15 Best Low Energy Dishwashers That Will Slash Your Utility Bills

The best low-energy dishwashers for 2025 combine compact designs with impressive efficiency. Top models like the Honeywell 18-inch (234 kWh/year), COMFEE’ Portable (174 kWh/year), and HAVA Countertop with 8 wash programs deliver exceptional cleaning while minimizing utility costs. Many Energy Star certified options use just 1.5-3.5 gallons per cycle and include specialized programs for various needs. You’ll find both space-saving countertop models and full-size units with advanced features below.

Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place Settings

The Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher strikes the perfect balance between compact design and efficiency, making it ideal for small households and apartments with limited kitchen space.

Despite its 18-inch frame, it accommodates 8 place settings across two racks. You’ll appreciate the versatility of six washing programs, including eco mode for maximum energy savings.

With Energy Star certification and just 234 kWh/year consumption, you’ll notice lower utility bills without sacrificing cleaning power. The stainless steel tub improves performance while the 24-hour delay start adds convenience to your routine.

While installation might require an additional kit, customers rate it 4.0/5 stars for its sleek appearance and quiet operation.

Best For: Small households, apartments, or compact kitchens where space is limited but quality dishwashing is still a priority.

Pros:

• Compact 18-inch design with impressive 8 place setting capacity makes efficient use of limited kitchen space
• Energy Star certified with multiple wash programs including eco mode for lower utility bills
• Stainless steel tub and 24-hour delay start feature combine durability with convenience

Cons:

• Installation can be challenging and requires a separate kit that’s not included with purchase
• Some customers report missing parts or damage upon delivery
• At 70 pounds, it’s relatively heavy for its compact size, potentially making installation more difficult

COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher for Countertop (6 Place Settings)

For space-conscious consumers seeking energy efficiency without sacrificing cleaning power, COMFEE’s Portable Mini Dishwasher represents an ideal solution. This Energy Star countertop unit consumes just 174 kWh annually while handling up to 70 pieces of tableware.

You’ll appreciate the versatile eight washing programs, including the quick 45-minute Speed cycle and the powerful Heavy option with 12 nozzles for stubborn stains. Using only 2.77-2.85 gallons per wash, it’s remarkably water-efficient.

Installation is straightforward—connect directly to your faucet with the included adaptor. At 17.2″×21.6″×19.7″ and 46 pounds, it fits perfectly in apartments, dorms, and RVs while maintaining a stellar 4.3/5 rating from over 2,600 users.

Best For: Space-conscious individuals in apartments, dorms, or RVs who need an energy-efficient dishwasher with powerful cleaning capabilities without requiring permanent installation.

Pros:

• Compact dimensions (17.2″×21.6″×19.7″) with impressive 6 place setting capacity that can clean up to 70 pieces of tableware
• Versatile with 8 washing programs including specialized cycles for heavy stains, baby items, and quick 45-minute washes
• Energy Star rated with exceptional water efficiency, using only 2.77-2.85 gallons per wash cycle

Cons:

• At 46 pounds, it may be challenging to move or reposition frequently
• Some users report issues with the faucet adaptor, requiring additional parts or careful handling
• Limited space may require strategic loading techniques to maximize capacity, especially for larger plates

Kenmore 24″ Built-In Dishwasher with SmartWash (White, Energy Star)

Energy-conscious homeowners will appreciate Kenmore’s 24″ Built-In Dishwasher with SmartWash, which combines efficient performance with innovative features. This Energy Star certified model consumes only 239 kWh annually, helping you cut utility bills.

You’ll enjoy the SmartWash Cycle that automatically adjusts water usage and temperature based on soil levels. The UltraWash system‘s dual spray arms and continuous filtration guarantee thorough cleaning, while the 57 dBA noise level won’t disturb post-dinner conversations.

The dishwasher offers six customizable cycles including Half Load and Delay Start. Its adjustable rack provides flexible loading options, though some users report installation challenges due to unclear instructions.

Best For: Families or individuals seeking an energy-efficient dishwasher with customizable washing options and quieter operation for open-concept kitchens.

