Some random KA vs. Whirlpool dishwasher thoughts

[Art Todesco]

We just moved into a new home with a Whirlpool DW about

5 month ago. We have had KA DWs for some 37 years previously and have become less and less satisfied with them. The last one only lasted 5 years and would cost more to fix than to buy a new one. Anyway, we haven't used the Whirlpool adaptive wash yet, however, this unit cleans better than any previous KA ... even though they are the same company. I especially like the larger interior as it goes lower to the kitchen floor. This must make it harder to service, but it makes the upper rack taller. My wife complains about bending down to get thing in the lower rack, however, she says that's ok because of the extra interior room. We have a silverware rack from our old KA. I'm glad we brought this as it works way better than the in-door Whirlpool silverware rack. Yes it does eat up some lower rack space, but it's worth it. Using the in-door rack does cause problems at things tend to tangle with the lower rack. We do use the in-door rack for larger things like serving spoons and whisks.

[RBM]

Our second pos Maytag is in it's death throws, so last week we did extensive research to try to find a replacement. Physically, most of the new "tall tub" units are similar in design. Looking at a pile of machines in stores really didn't help us to choose, and strangely our online research showed that for almost every model we chose, an equal number of people liked them, and hated them. The only machines that surfaced with very little dissatisfaction were Bosch, and the only real complaint that came up multiple times was that certain models gave off a smell. Having nothing better to go on, I ordered a higher end Bosch, which should be delivered next week, and we'll find out.

[RBM]

Years ago when KA was made by Hobart, they were top of the line machines, and people who owned them typically loved and swore by them. People who reviewed them today seemed to have a multitude of complaints, including a number of prematurely burnt out motors. It does seem like KA is willing to replace their bad motors even after the warranty period ends though

[Roger Shoaf]

The most interesting way I ever saw to deal with the bend over problem, was to mount the dishwasher in a cabinet that was about a foot higher than the standard under counter height. The counter space you loose can be used for the microwave but it requires a bit of creative plumbing in most applications. Something to consider for those remodeling the kitchen.

[Art Todesco]

My last KA needed new baskets. A few prongs broke off, probably from rust due to poor coatings. There were many other rusty spots on the baskets. BTW, that unit was only used by 2 adults, no kids. They wanted an arm and a leg for the 2 baskets. Plus there were a few other things wrong. KA actually offered me $100 off to buy another KA. I took it and now it's someone else's problem as I sold the house.

[Art Todesco]

I like that idea. Too bad my house is already built, or I would try to work it into the plans.