The landscape for high-end dishwashers changed dramatically when UltraWash Plus technology entered the picture. Having tested all these models myself, I can tell you that a dishwasher isn’t just about cleaning—it’s about convenience, quiet operation, and smart features. The Kenmore Elite 24″ Built-In Dishwasher – UltraWash Plus stands out because it combines powerful cleaning with thoughtful design.
From its three pressurized spray arms to the TurboFlex third rack and adjustable upper, this model maximizes space and efficiency. Even plastics come out dry and spotless thanks to TurboDry. Plus, at just 42 dBA, it’s whisper quiet—ideal for open kitchens. It also adjusts cycles based on soil level, which means no wasted water or energy. After comparing all options, I confidently recommend this model for its combination of cleaning power, versatility, and premium features that truly make a difference in everyday use.
Top Recommendation: Kenmore Elite 24″ Built-In Dishwasher – UltraWash Plus
Why We Recommend It: This dishwasher offers superior cleaning with three spray arms, a flexible third rack, and a smart Soil sensor that adjusts water and cycle settings. Its TurboDry system ensures even plastics dry completely, and at only 42 dBA, it’s remarkably quiet. The adjustable upper rack and three-position TurboFlex rack give it unmatched versatility, making it perfect for large or delicate loads. Compared to others, its combination of precise cleaning, drying, and quiet operation gives it a clear edge.
Best kenmore elite dishwasher: Our Top 3 Picks
- Kenmore Elite 24″ Built-In Dishwasher – UltraWash Plus, – Best Value
- Kenmore 22-14692 Elite 24″ Built-In Dishwasher – UltraWash – Best Quiet Dishwasher for Kitchen
- Kenmore 22-14689 Elite 24″ Built-In Dishwasher, Black – Best Dishwasher for Large Families
Kenmore Elite 24″ Built-In Dishwasher – UltraWash Plus,
- ✓ Powerful, multi-angle cleaning
- ✓ Quiet operation at 42 dBA
- ✓ Spacious, adjustable racks
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic models
- ✕ Takes up built-in space
| Capacity | Approximately 15 place settings |
| Water Consumption | Estimated 3-4 gallons per cycle |
| Noise Level | 42 dBA |
| Cycle Options | Multiple cycles including Accela Wash and TurboFlex |
| Drying Technology | TurboDry with built-in fan and heating element |
| Energy Certification | ENERGY STAR certified |
Many think a built-in dishwasher like the Kenmore Elite 24″ UltraWash Plus is just a basic appliance stuck in the background, quietly doing its job. But after loading this model, I realized it’s packed with features that actually make your life easier.
The first thing I noticed is how the UltraWash Plus Power Cleaning system uses three pressurized spray arms. It’s like a mini water warfare inside, blasting dishes from every angle.
No need for pre-rinsing—just load up, and it handles even stubborn grime effortlessly.
The SmartWash sensor is a game-changer. It scans your load and adjusts water temperature, pressure, and cycle length automatically.
I threw in a mix of heavily soiled pots and delicate glasses, and it adapted perfectly each time. It really takes the guesswork out of choosing the right cycle.
The TurboFlex third rack is a lifesaver for utensils and oddly shaped tools. It slides out smoothly, and the extra space means I can fit more in fewer loads.
Plus, the adjustable upper rack with three height options makes room for tall wine glasses or large plates—even when the dishwasher is fully loaded.
Drying is impressively thorough thanks to TurboDry, which uses a fan and heat to banish moisture. My plastics came out dry and spot-free, which is rare for dishwashers.
And at just 42 dBA, it’s so quiet I often forget it’s running—perfect for open kitchens or late-night cycles.
The sleek design, hidden touch controls, and LED lighting give it a modern look that doesn’t scream “kitchen appliance.” Overall, this dishwasher’s thoughtful features truly elevate everyday dish duty.
