We put the Asko D3112 free-standing dishwasher through its paces. We tested the stainless steel model; other finishes cost about $100 less and include black, bisque or white.

The Asko D3112 is well insulated and runs quietly. It has four wash cycles and six temperature settings. The wash cycles include a heavy-duty wash and a delicate cycle for china and crystal as well as a normal cycle and accelerated cycle. While we acknowledge these four cycles are probably the ones we'd use the most, we were disappointed that more wash cycles weren't offered at this price point. The Asko D3112 doesn't even have a high-temperature wash. It does have a sensor that tells if an extra-dirty load needs an additional wash -- but it's a feature that's nearly standard on most models offered by Asko's competitors. There is not a built-in food disposal, so plan on taking extra time to hand-rinse dishware, flatware and glasses before placing them in this dishwasher.

The Asko D3112 has two spray arms compared to the three spray arms we often find in dishwashers costing $1,000 or more. It has two racks -- a top rack and a bottom rack -- but neither offers anything extraordinary. In fact, the racks are not adjustable. The top rack can't be removed and only some of the tines fold flat. This really limits the versatility of the D3112's racks. It makes it difficult to fit oddly shaped items in the racks, and makes it nearly impossible to accommodate large items such as baking sheets. There isn't a flexible-fit cutlery rack, which is now so common in models at all price points that its lack is nearly a shocking omission.

The stainless steel interior tub works in its favor, but the Asko D3112 doesn't have a thermal drying feature. Instead, it uses a vented system. Adequate, but not what we'd expect when dropping a grand on a dishwasher. The Asko is admittedly more energy-efficient than some of its competitors, using less electricity and water than most. Despite its miserly consumption, the Asko does an admirable job of cleaning dishes.

While the Asko D3112 's control panel is not hidden, it is digital. The unusual configuration makes it easy to use, but perhaps not as sleek as some homeowners would like. Overall, the Asko D3112 performed well, but it's not enough to make up for its lack of features. There are models at one-quarter the cost that rival the bells and whistles on this one.


Pros: Energy-saving and water-saving model
Cons: Lacks features that should be standard at this price-point

Warranty
3 years