Best Energy Star Rated Dishwashers for Efficient Cleaning
Energy Star certified dishwashers can save water and electricity while delivering strong cleaning performance. This guide highlights five top-rated options, spanning countertop and built-in models, so you can pick the right fit for apartments, small homes, or larger kitchens. Each selection emphasizes energy efficiency, reliable performance, and useful features for everyday loads.
| Product | Type | Capacity | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| GE Profile Countertop Dishwasher | Countertop | 6 place settings | Built-in WiFi and flexible installation |
| COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher | Countertop | 6 place settings | Eight washing programs for versatility |
| Midea MDF18A1AST | Built-in | 8 place settings | Slimline design with large capacity |
| Midea MDC22P2ASS | Countertop | 6 place settings | Six plus two cycles and delay start |
| SPT SD-9263SS | Portable | 8 place settings | Energy Star with multiple wash programs |
The following sections profile each model, covering design, loading flexibility, and energy-saving features. The goal is to help you compare performance, footprint, and program variety to match your lifestyle and kitchen layout.
GE Profile Countertop Dishwasher: Small But Smart
The GE Profile countertop model blends compact form with smart features. It offers 6 place settings and 6 wash cycles, making it a solid choice for apartments, dorms, or small kitchens. Its built-in WiFi enables monitoring and control via the SmartHQ app, so users can tailor cycles, receive status alerts, and unlock additional options remotely. Flexible installation options include countertop, built-in, or under-sink setups, thanks to the included unicouple faucet hookup kit. This versatility helps maximize countertop real estate without sacrificing performance.
Performance and efficiency are balanced with practical loading capacity. The interior accommodates up to 11″ dinner plates and can fit around 24 bar glasses, enough for casual entertaining without frequent refills. Energy Star certification signals lower water and electricity use compared with non-certified models. For households seeking a modern, connected option in a compact footprint, this GE Profile model stands out as an efficient, space-conscious choice.
COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher: Eight Programs
The COMFEE’ countertop model emphasizes versatility with eight washing programs, including Heavy, Normal, Baby-Care, ECO, Glass, and Speed. Its 6-place setting capacity fits daily dish loads for 2–3 people and is suitable for dorms, RVs, or small apartments. Installation is straightforward, with faucet connection possible through an adaptor. The unit’s flexible placement options—tabletop or inside a cupboard—enhance adaptability in tight kitchens or shared living spaces.
Beyond cycle variety, the COMFEE’ design highlights practicality in daily use. The machine’s software includes additional options like Speed, Mini-party, and Rinse to tailor cleaning to different mess levels and items. The compact footprint and efficient performance align with energy-conscious household goals, making COMFEE’ a competitive option for those seeking a balance of features, size, and affordability in a countertop dishwasher.
Midea MDF18A1AST Built-in Dishwasher
The Midea MDF18A1AST is a built-in dishwasher designed to maximize space without compromising capacity. Its slim profile makes it suitable for kitchens with limited under-sink space while still accommodating larger plates, pots, and pans up to 11 inches tall. The interior supports 8 place settings, and the control panel includes an LED display for straightforward operation. The energy-efficient design aligns with modern homes seeking to conserve water and electricity in daily dishwashing.
Seven features on this model focus on loading flexibility and thorough cleaning. Six programs plus three functional options deliver a range of cleaning styles, including heavy-duty cycles for tough soils and eco-friendly modes for lighter loads. Heated dry and sanitation features add assurance for thorough drying and hygiene. For homeowners upgrading built-in aesthetics and efficiency, this Midea model provides practical, space-conscious performance with reliable results.
Midea MDC22P2ASS Countertop Dishwasher
The Midea MDC22P2ASS offers a compact countertop footprint with 6 place settings and a versatile 6+2 washing cycle lineup. This configuration includes Auto, Heavy, Normal, Quick, Rinse, and Delicate, plus extended Dry and Power Wash options to deliver clean, dry dishes efficiently. A notable feature is the 1–24 hour delay start, which adds convenience for scheduling washes around busy days or energy-saving time windows.
Like other Midea countertop models, installation is faucet-direct with an adaptor, and the unit is well-suited for dorms, RVs, or apartments where space is at a premium. The combination of loading flexibility, cycle breadth, and scheduling capability makes this model a practical choice for small households that want a reliable, energy-conscious dishwasher without a full-size cabinet mount.
SPT SD-9263SS: Stainless Portable 18-Inch Dishwasher
The SPT SD-9263SS is a portable 18-inch dishwasher with a stainless steel tub and an Energy Star rating. It delivers 6 wash programs and 8 place settings, making it a strong fit for kitchens needing mobility and efficiency. While program specifics are listed as general cycles, the stainless interior and energy-conscious design contribute to durable performance in a portable format. This model is ideal for renters or spaces where a permanent installation isn’t feasible, yet energy efficiency remains a priority.
With portability and capacity in mind, this SPT model provides a practical balance of cleaning power and flexibility. The stainless steel tub aids durability, while the energy-efficient operation helps reduce utility use over time. For households seeking a compact, movable solution that can fit under most counters, the SPT SD-9263SS offers a reliable option.
Kenmore Elite 24-Inch Built-In Dishwasher
The Kenmore Elite 24-inch built-in dishwasher emphasizes advanced cleaning technology with UltraWash Plus power cleaning. Three pressurized spray arms intensify cleaning from multiple angles, and the Accela Wash option speeds cycles when time is tight. Sani Rinse ensures high sanitation standards, and SmartWash adjusts automatically to soil levels for efficient cleaning. The TurboFlex third rack adds 35% more loading space for tall or bulky items, while the MoreSpace Plus upper rack can be adjusted to three heights for flexibility across different loads.
Energy Star certification underscores efficiency, while a quiet operation profile suits open-plan kitchens or living spaces where noise matters. The combination of adjustable interior, sensor-driven performance, and extended rack space makes this Kenmore model well-suited for households that want thorough cleaning with flexible loading configurations and energy-conscious operation.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Energy Star Dishwashers
- Space and installation: Countertop, built-in, and portable models fit different kitchen layouts. Measure under-sink clearance and ensure electrical and water connections meet model requirements.
- Capacity and loading flexibility: Choose a model that accommodates your typical dish load, plate sizes, and tall items. Extra racks or adjustable heights increase versatility.
- Wash programs and efficiency: Look for a range of programs (heavy, normal, eco, delicate) and features like extended dry or sanitize cycles. Energy Star certification helps ensure lower energy and water usage.
- Smart features and connectivity: WiFi or app-based controls can simplify cycle selection and monitoring, especially for busy households or remote usage.
- Durability and materials: Stainless steel interiors and durable tubs reduce wear over time and improve longevity, alongside quieter operation.
- Mobility and placement needs: If you need a portable or countertop option, verify weight, mobility, and stability on your chosen surface.
- Maintenance and detergents: Use dishwasher-specific detergents and follow manufacturer guidelines for optimal performance and longevity.
In summary, Energy Star dishwashers offer efficiency without sacrificing cleaning power. The selected models provide a range of formats—from compact countertop units to built-in configurations—while maintaining energy-conscious operation. Whether you prioritize smart connectivity, flexible loading, or portable convenience, there is an Energy Star option tailored to your space and routine.