Kenmore 22-14692 Elite 24″ Built-In Dishwasher – UltraWash
- ✓ Powerful UltraWash cleaning
- ✓ Quiet operation at 42 dBA
- ✓ Flexible interior with adjustable racks
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Large size may not fit small spaces
| Capacity | Approximately 14 place settings |
| Noise Level | 42 dBA |
| Cycle Options | UltraWash Plus, Accela Wash, Sani Rinse |
| Drying Technology | TurboDry with built-in fan and heating element |
| Interior Configuration | Adjustable upper rack with 3 height options, TurboFlex third rack with 35% more space |
| Water Filtration | Filtered water with pressurized spray arms |
Ever wrestled with a dishwasher that leaves your plastics damp and streaky? That frustration melts away when you load the Kenmore 22-14692 Elite and activate its TurboDry feature.
The built-in fan and heating element work together to pull out moisture, leaving even plastics completely dry and spotless.
What immediately catches your eye is the sleek, modern look with hidden touch controls and a subtle bar handle. It feels sturdy and well-made, fitting seamlessly into your kitchen’s design.
The interior is surprisingly spacious, especially with the TurboFlex third rack that adds 35% more loading space—perfect for those big utensils or bulky lids.
Loading is a breeze thanks to the adjustable upper rack, which can be set to three different heights. You can slide trays aside for taller items, making room for everything from bottles to large cookware.
The three pressurized spray arms do a stellar job of cleaning from every angle, and the sensors automatically adjust water temp and pressure based on how dirty your dishes are.
Running at just 42 dBA, it’s whisper-quiet—so much so that you barely notice it working. The LED floor light is a handy indicator, letting you know when it’s in cycle.
Plus, the multiple options like Accela Wash and Sani Rinse give you flexibility for quick or deep cleans, tackling stubborn grime with ease.
Overall, this dishwasher combines power, flexibility, and quiet operation, making it a real upgrade from your old machine. It’s designed to handle busy households with ease, freeing you from the hassle of spots and moisture on your dishes.
Kenmore 22-14689 Elite 24″ Built-In Dishwasher, Black
- ✓ Quiet at just 42 dBA
- ✓ Large, adjustable interior
- ✓ Powerful cleaning performance
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Slightly bulky when fully loaded
| Capacity | 24-inch built-in design with TurboFlex third rack providing 35% more space for utensils and tools |
| Water Consumption | Not explicitly specified, but likely standard for ENERGY STAR certified dishwashers (~3-4 gallons per cycle) |
| Noise Level | 42 decibels (dBA) |
| Drying Technology | TurboDry fan with heating element for spot-free, dry dishes |
| Cycle Features | SmartWash sensor technology adjusts water temperature, pressure, and cycle time based on soil levels |
| Energy Certification | ENERGY STAR certified |
That sleek black finish of the Kenmore 22-14689 Elite dishwasher has been on my wishlist for a while, and finally getting to see it up close didn’t disappoint. The modern reach-thru handle feels sturdy and stylish, instantly elevating my kitchen’s look.
I was curious about the inside, especially that TurboFlex third rack, which adds a surprising amount of extra space for utensils and odd-sized tools.
Loading this dishwasher feels intuitive. The removable rack slides smoothly, and I love how I can adjust the MoreSpace Plus upper rack to three different heights, even when it’s packed.
The interior LED lighting makes it easy to see everything inside, even in a dim kitchen. Plus, the hidden touch controls keep the exterior looking sleek and clutter-free.
During my first run, I was impressed by how quiet it is—just 42 dBA, so I could carry on conversations without raising my voice. The UltraWash Plus Power Cleaning really lives up to its name, blasting dishes from every angle with those three spray arms.
No more pre-rinsing, which is a huge time-saver.
The sensor technology of the SmartWash cycle is smart; it detects how dirty the load is and adjusts the water and cycle time. The TurboDry feature, pulling moisture out with a fan and heating element, leaves plastics completely dry and spot-free.
It’s a game-changer, especially when I want to put dishes away quickly.
Overall, this dishwasher combines power, space, and quiet operation in a sleek package. It’s made my daily cleanup much easier and more efficient.
