Dishwasher

2.  Consider ways to spend even less. Shop toward the end of the year, when stores are making space for next year’s models. If you don’t mind a few cosmetic scuffs, ask whether any floor models are available, and confirm that they come with full warranties. Or go used: Dishwashers that are merely a year or two old are frequently traded in during kitchen renovations. Your local used appliance store probably stocks models for under $200 that originally sold for double or triple that amount. Simply look for a model you like and confirm that there’s a 100-day parts and labor warranty.

What about Energy Star models? Energy Star models often retail for $50 to $100 more but use substantially less energy over time and can save you money on your utility bills. As part of the Energy Star program, the government has been offering rebates to offset the cost of Energy Star appliances. Some state rebate programs are now closed, but others still offer substantial tax rebates. To find out if your state is still offering rebates, go to EnergySavers.gov/Financial.

Are dishwashers more efficient than hand-washing?

Short answer: Yes. But this wasn’t always the case. “Dishwashers used to clean by using a ton of water and energy,” says John Dries, a Kentucky engineer who designs dishwashers for major manufacturers. “In the ’90s, 13 gallons was typical. Now there are machines that can do a very good job on 4 gallons.”

Models with an Energy Star sticker use a maximum of 5.8 gallons per cycle, and half the electricity of older models (by comparison, running your faucet for just one minute uses roughly 1 gallon of water, plus the electricity to heat it). So unless you’re the type to painstakingly wash 30-plus pieces of tableware with one tub of soapy water and one tub of clean water, your dishwasher is more efficient.