Welcome to our review of the best dishwasher for hard water. Having hard water isn’t relegated to just a certain state or geographical area, most states have some areas with hard to very hard water. If you live in a place with hard water (which you probably do or you wouldn’t be here!) you are familiar with the challenges involved in thoroughly cleaning virtually anything with hard water.
We’ve compiled a list of what we consider to be the best dishwashers for hard water available. The models we’ve reviewed cover a range of prices and features so you have options when shopping for your new dishwasher. We’ve also tried to include multiple buying options whenever possible.
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OUR TOP PICKS
- Top Pick 1: GE Profile PDT775SYNFS 24″ Dishwasher on Walmart and Amazon
- Top Pick 2: SD-6502SS: Stainless Steel Tall Tub Dishwasher on Amazon
- Top Pick 3: BRAMA Dishwasher 24-Inch Built In on Amazon
- Top Pick 4: Bosch SHEM63W55N 24″ 300 Series Dishwasher on Amazon
- Top Pick 5: FRIGIDAIRE FFBD1831US Dishwasher, 18 ” on Walmart and Amazon
Below, we’ve taken each of our top picks and provided you with more information on each one. We’ve included the features as well as dimensions, noise levels and pros and cons. As you scroll down through the list, where available, we’ve also included a helpful video and multiple buying options.
Prices can change fairly often which is why we didn’t list specific prices. We did, however, include links for each dishwasher so checking the current price is quick and easy, no searching around!
Table Of Contents
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Our Top Picks
- More Details on Our Best Dishwasher for Hard Water Picks
- GE Profile PDT775SYNFS 24″ Dishwasher
- SD-6502SS: Energy Star 24″ Built-In Stainless Steel Tall Tub Dishwasher
- BRAMA Dishwasher 24-Inch Built In with 6 Wash Options
- Bosch SHEM63W55N 24″ 300 Series Dishwasher with 5 Wash Cycles
- FRIGIDAIRE FFBD1831US Dishwasher 18 inch dishwasher
- What Is Hard Water?
- Features to Consider When Purchasing The Best Dishwasher For Hard Water
- FAQ’s
- Best Dishwashers For Hard Water Review – The Bottom Line
More Detail On Our Best Dishwasher For Hard Water Picks
GE Profile PDT775SYNFS 24″ Dishwasher
Features:
- 16 place settings
- Twin turbo dry feature
- Wi-Fi connectivity
The GE Profile PDT775SYNFS 24″ Dishwasher has enough room for 16 place settings of dishes so cleanup after a large gathering is easy and fast. It has a stainless steel interior which will hold up well to hard water and wear. The Piranha hard food disposer means that you don’t have to worry about putting dishes in that have food residue on them, they will still come out clean.
The controls are hidden on the top panel of the dishwasher for sleek styling that will fit in with any kitchen decor.
This dishwasher features Twin Turbo Dry Boost which will ensure your dishes get fully dry and ready to put away. This system has 2 fans and an inline heater. All of this means that even your toughest dishes, plastics for example, will get dry.
Deep clean jets for your silverware means that no matter how the silverware basket is loaded, your silverware will be clean. The jets are designed to blast off any dried on foods that may be on your silverware. So you have clean, and spotless, silverware every time.
This GE dishwasher also comes with a floor protect feature which is designed to quickly detects leaks. While unlikely, dishwashers can sometimes have leaks. With this feature you don’t have to worry about any undetected leak wreaking havoc on your floor.
More Features
Another helpful innovation is the bottle jets. This feature provides high pressure jets to shoot water up into bottles that otherwise might not get as clean as they should.
The Piranha food disposer has a stainless steel blades which rotates up to 3,600 RPM and eliminates dried on food, it also prevents large pieces of food from creating blockages in the wash arms.
The wash time is 60 minutes. You have WIFI connectivity so you can start a wash cycle even if you are away from home, as well as monitor the cycles and automatically reorder detergent directly from your phone. This dishwasher is Energy Star Certified.