Pros:

• SmartWash technology automatically adjusts water and temperature based on dish soil levels, optimizing efficiency
• Quiet 57 dBA operation level won’t disturb household conversations or activities
• Flexible loading options with adjustable rack system accommodate various dish sizes and shapes

Cons:

• Installation process can be challenging due to unclear manual instructions and potentially missing parts
• Touch screen interface may have response time issues according to some customer feedback
• Mixed customer service experiences reported in reviews when addressing functionality problems

HAVA Upgraded Countertop Dishwasher with Water Softener (2025)

Compact yet mighty, the HAVA 2025 Upgraded Countertop Dishwasher stands out as an ideal solution for small-space dwellers who won’t compromise on cleanliness or energy efficiency.

At just 16.86 × 16.75 × 18.05 inches, this 28.6-pound powerhouse consumes only 150 kWh annually, making it remarkably economical. You’ll appreciate the built-in water softener that prevents limescale buildup and the 5-liter tank that eliminates plumbing requirements. With eight wash programs and a user-friendly touch interface featuring delayed start and child lock functions, this dishwasher delivers 360-degree cleaning for all your dishes.

Best For: Small apartment dwellers, RV owners, and dorm residents seeking an efficient, space-saving dishwashing solution without permanent installation requirements.

Pros:

• Built-in water softener prevents limescale buildup and watermarks, extending the dishwasher’s lifespan and improving cleaning results
• Versatile 8 wash programs with touch controls and 18-hour delayed start provide flexibility for various cleaning needs
• Portable 5-liter tank design requires no plumbing, making it ideal for temporary setups and small spaces

Cons:

• Some users report an unpleasant plastic smell during drying cycles
• Included hoses (61 inches) may be too short for certain setups and have received criticism for fragility
• Occasional post-purchase mechanical issues have been reported, requiring customer service intervention

Kenmore 24″ Built-In Dishwasher, Energy Star Certified (White)

The Kenmore 24″ Built-In Dishwasher combines energy efficiency with smart functionality, making it ideal for households seeking both eco-friendly performance and practical features. With an Energy Star certification and 239 kWh annual consumption, you’ll enjoy lower utility bills without sacrificing cleaning power.

The SmartWash technology automatically adjusts water and temperature based on soil levels, while the UltraWash system‘s dual spray arms guarantee thorough cleaning. You’ll appreciate the versatile MoreSpace adjustable rack that accommodates larger items, and the quiet 51 dBA operation won’t interrupt your evening. Though some users mention flimsy racks, most praise its cleaning efficiency and cycle variety.

Best For: Small to medium-sized families seeking an energy-efficient dishwasher with smart features that automatically adjust to cleaning needs while maintaining quieter operation.

Pros:

• SmartWash technology automatically adjusts water, temperature, and cycle length based on soil levels for optimal cleaning efficiency
• Energy Star certified with adjustable rack system that accommodates larger items for versatile loading options
• Quiet 51 dBA operation won’t disrupt household activities or conversations

Cons:

• Some users report flimsy racks that may not hold up well over extended use
• Installation instructions described as unclear, potentially requiring professional help
• Several complaints about operational issues with cycle selections and user interface

Danby DDW1805EWP Portable Dishwasher, White

For those with limited kitchen space but unwilling to sacrifice cleaning performance, Danby’s DDW1805EWP portable dishwasher strikes an impressive balance between size and functionality. At just 18 inches wide, this Energy Star certified appliance consumes only 240 kWh annually while using a mere 3.5 gallons per wash.

You’ll appreciate the four wash cycles (Heavy, Normal, 90 min, Rapid) and stainless steel interior that accommodates 8 place settings. For best results, run hot water before starting and use a rinse agent. Though it weighs 116 pounds, its portability and efficiency make it worth considering—especially with responsive customer support backing your purchase.

Best For: Space-conscious renters or homeowners with small kitchens who need a dishwasher solution that doesn’t require permanent installation but still provides reliable cleaning performance.

Pros:

• Energy efficient with Energy Star certification, using only 3.5 gallons per wash and 240 kWh annually
• Versatile washing options with four distinct cycles to handle different cleaning needs
• Stainless steel interior with 8 place setting capacity allows for substantial load sizes despite compact dimensions

Cons:

• Heavy weight (116.84 pounds) makes moving and initial setup challenging without assistance
• Potential issues with hose connections that could lead to leaking if not properly installed
• Some customers reported receiving units with cosmetic damage from shipping despite overall positive ratings

Kenmore Built-In Dishwasher with 3rd Rack, Energy Star Certified

Energy-conscious homeowners seeking premium dishwashing performance will appreciate the Kenmore Built-In Dishwasher with 3rd Rack. This Energy Star certified model runs quietly at 45 dBA while its SmartWash technology automatically adjusts water usage based on soil detection.

