8 Best RV Dishwashers: Make Our RV Life Easier

Whether you want to travel to different parts of the country with your RV or plan to live in it for good, having the best RV dishwasher will make things more convenient for you. A dishwasher can make cleaning your cookware and dinnerware quick and effortless.

With various reviews on different dishwasher brands, it can be confusing as to which one to get. Many dishwashers for RV are available to choose from, such as mini dishwashers, camper dishwashers, to portable dishwashers. They also come with different features, which makes the selection process more difficult.

So I’ve gathered some top-rated products to help you find the right RV dishwasher for your needs. Read on to find out!

12 Best Dishwasher for RV Reviews 2023

1. Danby DDW621WDB Countertop Dishwasher

I own an old motorhome without a built-in Furrion RV dishwasher like many of the new models have. However, the Danby DDW621WD8 on the countertop I installed more than makes up for that.

My favorite about this RV dishwasher is its ingenious Quick-Connect technology. We can set it up within minutes to our existing RV faucet. There is no need to hire a plumber to link everything together. I can be washing our dishes in no time.

Unlike the dishwasher we have at home, this product only uses 3.1 gallons of water. RV families can further improve their water savings by limiting the dishwashing frequency.

I think most RV owners will also never fret about this dishwasher’s energy draw. Although it runs on 120 volts, it only requires 680 watts for a nominal amperage rating of 5.7.

There is no need to set up a separate circuit breaker because the RV’s existing 30-amp system can accommodate this appliance’s power requirements.

The dishwasher has six sections for placing glasses, utensils, bowls, plates, and other dinnerware. RV owners can also wash their dishes in six ways – Intensive, Economy, Normal, Rapid, Soak, and Glass. I can delay the wash cycle for up to eight hours, with enough time for other things.

Although this portable RV dishwasher is more compact than the average home dishwasher, it might not fit RVs with limited countertop space. This appliance requires an area of 22 inches by 20 inches.

Moreover, any hanging cabinet must have a 17.5-inch vertical clearance from the countertop surface.

2. COMFEE Countertop Portable Dishwasher

Models like the Danby might be an excellent buy for some RV owners. However, tech-oriented RV owners would want a dishwasher that displays the wash cycles and settings. On top of that, it would be nice if the appliance used less water, too. So, the COMFEE fits the bill.

I cannot help noticing the resemblance of this countertop device with the Vesta RV dishwasher. It has nearly identical features to the smart appliance.

One advantage of this dishwasher over the Danby is its bright, high-contrast digital display. It makes operation more effortless because users do not have to guess the current wash cycle.

The black screen with white readouts also complements the dishwasher’s all-white exterior. The control buttons are symmetrically positioned on both sides of the digital display, ensuring more effortless manipulation.

Danby users say they can save more water with their dishwasher. However, RV owners with this dishwasher in their motorhomes enjoy greater water savings because the appliance only uses 2.77 gallons of water per load.

It also has two more wash programs than the Danby, making it a worthy choice for RV owners who want precision dishwashing. The cycles include Heavy, ECO, Speed, Glass, Baby-Care, Normal, Mini-party, and Rinse. This machine has the correct settings for all dishwashing scenarios an RV family might face on the road.

The dishwasher drawer is also impressive. It can hold up to 70 pieces of dinnerware arranged in its six cleaning sections.

Although this portable dishwasher for RV has a quieter operation than the Danby (49 decibels vs. 52 decibels), dumping its wastewater can be startling. I encountered several RV owners who found the noise coming from the machine draining its wastewater unsettling.

3. Farberware Portable Dishwasher

If you are looking for a portable dishwasher like me, this Farberware dishwasher is a perfect pick. It has a compact design where it can hold a maximum of 12 inches in diameter. Hence, the model is ideal for spaces like RVs, campers, boats, dorms, and apartments.

I love that I don’t need to hook this dishwasher up if I don’t want to. The model has a built-in water tank for us to fill up when needed, making it portable and easy to store. This washer comes with a water hose if you prefer hooking it up in a faucet.

