The Truth About Quick Wash
Quick wash cycles are often touted as a convenient option for those short on time. However, our research reveals that these cycles have some significant drawbacks. In fact, our tests found that quick wash cleans less effectively than the main program (74% efficiency versus 83%), and leaves more watermarks on items after a cycle. Additionally, quick wash uses more energy and water than the main cycle, resulting in higher running costs.
- Our snapshot test of three big-brand dishwashers revealed that quick wash cycles had a significantly lower cleaning efficiency than the main program.
- The quick wash cycle also scored lower in terms of drying efficiency (76% versus 82%), and left more watermarks on items after a cycle.
- Furthermore, our tests showed that quick wash cycles typically use more energy and water than the main cycle, leading to higher running costs.
Eco Mode: A Compromise Between Cleanliness and Cost
Eco mode is often seen as a compromise between cleanliness and cost. While it may not clean as effectively as the main program (79% efficiency versus 83%), it does use considerably less energy and water. In fact, our estimates suggest that switching to eco mode can save you around 30% in running costs over a year. However, eco mode does take longer to complete, with an average cycle time of 3 hours 55 minutes.
- Eco mode typically uses less energy and water than the main program, resulting in lower running costs.
- However, eco mode may not clean as effectively as the main program, with a slightly lower cleaning efficiency (79% versus 83%).
- Additionally, eco mode takes longer to complete, with an average cycle time of 3 hours 55 minutes.
Comparing Eco Mode and Quick Wash
When comparing eco mode and quick wash, it becomes clear that both have their drawbacks. Quick wash is worse at cleaning and drying, uses more energy and water, and will cost more to run. Eco mode, on the other hand, uses less energy and water but may not clean as effectively. However, the running cost savings you’d make by switching to eco mode make it well worth considering.
| Program | Cleaning Efficiency | Drying Efficiency | Running Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Program | 83% | 82% | £62.82 per year |
| Quick Wash | 74% | 76% | £68.07 per year |
| Eco Mode | 79% | 76% | £46.13 per year |
Why Eco Mode Takes Longer
So why does eco mode take longer than the main program? The answer lies in the way the machine operates. Eco mode allows the machine to reach the required temperatures slowly and gradually, giving the dishes a longer period of exposure to hot water. This results in a more thorough cleaning, but it also means that the machine takes longer to complete the cycle.
“I think of it like comparing a sports car to a family saloon based on fuel efficiency. Just because a sports car is fast, it doesn’t mean it’s the most efficient way to travel. Similarly, a quick wash cycle may be fast, but it’s not always the most efficient way to clean your dishes.”
The Verdict
When it comes to choosing a dishwasher cycle, the main program remains a very good option. While quick wash is a convenient option for those short on time, it’s not worth the potential drawbacks. Eco mode, on the other hand, may not clean as effectively as the main program, but the running cost savings make it well worth considering. By switching to eco mode, you can save money on your energy bills and reduce your environmental impact. So next time you’re deciding on a dishwasher cycle, remember: eco mode may take longer, but it’s worth it in the long run.