pewter or copper items - Lead crystal glass - Steel items subject to rusting - Wooden platters - Items made from synthetic fibres are of limited suitability: - Only wash stoneware in the dishwasher if it is specifically marked as being dishwasher-safe by the manufacturer. - Glazed patterns may fade if machine washed frequently - Silver and aluminium parts have a tendency to discolour during washing. Residues, e.g. egg white, egg yolk and mustard often cause discolouring and staining on silver. Therefore always clean left-overs from silver immediately, if it is not to be washed straight after use. - Some types of glass can become dull after a large number of washes
Open the door and slide out the baskets to load the dishes.

The lower basket

The lower basket is designed to take saucepans, lids, plates, salad bowls, cutlery etc. Serving dishes and large lids should be arranged around the edge of the basket, ensuring that the spray arms can turn freely.

The cutlery basket

Long bladed knives stored in an upright position are a potential hazard. Long and/or sharp items of cutlery such as carving knives must be positioned horizontally in the upper basket. Take care when loading or unloading sharp items such as knives. Forks and spoons should be placed in the removable cutlery basket with the handles facing downwards and the knives with their handles facing upwards. If the handles protrude from the bottom of the basket, obstructing the lower spray arm, load the cutlery with the handles facing upwards. Mix spoons with other cutlery to prevent them from sticking together. For best results we recommend you to use the cutlery grids provided (if the size and dimensions of the cutlery allow it). The cutlery basket is in two parts which can be separated to give greater loading flexibility. To separate the two parts, slide them horizontally in opposite directions and pull them apart. To reassemble, reverse the procedure.

The upper basket

The upper basket is designed for plates (dessert plates, saucers, dinner plates of up to 24 cm in diameter), salad bowls, cups and glasses. Arrange items on and underneath the cup racks so that water can reach all surfaces. Glasses with long stems can be placed upside down in the cup racks. For taller items, the cup racks US64 can be folded upwards. Light items (plastic bowls etc.) must be loaded in the upper basket and arranged so they do not move.

In case that plates are loaded in the upper basket:
load them starting from the rear positions of the basket; tilting them slightly forwards and avoiding the front positions near the door.
Before closing the door, ensure that the spray arms can rotate freely.
Adjusting the height of the upper basket
If washing very large plates you can load them in the lower basket after moving the upper basket to the higher position.
Maximum height of the dishes in upper basket lower basket

Use of detergent

Only use detergents specifically designed for use in dishwashers. We recommend the use of Finish detergents. Using no more then the correct amount of detergent contributes to reducing pollution. Please observe the manufacturers dosing and storage recommendations as stated on the detergent packaging.
With upper basket raised With upper basket lowered

20 cm 24 cm

31 cm 27 cm
To move to the higher position proceed as follows:
1. Move the front runner stops (A) of the upper basket outwards and slide the basket out. 2. Refit the basket in the higher position and replace the stops (A) in their original position. When the basket is in the higher position you will not be able to use the cup rack(s).

Fill with detergent

1. If the lid is closed: press release button (1). The lid springs open. 2. Fill the detergent dispenser (2) with detergent. The marking indicates the dosing levels: 20 = approximately 20 g of detergent 30 = approximately 30 g of detergent
After loading your machine always close the door, as an open door can be a hazard.
3. All programmes with prewash need an additional detergent dose (5/10 g) that must be placed in the prewash detergent chamber (3). This detergent will take effect during the prewash phase. 4. Close the lid and press until it locks in place.
For best results we recommend the use of Finish detergents, rinse aid and salt.