You’ll love the flexibility of the MoreSpace adjustable rack and the efficiency of the TurboDry system that enhances drying performance. With nine wash settings including AccelaWash for quicker cleaning, this dishwasher adapts to your needs.

The stainless steel tub resists stains and retains heat, boosting drying efficiency. The Leak Detect System provides peace of mind by monitoring water flow and automatically draining if issues arise.

Best For: Energy-conscious homeowners who want a feature-rich dishwasher with flexible loading options and automatic washing technology.

Pros:

• Smart technology automatically adjusts water usage and temperature based on soil detection for efficient cleaning
• Quiet 45 dBA operation makes it suitable for open-concept homes where noise would be disruptive
• Versatile rack system with adjustable upper rack and 3rd rack provides excellent loading flexibility for different dish sizes

Cons:

• Installation requires separate purchase of power cord and water supply hoses, adding to overall cost
• Mixed customer reviews (3.5/5 stars) suggest inconsistent performance experiences
• At 90+ pounds, this unit is relatively heavy which may complicate DIY installation

KoolMore Stainless Steel Dishwasher 18″ (Energy Star Certified)

Compact yet powerful, the KoolMore Stainless Steel Dishwasher offers an ideal solution for apartment dwellers and homeowners with limited kitchen space. At just 18 inches wide, this Energy Star certified appliance fits neatly into smaller kitchens while accommodating 8 place settings.

You’ll appreciate its versatile cleaning performance with six cycles including options for delicate china and heavily soiled bakeware. Operating at 52 dB, it’s relatively quiet for its class. The panel-ready design allows integration with your custom cabinetry for a seamless look.

With an annual energy consumption of 1008 watts, this KoolMore model balances efficiency with performance while maintaining a competitive price point compared to premium brands.

Best For: Apartment dwellers, small households, and homeowners with limited kitchen space who need a compact dishwasher that can still handle regular family dish loads while fitting seamlessly into custom cabinetry.

Pros:

• Space-efficient 18-inch design that accommodates 8 place settings despite its compact footprint
• Energy Star certified with multiple wash cycle options for versatile cleaning performance
• Panel-ready design allows for seamless integration with existing kitchen cabinetry for a custom look

Cons:

• Limited installation instructions, particularly for attaching custom panels
• At 52 dB, it’s relatively quiet but not as silent as premium dishwasher models
• May require additional tools and basic woodworking skills for proper custom panel installation

FOTILE 2-in-1 Top Load Compact Dishwasher with HydroJet Technology

The innovative FOTILE 2-in-1 Top Load Compact Dishwasher stands out as a revolutionary option for small households and apartments where space efficiency matters most. At just 21 inches with a sleek glossy finish, this dual-purpose appliance cleverly combines dishwashing with produce cleaning capabilities.

You’ll appreciate the impressive efficiency ratings—consuming only 1.6 gallons of water per eco-cycle and a mere 0.5 kWh per wash. The HydroJet Technology creates high-pressure cavitation bubbles that thoroughly remove stubborn stains, while the odor-free storage keeps dishes hygienic for up to 96 hours. With ultra-fast 15-minute quick wash cycles, you’ll save both time and energy.

Best For: Small apartment dwellers and eco-conscious consumers who need a space-saving, multifunctional appliance that can clean both dishes and produce efficiently.

Pros:

• Versatile 2-in-1 design combines dishwashing and produce cleaning functions in one compact 21-inch unit
• Extremely water-efficient, using only 1.6 gallons per eco cycle with quick 15-minute wash options
• Features odor-free storage technology that keeps dishes hygienic for up to 96 hours

Cons:

• At 48.1 pounds, it may be heavy for some users to move or install without assistance
• Limited capacity compared to standard-sized dishwashers due to its compact design
• Manufactured in China, which may concern some buyers who prefer domestically-produced appliances

COMFEE Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop for Apartments & RVs

COMFEE’s portable mini dishwasher offers an ideal solution for small-space dwellers looking to save both energy and water. At just 36.6 pounds with compact dimensions, it fits perfectly in apartments, dorms, and RVs while using only 130 kWh annually—a third of the water typically used for handwashing.