Specs:
- Built-In
- Product Dimensions 24″D x 24″W x 34″H
- Capacity 16 Place Settings
- Color Stainless Steel
- Controls Type Touch
- Material Stainless Steel
- Noise Level 42 dB
- Included Components Dishwasher
- Finish Type Stainless Steel
Pros
- really quiet
- half load wash option
- WIFI connect
Cons
- Some users didn’t like rack configuration
- users complained it didn’t completely dry dishes
- users complain silverware holder isn’t sturdy and comes apart
Our Next Pick
SD-6502SS: Energy Star 24″ Built-In Stainless Steel Tall Tub Dishwasher
Features:
- 3rd Top Rack
- Many cleaning modes
- Humidity reducing fan
The SD-6502SS: Energy Star 24″ Built-In Stainless Steel Tall Tub Dishwasher is another top contender in a full featured, best dishwasher for hard water. With it’s sleek 24 inch design this dishwasher will do a great job of cleaning your dishes and look great in your kitchen. It has enough room for 14 places settings. The Smart Wash system is capable of taking on large jobs easily.
Complete with 2 large racks that pull out for easy loading and un-loading and a 3rd top rack for any type of utensils that are too big or too small for the silverware basket.
This dishwasher comes with 6 wash programs: Heavy, Normal, Delicate, Quick, Rinse Only and Energy Saver for a complete wash and dry no matter what the load consists of. It also has a time delay feature, from 1 up to 24 hours, so you can have it start whenever you want. The smart wash system detects the level of food residue and the dishwasher will start the appropriate wash cycle for the level of clean needed, automatically.
There are 4 spray arms for a full coverage clean. The Steam Wash and Vortex Wash provide an even higher level of clean. This is perfect for dried on food. This model has active drying for even better, more complete drying.
If there are ever any problems you will be notified with an error alarm which will display the problem code for easy troubleshooting. Stainless steel interior will hold up to hard water for years.
There is an automatic dispenser for both detergent and rinsing aids. This model meets, or exceeds, all guidelines for energy efficiency.
Specs:
- Installation Type Built-In
- Product Dimensions 23.89″D x 25.6″W x 33.74″H
- Capacity 2 Gallons
- Color Stainless
- Controls Type Full panel
- Material Stainless Steel
- Noise Level 55 dB
Pros
- Easy installation
- Flexible rack configuration
- Very quiet
Cons
- Doesn’t completely dry
- Not fingerprint resistant
BRAMA Dishwasher 24-Inch Built In with 6 Wash Options
Features:
- Hidden controls
- 6 Wash Options, 6 Auto Cycles
- Quiet operation
The BRAMA Dishwasher 24-Inch Built In with 6 Wash Options is another terrific option for a dishwasher that will handle hard water. This large capacity dishwasher can hold up to 16 place settings which means you can usually handle most of your daily dishes in one load. The controls are hidden so this is a sleek design that will look great in your kitchen.
You have many options for cleaning modes: Pans and Pots, China, Normal wash, Quick wash, Rinse only, and an Energy saver option. But you also have more options for even greater flexibility: Air Change, Steam wash, turbo wash, heat dry, sanitize and hi temp which provides an even hotter final rinse to ensure everything is clean and sanitized.
Very quiet operation so it can be run and not interfere with other activities. You can get spotless dishes every time with the 3 spray arms that can get in every nook and cranny of your dishes as well as a dispenser for a spot free rinse.
The Soil Sensing wash will adjust the needed level of cleaning based on how dirty your dishes are. The dishwasher has a multiple filter system so dirty water isn’t used to clean your dishes. Third top rack gives you more room and it has 3 water jets to ensure thoroughly cleaned dishes every time.