POURING

TION DOUBLE AC

BRILLIANT SHINE

L I Q U I D

Starting a washing programme
In this fully integrated appliance the controls are located on the top of the door. When selecting a washing programme, the door needs to be slightly open.
5. End of the washing programme
The dishwasher will automatically stop. An audible signal informs you of the end of the washing programme. Open the dishwashers door, leave it ajar and wait a few minutes before removing the dishes; in this way they will be cooler and the drying will be improved. The END OF CYCLE indicator light is on. The indicator light of the programme just ended is on. Switch off the dishwasher by pressing the On/Off button.
1. Check that the baskets have been loaded correctly and that the spray arms can rotate freely 2. Turn on the water tap 3. Setting and starting the washing programme
Press the On/Off button. The END OF CYCLE indicator light flashes. Press the programme selection/cancel button and select the desired washing programme. To choose the right washing programme see "Washing programmes" chart). Close the dishwashers door, the programme will start automatically. NOTE: the start of the washing programme will occur only after the closure of the door. Until that moment you can modify the selection made.
6. Unloading the dishwasher
Hot dishes are sensitive to knocks. The dishes should therefore be allowed to cool down before removing from the appliance. Empty the lower basket first and then the upper one; this will avoid water dripping from the upper basket onto the dishes in the lower one. Water may appear on the sides and the door of the dishwasher as the stainless steel will eventually become cooler than the dishes. When the washing programme has finished, it is recommended that the dishwasher is unplugged and the water tap turned off.
4. To interrupt or cancel a washing programme in progress
Interrupt or cancel a washing programme in progress ONLY if its absolutely necessary. Attention! Hot steam may escape when the door is opened. Open the door carefully.
To interrupt a washing programme in progress
Open the dishwashers door; the programme will stop. Close the door; the programme will start from the point at which it was interrupted.

Frost precautions

Avoid placing the machine in a location where the temperature is below 0C. If this is unavoidable, empty the machine, close the appliance door, disconnect the water inlet pipe and empty it. 3. Turn the handle about 1/4 a turn anticlockwise and remove.

Moving the machine

If you have to move the machine (moving house etc.): 1. Unplug it. 2. Turn the water tap off. 3. Remove the water inlet and discharge hoses. 4. Pull the machine out together with the hoses. Avoid over tilting the machine during transportation.
4. Take hold of the coarse filter (A) by the handle with the hole and remove from the microfilter (B). 5. Clean all filters thoroughly under running water. 6. Remove the flat filter (C) from the base of the washing compartment and clean both faces thoroughly.
7. Put the flat filter (C) back in the base of the washing compartment. 8. Place the coarse filter (A) in the microfilter (B) and press together. 9. Put the filter combination in place and lock by turning the handle clockwise to the stop. During this process ensure that the flat filter does not protrude above the base of the washing compartment. 14

What to do, when.

Certain problems are due to the lack of simple maintenance or oversights, which can be solved with the help of the instructions given here, without calling out an engineer.

.a fault code appears

The dishwasher will not start or stops during operation. Open the dishwashers door. The intervention of an alarm is indicated by: - continuous flashing of the indicator light of the running programme, - a combination of flashes and pauses of the END OF CYCLE indicator light and by intermittent audible signals (as described in the chart). Carry out the following suggested corrective actions. Important: If you call out an engineer to a fault listed below or to repair a fault caused by incorrect use or installation a charge will be made, even if the appliance is in guarantee.

Fault code / malfunction

- continuous flashing of the indicator light of the running programme - 1 intermittent audible signal - 1 flash of the END OF CYCLE indicator light The machine does not fill with water. - continuous flashing of the indicator light of the running programme - 2 intermittent audible signals - 2 flashes of the END OF CYCLE indicator light The dishwasher will not drain. - continuous flashing of the indicator light of the running programme - 3 intermittent audible signals - 3 flashes of the END OF CYCLE indicator light

Possible cause

The water tap is blocked or furred with limescale. The water tap is turned off. The filter (where present) in the threaded hose fitting at the water inlet valve is blocked. The water inlet hose has not been correctly laid or it is bent or squashed. The sink spigot is blocked. The water drain hose has not been correctly laid or it is bent or squashed.

Solutions

Clean the water tap. Turn the water tap on. Clean the filter in the threaded hose fitting. Check the water inlet hose connection.
Clean out the sink spigot. Check the water drain hose connection.
Anti-flood device has activated.
Close the water tap and contact the Service Force Centre.
Once the checks have been carried out, press the programme selection/cancel button and close the dishwashers door. The programme will continue from the point at which it was interrupted. If the fault code reappears contact our local Service Force Centre. For other combinations of fault codes not described in the above chart, please contact your local Service Force Centre.
.there are problems when operating the dishwasher
Malfunction Possible cause
The dishwasher door has not been properly closed. The programme does not start The main plug is not plugged in. The fuse has blown in the household fuse box. There is a whistling noise during washing The whistling is not a cause for concern. Insert the mains plug. Replace the fuse. Use a different brand of detergent.

