Do Dishwashers Save Water? Why You Should Wash Your Hands of Handwashing

If you’re about to clean up after a big meal, it’s only fair to ask—do dishwashers save water? Many people are surprised to learn that modern dishwashers do a magnificent job conserving water compared to the handwashing method. This revelation flies in the face of what many of us have been told in years past. Growing up, you may have heard not to run the dishwasher unless it’s full. Or maybe you were told to pre-rinse or handwash dishes to conserve water. 

Times have changed—for the better. Here’s what to know about how modern dishwashers can save water, energy, and money.

How Much Water Do Dishwashers Save?

The exact amount of water a dishwasher saves will depend on its make, model, and size. An older dishwasher uses 10 to 15 gallons of water per load. But a newer, Energy Star®-certified dishwasher uses a fraction of that, 3.5 gallons or less per load. 

Even if you’re washing a few dishes by hand, you’ll likely save water by putting them through the dishwasher. Kitchen faucets use 1.5 to 2 gallons of water a minute, while handwashing uses 9 to 27 gallons per load. With an efficient dishwasher, you could save upward of 23 gallons per load compared to handwashing. 

While handwashing water usage varies widely depending on the size of the load and method, dishwashers consistently use the same amount per load, likely saving you water over time.

Not only will a dishwasher save you water, it’ll save you money. With an energy-efficient dishwasher, you could save an average of $465 annually on energy and water bills.

With the help of a dishwasher installation professional near you, you can have a new appliance running swiftly, saving you water and cash.

Handwashing vs. Dishwasher: How They Compare

Overall, using a dishwasher will save you water compared to handwashing. However, both methods have benefits and drawbacks. 

Dishwasher Pros and Cons

Dishwashing comes with the benefit of time, energy, and water savings. But purchasing and installing a dishwasher can come with a high price tag, $1,200 on average. However, the cost of a dishwasher should pay for itself in about three years, based on energy and water savings. 

While using a dishwasher daily will save you time and money, it does come with its own maintenance requirements. Dishwashers can also be tough on more delicate cook and dining wear, leading to cracks or breakage over time.  

Handwashing Pros and Cons

When it comes to handwashing, it’s all about the details. Washing dishes by hand means getting into all the nooks and crannies of an item that a dishwasher could miss. Handwashing is also more delicate than a dishwasher, which could extend the life of plates and glasses. 

However, handwashing will take up more of your time and likely end up costing you more down the line. Also, depending on the heat of the water and the condition of the kitchen sponge, “clean” dishes are unlikely to be thoroughly sanitized. Sponges can harbor bacteria, and dishes require high heat, often hotter than a sink, to be adequately cleaned.

Selecting a High-Efficiency Dishwasher

Any dishwasher will save water, but if you’re selecting a new model, you can find one that maximizes water usage. Here’s what to keep an eye out for in a high-efficiency dishwasher. 

• Dishwasher size: In a larger household, you should opt for a larger model that requires running the appliance less, saving water with each load. Learn how to measure a dishwasher to determine what model will fit your kitchen.

• Type of dishwasher: Different types of dishwashers will be better fits for unique kitchen layouts, budgets, and needs. Each uses various amounts of water.