For U.S. shoppers, ENERGY STAR certification is a useful first filter for a water-saving dishwasher—but it is not a guarantee that every certified model uses the same amount of water. Compare gallons per cycle alongside annual energy use, capacity, dimensions, cycle options, drying features and current price. The figures below are official program data, not independent hands-on test results.
What counts as a water-efficient dishwasher?
ENERGY STAR’s U.S. dishwasher criteria, effective July 19, 2023, set maximum consumption levels using the U.S. Department of Energy test method. A standard-size model must use no more than 3.2 gallons per cycle and 240 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year to qualify; a compact model must use no more than 2.0 gallons per cycle and 155 kWh per year. These are qualification ceilings, not typical-use promises or claims that every qualifying model performs identically. See ENERGY STAR’s current criteria.
Water per cycle is only one part of the comparison. Annual energy use, how many place settings fit, and whether the unit fits the kitchen and household’s loading habits also matter. A lower water-use figure alone does not establish which dishwasher is the best choice.
Compare the available figures carefully
ENERGY STAR’s Most Efficient results accessed October 8, 2026, list the Bosch DWHD661EFP as one example of a standard model: 2.35 gallons per cycle, 213 kWh per year and capacity for 16 place settings. These are listing figures, not results from an independent test; the listing does not establish current price, retailer inventory or hands-on performance. Check the current product listing and manufacturer specifications before deciding. View ENERGY STAR’s Most Efficient dishwasher results.
#1 Best Overall
- Slimline Design with Large Capacity : The Midea built-in dishwasher boasts a slim body that takes up minimal space and is easy to fit. It features a digital control panel with an LED display and has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate larger plates, pots, and pans up to 11 inches in height.
- 8 Place Settings Dishwasher : With dimensions of 22.6D x 17.6W x 32.4H with adjustable legs, this under sink dishwasher provides a spacious and flexible interior for maximum dishware loading.
- 6 programs+3 functions : The 18-inch dishwasher offers six programs, including Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, and Rinse washing programs. It also features Heated Dry, Hi-Temp, and Sanitize functions that meet all your daily needs. Note: ONLY use detergent specially for dishwasher because regular liquid dish soap will cause dishwasher problems.
- Heated Dry : Smart dishwasher ensures the best drying performance. The extra drying function offers a thorough drying performance (except for the Rapid and Self-clean cycle) with no additional towel drying required.
- HI TEMP : The HYGIENE wash cycle maintains the water temperature at 136°F (58°C) max , which can tackle even the heaviest soiled dishes. It is also suitable for cleaning baby bottles and children's dinner sets.
| Comparison point | What the official figures establish | What to check for your kitchen |
|---|---|---|
| Water use | ENERGY STAR lists gallons per cycle; its standard-model qualification ceiling is 3.2 gallons per cycle. | Compare listed figures on the same basis, and consider how often you run the dishwasher. |
| Energy use | ENERGY STAR lists annual kWh; its standard-model ceiling is 240 kWh per year. | Compare annual figures, not just water use. |
| Capacity | The Bosch DWHD661EFP listing gives 16 place settings. | Consider household size and how your usual dishes, cookware and utensils load. |
| Dimensions and installation | Not stated in the cited ENERGY STAR listing; check manufacturer specifications. | Verify opening dimensions, connections and installation requirements before purchase. |
| Cycles, drying and rack design | Not stated for the Bosch model in the cited listing; check manufacturer specifications. | Look for cycle options and features that match the soils and items you wash. |
| Price, warranty and rebate | Not stated in the cited ENERGY STAR listing; check current retailer, manufacturer and local program terms. | Confirm current price and warranty. Rebate availability depends on location and partner terms. |
How dishwasher design and everyday choices affect water use
Efficiency features
ENERGY STAR identifies soil sensors, improved filtration, efficient jets and rack design as features that can help improve efficiency. Feature names alone do not tell you how a particular machine will perform in your home, so use the model’s published specifications and cycle information when comparing options. Read ENERGY STAR’s dishwasher guidance.
Choose a cycle suited to the load
For lightly soiled dishes, ENERGY STAR suggests using a light cycle. Match the cycle to the load rather than assuming a single setting is right for every wash.
Rank #2
- 6 Place Setting- A perfect size (H17.2″×W21.7″×D19.7″) for 2-3 people, COMFEE’ compact countertop dishwasher is suitable for dorms, RVs, and apartments. This counter top dishwasher can fit up to 70 pieces of tableware and plates up to 10 inches in diameter. Note: COMFEE dishwashers are rigorously factory tested before shipping. If your new dishwasher has some water inside, this is normal.
- Simple Installation- This COMFEE’ portable dishwasher can be connected to faucet directly (Suitable adaptor needed). Designed for maximum flexibility, this mini dishwasher can be conveniently placed on a countertop/table or seamlessly fitted into a cupboard to save precious kitchen space. Whether you need a plug-and-play solution for your apartment or a built-in look for your small kitchen, this compact dishwasher adapts perfectly to your layout needs, offering professional-grade cleaning with minimal setup effort.