SPECS:
- Brand BRAMA
- Installation Type Built-In
- Product Dimensions 24.5″D x 23.88″W x 33.75″H
- Special Feature Delayed Start
- Color Metallic
- Controls Type Full Panel
- Material Stainless Steel
- Noise Level 44 dB
- Included Components 1 full washer with 3 racks
- Finish Type Stainless Steel
PROS
- Very large interior
- Extra top rack
- Multiple cleaning modes
CONS
- Some users didn’t like the handle, thought it looked bulky
Bosch SHEM63W55N 24 300 Series Dishwasher with 5 Wash Cycles
Features:
- Very quiet
- Top rack for more options when loading
- Sanitizing mode
Next up we have the Bosch SHEM63W55N 24″ 300 Series Built Dishwasher. This dishwasher can handle your hard water and your biggest load of dishes easily. It’s sleek style and very quiet operation make it a popular model of dishwasher. With a filter that can protect the interior of the dishwasher, and your dishes, from damaging hard water maintenance is reduced and the life cycle of the dishwasher is increased.
The Bosch is designed to maximize space no matter what type of dishes, or pots and pans, you are cleaning. Handling up to 16 place settings means that you’ll most likely be able to finish all your cleanup with just one load of dishes.
The dishwasher is very quiet, with a decibel level of just 44 which means you can run your dishwasher and still enjoy a movie on tv without having to crank up the volume.
The loading style of the Bosch has presented some challenges with users.
Specs:
- Brand BOSCH
- Installation Type Built-In
- Product Dimensions 23.56″D x 23.75″W x 33.88″H
- Special Feature Adjustable Plate Spike
- Color Stainless steel
- Controls Type Full Console
- Material Stainless Steel
- Noise Level 44 dB
- Included Components User Manual
- Finish Type Stainless Steel
Pros
- Durable construction
- Reusable filter
- Large capacity
- Very quiet operation
Cons
- Some users it awkward loading the dishwasher
FRIGIDAIRE FFBD1831US Dishwasher, 18 inches, Stainless Steel Dishwasher
Features:
- Smaller size
- Multiple cleaning modes
- Drying function
And last, but not least we have the FRIGIDAIRE FFBD1831US Dishwasher 18 inch dishwasher. This dishwasher is small in size so it’s perfect for smaller kitchens, but it still has a lot of features. Both racks, top and bottom have 2 spray arms for complete coverage and clean dishes with each load. The National Sanitation Foundation has certified the Sanitize cycle of this dishwasher so you know that your dishes don’t just look clean, they are clean!
This smaller size dishwasher still fits up to 8 place settings in each wash cycle. It has a heated drying function with a heat element so your dishes get nice and dry and are ready to put away.
There are 6 different cleaning modes including: Heavy wash, energy saver, and rinse. It is Energy Star certified and ADA compliant which means that it meets standards created by the Americans with Disabilities Act as well as the Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Guidelines.
Specs:
- Type Built-In
- Product Dimensions 18″D x 22.5″W x 35″H
- Capacity 8 Place Settings
- Special Feature ADA Compliant, Energy Star, NSF Certified Sanitize
- Color Stainless Steel
- Controls Type Full panel
- Material Stainless Steel
- Noise Level 52 dB
- Included Components Power cord
Pros
- Perfect for smaller spaces
- Sanitizing mode
- ADA approved
Cons
- Small size limits the size of dishes you can fit in it
What Is Hard Water?
The term hard water simply refers to how much calcium and magnesium are dissolved in the water. There will always be some level of these minerals in water, but some places have a very high amount of them which make the water “hard”.
Hard water can have a very distinct feel – your hands may feel like you still have soap on them, for example. The reason for this is that the soap reacts to the calcium in the water leaving a residue (soap scum).
In order to effectively clean with hard water you need to use more detergent, or soap, to get you laundry, dishes, hands or hair fully clean.
Hard water can be a problem for all you cleaning, not just your dishes. You need to use more soap, hard water leaves residue in your pipes and on your fixtures. It can even create a buildup over time which can greatly impact the performance of your dishwasher.
To diminish these issues, and in addition to getting the best dishwasher for hard water, you can also do these things:
- Get a water softener
- Descale your dishwasher
- A dispenser for a rinse product can help
To clean your dishwasher if you see a visible buildup of limescale you can do this:. Add a cup full of vinegar in a container that won’t get jostled to the lower rack during the wash cycle. Run the dishwasher with no dishes in it on a regular setting and turn off the heating mode This may take a few times but it will help alleviate the buildup.