It features five washing programs for your washing needs. The programs include, glassware, baby care, fruit wash, rapid, and normal program. In detail, the baby care program will generate steam to help with cleansing and eliminate odor to your baby bottles. Meanwhile, the fruit program will help wash both vegetables and fruits. The other programs will also help generate steam to ensure that your dishes are clean.

It has an upper and lower spray arm, which will give the dishes a deep streak-free cleaning. Best of all, it can afford quick washing within 40 minutes and air circulation to dry your dinnerware automatically.

The only downside of this dishwasher is that the control panel is at the front bottom, making it difficult to adjust and read the settings. I have to duck down a little, so I can reach the control panel.

4. SPT Energy Star Built-In Dishwasher

If you are looking for a portable dishwasher that suits your budget, the SPT Energy Star with built-in and heated drying is definitely for you.

I love its versatility since I can move it from one place to another with ease. It has eight place settings, an impressive capacity for family use. Notably, this model has two rows, which can handle all your tableware, from fine glassware, plates, to pots.

This dishwasher operates quietly and energy-efficient since it’s only using 3.7 gallons of water for every wash cycle, which also makes it economical. When needed, I can easily connect the dishwasher to my RV’s faucet using the provided hose.

This dishwasher for RV has a full control panel, where you can access all six wash programs. You can find the warning indicator here, which will let you know if the appliance is having issues. Besides, two wash arms will help remove grease and dirt on your dishes, thus thoroughly cleaning them.

However, the SPT dishwasher rack spaces are in small size, making it difficult for me to wash bigger pots.

5. Black + Decker BCD6W Dishwasher

Your RV can surely accommodate the Black + Decker compact counter dishwashers, which is specifically made for small spaces. It has a six place setting dishwasher countertop for you to adjust, depending on where you want to place it in your RV kitchen.

This compact countertop RV dishwasher measures 21.7 by 21.5 by 17.2 inches. You can slide the dish racks to easily remove utensils and other kitchenware. The dishwasher is made of stainless steel, so it is sure to last. It also comes with a LED display and touch control panel for breezy cycle setup.

I appreciate its seven wash cycles that can accommodate different kitchenware, from pots, glassware, to dinner plates that measure up to ten inches. Besides, connecting the dishwasher to the faucet and draining are straightforward.

Another feature that I love is the child lock, which is perfect for RV owners with children. This will make sure that your kids are safe around the dishwasher.

When it comes to installation, worry not because it fits in most cabinets in the kitchen. It is very compact, so placing it on your countertop won’t become a problem.

The downside of this Black + Decker dishwasher is that you need to pre-rinse the dishes before putting them in the dishwasher.

6. SPT SD-2225DW Dishwasher

Another SPT dishwasher is the SPT SD-2225DW, which is not only compact but it also has a gorgeous exterior. The product is known for consuming less energy while keeping your dishes clean.

First-time users will benefit from this washer’s universal faucet adapter that allows quick connecting. In truth, they don’t need to replace their faucet just for the dishwasher hose to fit because of the universal adapter.

This dishwasher has four delays to choose, from 2, 4, 6, to 8 hours. You can set this using the buttons on the control panel. For the washing modes, you can choose from rinse, speed, normal, glass, ECO, and heavy. All of these features will contribute to this dishwasher’s efficiency.

It has a LED display where you can check the current mode and the remaining time. One of the best features of this dishwasher is the warning indicator of the water supply. This helps me know whether to add more or remove water from my dishwasher to avoid accidental spills.

It also features automatic detergent and rinse aid dispenser for further convenience. So, all you really have to do is fill the chambers with water and detergent, then your dishes will come out sparkling clean afterward.

My only issue on this dishwasher is that the bottom grating is a little wide for knives, spoons, and other kitchen utensils.

7. Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher

A modernly aesthetic dishwasher, like the Frigidaire FFBD1831US, will surely fit every RV. It comes in two colors, white or silver/black, while the exterior is made out of high-quality stainless steel. It’s a light and quiet dishwasher for comfort when using and traveling. In fact, it works quietly at 52 decibels so you don’t have to worry about excessive noise while it’s operating.

