KitchenAid 44 dBA Dishwasher with Panel-Ready Design Panel Ready

Replacing a KitchenAid DW that expired after 12+ years. I also have other KitchenAid products that have performed very well. KitchenAid was my first choice without researching. First thing I noticed when installing is the water connection is now made of plastic (metal previously) and the connection part is NOT included. The sound dampening fabric does not account for standard depth DW/Cabinet space and had to be removed (same as last experience). In previous model there was also a sound dampening rubber mat with insulation that slid in under and at base of DW. No longer supplied. Side screw mount holes were not aligned with provided clips and I had to drill holes in them to align side mount screws so it wasn't on angle (I flipped the clips on both sides to be sure it wasn't installer). The panel instructions provided, with glue strips, were overly complicated. Install diagrams did not list all measurements like an architecture plan and left me guessing would the existing water supply and electric locations work. DW still juts out ~1/8+ of an inch proud. There is NO technical support for install or install guides posted on web prior to purchase for review. Lower and upper rack arms when moving in/out of DW make a scraping noise like fingers on a chalk board. I cringe each time I load it now. The bottom rack layout has changed from previous model and we NOT able to accommodate dishes for a family of four. The panel buttons although flat are easily selected just by sliding your finger on the panel. For the price this DW should be much easier to install, have a well-designed rack layout/space, rack arms should not make noise, a metal water connection (direct to water line) and provide easier install of panel. KitchenAid should be ashamed of themselves for the price of this model. Especially when there is such a focus on consumer service. Next time showroom and looking at other brands first.

As a kitchen designer I have recommended and used kitchenaid dishwashers for the past 13 years. However, my latest purchase of model#KDTM504EPA has been problematic from the very start of installation two years ago. Initially the problem was with the detergent packets when placed in the compartment they would not completely dissolve. After two calls to have this serviced the repair man was told by KitchenAid that is was a "design" flaw which prevented the dishwasher compartment from fully opening. The solution was to throw the detergent packet into the bottom of the tub and not use the designated compartment. I was annoyed with this solution but went along with it. After about a year of use it developed another issue. It started to leak from the bottom of the door in rhythmic concert with the sounds of water from the spray arm. A year later and still no resolution. After being a loyal user of KitchenAid dishwasher and highly recommending it to my clients I am now going to have to purchase a Bosch. So disappointed that I wasted so much money of this unit!

We have been more than happy with this dishwasher. It is so quiet that often times when it is running guests don't even realize it's in the middle of a cycle and open the door to load it! It cleans dishes without needing to pre-wash and the drying cycle is fantastic. When using the drying agent almost all our dishes come out completely dry. We have also used the top rack only feature to wash crystal and delicate glass and it works perfectly. Would highly recommend this dishwasher and the integrated panel with top buttons is just the icing on the cake.

works great and easy to load!!

It has a lot of options so you can adjust the interior to suit your dish-ware. Nice sturdy interior and door. Does a good job and is so quiet you don't know its running.