- 8 Washing Cycles- Most of the cleaning cycles, including Heavy, Normal, Baby-Care, ECO, Glass, and Speed, helped with extra-drying function, and deliver sparklingly cleaned and dried dishes. Three more cleaning options, including Speed, Mini-party, and Rinse, are designed for COMFEE' compact dishwasher, providing high flexibility for you to choose in different situations.
- Powerful Wash Performance- This counter dishwasher portable features a Heavy Program with 12 washing nozzles and a 360° spiral spray for full-angle coverage. Combining high water pressure with temperatures up to 154°F, it efficiently removes grease and stubborn stains from heavily soiled dishes. Compact yet powerful, it ensures every dish is cleaned thoroughly and evenly.
- Rapid Cleaning & Eco-Friendly- Save time and money with the high-efficiency Speed Program, which cleans dishes in just 45 minutes—perfect for parties and busy schedules. This Energy Star dishwasher is designed for maximum resource savings, using as little as 2.77 gallons of water per cycle. Enjoy a powerful, quick clean that significantly reduces utility costs without compromising performance, making it the ideal water-saving solution for eco-conscious households.
Put the savings estimates in context
ENERGY STAR’s consumer guidance gives approximate program estimates of about $50 a year to run a standard certified dishwasher and about 5,800 gallons of water saved over a product’s lifetime. These are not guarantees for every household; actual use and costs depend on such factors as operating habits and local utility rates. ENERGY STAR explains its dishwasher estimates.
The U.S. Department of Energy’s federal purchasing guidance compares annual water use of 688 gallons for its ENERGY STAR example with 1,075 gallons for its less-efficient example. The table assumes 215 cycles per year; it is an illustrative comparison, not a promise of household savings. See the Department of Energy’s purchasing guidance.
Rank #3
- Feel Safe with Every Wash: Enjoy features like high-temp wash, rinse, heat/extended drying, and sanitization up to 149°F (65°C) to reduce contaminants. The half-load mode saves water and energy when washing smaller loads. An interior light improves visibility, while the leak detection system automatically stops water flow and alerts you. Plus, hidden controls prevent accidental changes.
- Fit All Your Dishes in One Load: This 24-inch built-in dishwasher holds 14–16 place settings. Adjustable racks and a removable cutlery basket make it easy to load plates, pots, pans, and oversized items without hassle.
- Easy Installation & Reliable Customer Support: Featuring a sleek stainless steel design (26.1"D x 23.74"W x 33.66"H), this dishwasher blends seamlessly into any kitchen. It’s easy to install using the included manual and backed by an 18-month warranty, ensuring reliable performance and customer support.
- Enjoy Quiet Cleaning Power: The dishwasher’s high-efficiency spray arms and circulation system deliver thorough cleaning while operating at just 49 dB—quieter than a normal conversation. With a delay start option up to 24 hours, you can schedule your wash cycles conveniently and save energy.
- Choose the Perfect Wash Every Time: Select from 8 programs—Auto, Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Express (35 min), Soak, or Self-Clean—to match your dish load, from delicate glassware to stubborn baked-on grease.
Check for a local rebate before buying
ENERGY STAR says partners sponsor rebates on certified products, but availability and terms vary by location. Search the ENERGY STAR Rebate Finder and confirm eligibility, deadlines and purchase requirements with the local program before counting a rebate toward your budget.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Slimline Design with Large Capacity : The Midea built-in dishwasher boasts a slim body that takes up minimal space and is easy to fit. It features a digital control panel with an LED display and has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate larger plates, pots, and pans up to 11 inches in height.
- 8 Place Settings Dishwasher : With dimensions of 22.6D x 17.6W x 32.4H with adjustable legs, this under sink dishwasher provides a spacious and flexible interior for maximum dishware loading.
- 6 programs+3 functions : The 18-inch dishwasher offers six programs, including Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, and Rinse washing programs. It also features Heated Dry, Hi-Temp, and Sanitize functions that meet all your daily needs. Note: ONLY use detergent specially for dishwasher because regular liquid dish soap will cause dishwasher problems.
- Heated Dry : Smart dishwasher ensures the best drying performance. The extra drying function offers a thorough drying performance (except for the Rapid and Self-clean cycle) with no additional towel drying required.
- HI TEMP : The HYGIENE wash cycle maintains the water temperature at 136°F (58°C) max , which can tackle even the heaviest soiled dishes. It is also suitable for cleaning baby bottles and children's dinner sets.
A practical selection checklist
- Filter by current ENERGY STAR certification, then compare water per cycle and annual energy use.
- Choose a capacity that suits your household’s typical loads.
- Measure the installation space and confirm manufacturer dimensions and connection requirements.
- Review cycle choices, drying features, soil sensing, filtration and rack design against your needs.
- Confirm current price, warranty, availability and any location-specific rebate directly with the relevant seller or program.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
