Selecting The Best RV Dishwasher For Your RV

Longing for an RV dishwasher?  Are you sick of dining on paper plates?  Buying a dishwasher for your RV is not a crazy idea. In fact, today there are a wide variety of compact models which are easy to install and retro fit many recreational vehicles. This article will help you discover the right RV dishwasher for your personal rig.  Your first consideration is your usage.

 

  • How often will you use an RV dishwasher?  
  • Will you wash pots and pans in it?  
  • Do you need room for multiple place settings?  
  • Are you concerned with counter space or water usage?
  • Do you want to air dry or heat dry your plates?  
  • Will you be washing china or glassware?

Having a clear understanding of when and how often you will use a dishwasher will help you choose the right one. There are several things to consider when choosing an RV dishwasher. These include size, location and water consumption. RV dishwashers fall into three categories; countertop, compact and the popular rv dishwasher drawer. Each of these units has pros and cons. When purchasing a dishwasher be sure to read a lot of RV dishwasher reviews from people who currently own the same model. Now, let’s consider each style to find the best fit for your personal RV.

EdgeStar-Countertop-Dishwasher

The Countertop Dishwasher

Pro’s: Countertop dishwashers are easy to use and sit just about anywhere you have water. Most people place a countertop dishwasher next to their sink where they can connect with hot and cold water and use the drain. Countertop RV dishwashers are affordable and easy to connect for the do it yourself owner. In general, you can assume a countertop dishwasher will be about the size of a large microwave.

Con’s: While this type of rv dishwasher is easy to connect it takes up a lot of precious counter space. (which can be hard to come by) In addition, this type of dishwasher is heavy. It may be difficult to move or store when not in use.  Be sure to have a clear storage plan.

Slimline RV dishwasher

http://contemporarykitchendesign

The Compact or Slim line Dishwasher

Pro’s: Compact dishwashers work just like a traditional, in home unit. These dishwashers are quiet and need a narrow space. You may be able remove a section of drawer or cabinets within your kitchen area of your motorhome to create space. Compact dishwashers also hold many place settings at one time and take only 18 inches of space.

Con’s: A slim line Rv dishwasher will use more water and will need to wired and plumbed into your unit. A built in dishwasher also requires a discharge into the grey tank. Professional installation is recommended especially in tight kitchen spaces.

IMG_0530

http://www.RV.Net

The RV Dishwasher Drawer

Pro’s: A “drawer” is a trendy, space saving appliance featured in many of the new higher end recreational vehicles. The most popular model is the Vesta RV Dishwasher which offers both drawer and countertop models. A rv dishwasher drawer uses no more than 4 gallons of water to get your dishes both clean and dry and the drawer will hold up to 6 place settings.

Con’s: A drawer style dishwasher should be professionally installed. Your RV may or may not have the space and the connections necessary to host a dishwasher drawer. Make sure to talk to an installer before you buy any rv dishwasher unit.

Final Considerations:

An RV dishwasher uses power and water every time you run it. This means you must have enough water in your source tank and enough waste space in your gray tank. If you plan to boondock or dry camp, a dishwasher may eat a lot of off the grid power. Always check to make sure your generator and/or inverter can handle the watts required to run an rv dishwasher. Don’t forget! If you plan to store your RV in the winter, prepare your dishwasher just like any other water consuming unit in your vehicle.  Dishwashers can freeze if water is left in them.

Where To Buy Your RV Dishwasher:

There are a variety of places you can purchase an RV dishwasher both online and off line.  Camping World sells the Vesta RV Dishwasher and also offers installation for a fee.  Amazon and Ebay also sell a variety of RV dishwashers but again, be sure to read the reviews and return policies before buying.

Creative, Low-Cost Options:

If an RV dishwasher is not in your immediate future here are a few tips and tricks for dealing with dirty dishes in a small kitchen space.

1. Label your cups and glasses and reuse them throughout the day.

2. Use plastic utensils whenever possible.

3. Avoiding paper plates? Consider using Corelle dishware. Corelle is almost unbreakable and its slick surface makes it easy to clean.

4. Spray your pots, pans and plates with a bit of water and Dawn dishwashing soap. Dawn will begin breaking down the grease allowing for a quick and easy clean up later on.

5. Purchase wax paper liners (the kind used at burger joints) and use them under toast, burgers and sandwiches.  They are quick and easy to use, not to mention affordable.