Though the mother companies of Whirlpool and KitchenAid dishwashers are the same, they don’t produce exactly the same products. The main difference between Whirlpool vs KitchenAid dishwasher is that Whirlpool features drying sensors and lead sensors while KitchenAid is quieter, more durable, and more power efficient.
However, the difference between these two brands varies depending on the models. So you should choose the dishwasher model that mostly fits your certain needs and preferences.
Whirlpool vs Kitchenaid Dishwasher- Key Differences
KitchenAid and Whirlpool dishwashers have plenty of similar features including the same number of spray arms, and sanitization options. Dishwashers from both brands are also made of almost the same hardware.
However the dishwashers of these two brands have significant differences in terms of their design, build quality, and performance. These briefly discuss what set them apart:
Concealed Heating Element
Concealed heating elements help clean all the utensils including plastic avoiding melting them. It’s a handy feature that comes with some KitchenAid dishwasher models including KUDE70FXSS. Whirlpool doesn’t have this feature.
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Noise Levels
KitchenAid dishwasher is considerably quieter than Whirlpool dishwasher. Most KitchenAid models make 44 dB or lower noise. For example, KDTE204KPS produces only 39 dB which is louder than the rustling leaves’s sound.
However, some expensive KitchenAid models make around 44 dB. Conversely, most whirlpool dishwashers make around 47 dB of noise while some goes up to 50 dB.
Cupboard Integration Capability
A dishwasher with cupboard integration capability perfectly fits into the kitchen’s cupboard and boosts the beauty of the décor. In this case, you’ll find the KitchenAid dishwasher handy and whirlpool dishwasher is less suitable.
Spray or Wash Arms
Wash arms or spray arms effectively clean dirty dishes using soapy water and rinse them once clean. A dishwasher with more wash arms provides better cleaning results.
Both Whirlpool and KitchenAid dishwashers feature a double spray arm at the top and bottom area.
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Customer Rating
In composition, the KitchenAid dishwasher gets higher customer reviews than a Whirlpool. The highest and lowest customer ratings for KitchenAid dishwashers are 4.6 and 4.1 respectively. These models have earned thousands of positive reviews, thanks to their impressive features like the Freflex third rack, and prowash cycle.
Conversely, the highest and lowest customer ratings for Whirlpool dishwashers are 5 and 2.4. It also gets lower reviews and doesn’t have many additional and smart features.
Cleaning Power
KitchenAid dishwasher is one of the best choices in terms of cleaning performance thanks to its effective filtration, prewash, and water distribution system. The triple filtration system cleans food particles and debris from wash water to prevent clogging drains hoses and save energy.
The pre wash feature applies the optimum wash cycle to clean the dishes distinctly better while its dynamic wash arm dispenses water effectively. Some KitchenAid models also feature pro scrub to cut tougher messes. It helps avoid pre-washing or soaking the dishes after cleaning to save both time and water.
The whirlpool dishwasher on the other hand features a spray arm, fan dryer, soil sensor, and sensor cycle to provide impressive cleaning performance. Its total coverage spray arm covers the whole interior tub using high-pressure spray to clean and rinse every dish. The WDT730PAHZ model comes with a fan dry feature to circulate hot air within the tub which helps it get an energy star rating. It also detects the type of dirty dishes and adjusts the cycle of water and time accordingly. This way it saves energy and delivers optimum cleaning performance.
Wifi Connectivity
Some latest Whirlpool dishwasher models including WDTA75SAHZN and WDTA75SAHZ come with Wi-Fi connectivity to let you download customizable cycles. It also features some smart functions like control lock mode to lock the control panel remotely to keep children away.
You can operate Google Home, Alexa Assistant, and Nest. The Kitchenaid dishwasher on the other hand doesn’t have a Wi-Fi feature.
Interior Options
KitchenAid dishwasher design with stainless steel interior to provide improved drying performance by condensation. Some models also have leak-detection sensors. While its compact tine design provides more space for dishes, the third rack holds bigger utensils comfortably.
The satinglide function of KitchenAid helps glide the racks smoothly even if it is heavy and full load.
In contrast, most whirlpool dishwashers come with plastic interiors particularly that cost under $500. However, some higher-end whirlpool dishwashers including WDT750SAKZ, WDTA50SAKZ, and WDTA80SAKZ feature stainless steel tubs. Though the plastic tub doesn’t seem attractive, Whirlpool’s heating element provides the same performance as the stainless tub.
Is KitchenAid Dishwasher better than Whirlpool?
Whirlpool and KitchenAid are two world-class brands of home appliances that the Whirlpool Corporation manufactures and sells. However, these two brands are different in labeling, control panel layout, colors, and more. The kitchen dishwasher is also the top line of the Whirlpool Corporation.
Though KitchenAid racks seem a bit different than Whirlpool, their interior stuff and washing performance are almost the same.
So, which dishwasher is better? In short, the dishwasher meets your requirements and has your desired features will be better for you. It doesn’t matter if it is KitchenAid or Whirlpool.
However, if you consider the quality, the KitchenAid dishwasher is a better choice than the Whirlpool one. The brand provides more features and reflects a superior quality level. It is made of higher-class materials and gets better customer feedback while Whirlpool is a more affordable option.
Are KitchenAid and Whirlpool the Same?
Whirlpool Corporation was established by Benton Harbor in 1911 and became one of the top home appliance manufacturers and distributors. Both Whirlpool and kitchen dishwashers are sister companies like other brands including Amana, Indesit, Consul, Bauknecht, and Yummly.
KitchenAid was established by Hobart Manufacturing Company in 1019 and the H-5 stand mixer was their first model. They produced a dishwasher as their second product in 1949. However, Whirlpool bought KitchenAid in 1986 and introduced a refrigerator from the brand.
Since then, both KitchenAid and Whirlpool produce a variety of products including ovens, cookers, freezers, refrigerators, water filters, cooker tops, and more.
In terms of the unique product, Whirlpool produces dryers and washers while KitchenAid manufacturers stand mixers.
Though KitchenAid and Whirlpool both are controlled by the same brand, they are independent in terms of the manufacturing and distributing process. So you may notice some shared features between Whirlpool and KitchenAid, but they are different. For the dishwasher, KitchenAid provides higher-end models as they are quieter and maintain better interior racks and build quality.
FAQs
1. How reliable is a Whirlpool dishwasher?
Whirlpool is one of the most home appliance brands and its dishwasher is second most reliable after bosch. Whirlpool’s customer service is also impressive and lasts for decades to take care of your kitchen.
2. What are the cons of KitchenAid and Whirlpool dishwashers?
The KitchenAid dishwasher is more expensive than similar brands and may have a 24-inch-deep kitchen cabinet. It also doesn’t have Wi-Fi connectivity and limited styles to choose from.
The whirlpool dishwasher also has some downsides like a plastic interior, noisier operation, incompatibility with cabinet panel, and less durability.
3. How long do Whirlpool and KitchenAid dishwashers last?
The average lifespan of most dishwashers is 10 years. The whirlpool dishwasher usually lasts around 12 to 15 years on average. Its sister brand KitchenAid dishwasher also lasts about 10 years with proper care and maintenance.
Final Words
Hope this Whirlpool vs. KitchenAid dishwasher comparison guide provides you with enough information so you can decide the best dishwasher brand between these two famous brands. As mentioned, the best dishwasher brand depends on your certain needs, budget, and kitchen space.
So if you prefer a more durable and smarter dishwasher, opt for KitchenAid while Whirlpool is a more affordable option. Lastly, the best performance of a dishwasher is largely determined by the way you handle and maintain it.
