Dishwasher POD 11-27-11

[wireman]

Does anyone out there have one of these and what brand is it?? I know some the early (20's-mid-50's) dishwashers were countertop height; sure makes more sense than undercounter! A few modern houses I've seen have had the DW mounted a bit higher, with a short cabinet underneath. Wonder why the higher DW's didn't catch on? MUCH easier on the back as one gets older. Was it just that many folks were first buying portables, sometimes later installing them permanently, so manufacturers just catered to that need? I also realize most kitchens weren't as big as many of today's, so counter space was at a premium. Does anyone currently make a model meant to be mounted higher than floor level?

Hope everyone had a Happy T-day!

Thanks!
Duane

 

[bwoods]

Hi Duane,

Just speculation, but back in the 20's - 50's many kitchen cabinets were steel and sometimes more or less unibuilt, so often you couldn't just pull out a 24 inch section and stick a dishwasher in.

It seems back then, most dishwashers were roll around models or sink-dishwasher units. for the roull-around, models, they looked more a part of the kitchen, if they were the same height as the cabinets. Those models who had flat tops,as you said, could also provide valuable countertop space.

The more modern "portable" or roll-around units often have a wooden butcher block type top on them, which brings the surface of the top up to about countertop height.

Yes, I havae seen some installations, like you mentioned, where the dishwasher is elevated on a small cabinet for easier loading/unloading. Personally, I don't think they look that good that way. But as you say, Duane, it makes it a little easier on the back!

On the other end of the spectrum, I know some manufactures make an ADA compliant dishwasher which actually sits a little lower than normal units.

Barry

 

[wireman]

Thanks, Barry! Years ago, did have a Kenmore 70's portable in a condo in Chicago. Cleaned well, but suspect ALL 20 floors above us heard it when we ran it! NOISY! I think the best solution, IF one had the space and money, would be to mount it in a cabinet similar to a wall oven unit cabinet. Then there would not be that awkward, raised counter top, plus storage above and below.

Happy Holidays!
Duane