What's this? This judgment is based mainly on washing, but also factors in noise, energy and water use, loading, and more. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.
Approximate retail price:
$499.00
We expect this model to perform similarly to the tested Bosch SHE6AP0[2]UC although it may differ in price and features.
The Bosch SHE4AP0[ ]UC is a dishwasher available from
Bosch.
The SHE4AP0[ ]UC typically costs
$499.00.
Consumer Reports recommends that you match the features on a model to the needs you have. Here's
our take on some of the specifications and features that are commonly available on dishwasher
models like the SHE4AP0[ ]UC.
Sensor:
A sensor adjusts water usage and cycle time to the amount of soil on the dishes. This should make a dishwasher use water more efficiently, but we found that wasn't always the case. Moreover, a sensor can increase a machine's running time.
Stainless-steel tub:
Unlike a plastic tub, a stainless-steel one won't discolor, but it does increase the cost of a dishwasher by about $100.
Ample flatware slots:
Flatware baskets with lids provide individual slots for most of the utensils in our silverware load. Such lids prevent "nesting" and thus improve flatware cleaning. It is more time-consuming to load the cutlery into individual slots, though, so you can remove the lids if you prefer.
Tested Model
The Ratings of Bosch SHE6AP0[2]UC were applied to untested model Bosch SHE4AP0[ ]UC, which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both.
This highly rated European brand is positioned as the maker of the quietest, most energy-efficient models with features that leave dishes sparkling. The machines are known for their quiet operation and washing ability. The company is introducing a stainless-steel tub that has a nonstainless tub base (gray). Bosch dishwashers also have a manual filter, unlike most of the other brands sold in this country.
Sensor A sensor adjusts water usage and cycle time to the amount of soil on the dishes. This should make a dishwasher use water more efficiently, but we found that wasn't always the case. Moreover, a sensor can increase a machine's running time.
Sensor
Yes
Self-cleaning filter A filter that cleans itself is convenient, but it can contribute to noise. Note that it's often the costly foreign brands that lack self-cleaning filters and require periodic manual cleaning of the filter.
Self-cleaning filter
No
Stainless-steel tub Unlike a plastic tub, a stainless-steel one won't discolor, but it does increase the cost of a dishwasher by about $100.
Stainless-steel tub
Yes
Hidden controls Controls along the top edge of the door contribute to a sleeker look. Some models hide all controls; others hide only some controls.
Hidden controls
No
Ample flatware slots Flatware baskets with lids provide individual slots for most of the utensils in our silverware load. Such lids prevent "nesting" and thus improve flatware cleaning. It is more time-consuming to load the cutlery into individual slots, though, so you can remove the lids if you prefer.
Ample flatware slots
Yes
Adjustable upper rack Most models hold cups and glasses on the top rack, plates on the lower rack, and silverware in a basket. The ability to adjust the upper rack up or down an inch or so allows for more flexibility in loading items such as tall glasses.
Adjustable upper rack
Yes
Stainless/SS-look option Stainless-steel is stylish, but it shows fingerprints. Another option: a vinyl-covered metal finish that gives you a stainless-steel look but resists smudging.
Best cleaning dishwasher I've owned, every other dishwasher would clean terribly without pre-washing. This is the first dishwasher I can say will clean dishes 95% of the time without pre-scrubbing or any rinsing at all. Can usually skip a day too.<br /><br />It's a little smaller than your average dishwasher. For two people who cook regularly we run it every other day. Super quiet, don't know why CR gave it an average rating. Quietest dishwasher we've owned. Sounds like a brook running through the kitchen.<br /><br />A few gripes. 1) The racks are very horribly designed. The top rack is okay for holding glasses on each side but the center has oddly shaped tines that are very close together. The bottom rack is just horrid. Can't fit anything in the angled tines. I'm going to have to bend them all manually. They didn't design it to fit mixing bowls, baking dishes, or pots and pans. 2) The silverware holder is worthless. It doesn't surround the silverware enough to keep them from flying out of the holder. 3) The bottom rack also flies off the track easily. Given that the dishes are already precariously placed, slipping off the track usually results in a loud, noisy crash with dishes sliding around.<br /><br />I curse out the loading almost every time but it really is the quietest and best cleaning dishwasher I've owned.
How long have you owned it:
Three-to-six months
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.
By
Dukesnyder
from
Ligonier PA
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
4.0
Good clean, but rack issues
12/11/2011
Pros
Attractive Design
Cleans Well
Simple Controls
Cons
Awkward Loading
Long Cycle
Best Uses
Larger Kitchens
Comment:
No problems with the way dishes come out--usually clean as a whistle. The racks are frustrating, however. EVERY tine is angled, so glasses always tip over. Neither rack allows for longer items such as cookie trays and 12 Pyrex. Silverware basket is too small--ended up using old one from discarded Whirlpool. Stainless model is attractive with excellent control panel, many nice features including 3, 6, 9 hour delay, so cleaning can be done in middle of night without competing with morning hot water needs.
How long have you owned it:
Three-to-six months
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.
By
crosby
from
Minnesota
(14 of 14 customers found this review helpful)
5.0
great machine
6/23/2011
Pros
Cleans Well
Energy Efficient
Quiet
Simple Controls
Cons
Long Cycle
Best Uses
Comment:
Have owned for a year. Our old dishwasher cleaned poorly, even with pre-rinsing and top rated detergent. <br />While the washing time is long, this machine is whisper quiet. Any complaints about drying of dishes should be disregarded for those who do not want to pay for the electricity used by an element dedicated to this purpose. We run our washer after supper and by the next morning the dishes are clean, dry and spot free (we use Consumer Reports best buy detergent). <br />The manual filter is a non-issue as I clean it every couple months. It takes 30 seconds.<br />THis is a fantastic machine. Economical and effeciet.