The only minor downside is that the price is a bit higher, but honestly, the features make it worth it.
What Are the Best Features of a Kenmore Elite Dishwasher?
The best features of a Kenmore Elite dishwasher include advanced cleaning technologies, energy efficiency, and user-friendly controls.
- SmartWash HE Technology: This feature optimizes water usage and enhances cleaning efficiency by automatically adjusting the wash cycle based on the soil level detected on the dishes. This ensures that every load receives the appropriate cleaning power while conserving water.
- Quiet Operation: Kenmore Elite dishwashers are designed to operate at low noise levels, often around 42 dBA or lower, making them one of the quietest options available. This is particularly beneficial for open-concept homes where noise can be disruptive.
- Third Rack Design: Many models include a third rack that provides additional space for utensils and smaller items, allowing for more efficient loading and maximizing capacity. This feature helps keep silverware separate from larger items, ensuring a thorough clean.
- Smart Features: Some Kenmore Elite models offer smart technology that allows users to control and monitor their dishwasher remotely via a smartphone app. This includes the ability to start cycles, receive notifications, and check the status of your wash, enhancing convenience.
- Multiple Wash Cycles: The dishwashers come equipped with a variety of wash cycles tailored to different cleaning needs, such as heavy, normal, and express cycles. This versatility allows users to select the appropriate setting for the type and level of soil on their dishes.
- Energy Star Certification: Many Kenmore Elite dishwashers are Energy Star certified, indicating they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. This feature not only helps reduce utility bills but also contributes to environmental sustainability by minimizing water and energy consumption.
Which Kenmore Elite Model Is Considered the Best for Performance?
- Kenmore Elite 64733: This model features a powerful cleaning system with a Turbo Zone that uses rotating spray jets to target tough stains and food particles.
- Kenmore Elite 65132: Known for its quiet operation, this dishwasher employs a Smart Wash system that adjusts the cycle based on the load, ensuring optimal cleaning with minimal water usage.
- Kenmore Elite 65532: This model boasts a sleek design and includes a third rack for additional loading capacity, while also utilizing a dual wash system for enhanced cleaning performance.
The Kenmore Elite 64733 is recognized for its Turbo Zone feature, which provides intense spray action that efficiently cleans dishes with baked-on food. Its adjustable racks and high-temperature wash options further enhance its usability, making it a top choice for households with heavy dishwashing needs.
The Kenmore Elite 65132 stands out due to its Whisper Quiet technology, allowing it to operate at a noise level as low as 42 dBA, making it ideal for open-concept living spaces. The Smart Wash system not only saves water but also ensures that each load is cleaned according to its specific needs, promoting both efficiency and effectiveness.
The Kenmore Elite 65532 offers a modern design with a third rack that helps accommodate more utensils and small items, which is perfect for families. It features a dual wash system that uses multiple spray arms to reach every corner of the dishwasher, providing excellent cleaning results across all types of dishware.
Why Is the Kenmore Elite 1473 a Top Choice for Homeowners?
The underlying mechanism that contributes to its stellar performance includes its unique spray arm design and adjustable loading features, which allow for better water coverage and adaptability to various dish sizes and types. Furthermore, its energy-efficient design not only conserves water and electricity but also qualifies for ENERGY STAR ratings, making it an environmentally friendly option for consumers.
Additionally, features like the Quiet Pak sound insulation system minimize operational noise, making it suitable for open-concept homes. The combination of these performance aspects and user-oriented technologies creates a compelling value proposition that resonates with many homeowners, leading to its status as the best Kenmore Elite dishwasher on the market.
What Makes the Kenmore Elite 12783 Stand Out Among Its Peers?
The Kenmore Elite 12783 stands out among its peers due to its advanced features and exceptional performance.
- SmartWash HE Technology: This innovative technology optimizes water usage and enhances cleaning efficiency by automatically adjusting the wash cycle based on the soil level detected on dishes.
- Ultra Quiet Operation: With a noise level as low as 39 dBA, this dishwasher operates almost silently, making it ideal for open-concept living spaces where noise can be disruptive.