This dishwasher features a dual spray arm, to ensure a thorough cleaning every cycle. It has the power to remove at least 99.9% of the most common household bacteria using the sanitize cycle. There are 8 settings in one cycle including rinsing, heavy wash, and energy saver cycle.

There are three cleaning cycles, a self-cleaning and removable filter incorporated in this device. You can also check what cycle the dishwasher is with the cycle status indicator feature that it has.

Frigidaire also features a heating element that will help dry the dishes. Hence, all we have to do is put them in the washer and take them out after. It is incredibly convenient that I can delay the washing for 24 hours and let it run depending on my schedule.

The only downside of the Frigidaire dishwasher is that it consumes 5.2 to 5.6 gallons of water per cycle, which is somewhat a lot for me. Nonetheless, it comes the dishes clean and 99.9% free from bacteria!

8. Fisher Paykel DD24SAX9 Dishwasher

Fisher Paykel DD24SAX9 boasts a sleek look due to the high-quality steel material. Notably, this dishwasher is made to resist humidity and stains for long-lasting use.

Regarding its design, the economic handle will make it easier for you to open the dishwasher and load your dishes. It weighs 120 pounds, while it measures 22.6 x 23.6 x 16.1 inches, which will fit most RV kitchens.

One of the things that I love about this Fisher Paykel model is that it’s very energy efficient. This only operates on 15 amps and 120 volts, which is the most common power source in RVs.

The dishwasher has fourteen place settings where you can fit three racks in total. It’s spacious enough to accommodate more utensils in just one cycle. You can cup racks and two cutlery baskets that will fit your utensils and cuts. It also comes with six cycles, including the fan-assisted technology to help dry your dishes after washing.

This dishwasher also features filters that can help remove and dispose of food particles to avoid them from clogging the drainage. It also has a ProScrub feature that targets certain grease using spray jets. As the dishwasher operates quietly at 45 dBA, you should not worry that its noise will disturb a casual conversation or your work.

The only problem that I’ve experienced with this dishwasher is that I need to manually rinse them under running water especially if there are stains before putting it inside the dishwasher. Besides that, this dishwasher is a great catch.

Ensue Countertop Dishwasher (Outdated)

The Ensue countertop is one of the most compact and portable dishwashers in the market. This dishwasher can fit most countertops, including countertops in RVs. It is compact yet offers outstanding performance.

The compact dishwasher is Energy Certified, which will let you consume less electricity and water. Furthermore, they are straightforward to control, wherein the control panel is where you can fund the power button and the washing cycle selector of your choice. You can adjust the speed and the rinsing cycle without hassle.

It has six wash cycles: speed, rinse, light, heavy, normal, and mini party. Hence, it can clean your dishes the way you want while effectively clearing all foods that are stuck on the plates. If you need hot water, attaching to your faucet will do as the dishwasher will not automatically heat the water for your dishes.

Lastly, the dishwasher comes with a faucet adapter where you can temporarily connect the dishwasher every time you’re washing. It doesn’t need a permanent installation as it quickly and easily attaches to the faucet. Worry not, because the adapter will let you connect the hose to any standard faucet with ease.

My only issue with this dishwasher is that I can’t fit it in bigger dish plates, nonetheless, this dishwasher is worth every penny.

EdgeStar DWP62BL Dishwasher (Outdated)

The EdgeStar DWP62BL is another RV dishwasher that earns numerous compliments from users. It has a total capacity of six standard settings and seven washing cycles to help improve your cleaning experience.This countertop dishwasher is easy to operate with its control panel and digital display.

This countertop dishwasher measures 17 inches in height and can accommodate plates that measure 10.5 inches in diameter. You can also choose among the black, silver and white models to match your RV interior decoration. The dishwasher can easily fit in the cabinet or the countertop in most RV kitchens.

One of the best things that I love about this dishwasher is the electronic controls. The feature helps save water and energy, thus saving on bills monthly.

Apart from that, the internal water heater can help spray off and kill germs and bacteria on the plates and other kitchenware. The heat can go as high as 149 Fahrenheit, making your dishes bacteria-free and clean.

The racks inside can fit big bowls and pats so you don’t have to manually clean them on the sink. This dishwasher comes with a cup shelf, cutlery basket, and dish rack.

