The Best ADA Compliant Dishwashers: A Guide + Reviews

It’s hard to imagine a time when appliances were not designed with the user in mind. However, for many people with disabilities, this was their reality for a very long time. Fortunately, with the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), brands started developing appliances that catered to the needs of individuals with disabilities. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore ADA compliant dishwashers, their benefits, and provide expert reviews to help you make an informed choice.
Understanding ADA Compliance
Before we delve into the details of ADA compliant dishwashers, let’s first understand what ADA compliance means. Prior to 1990, appliances for individuals with physical needs were limited to standard dimensions, which made them less convenient to use. However, with the ADA act, buyers gained access to appliances with specialized designs that addressed their concerns.
What Makes a Dishwasher ADA Compliant?
ADA compliant dishwashers have a few key differences that make them more accessible for individuals with disabilities. One notable feature is the height. While standard dishwashers measure between 33-34 inches tall, ADA dishwashers are only 32 inches tall. This allows them to fit beneath compliant countertops. Additionally, the racks are designed to be fully reachable from the front of the appliance, and the controls are easy to grab and use with a single arm.
The Benefits of ADA Compliant Dishwashers
The primary benefit of ADA compliant dishwashers is their superior accessibility for individuals with physical limitations. The lower height makes it easier for people who use wheelchairs to load and unload dishes. The easy-access interior and user-friendly controls make it simple for users of all backgrounds to operate the dishwasher. Furthermore, all controls require a maximum of five pounds of strength to activate, making the experience more efficient.
Expert Reviews: Top ADA Compliant Dishwasher Picks
Best Overall: GE® 24″ Built-In Dishwasher-Stainless Steel (GDT225SSLSS)
Clean without compromise inside this GE ADA compliant dishwasher that’s packed with great features to make after-dinner cleanup easy. With a 3-Level Wash system and the GE Piranha hard food disposer, all you need to do is place the dishes, run a cycle, and enjoy spot-free dishes.
Features:
- 3-Level Wash system
- Autosense Cycle
- Piranha Hard Food Disposer
- Stainless steel tub
- 51 dBA
Best Value: ASKO 30 Series 24″ Built In Dishwasher-Panel Ready (DFI663)
The ASKO 30 Series Panel Ready Dishwasher is perfect for those looking for an affordable and highly adjustable ADA compliant dishwasher. This dishwasher features 8 spray zones and a self-cleaning system, making it easy to keep your dishes clean without any manual effort. Plus, its quiet operation ensures a peaceful environment.
Features:
- 8Spray™ Wash System
- SCS+ – Super Cleaning System+™
- 11 Cycle Programs
Best Luxury: Bosch© 800 Series 24″ Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher (SGX78B55UC)
Choose a Bosch ADA compliant dishwasher for one of the most advanced dishwashing machines on the market. With an upper third rack, Bosch Rackmatic technology, and features like PrecisionWash and CrystalDry, you can enjoy table-ready dishes every time.
Features:
- PrecisionWash System
- CrystalDry technology
- Rackmatic adjustable middle rack
- 3rd rack
- Home Connect wireless controls
- 46 dBA
Best Sanitizing ADA Dishwasher: Bosch© 300 Series 24″ Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher (SGE53B55UC)
No surface is left unclean when you run a load inside this Bosch ADA dishwasher. With features like PrecisionWash and PureDry technology, your dishes will be spotless and ready to use. The dishwasher also offers a nine-level adjustable middle rack, Home Connect Wi-Fi app management, and a silent 46-dBA operation.
Features:
- PrecisionWash System
- Plastic-safe PureDry System
- Rackmatic adjustable middle rack
- Home Connect wireless controls
- Stainless steel tub
- 46 dBA
Best Smart ADA Dishwasher: LG 24″ Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher (ADFD5448AT)
Experience the power of ThinQ Technology in this 32-inch height LG dishwasher. With the LG QuadWash system and features like EasyRack Plus and ThinQ Technology, you can control your dishwasher from a smart device while enjoying efficient and thorough cleaning.
Features:
- QuadWash Technology
- EasyRack Plus
- ThinQ Technology
- Auto Open door
- Stainless steel tub
- Energy Star certified
Best 18” ADA Dishwasher: GE Profile® 18″ Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher (PDT145SSLSS)
This compact yet convenient 18-inch ADA dishwasher from GE Profile is perfect for kitchens with limited space. With a 3-Level wash system and the GE Piranha Hard Disposer, you can enjoy spotless dishes without compromising on performance.
Features:
- Piranha Hard Food Disposer
- 3-Level Wash System
- Stainless steel tub
- Autosense Cycle
- 47 dBA
- Energy Star certified
Our Choosing Process
When selecting the top ADA compliant dishwashers, we followed three core principles to ensure a smooth user experience.
Design
Gone are the days of gaudy ADA standard dishwasher designs. Many brands, including luxury brand Bosch, now offer elegant designs that seamlessly blend into any kitchen. We also value the design of racks, gliding mechanisms, and door and control design to enhance the user experience.
Performance
ADA dishwashers should perform as well as standard dishwashers. They can handle a significant number of place settings and deliver powerful dish care. Some models even come with Wi-Fi enabled controls, making them even more user-friendly for individuals with physical limitations.
Noise Level
ADA dishwashers typically register noise levels around 50 decibels (dBA). While they may be on the louder side, well-insulated models with stainless steel tubs offer a quieter operation, similar to a regular conversation.
Why Trust Us?
With our 15 years of experience, we believe that every appliance shopper deserves a simple and satisfying experience. At Spencer’s TV & Appliance, we stock a wide selection of ADA appliances to cater to the needs of all users. Our commitment to providing excellent service has made us Arizona’s appliance provider with the largest selection and best prices.
Shop ADA Dishwashers at Spencer’s TV & Appliance
No matter your needs, our product specialists at Spencer’s TV & Appliance have the knowledge to help you find an ADA compliant dishwasher that meets your expectations. Visit one of our 10 appliance showrooms across the Valley or shop online to discover a wide range of ADA dishwashers and more. Our goal is to provide you with an appliance that is easy to use and delivers powerful performance.