Danby DDW1805W Portable Dishwasher

Danby DDW1805w Dishwasher must be a loss leader!

By Yahoo! Shopping User  May 16, 2005 | 22 out of 22 found this Danby DDW1805W Portable review helpful

Pros: Superb Construction, Attention to Detail

Cons: Short Hoses

I used to sell dishwashers at Sears. I've owned several built in full sized dishwashers, even a stainless steel Bosch. This is the first one I am 'giddy' over.
I recently downsized to move to Manhattan, which meant getting a small kitchen with no dishwasher. After months of sink washing, I broke down and bought this (Actually, a house guest felt sorry for me, and got it for me after I mentioned I was about to buy it). But not without reading all the specs and reviews. I bought it from eTronics (I've bought from them before) and was pleased with the customer service (so far). They had the best price (no delivery charge, as they have a local store too).

After unpacking and inspection, I concluded that it was built with the same specs as the top of the line Kenmore (which I used to sell). It has a form fitting stainless steel interior, mechanical controls (which, IMO, are better than electronic on a machine that gets wet and steamy alot), well fitting seals, and stable casters. The interior is FULL size depth and height, just 6 inches narrower in width (Another brand, which I viewed on the spot, was NOT nearly as deep, and had rickety trays). The upper tray has two height settings, but I found the lower setting is not suitable for standard size dishes to fit below. The trays fit well, perhaps a bit too snug, but we'll see if they loosen up with use. The tines are spaced a bit close together for my taste, but after a washing, it appears the 1805 can handle dishes so close together. There is a lower spray arm, middle spray arm and top sprayer (non-spinning). The food filters and heating element in the base are sturdy and well made. Complaint: The hose hook-up are 6 feet long (apparently that is measured from inside the back where they connect to the machine, as they seemed too short and the 1805 must be right up against the sink counter to hook-up.

I've never had a portable before, and (with the exception of my dear grandmother) always looked down on them. This one looks solid and has clean lines in any kitchen. On the rear panel, however, you will see a few (covered) rivets and seams, along with the black-plastic lined hose receptable, and serial tags. Unless you store it against a wall, you will see these protrusions. It should fit in with all your other appliances without standing out.

The standard load time took about 45 minutes to run. The machine attaches easily to your faucet, though you do have to replace your areator with an adapter that produces a narrower stream of water from the faucet when the DW is not in use. I've only used the "economy" cycle, which worked great, but there are also Pots and Pans, Delicate, and Rinse only cycles. Additionally, the Delicate cycle can have a no heat option, and the Pots and Pans can have an extra boost option. It heats the water steaming hot.

Very Quiet. Though not as quiet as the Bosch I owned (which I think is quieter than a Meile), it was as quiet as my Kitchen Aid. It was definitely quieter than all the plastic tub models out there.

Though hardly used, I have experienced NO leaks. This even was operated on a non-level floor. My building is 110 years old and the floors are VERY slanted and swelled. This was my biggest concern. After each cycle, I took my flashlight and looked underneath for any signs of water....none. (My neighbors below would not appreciate an un-requested shower).

I am a penny-pincher, and stressed over the purchase. Not because of the price, but because of the value for the price. I couldn't believe that such an inexpensive dishwasher could deliver like this one has.

I can seriously say that this dishwasher outperforms dishwashers at twice its price. It carries an in-home 1 year warranty, but I always like stores like Sears where if you complain enough they take it back without any questions. So this was a bit of a leap, as Danby relies on authorized service centers (of which I hope I will never use).

eTronics is a great source for reliable appliances and service also.