Close the door.

.the wash results are not satisfactory

The dishes are not clean

For Customer Service in The Republic of Ireland please contact us at the address below: Zanussi Electrolux Group (Irl) Ltd Long Mile Road Dublin 12 Republic of Ireland Tel: + 353 (0)Email: service.eid@electrolux.ie

Customer Care Department

For general enquiries concerning your Zanussi appliance or for further information on Zanussi products please contact our Customer Care Department by letter or telephone at the address below or visit our website at www.zanussi.co.uk Customer Care Department Zanussi 55-77 High Street Slough Berkshire SL1 1DZ Tel: (*)
* calls to this number may be recorded for training purposes

Guarantee Conditions

Standard guarantee conditions
We, Zanussi, undertake that if within 24 months of the date of purchase this Zanussi appliance or any part thereof is proved to be defective by reason only of faulty workmanship or materials, we will, at our option repair or replace the same FREE OF CHARGE for labour, materials or carriage on condition that:

European Guarantee

If you should move to another country within Europe then your guarantee moves with you to your new home subject to the following qualifications:
The guarantee starts from the date you first purchased your product. The guarantee is for the same period and to the same extent for labour and parts as exists in the new country of use for this brand or range of products. This guarantee relates to you and cannot be transferred to another user. Your new home is within the European Community (EC) or European free Trade Area. The product is installed and used in accordance with our instructions and is only used domestically, i.e. a normal household. The product is installed taking into account regulations in your new country.
The appliance has been correctly installed and used only on the electricity supply stated on the rating plate. The appliance has been used for normal domestic purposes only, and in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. The appliance has not been serviced, maintained repaired, taken apart or tampered with by any person not authorised by us. All service work under this guarantee must be undertaken by a Service Force Centre. Any appliance or defective part replaced shall become the Companys property. This guarantee is in addition to your statutory and other legal rights.
Home visits are made between 8.30am and 5.30pm Monday to Friday. Visits may be available outside these hours in which case a premium will be charged.

Electrical connection

This appliance must be earthed. The manufacturer declines any responsibility should this safety measure not be observed. If the plug that is fitted to your appliance is not suitable for the socket, it must be cut off and the appropriate plug fitted. Important The wires on the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code: Green and Yellow Blue Brown - Earth - Neutral - Live
If you fit your own plug, the colours of the wires in the mains lead of your appliance may not correspond with the markings identifying the terminals in your plug. Proceed as follows: 1. Connect the Green and Yellow (earth) wire to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter "E" or the earth symbol or coloured green and yellow. 2. Connect the Blue (neutral) wire to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter "N" or coloured black. 3. Connect the Brown (live) wire to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter "L" or coloured red.

E 13 A N

Likewise the internal diameter of the couplings used for connections to the waste outlet must be no smaller than the diameter of the hose provided.
Attention! Our appliances are supplied with a security device to protect against the return of dirty water back into the machine. If the spigot of your sink has a "no return valve" incorporated this can prevent the correct draining of your dishwasher. We advise you therefore to remove it.
The plug moulded onto the lead incorporates a 13amp BSI362 fuse. Only ASTA or BSI fuses should be used. The plug must not be used if the fuse cover/carrier is lost. The cover/carrier is indicated by the coloured insert at the base of the plug. A replacement cover/carrier must be obtained from your local Service Force Centre. To isolate the dishwasher from mains, remove the mains plug. Important! The plug must still be accessible after the appliance has been installed. The appliance should not be connected to the electrical supply by means of an extension cable. In case that the electrical cable has to be replaced, please contact your local Service Force Centre.