However, it can be difficult to attach the dishwasher to the plumbing. After replacing my faucet, I managed to attach it with ease.

Furrion 18” RV Dishwasher (Outdated)

If you are looking for a dishwasher that will help you save space and energy, this Furrion 18” dishwasher is for you. It is compact and is Energy Star certified.

This dishwasher uses a rinse and detergent dispenser system, so less water and detergent are used than in most RV dishwashers. Furthermore, the dishwasher has also been tested and designed for extreme weather and vibration. It is made out of high-quality stainless steel with a pressure balance structure.

The dishwasher features a double loading rock, wherein both racks have utensil baskets and folding cup shelves. These shelves are perfect for small cups. There are also 3 in 1 tablet containers that you can clip on the loading rack for more stability.

One of the things that I love about this dishwasher is the three-part filters: stainless, plastic, and a3-part filters. The stainless filter is responsible for keeping the debris from going back to the dishes. The plastic filter is for the large pieces, while the a-3 part filter is the one collecting and crushing the debris. These filters will avoid the food from getting to the water pump, clogging it in the long run.

It also has a fully integrated control panel, which features a light touch electronic. You can set or adjust the cycle with ease using the available buttons. With this dishwasher, you’ll surely find washing your dishes manually a thing of the past.

The only downside that this dishwasher has is it doesn’t feature a heated dry. It solely relies on residual heat from the faucet hot water and as well as the rinsing aid.

Magic Chef MCSCD6W3 Dishwasher (Outdated)

Another countertop dishwasher on our list is the Magic Chef MCSCD6W3. This portable dishwasher has a large holding capacity, which will let you clean multiple plates in just one cycle.

It will help save water, time, and energy, meaning it is a worthwhile investment in the long run. This countertop dishwasher includes a cup rack and a cutlery basket. Hence, you can clean all your dishes and utensils in one go. The washer is also very easy to use with its electronic controls on the digital display.

The knob installed allows users to set the cycle according to their needs. There are 5 modes to choose from, including the hygienic residual drying system. After washing the plates, the dishwasher will dry your cutlery and plates by evaporation or convection ones it detects that the washing cycle is over.

The dishwasher will also generate steam but it’s advisable to let the door slightly open. By that, we let the steam escape to make sure that our plates will be completely dry afterward.

This dishwasher works perfectly with just cold water, so you don’t really need to have hot water to ensure that your plates are sparkling clean. It also has an automatic rinse aid and detergent dispenser to help you save on detergent as well.

The only issue that I have with the Magic Chef dishwasher is that it doesn’t come with a tray or holder which can handle the water once I disconnect from the sink.

What to Look for When Buying an RV Dishwasher

There are different dishwashers, from camper dishwasher, small RV dishwasher, domestic RV dishwasher, and portable camping dishwasher. You can look into many best RV dishwasher reviews and important things to look for when buying an RV dish washer.

Size

Since you are buying a motorhome dishwasher, one of the most important things you need to check is the size. There are different sizes available in the market today, so make sure to find a small RV dishwasher. You can start measuring the area where you’re planning to place the dishwasher. It can be on the countertop, or if you are looking for an RV dishwasher drawer, measure what area you’re putting it.

Of course, you should also consider the size inside a dishwasher. If you’re often using multiple dishes, it would be best to choose an RV drawer dishwasher with adjustable racks or one that you can fold down.

Design

There are now different colors and designs available for dishwashers due to its popularity. But the most common colors are black and white, and ones that are finished with stainless steel. Some dishwashers have a front panel that’s customized to blend with your kitchen’s design.

Some models have a single door while also eliminating the panel at the bottom. Such a design makes the dishwasher look cleaner.

Cost

Some dishwashers are high-priced, but this doesn’t mean that you should settle for the first thing that catches your eyes or your budget. Different dishwashers will work with your budget, including the following.

