Zanussi

Buying a Zanussi Dishwasher

Zanussi as a Manufacturer

Founded by Antonio Zanussi in 1916, Zanussi continues to focus upon innovation in building its success. A brief review of the bold design of current Zanussi products, their use of advanced technology and their user-friendliness supports the company's "Excellence in Design and Innovation" claims. Zanussi continues to be highly regarded for the quality of its innovative dishwashers and other domestic products together with their distinctive modern design.

Dishwasher Water Supply

Both water and heat are cost factors. A dishwasher with low water consumption is therefore preferable. Most dishwashers can be connected to either the cold water feed or the hot water feed. Connecting to cold uses less energy because water is only heated in the machine during the cleaning and final rinse elements of the cycle (although it does lengthen the cycle because of water heating time). In contrast, when you connect to the hot supply, the dishwasher always uses hot water including when it is simply rinsing or pre-washing.

Other Key Features and Things to Consider

Energy Efficiency

With today's focus on environmental issues, it is not surprising that current dishwashers generally consume less energy than washing the dishes by hand! Whatever machine you choose, avoid pre-rinsing dishes under the hot tap; ensure that you fully load the dishwasher before running it; use 'off-peak' electricity where available; use the economy cycle when dishes are not too soiled and connect the machine to the cold rather than the hot water supply.

Guarantee

All manufacturers give a twelve month parts and labour guarantee. Many brands offer extended guarantees but these may require that you use their own engineers - at a higher cost than independent engineers.

Half Load

Many dishwashers have a 'half load' function, allowing you to ask the dishwasher to wash a smaller load in the top tray only. Energy-wise it is always best to fill the dishwasher as certain elements operate fully whether or not you are running a half load.

Noise

Thanks to years of engineering and development, Zanussi machines are quiet. As a guideline, around 50 db or better (below) is generally regarded as an appropriate noise level.

Programmes and Temperature

All dishwashers have a regular cycle. Most machines also include a rinse cycle and a cycle for delicates with lower temperatures. The temperature should be a maximum of 55°C (although the drying cycle will exceed this on some machines). Reducing the temperature from 65°C to 55°C lowers energy consumption by 25%. You should also avoid using the drying cycle when washing delicates.

Reliability and Longevity

Zanussi dishwashers have a solid reliability track record. You should also think about lifetime costs - cheaper brands may seem to cost less to buy but may require more engineer time and not last as long, therefore costing more over their lifespan.

Timer Function

In many areas, people have the opportunity to use 'off-peak' power at reduced rates (usually night time). If you have this option, consider machines that have a delay / timer function that allows you to tell the machine to wait until a specific time before starting its cycle, thereby reducing energy consumption and of course your costs.

Water Softener

Those of you who live in hard water areas will be all too familiar with calcium stains on glasses and cutlery. Most current machines have a built-in water softener, requiring the use of iodine-free salt. Some more advanced models offer an electronically controlled softener which is activated only when needed (determined by a threshold that you choose).

Other Features and Functions

These vary greatly depending upon the brand and model range. Examples include movable upper trays; special holders for bottles, glasses and vases; and child safety options.