Hints for test centres

Testing in accordance with EN 60704 must be carried out with appliance fully loaded and using the test programme (see "Washing programmes" chart). Test in accordance with EN 50242 must be carried out when the salt dispenser and rinse aid container have been filled with salt and rinse aid respectively and using the test programme (see "Washing programmes" chart).
Load: Rinse aid setting: Detergent dosage :
12 standard place settings position 4 (Type III) 5 g + 25 g (Type B)

Arrangement upper basket

Arrangement lower basket
Arrangement cutlery basket

Cup racks: position A

Essential Reports

Choosing a

Dishwasher
Which should you choose? Get the best from your machine Best Buy detergents
INDEPENDENT EXPERT ADVICE YOU CAN TRUST

BEST B UYS

TESTED

Inside

Letter from the editor
Welcome to the Which? guide to choosing a dishwasher. Finding the best dishwasher for your kitchen, and your lifestyle, can be difficult theres a confusing number of models on the market, each promising the earth in terms of sparkling dinnerware. To help you select the right machine and detergent for your needs, weve tested 93 dishwashers and 27 cleaning products in the lab. Whether its giving advice on taking photos or choosing the right washing machine, Which? gives you all the facts you need to make the decision thats best for you. We test more products more rigorously and in greater depth than anyone else, so you can be sure that youre getting the best information available. And we cut through the techno-babble to give you clear, no-nonsense advice thats easy to understand. But the most important thing about us is that we are totally independent. Nobody pays us we take no advertising or freebies, and we buy all our products at full price, just like you. Were funded by consumers, for consumers. So we can tell it like it is and give you the straight facts good or bad. Neil Fowler Editor, Which?

Contents

03 Which should you choose? 04 How to buy
Helpful advice and pointers on how to select the right dishwasher for your kitchen What to look out for when youre in the store Nine of our 93 dishwashers made it into the Which? Best Buy hall of fame Test scores and guide prices for all the dishwashers weve tested We tell you which button does what Putting the machines through their paces

13 Which program?

Select the right program for the job So many dishes so little time. Your frequently asked questions are answered Seven Best Buy dishwasher detergents
14 Your questions answered
05 Which? Best Buy dishwashers 09 Every dishwasher tested 10 Features explained
16 Which? Best Buy detergents 18 Detergent features explained
We disperse the jargon around detergents
19 How we test detergents
How dirty dishes get the Which? treatment in order to bring you our Best Buys Commonly asked detergent questions
12 How we test dishwashers
20 Your questions answered

About Which?

Which? is a non-profit-making organisation that aims to make consumers as powerful as the organisations they deal with in their daily lives. Which? campaigns to get a fairer deal for all consumers on a wide range of issues, tests more than 2,000 products a year and publishes the results of this rigorous testing and expertise in a wide range of magazines and books, and through an online subscription service and new digital store. Which? is entirely independent we take no ads or freebies and pay full price for everything we test. As a result, Which? is the number one independent source
Independent expert advice you can trust
of buying advice in the UK, with more than one million customers. services that achieve the highest results after rigorous testing by Which?.
WHICH? DONT Dont Buys BUY These are products

Best Buys

Which? aims to help you choose the best goods and services. The nationally WHICH? BEST recognised Which? BUY Best Buy is awarded only to products or
that perform extremely poorly in one or more of our key tests, or that achieve very low test scores.

2 www.which.co.uk/digitalstore

Which should you choose?

