Comparison Bosch SMV 4HVX31E vs Bosch SMV 45LX11E

The amount of water used by the dishwasher in one washing cycle. Usually, it is indicated for a standard cycle — at full load, without pre-rinsing, etc. Accordingly, in special modes, the consumption may differ from the indicated one.

The lower the consumption — it better; this is especially true for those who consume water by metres or who have a limited supply of water (for example, it is drawn from a well with a low productivity). On the other hand, a reduction in consumption can have a negative effect on the quality of the wash. So, choosing an economical dishwasher, you should pay attention to the washing class (see below). In addition, only models of the same capacity can be compared in terms of consumption — after all, the more dishes, the more water is required to wash them.

This parameter characterizes the efficiency of electricity consumption by a dishwasher. Classes are denotet in Latin letters from A to G, in ascending order of energy consumption. Actually, more energy-efficient models have not been added to the A class, which eventually received the marking A +, A ++, A +++. Further development of technology has made it possible to go even further, and in order not to produce pluses in energy efficiency marking, manufacturers returned to the previous indices from G to A in March 2021, where А is the most energy efficient dishwasher. But also class B, C, D and even E are also quite economical (no worse than A +++). Accordingly, the 2021 models will have modern markings, while older models will be marked in the same way.

The approximate noise level produced by the dishwasher during operation. In modern models, this parameter can range from 37 – 39 dB (muffled human voice) to 59 – 60 dB (loud conversation); more detailed decoding of what sound corresponds to a particular number of decibels can be found in special tables. Anyway, the low noise level contributes to the comfortable use of the device. It is especially important if the dishwasher is to be used at night (for example, if there are reduced electricity rates at night).

The number of washing programs (modes) provided in the dishwasher. These programs may differ in duration, exposure intensity, water temperature, dish material (for example for delicate dishes), etc. For more information on the different options, see "Washing programs". And the more modes — the more advanced the device is, the more options it provides to choose from. But note that with the same number of programs, their specific set in different models may be different; these details should be clarified separately.

— Own programme. Possibility to create and save a custom programme by setting the parameters to your liking. This function is convenient because instead of setting the washing settings manually each time, it is enough to save them once in the device’s memory and then simply select a user programme from the list.

— Half load. A special programme for cases when the dishwasher is loaded with only half of its regular capacity. Running a full-fledged wash in such cases would be too wasteful; so in the half load mode, the dishwasher reduces the consumption of water, detergents and electricity, focus on a reduced amount of dishes. Such a programme is relevant mainly for roomy models (from 8 sets).

— Pre-rinsing. The "soaking" mode is a program that rinses dishes with cold water and keeps them from drying for a long time, preventing food residues from sticking to the plates. It's useful for storing unwashed dishes for a long time, and for washing heavily soiled dishes without using intensive washing programs.

— Quick wash. A quick wash programme that saves time. Designed mainly for lightly soiled dishes that do not require particularly intensive exposure; for cope with serious pollution is not suitable.

— Automatic. This program allows the dishwasher to monitor the washing proc...ess using sensors that evaluate the water composition during rinsing. The washing process ends when the water is free of impurities, ensuring optimal resource consumption. The washing mode varies by model, with some offering only standard automatic programs and others allowing users to choose the water temperature.

— Economical. A programme that reduces the consumption of water, detergents and electricity compared to a normal washing cycle. Usually, it is intended for dishes without heavy soiling and dried food residues, although individual models may have their own features of the economy mode.

— Delicate (for glass). Special programme for washing delicate dishes, especially that are made of thin glass (goblets, wine glasses, etc.). Washing is carried out at low temperatures (to avoid drops) and with minimal mechanical actions, which allows you to keep delicate dishes intact.

— Hygienic. This program is designed to destroy pathogenic bacteria and viruses effectively. It uses elevated water temperatures (around 68...70°C) that can provide a bactericidal effect without special detergents. This mode is useful for washing children's dishes and can be helpful when someone in the family is sick.

— Intensive. Special programme for washing heavily soiled dishes, such as pans with dried-on food residues. Usually, it provides increased pressure and elevated water temperature.

— Night(quiet). This program is designed for use at night or in situations where excessive noise is undesirable. It reduces the noise produced by the dishwasher by decreasing water temperature, pressure, and using other techniques depending on the model. The necessary washing efficiency is maintained by increasing the operating time, making it suitable for use at night.

— Steam treatment. Hot steam treatment can be used to soften dried food residues and sterilize jars and utensils for home canning. The process consumes a lot of energy.

In addition to the above, other types of programs may be indicated in the specs of dishwashers, in particular:

— Normal. Standard programme for washing lightly soiled dishes with a full load at temperatures around 65 °C. Available in almost all modern dishwashers, but sometimes manufacturers specify its availability separately.

— Plastic utensils. The programme is designed for washing reusable plastic dishes at lower temperatures and intensity than the standard programme to avoid scratches and damage caused by high heat. Not all plastic dishes are compatible with dishwashers, so compatibility should be checked separately. Washing disposable dishes is not recommended.

— Mixed. This category includes all programs that combine several washing modes at once — for example, the normal mode in the compartment for cups and glasses, and the intensive one in the lower part, where you can put a pot or frying pan. Options for such combinations may be different, depending on the model.

— Self-cleaning. Special programme to remove deposits and disinfect the dishwasher. Self-cleaning mode heats water with detergents to remove moderate pollution, and can be run multiple times for tough deposits.

Indicator showing the amount of special salt left in the dishwasher. Such salt is used to soften hard water, it is consumed as the appliance operates; if there is an indicator, it is much easier for the user to monitor the remainder. At the same time, the capabilities of the indicator may be different: in some models, it only signals that the salt is coming to an end, in others — it allows you to more or less accurately determine the remainder.

The indicator signaling the remainder of the rinse aid — a special product used during rinsing dishes. The specific way this indicator works may be different: in some models, it only signals that the rinse aid is almost empty, while in others, the rinse aid indicator more or less accurately displays the remainder. However, this function makes life easier for the user, allowing you to control accurately the amount of rinse aid.

Possibility of connection of the dishwasher to a source of hot water. With this connection, the water enters the device already heated (unlike the usual procedure, when the dishwasher itself heats the water to the desired temperature) — thus it saves time and energy. However, note that "hot connection" is demanding on the quality of water: in most cases, it must have a temperature of 60-65 °C and be supplied without pressure drops.
Note that hot water connection is an option, not the only way; dishwashers with the possibility of such a connection can usually work according to the standard scheme, from a source of cold water.

Ability to control the dishwasher via the Internet. Thanks to this feature, the owner can control the device from almost anywhere in the world. In addition, most of these "smart" dishwashers are also capable of sending various notifications — for example, about the end of the programme, the remaining detergent and other consumables, interruptions in the water supply, their own problems, etc. Connecting the dishwasher to the Internet can be done in different ways, but the most commonly used module is Wi-Fi.

The specific features of Internet control may vary. For example, in some models it is carried out through a smartphone, tablet or other gadget with a special application, in others you can use any Internet browser; and the set of dishwasher functions available to the user can also be different. However, this feature provides additional convenience anyway and can be very useful — especially for those who spend most of their time away from home.