Kenmore 22-14699 Elite 24″ Built-In Dishwasher Review – Quiet Power, Premium Cleaning, and Outstanding Everyday Performance
When it comes to kitchen appliances, I have always appreciated equipment that combines quiet operation with serious performance. Many machines can be powerful, and many can be quiet, but finding one that excels at both is surprisingly difficult. After spending considerable time evaluating the Kenmore 22-14699 Elite 24″ Built-In Dishwasher, I found a dishwasher that successfully balances these two qualities. This ENERGY STAR certified dishwasher delivers advanced cleaning technologies, impressive capacity, and whisper-quiet operation that makes it feel like a premium appliance built for modern homes.
The Kenmore Elite dishwasher is equipped with UltraWash Plus, TurboDry, QuietWash, SmartWash, and a TurboFlex Third Rack. With room for up to 15 place settings and a low noise rating of only 42 DBA, this dishwasher is designed to handle large family meals while remaining nearly silent throughout the wash cycle.
For homeowners researching premium kitchen appliances and cleaning solutions, it may also be helpful to explore this Related Product Guide for additional cleaning equipment recommendations.
Introduction
The first thing that stood out to me about this Kenmore Elite dishwasher was its commitment to quiet performance. Many dishwashers claim low noise levels, but few truly disappear into the background the way this model does. At just 42 DBA, conversations can continue uninterrupted while the dishwasher runs.
Beyond its quiet operation, the dishwasher offers a sophisticated combination of cleaning technologies. UltraWash Plus uses multiple filtration and spray systems to maintain clean water circulation throughout the cycle. SmartWash automatically adjusts water usage and cleaning intensity based on soil levels. TurboDry helps eliminate the frustration of opening the dishwasher only to find wet dishes.
The sleek black finish also adds a refined appearance to any kitchen, making it an attractive upgrade for homeowners seeking both functionality and aesthetics.
Key Features
UltraWash Plus Cleaning System
The UltraWash Plus system continuously filters wash water and redistributes it throughout the cleaning cycle. This means dishes are cleaned using cleaner water rather than being repeatedly exposed to food particles.
For heavily soiled cookware, pots, pans, and serving dishes, the UltraWash Plus technology provides impressive cleaning consistency. Even stubborn residue from baked foods is effectively removed.
TurboDry Technology
One of the most frustrating aspects of many dishwashers is poor drying performance. The TurboDry system addresses this issue by improving airflow and moisture removal.
Glassware, plates, bowls, and utensils emerge significantly drier than with many standard drying systems. This reduces the need for towel drying and helps speed up kitchen cleanup.
QuietWash Operation
As someone who values quiet but powerful motors, QuietWash technology is perhaps the most impressive feature. At 42 DBA, operation remains exceptionally quiet while maintaining strong cleaning performance.
The motor delivers consistent pressure and effective spray action without creating disruptive noise. This makes it ideal for open-concept homes and households that run the dishwasher during evenings.
SmartWash Automatic Adjustments
SmartWash technology automatically detects the level of soil on dishes and adjusts cycle settings accordingly. This intelligent functionality helps improve cleaning efficiency while reducing water and energy consumption.
Instead of manually selecting aggressive cycles for every load, users can rely on SmartWash to make real-time adjustments.
TurboFlex Third Rack
The TurboFlex Third Rack expands usable capacity significantly. Small utensils, serving tools, measuring cups, and kitchen gadgets fit comfortably in this upper rack, freeing space below for larger items.
This additional rack contributes to the dishwasher’s impressive 15-place-setting capacity.
ENERGY STAR Certification
Energy efficiency remains an important consideration for modern households. ENERGY STAR certification means this dishwasher helps reduce electricity and water usage without sacrificing cleaning performance.
Design and Build Quality
The Kenmore Elite presents a premium appearance with its sleek black finish and integrated design. The controls are intuitive and easy to navigate, making daily operation straightforward.
The interior feels thoughtfully organized, with adjustable racks and durable components that inspire confidence. Loading flexibility is excellent, allowing users to accommodate everything from oversized serving platters to delicate stemware.
The rack glides move smoothly, and the overall construction feels solid and refined.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely quiet 42 DBA operation | Premium features may exceed basic needs |
| Excellent cleaning performance with UltraWash Plus | Requires professional installation for many users |
| TurboDry improves drying results | Large capacity may be unnecessary for smaller households |
| TurboFlex Third Rack increases flexibility | Black finish may show fingerprints |
| ENERGY STAR certified efficiency | Higher initial investment than entry-level models |
Performance Review
In real-world usage, the Kenmore Elite dishwasher consistently delivers excellent cleaning results. The spray coverage reaches all corners of the dishwasher, ensuring even heavily loaded racks receive adequate cleaning power.
The motor deserves special recognition. It operates with remarkable smoothness and efficiency. Rather than relying on loud operation to indicate power, this dishwasher demonstrates that effective engineering can achieve superior cleaning while remaining almost silent.
Large dinner parties and family gatherings often produce overwhelming piles of dishes. With 15 place settings and flexible rack configurations, this dishwasher handles these situations with ease.
The drying performance is equally impressive. TurboDry significantly reduces leftover moisture, making dishes ready for storage sooner.
Water efficiency remains excellent, and the SmartWash system helps avoid unnecessary resource consumption. Over time, this contributes to lower utility costs while maintaining excellent cleaning standards.
Who Should Buy This Dishwasher?
This dishwasher is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking premium performance, quiet operation, and advanced cleaning technology. It is especially well-suited for:
- Families that generate large daily loads of dishes.
- Open-concept homes where noise reduction matters.
- Homeowners upgrading from older, louder dishwashers.
- Users who appreciate advanced automation features.
- Anyone seeking ENERGY STAR efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quiet is the Kenmore 22-14699 Elite dishwasher?
With a 42 DBA rating, it is exceptionally quiet and suitable for open living spaces.
How many place settings can it hold?
The dishwasher accommodates up to 15 place settings, making it ideal for families and entertaining.
What does UltraWash Plus do?
UltraWash Plus continuously filters and recirculates cleaner water throughout the wash cycle for improved cleaning performance.
Is the dishwasher energy efficient?
Yes. It is ENERGY STAR certified and designed to reduce both water and electricity consumption.
Does the third rack add useful space?
Absolutely. The TurboFlex Third Rack provides extra room for utensils, serving tools, and smaller kitchen accessories.
Does TurboDry work well?
Yes. TurboDry significantly improves drying results and reduces leftover moisture on dishes.
Final Verdict
The Kenmore 22-14699 Elite 24″ Built-In Dishwasher stands out as a premium appliance that successfully combines powerful cleaning performance with remarkably quiet operation. The UltraWash Plus system, TurboDry technology, SmartWash automation, and TurboFlex Third Rack work together to create a highly efficient dishwashing experience.
For buyers who appreciate quiet but powerful motors, this dishwasher is particularly impressive. Its ability to clean aggressively while maintaining near-silent operation demonstrates thoughtful engineering and premium design. Combined with ENERGY STAR efficiency and generous capacity, it represents a compelling investment for modern kitchens.