Dishwasher - Normal Run Time

It is normal for many Dishwashers to run for up to two hours or more under certain conditions. For example, the wash cycle time may be long on cycles such as Potscrubber, Heavy Wash, Pots and Pans, or AutoSense. Also, selecting options such as a Wash Temp Boost or Heated Dry Boost add to the total wash cycle time.
 

Understanding Normal Run Time Factors

  • On select models, the timer display or dial will stop for long periods (up to 1/2 hour) during the wash and dry cycles while the heater is activated.
  • On models featuring Auto Hot Start, the cycle may be extended up to 20 minutes while the Dishwasher heats the water. This time will vary depending on the temperature of the water coming into the machine.
  • Cycle time may also vary on models with clean sensors due to the sensor extending or decreasing the cycle time and number of fills based on the soil level sensed in the water.

Wash Cycle Time and Energy Use

In recent years, there have been changes to the Federal Government water and energy efficiency guidelines, which means Dishwashers use less water and less energy to run. In fact, many Dishwashers are Energy Star rated, so they surpass standard energy usage guidelines.
 
Dishwashers now run longer to ensure good wash performance but they use less energy while doing so. By using less water, your water heater does not need to provide as much hot water and therefore is not using energy to heat more water.
 

Additional Appliance Support

Some Dishwasher Owner's Manuals will list the approximate wash cycle times. This is typically applicable to older models. You can check the Owner's Manual for your model to look for approximate wash cycle times.
 
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