• Basic Dishwasher – The basic dishwashers can help you get the job done, but little to no extra features are available. Usually, this is the lowest-priced dishwasher that you can find for your RV.
• High-End Dishwasher – There are many high-end dishwashers for your RV, and usually, this RV dishwasher has different features where you and your dishes can benefit.
• Drawer Dishwasher – This type of dishwasher is the latest addition on the market, wherein they come in bout down and single drawers. They have high tech features but are also known to be less efficient due to its size.
• Compact Dishwasher – The company dishwasher is also known as the under the sink dishwasher, is perfect for RV or homes with limited space.

Capacity

One with a large capacity will help you wash a huge number of dishes in just one cycle, thus saving more time and energy. You also need to make sure that most dishes that you wash can fit inside the dishwasher. You can choose one that has tines that can be folded to make more room for bigger dishes.

Noise

Dishwashers can create noise while operating. But with today’s modern technology, there are now dishwashers that have moderate to low noises. Here are some sound ratings that you need to know before purchasing one:

• 30 Decibels – Dishwashers with 30 dBm are almost quiet. You won’t even notice that it’s working because almost no sounds are coming out of it.
• 40 Decibels – Dishwashers with 40 dBm can create noise depending on the cycle that you are using. The sound can be drowned out by conversations when you’re in the kitchen.
• 50 Decibels – Dishwashers with 50 dBm will make you need to speak loudly. This type produces noise similar to a normal conversation, though this noise will not wake up your kids.

Other Features

As mentioned above, the pricier the dishwasher, the extra features it will have. Worry not because most features are user-friendly, energy-efficient, and very convenient to use.

You can choose one with extra racks, water filtration, soil sensor, cycle selection, and special zones. Special zones target areas with stains and greases. Also, some of the product comes in a rv dishwasher stove combo, or a whirlpool dishwasher for rv. You can carefully choose what is ideal for your current needs.

Other Important Factors to Consider

Temperature and Sanitizing

Some people may think that sanitizing only occurs in restaurants or other establishments. But it is also essential for your kitchen to make sure that your dishes are sparkling clean, both figuratively and literally.

Some dishwashers feature both, and usually, the temperature and sanitizing happen right before taking them out of the dishwasher. Sanitizing your dishes will help kill 99.9% of the most common house bacteria you can find, keeping you and your family safe.

Cycle Time

You also need to check the cycle time of the dishwasher that you are eyeing. The average cycle time is usually around 80 to 150 minutes; take note that longer cycles will not affect your dishes’ cleaning. So it would be best to choose something within that cycle time range.

Wash Cycles

Some of the most common wash cycles you can find in a dishwasher are pans and pots, regular, and light. There are that have held and rinse settings to help delay the washing until the dishwasher is full.

The best dishwashers have multiple wash cycles. It would be great to have a light cycle or energy-saving settings as these will help you save money and time since your dishwasher will consume less water and time.

Dirt Sensors

Back then, dishwashers with dirt sensors are known to be very expensive. But today, dirt sensors are part of most dishwashers and are pretty common as well. This is needed to help with water consumption. The level of dirt on your dishes will depend on how much water is required for washing.

Energy Guide

When looking for a dishwasher, check for stickers since you will see the water and power consumption of that particular model. Typically, a regular model will have to consume almost four gallons of water per cycle. So always make sure to choose a dishwasher that’s both water and energy-efficient.

Some will require you to open the door a little to let out some steam to help dry your dishes for you.

What Is A Dishwasher For RV?

Dishwashers for RV are similar to those found in most homes today, except that the ones in RV are considered mini dishwashers due to their small size. A mini dishwasher functions the same wherein it deals with your dishes instead of them lying around the kitchen.

A mini dishwasher can be a countertop dishwasher or built-in dishwasher, depending on your preferences. They work the same, wherein they use hot water, which can come from the faucet or a feature of the dishwasher to make your utensils and dishwater cleaner and free from bacteria.

RV dishwashers are available in different sizes and kinds, wherein some are big enough to handle big loads of dishes, while there are some compact size dishwashers. These compact sized ones can be installed by yourself, while some dishwashers need professional help when installing.

How Does It Work?

A dishwasher cleans and rinses all your dirty dishes. All you have to do is put in the dishes, add the detergent, and then choose the washing cycle on the electronic controls you prefer. Just make sure to turn it on once you’re ready to have the dishes.