You’ll appreciate the versatility of six washing programs, including the unique FRUIT cycle (no detergent needed) and high-temperature sanitizing up to 192°F for baby bottles. The 5L built-in tank gives you flexibility to fill manually or connect directly to your faucet with the included adapter.

Best For: Singles, couples, or small families living in apartments, dorms, or RVs who want to save water and energy without sacrificing clean dishes.

Pros:

• Versatile installation with both manual filling and direct faucet connection options
• Six distinct washing programs including specialized cycles for fruit and baby bottles
• Compact size (17.13 x 16.53 x 17.24 inches) that fits easily on countertops while still washing 30+ items

Cons:

• Limited capacity compared to full-size dishwashers (maximum 9.5-inch plates)
• Requires pre-rinsing dishes to prevent clogging
• Potential lifespan concerns with some users reporting approximately 4 years of use

Danby DDW631SDB Countertop Dishwasher, Stainless Steel

For apartment dwellers and small kitchen owners, Danby’s DDW631SDB offers an energy-efficient dishwashing solution without sacrificing counter space. This Energy Star certified model consumes just 203 kilowatt hours annually while using only 3.1 gallons per normal cycle.

You’ll appreciate the six wash cycle options, from intensive cleaning to a quick rinse, all controlled via an intuitive LED display. The delay start feature lets you schedule washing during off-peak hours to further reduce energy costs.

At 54db, it runs quietly enough for open-concept living spaces. While it won’t accommodate large pots or offer a dedicated drying cycle, its 6-place setting capacity handles daily dishware effectively.

Best For: Singles, couples, or small families living in apartments or homes with limited kitchen space who need an efficient dishwashing solution without requiring permanent installation.

Pros:

• Energy Star certified with low water consumption (3.1 gallons per cycle) and energy usage (203 kWh annually)
• Features 6 versatile wash cycles and convenient delay start options of 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours
• Easy to install with quick-connect feature compatible with most kitchen faucets and operates quietly at 54db

Cons:

• Limited 6-place setting capacity makes it challenging to wash large pots, pans, or full family meal dishes
• Lacks a dedicated drying cycle, requiring additional time for dishes to fully dry
• Some users report difficulties with the faucet adapter compatibility and installation complexity

Hermitlux Countertop Portable Dishwasher with 5 Washing Programs

Compact yet powerful, the Hermitlux Countertop Portable Dishwasher offers an energy-efficient solution for small households and tight spaces. At just 16.85×16.73×18.03 inches, it fits perfectly on countertops while accommodating 4 place-settings.

You’ll appreciate its impressive efficiency, using only 1.5-2 gallons per cycle and consuming just 0.38 kWh per wash. The five washing programs (Standard, Fast, ECO, Strong, and Fruit Cleaning) tackle everything from everyday dishes to oily cookware.

The built-in 5-liter water tank gives you flexibility—fill manually or connect to your faucet. With dual spraying arms and PTC hot wind drying, you’ll get spotless results while saving energy.

Best For: Small households, apartments, dorms, RVs, and boats where space is limited but dishwashing convenience is desired.

Pros:

• Versatile water supply options with built-in 5-liter tank for manual filling or direct faucet connection
• Five specialized washing programs including a unique Fruit Cleaning mode
• Energy and water efficient, using only 1.5-2 gallons per load compared to handwashing

Cons:

• Limited 4 place-setting capacity may require multiple cycles for larger households
• 26.4-pound weight makes it less portable despite its “portable” marketing
• Takes up valuable counter space in already small kitchens

Midea Portable Countertop Dishwasher (MDC22P1ABB)

The Midea Portable Countertop Dishwasher stands out as an energy-efficient marvel for apartment dwellers and small households seeking to reduce their utility bills while maintaining cleanliness standards.

This Energy Star-certified unit consumes only 155 kWh annually and uses a mere 2.85 gallons per hour, making it exceptionally economical. You’ll appreciate the versatility of eight washing programs, including the quick 45-minute Speed cycle and the germ-killing Baby-Care option that reaches 158°F. At just 52dB, it’s quieter than most conversations.