Buy a dishwasher and you can throw away the rubber gloves for ever
Regardless of the size of your kitchen, a dishwasher can save you time, effort and water, so its hardly surprising that theyre more popular than ever. But before splashing out several hundred pounds, you need to consider what kind of machine is right for your needs. With this in mind, we tackle some critical buying questions in this report. These include whether its worth paying extra to get a machine with fancy features, such as half-load and extra drying, and the potentially tricky problem of washing delicate glassware. Weve tested 96 full-sized, slimline and built-in machines costing between 170 and 730, and found nine Best Buys, with Miele claiming top spot. Its not possible for us to test every dishwasher that you might find in the shops many models on sale are, in any case, very similar to those we test, with the difference often as little as a change of colour. In this report, weve provided you with the details youll need to buy one of those family models that we are confident will be as good as those weve tested. To find out more on this subject, see Family matters, p13. And of course, no dishwasher will work without detergent we have tested 17 combination and ten detergent-only tablets to bring you seven Best Buys. Take a look at p16 for the results and more information.
Sizing up the competition
Here are our tips on choosing a dishwasher
I THE RIGHT SIZE A full-sized machine suits an average family. It can take 12 place settings, including cutlery. Slimlines are more suited to small kitchens or couples, holding eight to ten settings,. Compacts (four to six settings) are more suitable for a single person in a small flat. See Tpes of dishwasher, p12. I YOUR LIFESTYLE Different machines suit different lifestyles. For example, if you use lots of pans, look for a model with a prewash or soak option. Programs vary slightly among models, but many people use just the main program (65C) and the eco program (50C), so you dont have to buy a complex machine. Some will include programs for glass and combination tablets. I EFFICIENCY All models are graded A to G for energy efficiency, with A being most efficient. I ONLINE You may save money by buying a dishwasher online. For example, the AEG-Electrolux Favorit F860700VI starts from 485 online but is around 720 on the high street.

www.which.co.uk/digitalstore 3
Full dishwasher test results
The table shows the price and the percentage rating the product received when tested
Price () Score Price () Score Price () Score

DISHWASHERS

AEG-ELECTROLUX F50870 AEG-ELECTROLUX F50870M AEG-ELECTROLUX F54750 AEG-ELECTROLUX F60870 AEG-ELECTROLUX Favorit F35085VI AEG-ELECTROLUX Favorit F86070VI BAUMATIC BFD64SS BEKO DE2431FS BEKO DWD4310S BEKO DWD4310W BEKO DWD5410 BEKO DWD8650X BOSCH SGS45C02GB BOSCH SGS56E12GB BOSCH SGV46M43GB BOSCH SHV55M03 BOSCH SKT5102 Classixx BOSCH SRS 43C22 Classixx BOSCH SRS45E22 Exxcel BOSCH SRS45E32GB CANDY CDS 220 X-80 CANDY CFD612 CANDY CFD612S CANDY CSD68 CANDY CSD68S ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HOTPOINT FDW70 HOTPOINT FDW75A HOTPOINT FDW80 HOTPOINT SDW60 HOTPOINT SDW80 HOTPOINT SDW85A INDESIT DI 620 INDESIT IDE 1000 Evolution INDESIT IDE 44 INDESIT IDE1005S INDESIT IDL 40 INDESIT IDL 530 INDESIT IDL730 INDESIT IDL735S JOHN LEWIS JLBIDW1200 JOHN LEWIS JLBIDW901 KENWOOD KDW12SL3A KENWOOD KDW12ST3A KENWOOD KDW4TTSL MATSUI MF2W MATSUI MF2W/A MATSUI MS2W/A MAYTAG MSE661FARS MAYTAG MSE661FARW MAYTAG MSE760FARS MIELE G 1142 SC MIELE G1202 SC MIELE G1102SC MIELE G1222SC MIELE G1232SC NEFF S5453X1GB/74 PROLINE DWF1250P PROLINE PDW041 PROLINE PDW080 SIEMENS SE25M575GB SMEG DF614S SMEG DF6FABAZ TRICITY BENDIX TDF200 TRICITY BENDIX TDF221 WHIRLPOOL ADG 550
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WHIRLPOOL ADG 7560 WHIRLPOOL ADG1900-DRAWERx1 WHIRLPOOL ADP 4601 WHIRLPOOL ADP 8000 WHIRLPOOL ADP4501/5WH WHIRLPOOL ADP5406 ZANUSSI-ELECTROLUX ZDF231 ZANUSSI-ELECTROLUX ZDF231S ZANUSSI-ELECTROLUX ZDF501 ZANUSSI-ELECTROLUX ZDF601K ZANUSSI-ELECTROLUX ZDT5053 ZANUSSI-ELECTROLUX ZDT6053 ZANUSSI-ELECTROLUX ZSF 2400 ZANUSSI-ELECTROLUX ZSF4126
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Despite scoring highly, some machines dont achieve Best Buy status because their brand is unreliable, or we dont yet have data on reliability (see opposite)

Dont Buys

WHICH?
PROLINE DWF1250P Of all of the models tested, this Proline was the worst at washing, and its one of the noisiest, too. It also left watermarks, but its energy-save program is OK.