Besides cleaning your dishes, dishwashers make sure that they are working correctly by monitoring themselves. It has a sensor that detects temperature and water, while there is also a timer to help with the cycles. It truly makes our lives easier.

What are the Different Types Of RV Dishwashers?

• Built-In Dishwashers

Built-in dishwashers are the most popular dishwasher in the market today. It comes with different features to choose from and operates quietly because cabinets in the kitchen surround it. This means that you can run the dishwasher even at night because it won’t make any sound and disturb anyone in their sleep.

Built-in dishwashers are connected permanently to your plumbing, so you don’t have to reconnect and disconnect it to your faucet. Plus, you can even use your faucet while the dishwasher is running.

• Countertop Dishwashers

This is perfect not just for RVs but for people who have limited spaces in their kitchen. One of the best things about countertops is that you can move them from one area to another. You can easily attach it to your faucet if needed. Also, if you are on a tight budget, a countertop dishwasher is perfect for you.

• Portable Dishwashers

If you don’t want to attach your dishwasher to plumbing, a portable dishwasher is perfect for you. It is ideal for RVs since all you have to do is attach it to your faucet. This type of dishwasher can also act as a countertop space that you can use to place the dishes you will wash. RVs and small families usually opt for portable dishwashers.

• Freestanding Dishwashers

Freestanding dishwashers can be portable or built-in, depending on your preferences. The front part of this dishwasher is visible after installing them. One of the best things about this one is that you can slide it in its place with ease. You don’t need a professional to install it for you.

• Drawer Dishwasher

Drawer dishwashers are one of the newest designs when it comes to dishwashers. It is made to make loading and unloading convenient for you. It has a top-down style and has two levels, which will make it easier for you to load and unload everything without bending too much.

Why Do You Need A Dishwasher For RV?

Having a dishwasher for RV is safer and healthier for you in different ways. For instance, a slippery floor or a soapy one can cause accidents to happen.

Another good reason is that the hot water can help sanitize and kill the bacteria that your dishes may have. You can’t do this with handwashing as the chances of burning your skin is high. Your dishwasher can do that for you without any problem.

These electric dishwashers are time efficient because loading and unloading your dishes will take roughly 10 minutes. You can get other things completed while your dishes are getting washed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are there different ways to load dishes in the dishwasher?

Yes, there are various ways to load and unload the dishes in your dishwasher. Typically, you can find the instructions in the manual, and referring to it is essential.

But usually, bulky and large pots and pans should be at the back or the sides. The heat-sensitive and glasses should go at the top rack and never over the bigger dishes.

What items should I not place in my dishwasher?

Yes, including china, crystal, aluminum, iron, and wood. These materials should be hand washed because they or the dishwasher might get damaged. Always check the recommendation of the manufacturer for a safe dishwashing experience.

You can place silver inside the dishwasher but never mixed them with steel in the same area, like the basket utensil. This can lead them to tarnish.

Are there any dishwasher detergents I should use or avoid?

There are automatic dishwasher detergents and you should never substitute them with hand dishwashing liquid or any cleaning product that is not intended for dishwasher use. Some types of soap or detergents can cause the water to overflow, thus damaging your dishwasher.

How do I start my RV dishwasher?

Starting a travel trailer dishwasher depends on the appliance’s brand and model. It would be wise for RV owners to read the RV dishwasher user manual for specific directions.

Nevertheless, the steps can include the following.

1. Pre-rinse the dishes, utensils, and other items for washing and sanitation to remove food particles and other large debris. These morsels can clog the dishwasher ports and lead to a reduced function.
2. Open the RV dishwasher’s drawer and add an appropriate RV dishwasher detergent.
3. Turn on the dishwasher by pressing the power button before selecting the correct dishwashing program.
4. Check the area surrounding the spray arm, ensuring there are no obstructions. Assess the drain filter, ensuring it is level with the dishwasher’s filter plate.
5. Close the dishwasher drawer and press the Start/Pause button. Wait for the dishwashing cycle to finish. Some RV dishwasher brands have notification alarms that alert users when the washing is complete. Most brands have an automatic fan that hastens the speed of drying the recently washed dishes.