The matte black finish and compact dimensions (19.68 x 21.63 x 17.25 inches) guarantee it fits seamlessly into your kitchen while accommodating six place settings.

Best For: Apartment dwellers, small households, and college students seeking an energy-efficient dishwashing solution that doesn’t require permanent installation or extensive plumbing modifications.

Pros:

• Energy Star certified with low water consumption (2.85 gallons per hour) and annual energy usage of only 155 kWh, making it economical for daily use
• Versatile 8 washing programs including specialized Baby-Care cycle with 158°F sanitizing temperature and fast 45-minute Speed cycle
• Compact size (19.68 x 21.63 x 17.25 inches) with 6 place setting capacity fits easily on countertops while operating quietly at just 52dB

Cons:

• Limited capacity of 6 place settings may require multiple cycles for larger families or dinner parties
• Rack spacing may present challenges when washing smaller objects according to some customer reviews
• At 55.7 pounds, it may be cumbersome to move or reposition frequently despite being marketed as “portable”

SPT Stainless Steel Portable Dishwasher (SD-9263SSB)

When kitchen space comes at a premium, SPT’s Stainless Steel Portable Dishwasher (SD-9263SSB) delivers full-sized performance in a compact 18-inch frame. This ENERGY STAR-certified unit consumes just 237 kilowatt-hours annually, considerably reducing your utility costs.

You’ll appreciate the versatile six wash programs—from quick rinses to heavy-duty cycles—all housed in a durable stainless steel tub. The freestanding design connects directly to your kitchen faucet without permanent plumbing, making it perfect for rentals.

Despite its portable nature, you won’t sacrifice cleaning power. The adjustable upper rack accommodates larger cookware while efficiently handling eight place settings per load.

Best For: Apartment dwellers, renters, and homeowners with limited kitchen space who need a dishwasher without permanent installation requirements.

Pros:

• Easy installation with quick-connect faucet adapter requiring no permanent plumbing
• Energy-efficient operation with ENERGY STAR certification and low annual energy consumption
• Versatile cleaning options with six wash programs to handle everything from delicate glassware to heavily soiled cookware

Cons:

• Relatively heavy at 114 pounds, which may limit portability for some users
• Some plastic components may have durability concerns compared to all-metal parts
• Requires counter space when in use and storage space when not connected to the faucet

EUHOMY Mini Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 5L Water Tank

For apartment dwellers and small space enthusiasts, the EUHOMY Mini Portable Countertop Dishwasher offers an energy-efficient cleaning solution without sacrificing performance.

At just 16.8 inches in each dimension, this compact unit fits easily on countertops while accommodating over 30 dishes up to 10.25 inches. You’ll appreciate its dual water supply options: a 5-liter tank or direct faucet connection.

Choose from five specialized cleaning modes including a quick 29-minute cycle and a 167°F baby care option. The 60-minute hot air drying followed by 72-hour ventilation guarantees spotless, odor-free results.

You’ll use 80% less water than handwashing while enjoying ETL and DOE safety certifications and a one-year warranty.

Best For: Studio apartment dwellers, RV owners, and small households looking for a water-efficient dishwashing solution without permanent installation requirements.

Pros:

• Versatile water supply options with both tank and faucet modes, eliminating the need for dedicated plumbing
• Space-efficient design accommodates 30+ dishes while maintaining a small 16.8″ footprint
• Specialized cleaning cycles including quick 29-minute wash and 167°F sanitizing option for baby items

Cons:

• Limited capacity compared to full-size dishwashers may require multiple cycles for large family meals
• 5L water tank may need refilling during longer or multiple wash cycles
• Requires specific dishwasher detergent rather than regular dish soap, adding to maintenance considerations

Factors to Consider When Choosing Low Energy Dishwashers

When you’re shopping for a low energy dishwasher, you’ll want to check for Energy Star certification and compare annual energy consumption figures between models. You should also examine water usage efficiency and available cycle options, as these features directly impact both energy use and cleaning performance. Consider the dishwasher’s size and capacity carefully to make sure you’re not purchasing a unit that’s larger than your household needs, which would waste energy and water with each cycle.

