KitchenAid is a home appliance brand owned by Whirpool Corporation. The company was founded in 1919 by the Hobart Corporation to manufacture stand mixers. Although the competition was stiff, KitchenAid become very popular after the introduction of its trademarked silhouette with the model K. Dishwashers were their second product line, introduced in 1949. The KitchenAid KUDE40FXSP Superba Series EQ brings bold, professional styling into any kitchen. Although it costs $657 more than the average dishwasher, its EQ system offers quiet, uncompromised wash, dry performance, and energy-efficient operation.

Features

The KitchenAid KUDE40FXSP dishwasher uses 36 powerful spray jets to remove even stubborn stains. Its smart ProWash Cycle can determine the appropriate cycle and make adjustments on its own for best cleaning performance. Another feature that we like is the Culinary Caddy Utensil Basket which attaches to the lower rack. Premium adjusters make it easy to lower or raise the upper rack so you can fit large pots and pans. The fully integrated console has an ergonomic design that blends in your kitchen and is very easy to use.

Design and capacity

The KitchenAid KUDE40FXSP provides a sleek, modern look with stainless steel door panels. The digital integrated controls are hidden on the top door edge to create a seamless look from the front. Although we would have liked a digital display to show cycle time remaining and other wash information, this isn’t such a big disadvantage as most new dishwashers don’t have such a display. The super-capacity stainless steel tall tub is 20% more spacious than standard tubs. The dishwasher’s additional tub height allows 15 place settings, 9% higher than average. This loading capacity is convenient for larger families or those who like to run the dishwasher-less often. The KitchenAid KUDE40FXSP has 2 adjustable racks, lacking a third rack that can be used for small items and cups. We also like the flexible silverware basket and the fold-down tines.

Performance

The KitchenAid KUDE40FXSP includes 5 wash cycles: ProWash Cycle, Heavy Duty, Normal Wash and One Hour Wash Cycle. There is also a high-temp option that allows you to choose a high-temperature wash cycle for heavily soiled dishes and a sanitary cycle that removes 99.9% of germs and bacteria. Like most dishwashers, this model cannot generate steam to loosen dried food deposits. With its 11 cycles and options, the KUDE40FXSP ranks in the top 35% of new dishwashers for better flexibility and selection. Its cleaning results are among the best because of the sanitizing option and high-pressure spray jets. The dishwasher has heated dry but the element is not concealed.

Noise Output

The KitchenAid KUDE40FXSP has a sound level of 46 dbA, ranking in the top 10% of new dishwashers for improved noise suppression. It is 5 dbA quieter than the average, so you won’t be disturbed during regular household activities.

Energy efficiency

This dishwasher has good energy efficiency and fair water consumption. Its estimated annual electricity use of 279 kWh and estimated yearly cost of $30.94 are above average. However, estimated annual water use is 17% higher than average and ranks in the bottom 45% of new models, using about 126 gallons more annually.