Tiny House Dishwashers

Living in a tiny house doesn’t mean sacrificing modern conveniences like dishwashers. In fact, having a dishwasher in a tiny home can be especially valuable since it saves water compared to hand washing and eliminates the need for dish drying racks that take up precious counter space. The challenge is finding units compact enough to fit within tight spaces while still providing effective cleaning performance. This comprehensive guide explores the best dishwasher options for tiny homes, their features, and installation considerations.

1. Countertop Dishwashers

Countertop dishwashers are among the most popular options for tiny house dwellers. These standalone units sit on your counter or a dedicated shelf and connect to your kitchen faucet when in use.

Most countertop models measure around 17-22 inches wide, 17 inches deep, and 20 inches tall. They typically accommodate 4-6 place settings, making them perfect for individuals or couples living in tiny spaces.

Benefits include:
– No permanent installation required
– Can be stored away when not in use
– Lower water consumption than full-sized models
– More affordable than built-in options
– Usually plug into standard outlets

One tiny house owner on Reddit mentioned searching for countertop dishwashers shorter than 17 inches to fit in a specific space, highlighting the importance of carefully measuring your available area before purchasing.

2. Drawer Dishwashers

Drawer dishwashers offer an innovative solution for tiny homes with their unique single or double-drawer design. Fisher & Paykel pioneered this style, though other manufacturers now offer similar products.

These units can be installed under counters or integrated into cabinetry, making them excellent space-savers. Single drawer models are particularly suitable for tiny houses, measuring approximately 24 inches wide, 22.5 inches deep, and just 16 inches tall.

Key advantages include:
– Can run half loads efficiently in a single drawer
– Seamlessly integrates with cabinetry
– Ergonomic design eliminates bending down
– Typically holds 6-7 place settings per drawer

The main drawback is the higher price point compared to countertop models, but the space efficiency and aesthetic integration make them worth considering for permanent tiny home installations.

3. Compact Built-In Dishwashers

For tiny house owners who want a more permanent solution with greater capacity, compact built-in dishwashers offer a good middle ground. These units are typically 18 inches wide (compared to standard 24-inch models), making them suitable for smaller kitchens.

Summit Appliance, a company specializing in appliances for tiny homes and micro-kitchens, offers several compact built-in models designed specifically for space-constrained environments.

Benefits of compact built-ins include:
– More capacity than countertop models (typically 8-10 place settings)
– Permanent installation for a finished look
– Better sound insulation than portable units
– More powerful cleaning performance

Installation requires dedicated plumbing connections and sufficient under-counter space, so these are better suited for tiny homes with traditional kitchen layouts rather than extremely minimalist designs.

4. In-Sink Dishwashers

Perhaps the most innovative space-saving solution is the in-sink dishwasher. As discussed in a Reddit thread about tiny house builds, these unique appliances serve as both a sink and a dishwasher, truly maximizing space efficiency.

The concept is simple but brilliant: when you need to wash dishes, you close the sink drain and activate the dishwasher function. When not washing dishes, it functions as a normal sink.

Advantages include:
– Ultimate space efficiency with dual functionality
– No additional counter or cabinet space required
– Ideal for extremely small tiny houses
– Conversation starter and unique design element

The downsides include limited capacity (typically 2-4 place settings) and the inability to use your sink while dishes are washing. However, for those with severely limited space, this dual-purpose solution could be ideal.

5. Portable Dishwashers on Wheels

For tiny homes with flexible layouts, portable dishwashers on wheels offer another viable option. These units are slightly larger than countertop models but provide more capacity and can be moved around as needed.

Typically 18 inches wide and featuring finished tops that can serve as additional counter space, these dishwashers connect temporarily to your faucet like countertop models but offer capacity closer to compact built-ins.

Benefits include:
– Can be stored in different locations when not in use
– Provides additional counter space
– Larger capacity than countertop models (usually 8 place settings)
– No permanent installation required

The main consideration is having sufficient floor space and storage area when the unit is not in use.

Comparison Table of Tiny House Dishwasher Options

6. Water and Energy Efficiency Considerations

When selecting a dishwasher for a tiny house, water and energy efficiency become particularly important considerations. Many tiny homes operate on limited water supplies or off-grid systems.

Modern compact dishwashers are surprisingly efficient, often using less water than hand washing the same number of dishes. Look for models with:

– Energy Star certification
– Eco cycles that use less water and energy
– Half-load options for smaller dish quantities
– Delayed start features to run during off-peak hours if using solar power

Most countertop and compact dishwashers use between 2-3 gallons of water per cycle, compared to the 4-6 gallons used by full-sized models and the 20+ gallons often used when hand washing.

7. Installation and Space Planning Tips

Before purchasing any dishwasher for your tiny house, careful planning is essential:

– Measure your available space multiple times, accounting for door clearance
– Consider utilities access (water supply, drainage, and electrical requirements)
– For built-in models, ensure your cabinetry can support the weight and dimensions
– For countertop models, verify your counter height provides sufficient clearance
– Check if your water heater can supply sufficient hot water for effective cleaning

One creative solution mentioned in tiny house forums is installing drawer dishwashers within staircase storage areas, turning what might be awkward storage space into functional appliance housing.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Tiny House Dishwasher

Dishwashers are no longer a luxury that tiny house dwellers must sacrifice. With the variety of compact, efficient options available today, you can find a solution that fits your space constraints, water/energy limitations, and budget.

Countertop models offer flexibility and affordability for those with available counter space. Drawer dishwashers provide elegant integration for more permanent installations. In-sink models maximize space efficiency for the smallest homes, while compact built-ins offer a good balance of capacity and size.

When selecting your tiny house dishwasher, prioritize careful measurement, consider your daily dishwashing needs, and think about how the appliance will integrate with your overall tiny house design and systems. With the right choice, you can enjoy the convenience of automatic dishwashing while maintaining the simplicity and efficiency that tiny house living embodies.