Energy Star Certification

The Energy Star certification represents one of the most important indicators of a dishwasher’s efficiency. When you’re shopping for a low-energy dishwasher, this blue label should be your first checkpoint. Appliances with this certification use approximately 10% less energy and 20% less water than standard models, directly translating to lower utility bills.

What makes this certification valuable is the rigorous testing process. The EPA and DOE guarantee these dishwashers maintain excellent cleaning performance despite using minimal resources. By choosing an Energy Star certified model, you’ll save around 3,870 gallons of water over the dishwasher’s lifetime compared to hand washing.

Beyond financial savings, you’re also reducing your household’s carbon footprint, as these efficient appliances help minimize greenhouse gas emissions.

Annual Energy Consumption

Annual energy consumption represents the most reliable metric when evaluating a dishwasher’s efficiency. When shopping for low energy models, you’ll want to look for units consuming between 150-250 kWh per year. For context, the Honeywell 18-inch dishwasher operates at 234 kWh annually.

Energy Star certified models guarantee at least 10% energy savings compared to standard dishwashers, directly reducing your utility bills and environmental footprint. These consumption figures translate to real operational costs—the lower the kWh, the more you’ll save long-term.

To maximize efficiency, maintain your dishwasher regularly by cleaning filters and loading dishes properly. This not only preserves energy performance but extends your appliance’s lifespan. By selecting models with minimal annual energy use, you’re supporting sustainable living while cutting household expenses.

Water Usage Efficiency

Water usage efficiency stands alongside energy consumption as a critical factor in dishwasher selection. Today’s low-energy models dramatically outperform traditional handwashing, using just 1.5 to 3.5 gallons per cycle compared to the 10 gallons you might use washing by hand.

Energy Star certified dishwashers typically consume only 3-5 gallons per cycle while maintaining excellent cleaning performance. The most efficient models can operate on as little as 2 gallons per load, translating to annual water usage of just 150-240 gallons.

When shopping for your next dishwasher, prioritize water-efficient models that will reduce both your water bills and energy costs. Since less water means less energy needed for heating, you’ll benefit from dual savings while minimizing your environmental footprint.

Cycle Options Impact

Selecting the right cycle options on your dishwasher can profoundly impact both energy consumption and cleaning effectiveness. Most energy-efficient models offer a range of settings including Heavy, Normal, Eco, and Rapid cycles, allowing you to match the intensity to your specific needs.

The Eco cycle should be your go-to for everyday loads, as it uses considerably less water and energy while still providing thorough cleaning. For lightly soiled dishes, quick wash settings can cut your resource usage even further by vastly reducing cycle time.

Specialized cycles like Baby Care or Delicate offer effective cleaning for specific items while minimizing water usage. To maximize savings, avoid high-temperature or intensive settings when unnecessary, and take advantage of delay start options to run your dishwasher during off-peak energy hours.

Size and Capacity

Finding the right size and capacity for your low-energy dishwasher represents a critical decision that affects both efficiency and utility. Consider your kitchen layout first, with standard models measuring 24 inches wide and compact units at 18 inches.

Assess capacity based on your household’s needs—compact dishwashers typically handle 6-8 place settings, while standard models accommodate up to 14 settings per cycle. Before purchasing, measure your largest dishes to guarantee they’ll fit, as some units can only support plates up to 10 inches in diameter.

Look for adjustable racks and flexible configurations that maximize space utilization, allowing you to wash bulky items efficiently. If you’re considering a portable option, note that weights vary considerably (28.6-116 pounds), which will impact installation and mobility around your kitchen.

Drying Technology Differences

Beyond size considerations, drying technology greatly influences a dishwasher’s energy consumption and cleaning effectiveness. When shopping for a low-energy model, you’ll encounter various drying methods with significant efficiency differences.

Condensation drying systems use heated stainless steel tubs to draw moisture away without additional energy, while fan-assisted options speed up the process but consume more power. If you’re concerned about sanitization, high-temperature drying (160°F-170°F) effectively disinfects baby items and cookware, though at higher energy costs.

For maximum efficiency, look for models with PTC hot air technology that circulates warm air without traditional heating elements. Some advanced dishwashers even feature automatic air circulation systems that maintain freshness during periods of non-use—a bonus for infrequent users who want to prevent odors while saving energy.