DONT BUY

COOKWORKS WQP8-9239 (480/9984) --DE DIETRICH DVY430J ELECTROLUX ESF46010 ELECTROLUX ESF6146 (VISI) ELECTROLUX ESL6115 ELECTROLUX ESL63010 HOOVER HED6612 HOOVER HEDS668-80 HOOVER HOD7715-80 HOTPOINT BCI450 HOTPOINT BFI620 HOTPOINT FDW20 HOTPOINT FDW60 HOTPOINT FDW65A ---------------------------

KENWOOD KDW12SL3A This very noisy Kenwood has no energysaving program. The main program (at 2 hours 35 minutes) washes OK, but drying left too many watermarks on the crockery, cutlery and glassware. MATSUI MS2W/A Although this noisy Matsui washes and dries acceptably, we were disappointed with the extent of watermarks left on pots and cutlery. It also lacks an energysave program. PROLINE PDW041 This compact Prolines main program lasts just 60 minutes the shortest for the compacts we tested. But it washes indifferently and its one of the worst on test for drying. We also found this model very noisy.
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Features explained

Some models come with an array of extra features or options our handy guide will help you make the right choice
Types of dishwasher Compact or table top
Dishwasher type Dimensions (HxWxD) Place settings Best for
Standard or full sized 85x60x61cm 12 to 15 A large family or if you entertain On machines with 15 place settings items are crammed in, which can affect cleaning
Slimline 85x45x61cm 8 to 10 Smaller households where space is limited Can be noisier than full-sized models 45x56x46cm 4 to 6 Occasional use, if you live alone, or prefer not to bend down Difficult to fit in large items

Drawbacks

Built-in or semiintegrated models
Most dishwashers are freestanding, so if you want one that matches your kitchen cabinets, you can buy a built-in model (with concealed controls on the top of the door), or a semi-integrated one (where just the control panel is visible) both these types have a decorative panel mounted on the front of the door.
Few models have childsafety locks
your dishwasher, youll need to adjust the setting for water hardness, depending on the hardness of the water in your area take a look at www.dwi.gov.uk for more information, or contact your local water board.

Useful features

I CHILD-SAFETY LOCK Dishwashers use strong chemical detergents and extremely hot water, yet few models have child-safety locks to stop the door being opened while the machine is cleaning. I DELAYED START Many models have a function that lets you delay the program start. This is useful if you have a timed energy tariff such as Economy 7. Models that dont have a delayed start option can achive the same result with an ordinary 13-amp timer plug. I MOVEABLE BASKETS The more advanced models have adjustable or removable lower baskets and a height-adjustable upper basket. This lets you fit large plates or

Indicator lights

Dishwashers need rinse aid to speed up drying and prevent water marks, and dishwasher salt to soften hard water. Without both of these, you could risk damaging the machine. However, you dont need to use them every time, so its useful if your dishwasher has lights to warn you when the rinse aid or salt needs topping up. Normally these lights are positioned on the outside of the machine (or the top rim of the door for built-in models). When you install
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saucepans in the lower basket, for example, at the expense of space in the upper one. On the other hand, you could put tall glasses in the top basket, and lose some of the space below. Some models have tilting upper baskets, designed to make it easier to make the most of the available space. And many provide a removable top for the cutlery basket this has holes in it to keep individual pieces of cutlery separate. If items dont touch, it helps cleaning, but it can take longer to load the dishwasher.

Types of control

I HIDDEN CONTROLS Built-in models have controls that sit along the inside top of the door (see Built-in or semi-integrated models, above). These are hidden when the door is closed, but they are usually considerably smaller than standard controls, so can be difficult to use. I FRONT-FACING CONTROLS Front-facing control panels also come in different designs. Buttons may be
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