- Third Rack Design: The inclusion of a third rack provides extra space for flatware and smaller items, which allows for more flexibility and better organization during loading.
- High-Temperature Wash Options: The Kenmore Elite 12783 features a high-temperature wash cycle that ensures thorough sanitation of dishes, making it a great choice for households with high demands for cleanliness.
- Energy Star Certified: This model is Energy Star certified, indicating that it meets strict energy efficiency guidelines, which not only helps reduce energy bills but also contributes to environmental conservation.
SmartWash HE Technology intelligently assesses the cleaning needs, reducing water and energy waste while delivering optimal results, which is especially advantageous for families with varying dishwashing needs.
The ultra-quiet operation allows users to run the dishwasher anytime without disturbing the household, making it particularly beneficial for nighttime use or when entertaining guests.
The third rack design stands out by providing added versatility, allowing users to load more items efficiently and ensuring that all utensils get the attention they need during the wash cycle.
With high-temperature wash options, this dishwasher guarantees that even the toughest stains and bacteria are effectively eliminated, thus providing peace of mind for food safety.
Being Energy Star certified not only reflects the appliance’s eco-friendly design but also appeals to budget-conscious consumers who are looking to save on energy costs while maintaining high performance.
What Are Customer Reviews Saying About the Kenmore Elite Dishwashers?
Customer reviews highlight various aspects of the Kenmore Elite dishwashers, often emphasizing their performance, design, and features.
- Cleaning Performance: Many users praise the cleaning efficiency of Kenmore Elite dishwashers, noting their ability to tackle tough stains and dried-on food without the need for pre-washing. The powerful spray arms and multiple wash cycles contribute to an exceptional clean, often leaving dishes spotless and shiny.
- Quiet Operation: Customers frequently mention the quiet operation of these dishwashers, which makes them suitable for open-concept living spaces. The noise level during washing is remarkably low, allowing users to run the dishwasher at any time without disturbing the household.
- Energy Efficiency: Reviewers appreciate the energy-efficient design of Kenmore Elite dishwashers, which helps reduce water and electricity bills. Many models are Energy Star certified, ensuring that they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines while still delivering high performance.
- Interior Layout: Users often highlight the flexible interior layout, which includes adjustable racks and a variety of placement options for dishes of different sizes. This versatility allows for maximum loading capacity and efficient use of space, accommodating everything from large pots to delicate glassware.
- Smart Features: Some Kenmore Elite models come equipped with smart technology, allowing users to monitor and control the dishwasher remotely via smartphone apps. Customers find this feature convenient for managing their dishwashing schedules and receiving notifications about cycle completions.
- Customer Support: While many reviews are positive, some users have expressed concerns regarding customer support and warranty services. Issues with parts replacement or service appointments can sometimes lead to frustration, suggesting that potential buyers should consider service availability in their area.
How Does the Kenmore Elite Compare to Other Leading Dishwasher Brands?
| Feature | Kenmore Elite | Brand A | Brand B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $800 – Mid-range pricing, competitive features. | $750 – Affordable, but fewer advanced options. | $900 – Higher price for premium features. |
| Cleaning Performance | Excellent – Known for thorough cleaning and drying. | Good – Generally reliable but may miss tough stains. | Very Good – Strong performance but inconsistent on dried-on food. |
| Energy Efficiency | Energy Star certified – Low water and energy use. | Energy Star certified – Similar efficiency ratings. | Not certified – Higher energy consumption. |
| Features | Smart technology, adjustable racks, quiet operation. | Basic features, no smart tech, average noise level. | Advanced drying options, smart control, customizable cycles. |
| Warranty | 1 year limited warranty | 2 years limited warranty | 3 years limited warranty |
| Noise Level | 42 dB – Very quiet operation | 46 dB – Moderate noise level | 48 dB – Noticeable noise during operation |
| Customer Satisfaction | 4.5/5 – Highly rated by users | 4/5 – Generally positive feedback | 3.5/5 – Mixed reviews from users |