The Fisher & Paykel DD605 built-in dishwasher is one of the company's fifth generation of models sporting its popular DoubleDrawer. Since their 1997 introduction of the DoubleDrawer concept, the New Zealand company has focused on and succeeded in making the dishwashers increasingly energy and water efficient in addition to attractive and functional.

As with all of Fisher & Paykel's DoubleDrawer models, the DD605 operates as two separate dishwashers -- each working independently of the other. This is significant for two major reasons. First, smaller loads can be easily accommodated in just one drawer, cutting down on energy and water consumption, with each drawer utilizing as little as 1.95 gallons of water per cycle. The other major benefit of the DoubleDrawer system is the fact that you can wash two totally different types of loads simultaneously without sacrificing cleanliness or special care for different types of dishes or stemware. For instance, heavily soiled everyday dishes can be washed in one drawer on a heavy cycle, while crystal or fragile china can be treated delicately in the second drawer.

Important to note is that although the DD605 in some ways acts as the equivalent of two dishwashers in one, you are not getting twice as much capacity as a traditional model. The DD605 accommodates six place settings in each drawer. A special insert allows for dinner dishes up to 12 inches. Racks in the dishwasher are interchangeable for added flexibility.

Fisher & Paykel has isolated the motor through a special seal on the DD605, making this unit the company's quietest dishwasher. At 44.5dB it's among the quietest on the market.

The Fisher & Paykel has a very sleek and sophisticated look. With the ability to accept custom panels, the appearance can be fully integrated with your cabinetry or other appliances. Two door styles are available. You can choose from the original type or opt for a unit with a heavy stainless-steel handle. As an alternative, you can also select this model in black or white.

Fisher & Paykel dishwashers do have a history of requiring more than average servicing. This model is too new to tell, but hopefully the company has worked out any technical issues to prevent this from being the case with its latest generation. Fortunately, the Fisher & Paykel DD605 comes with a two-year warranty -- double that which we typically find on this type of product.

Not just quiet and energy efficient, Fisher & Paykel's DD605 is versatile and unique in its two-drawer approach to dishwashing. With single as well as double drawer options, this model lends itself to previously unheard of design alternatives in the kitchen.


Pros: Popular DoubleDrawer design, energy and water efficient, decorator appearance, 2-year warranty
Cons: Average capacity and a company history of needing above-average servicing, shallow drawers do not hold all full size dinner plates and platters

Warranty
2 years