Product Definition/Scope - Dishwashers covered in this analysis include full-size residential models. Counter-top models, compact models, and commercial models were not included.

Performance Criteria/Parameters Used - In developing the list of products that are eligible for Top Ten USA we evaluated products based on the following criteria:

• Energy use (kWh/year) – This metric accounts for the energy used by the dishwasher itself, and the energy used to heat the water used by the dishwasher. It is based on an assumed 215 cycles/year, per the federal test method.
• Water consumption (gallons/cycle) – This is the standard metric used to account for dishwasher water efficiency.

Test Methods – We used the following test methods for measuring the performance criteria listed above:

• U.S. Code: 10 CFR 430, Subpart B, Appendix C

Market Segmentation – There is no segmentation of the full-size models analyzed.

Data Source – We used manufacturer reported data from the EPA ENERGY STAR website.

Market Availability – In order to be qualified the model must be currently available to consumers through retail outlets such as department stores, big box stores, independent appliance retailers and/or on-line retailers.

Families of Similar Products – Multiple products with identical energy use and water consumption were considered “tied”, and all products at that level were listed.

Product Ranking – Products were ranked by their energy use. Only machines that met the CEE Tier 1 water consumption criteria (≤ 5 gallons/cycle) were included in the list.