For this KitchenAid dishwasher review we’ve chosen the high-end Superba EQ model. The KitchenAid Superba EQ (KUDE70FXSS) dishwasher stands out from some of its cheaper brothers because of its extreme quietness and its ProScrub®Option, which unleashes 36 targeted spray jets on tough dish messes. The Superba EQ rates as the quietest dishwasher in the KitchenAid line at a mere 40 dBA, thanks to the Whisper Quiet ® Sound Insulation System. The ProScrub® Option delivers concentrated cleaning power to the crustiest of dishes, saving you a lot of elbow grease in the process.
The ProWash™ Cycle and ProDry™ Option are among the six cycles and seven options available on this sleek, stainless steel machine with an integrated console that has an ergonomic design. The ProWash™ Cycle is able to detect the extent of cleaning power needed and then make the necessary adjustments.
The adjustable Durakote™ nylon racks and baskets are also quite convenient, enabling you to load your largest pieces of cookware as easily as your most delicate stemware. The upper and lower racks have two fold-down tines with a capacity of 16 place settings. The Superba EQ has two cup shelves and a culinary tool rack as well.
The Superba EQ is as stingy with its energy use as it is generous with its cleaning power; it is an Energy Star® Qualified—Tier II machine, using a mere 279 kWh per year. The tall tub design accounts for the machine’s 34 ½” in height; it is 27 ½” in depth and 23 7/8” in width.
And therein lies the problem for many homeowners: KitchenAid’s (like most American dishwashers) are notorious for jutting out of their assigned space due to their above-average depth. Even the Superba EQ has been known to have far more problems integrating with custom cabinets than European brands at a similar price level, such as Asko or Miele.
Another issue reported by KitchenAid dishwasher users is that only one company—A&E—has been contracted to service most all of KitchenAid’s appliances. This is meant to greatly streamline the all-too-frustrating repair process, and when done right works rather well. However, our customers are still not noticing a difference in service quality, and this may be due the company not being entirely prepared to take on the entire brand. The Superba EQ comes with a standard 1-year warranty on major parts and repair. The KitchenAid KUDE70FXSS is currently selling for around $1,700, making it a tough sell against an Asko or Miele. If you can find it for a lower price, this would be a worthy addition to your appliance package. But at $1,700 dollars, it’s a pass for us.
Pros: KitchenAid finally makes a dishwasher with some important features: it’s quiet, it cleans well, and is built solid.
Cons: A Miele or Asko (two of the best dishwasher manufacturers on the market) can be had for this kind of money. KitchenAid needs to re-examine its pricing on this unit.