Which brands make the best A-rated freestanding dishwashers?
The best A-rated freestanding dishwasher brands are ranked below:
- Siemens (Average overall score: 9)
- Haier (Average overall score: 8.9)
- Bosch (Average overall score: 8.8)
The chart below ranks A-rated freestanding dishwasher brands by average overall score.
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How much energy and water does an A-rated freestanding dishwasher use?
An A-rated freestanding dishwasher commonly uses about 0.49–0.55 kWh and 9–10 L of water on its Eco cycle. At one cycle per day, that is roughly 180–200 kWh and 3,300–3,700 L per year, although program choice and loading habits change the result.
Eco is deliberately long because lower-temperature washing reduces heating demand. Quick, intensive, hygiene, and extra-dry programs can use more, so compare the cycles you expect to run rather than applying the label figure to every wash.
Capacity matters too: most A-rated freestanding models hold 14 place settings. A well-loaded full-size machine can be efficient per item, whereas repeated partial loads or rewashing can remove much of the nominal saving.
Compare energy per 100 Eco cycles, water per Eco cycle, capacity, Eco duration, and noise together. The practical winner should make it easy to load fully and use Eco regularly.
The chart below compares energy consumption per cycle among A-rated freestanding dishwashers.
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How much do A-rated freestanding dishwashers cost?
A-rated freestanding dishwashers generally cost about £400-£900, although a few premium models cost more. Since every model already has the top energy class, pricing mainly reflects noise, rack flexibility, drying technology, controls, finish, and after-sales support.
Below £560, expect efficient 14-place-setting machines with relatively conventional baskets and drying. From £560-£730, adjustable third racks, quieter motors, automatic programs, stronger leak protection, improved displays, and better plastic drying become more common.
Above £730, models may add exceptionally low noise, advanced drying, premium interiors, extensive connectivity, distinctive finishes, and longer service packages. Estimate how often the dishwasher will run before paying heavily for small differences in consumption or convenience.
The chart below shows the price distribution of A-rated freestanding dishwashers.
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What should you consider when choosing an A-rated freestanding dishwasher?
Before buying an A-rated freestanding dishwasher, consider the following factors:
- Comparable label figures: For an A-rated full-size dishwasher, about 0.50–0.60 kWh and 8.5–10 L per Eco cycle is a strong target; more than 0.65 kWh or 10.5 L is relatively high for this efficiency class. The label describes standardized Eco performance, so quick, intensive, hygiene, and extra-dry consumption must be checked separately.
- Dimensions and connections: Measurements should cover width, height, body depth, hoses, ventilation, handle, and open-door clearance, then verify inlet, drain, and earthed-power access. Check whether the top may be removed if under-counter placement is planned.
- Required capacity: Most A-rated freestanding models hold about 14 settings, a useful target for 3–5 people; 15 settings provide extra room for entertaining or daily cookware. Choose a size that can run full without forcing dish overcrowding or frequent half loads.
- Rack geometry: A practical test should cover third-rack depth, upper-basket adjustment, folding supports, plate clearance, stemware holders, and cookware space. Efficient label figures are less useful if poor loading causes rewashing.
- Wash performance and programs: Confirm reliable Eco cleaning and compare automatic or intensive performance on difficult loads. Sensor control, spray coverage, filter design, detergent dispensing, and water-softener adjustment deserve separate attention from efficiency.
- Noise level: Around 44 dB or below is useful near living areas, with lower levels valuable for overnight operation. Leveling and clearance from surrounding units can reduce vibration and resonance.
- Drying performance: Compare plastics carefully and review automatic-door, heat-exchanger, fan, mineral, or extra-dry systems. Consider cycle duration, additional energy, released steam, and whether an opening door obstructs the room.
