Following its purchase by appliance manufacturer Fisher & Paykel, DCS Appliance has added the revolutionary dishdrawer design to its lineup of high-end, luxury appliances. Whether it bears the Fisher& Paykel name or the DCS name, this unique dishwashing system is a favorite of ours. In fact, with an unlimited budget, this unit just might be our top choice for dishwashing.

Offering some of the most sensible features ever seen on a dishwasher, this DCS model is actually two totally separate and independently operating wash units. Each unit can run a different cycle, allowing you to wash a delicate cycle in one drawer and a heavily soiled load in the other. Running only one of the units allows considerable energy savings and encourages the immediate running of small loads. Use of this unit in the double mode meets and exceeds the Energy Star guidelines for water and electrical efficiency and will save you money on utility bills. The slide-out drawers are convenient and easy to use and save on space when compared with the traditional pull-down door.

Taking dishwashing a step further, this model adjusts the water pressure to the degree of soil when you switch cycles. Pressure is increased to better remove soil from heavy loads and decreased in lightly soiled loads, thus saving wear and tear on your delicate place settings. To best activate the enzymes and prevent detergent burn on dishes, this unit premixes the detergent with water before adding it to the load. The DCS also boasts incredibly quiet operation, so you can carry on a conversation in the kitchen while it is washing dishes.

Expect to pay more for the DCS DishDrawer than for the Fisher & Paykel unit. The price difference is due to the high quality materials used in the upgraded door, handle and control panel. For those who want the best but are limited by budget, consider spending a little more than half the price of this double unit on a single DishDrawer (DD-124C) and adding the second drawer as your family and budget grows.


Pros: Washes half-loads or two loads of different types, complements the design of commercially styled kitchens
Cons: Lacks adjustable racks, accommodates dinner plates up to 11-5/8 inches in diameter, oversize plates (12 inches) require the purchase of the optional 12-inch plate rack

Warranty
2 years, parts and labor