Features To Consider When Purchasing The Best Dishwasher For Hard Water
What is the dishwasher made of?
Stainless steel drum is the best option, really all the way around. It will resist rust and should last many years, even with hard water.
Rinse Aid
A dishwasher that has a built in water softener is great, but also pricey. Another option is a built in rinse aid dispenser. This is where you can put in products that give you a spot free finish. These rinse aids act like a water softener and will be a much less expensive option!
Efficiency
While not technically a feature for hard water, finding a dishwasher with a high Energy Star rating can save money over time and is a good option.
Filters
A dishwasher with built in, reusable filers can keep a lot of the harmful minerals from clogging up your dishwasher. This should also eliminate the need for using extra detergent which is a common problem with hard water, and that will save some money too.
Noise Level
All dishwashers built today will be more quieter than their older counterparts. Decibel levels in the dishwashers we reviewed above range from 42dB to 55dB. Many homes today are built in an “open floor plan” style. Which means your kitchen isn’t walled off from your family area. Trying to run a load of dishes after dinner can make enjoying family time playing games or watching t.v. a lot less enjoyable with a loud dishwasher. We’ve included decibel readings with all the dishwashers we reviewed. That is just one more feature to take into consideration before purchasing a new dishwasher.
How Many Cycles?
Dishwashers with a wide variety of cycles can save you money by not wasting water on a small load. In addition, a quality rinse cycle can keep those minerals from settling on the inside of your dishwasher and on your dishes.
FAQ
What is the best dishwasher 2023 for hard water?
All the dishwashers listed above have stainless steel construction so they are heavy duty and will hold up better to hard water. In addition, they have multiple cycle options and rinse aid dispensers. So from there, it’s really up to you to decide which additional features you want in a dishwasher as well as which model will fit best into your kitchen and into your budget!
How do I protect my dishwasher from hard water?
Protection can start with the dishwasher you choose. Choosing a solidly made stainless steel, well reviewed dishwasher is the first step to protecting it from pretty much anything! Beyond that, trying to get rid of your hard water with a water softener will help not just your dishwasher but every appliance and pipe that has water in it as well as your hair and skin and clothes.
Regular cleaning, as we explained above, can also keep your dishwasher safe from a buildup of calcium and also bacteria.
Do all dishwashers have softeners?
Yes and no. Most dishwashers in this price range do not come with built in water softeners. But, all the dishwashers in our review come with a water treatment dispenser. It can provide a barrier to protect your dishes from spots as well as protect your dishwasher from getting a calcium buildup.
Are all dishwashers the same size?
No, but there are sizes that are more common. Most of the models in our review are 24″ but there is one that is 18″. It is vital that you carefully measure your space to ensure that any dishwasher you buy will fit in the space you have available.
Can Bosch dishwasher be used in hard water?
Yes, the Bosch SHEM63W55N 24″ 300 Series Dishwasher with 5 Wash Cycles is a great dishwasher that will hold up well with hard water. Please see our review above.
Best Dishwasher For Hard Water Review – The Bottom Line
Now that you’ve gone through our top picks for best dishwashers for hard water, hopefully you have a better idea of what features are available and which ones really matter to you. Our picks above come in different price ranges and wherever possible we gave you more than one purchase option so you can find the absolute best price available.
There are pockets of hard water pretty much anywhere in varying degrees. If you live in a location that has hard to very hard water you well know the various negative impacts it can have on everything from your skin to your sheets. A water softener may be able to help, but getting a well made stainless steel dishwasher can help too.
Our Top Picks
- Top Pick 1: GE Profile PDT775SYNFS 24″ Dishwasher on Walmart and Amazon
- Top Pick 2: SD-6502SS: Stainless Steel Tall Tub Dishwasher on Amazon
- Top Pick 3: BRAMA Dishwasher 24-Inch Built In on Amazon
- Top Pick 4: Bosch SHEM63W55N 24″ 300 Series Dishwasher on Amazon
- Top Pick 5: FRIGIDAIRE FFBD1831US Dishwasher, 18 ” on Walmart and Amazon