RV owners must familiarize themselves with their dishwasher’s control buttons and functions to ensure optimum dishwashing operation.

How much water does an RV dishwasher use?

A typical RV dishwasher uses four to 6 gallons of water with each wash, excluding the water required for pre-rinsing or pre-washing the dishes.

Although it might seem too much, the average water consumption of dishwashers has improved through the years. Before 1994, the standard dishwasher needed nine to fourteen gallons of water to wash dishes per load.

How much power does an RV dishwasher use?

How much power an RV dishwasher consumes depends on its electrical ratings, operational runtimes, and usage frequency.

For example, a 1,200-watt RV countertop dishwasher uses 1.2 kilowatts per hour.

A typical dishwasher cycle lasts 90 minutes to four hours, depending on how dirty the items are and the speed of heating the water between dishwashing cycle phases.

Hence, an RV with dishwasher and washer and dryer running for two hours will consume 2.4 kW for the session.

If the RV family decides to wash their dishes every other day, they will spend 36 kW monthly. Lowering the power draw can help improve energy savings. For example, an 800-watt unit will only require 1.6 kW for two hours or 24 kW monthly (used every other day).

Lowering the voltage requirement can also make the dishwasher more energy efficient. Unfortunately, 12V RV dishwasher units are currently unavailable. These low-voltage appliances should provide better energy savings for RV families.

RV owners can still run a conventional 120-volt RV dishwasher on RV batteries by using a power inverter.

Can you put a regular dishwasher in an RV?

Yes, it is possible to put a regular dishwasher in a 5th wheel, camper, travel trailer, and other RVs. However, RV owners must study a few considerations before transferring their residential dishwasher into the motorhome.

Size is one of the most important considerations when adding a regular dishwasher to an RV. Home dishwashers have robust dimensions, measuring 24 inches wide, 35 inches tall, and 24 inches deep.

It requires at least four square feet of floor space. Unfortunately, some RVs are too cramped to put a space-hogger.

Weight is another issue. A regular dishwasher’s bulk often translates to a more significant heft. The average dishwasher in homes weighs about 77 pounds. Adding the water and dishes to the machine can increase the weight to 90 pounds.

RV owners must also consider water and energy consumption. A massive dishwasher requires more than six gallons of water. Residential appliances also have higher wattage and amperage ratings, which RV owners must consider.

We might want to install a dedicated circuit breaker if the electrical requirements exceed the RV’s existing setup.

Although it is possible to put a regular dishwasher in an RV, it would be better to install a for-RV dishwasher.

How To Use?

You can easily use a dishwasher by checking the manual that comes with it. Usually, you’ll know how much soap is needed by checking the soap space. Put in the soap, and then start loading the dishes. Remember that the heavy or more oversized dishes should be at the bottom rack, while the glasses and other sensitive dishes should be on top.

You can choose from the control panel as to which washing cycle is needed for your dishes. You can even use the timer settings if your dishwasher has that feature. If not, you can wait for it to finish while you’re doing other chores in your RV.

How To Care and Clean?

One of the best ways to make sure that your dishwasher is free from any buildup is using it regularly. This will help rid of the debris that is settling inside, thus reducing the times you need to deep clean.

When cleaning your dishwasher, make sure to check every part of it. Check the exteriors, edges, detergent dispenser, gasket, flatware basket, and as well as the door. Clean them even if there is no visible stain on them, as there might be the grease that’s not visible to the eyes.

You can start unclogging the drain and clean it as this is where the buildup of food can get clogged. If your drain has buildup, you can always use acid, including lemon juice or white vinegar.

Lastly, make sure that your dishwasher is free from mildew or mold issues, except if the interior or door is stainless steel. You can use bleach as your finishing touch to make sure that your dishwasher is spotless and well sanitized.

Conclusion

Whether this is your first time purchasing a dishwasher for your RV or you’re just replacing your old one, the information above can help you decide which one is perfect for your needs. Remember to consider the essential factors to ensure that you’ll find the best RV dishwasher.