Dishwashers have become one of the most popular devices to have in the house. In addition, there have been a lot of changes to the units, improving their power efficiency and cleaning ability and the direct feed is one of those improvements.
You might be wondering what “direct feed” means on a dishwasher. This post will examine what it means and how it works in your unit.
“Direct feed” in a dishwasher means that the unit has a pipe that delivers water to the wash arm below the upper rack.
Direct-feed dishwashers are ideal for their cleaning efficiency and reliability, water and energy conservation, and more dish space than traditional power tower units.
In addition to the direct feed feature, we will examine the benefits of dishwasher machines with this water connection.
What Is “Direct Feed” in Dishwashers?
Direct feed is also referred to as “immediate feed.” The term “direct feed” in a dishwasher describes the unit’s water supply connection. Direct-feed dishwashers have a pipe that delivers water directly to the wash arm below the unit’s upper rack.
How Direct Feed Dishwashers Work
As previously stated, direct-feed dishwashers have a tube that delivers water directly to the upper racks’ wash arm. The tube is located at the back of the unit and supplies water from the pump at the bottom.
Older dishwashing brands used a spray tower for cleaning. They had a telescopic power tower attached to the center of the main wash arm at the bottom of the unit. During dishwashing, the pressure build-up caused the power tower to push water and spray it into the middle and upper racks using multiple holes in the tower.
However, the tower delivery system came with multiple challenges. First, there was a massive opening in the middle of the lower rack to accommodate the power tower, taking up precious space. Second, the water delivery was not adequate for efficient cleaning.
Eventually, when direct-feed dishwashers were developed, it was a massive game-changer in the industry. A multi-feed delivery system would efficiently supply water to the washer’s lower, middle, and upper racks. Furthermore, the dishwasher also had more space in the lower rack after removing the power tower.
Advantages of Direct Feed Dishwashers
Now that we know how “direct feed” works in a dishwashing appliance, let us look at some of its benefits.
1. Cleaning Efficiency
The first advantage of this multi-feed water delivery system is better washing efficiency. Unlike the power tower system, direct feed connections ensure consistent water supply to the upper rack. A consistent water supply gives the unit superior washing ability.
2. Reliability
Another great advantage of direct-feed dishwashers is their reliability. Unlike the older models, they are more dependable and thoroughly clean your dishes.
3. More Usable Space
In addition, the power tower took up space in the lower rack of the washing appliance. That meant fewer dishes were fitted into the lower rack during cleaning. However, with the installation of the delivery tube at the back of the unit, direct-feed dishwashers have more space to spare.
4. Water and Energy Conservation
Lastly, direct-feed dishwashers also use less water and power when cleaning. Feeding water directly into the upper rack wastes less water spraying the dishes, meaning they run for a shorter time. In addition, this also reduces the power needed if they run for longer.
Takeaway
Direct-feed refers to a multi-feed water delivery connection in dishwashers. The units use a pipe to supply water to the wash arm below the upper rack.
Direct-feed dishwashers provide better cleaning efficiency and reliability than older models. They also offer significant energy and water conservation. Lastly, they have more cleaning space due to the removal of the power tower in the lower rack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Dishwashers Run Without Hot Water?
Yes! Though not advisable, dishwashing units can run with cold water. However, cold water is unsuitable for removing food and killing germs on your dishes.
Do Dishwashers Have a Built-In Garbage Disposal?
Though newer models have a filter to catch big chunks of food in the unit, it is advisable always to wipe off large pieces of food to prevent clogging.
