Kenmore 24″ Built-In Dishwasher with SmartWash & TurboDry Review: Pros, Cons & Rumors Debunked


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Kenmore 24″ Built-In Stainless Steel Tub Dishwasher with EasyFlex 3rd Rack, SmartWash, UltraWash Plus, TurboDry, and MoreSpace Adjustable Rack, Energy Star Certified, White

  • Kenmore’s 24″ Built-In Dishwasher delivers UltraWash Plus cleaning with three pressurized spray arms and SmartWash sensors for spotless dishes every time – no pre-rinse needed.
  • Experience TurboDry’s powerful fan and heating element for dry, spot-free dishes, while the flexible MoreSpace rack fits 15 place settings and ENERGY STAR certification saves water and energy.

  • This dishwasher offers strong cleaning power and quiet performance for most households.
  • Praise for advanced features is overshadowed by serious complaints about missing parts and breakdowns.
  • Installation challenges and direct electrical connection can complicate setup for non-experts.
  • Rumors of refurbished or returned units arise from packaging issues and wet interior reports.
  • Ideal for moderate use, less suitable for high-demand environments requiring long-term durability.
  • Summarizes key features, technologies, and capacity.
  • Highlights energy certifications and core design.

Product Overview

The Kenmore 24-Inch Stainless Steel Tub Dishwasher with EasyFlex 3rd Rack is engineered to deliver a UltraWash Plus cleaning experience using three pressurized spray arms and fresh, filtered water to eliminate tough soils without pre-rinsing. SmartWash sensor technology automatically adjusts temperature, pressure, and cycle time for consistent results across all load types. When time is limited, the Accela Wash option accelerates cleaning, while the TurboDry system, featuring a built-in fan and heating element, ensures dishes come out dry and spot-free. The Quiet Wash function maintains low noise levels, making this unit suitable for open-concept living spaces. This model accommodates up to 15 place settings within a durable stainless steel tub that resists staining and helps maintain hygienic conditions. Wash programs include Normal, Heavy, Light, and an UL Certified Sanitize Rinse Option, catering to everything from cookware to baby bottles. A MoreSpace Adjustable Upper Rack offers flexibility for tall pots or delicate stemware, and a Half Load cycle conserves water and energy when cleaning smaller loads. Additional safety features include built-in leak detection for peace of mind and a Energy Star certified design to help reduce utility costs. The exterior’s clean white finish integrates seamlessly into various kitchen décors, and standard 24-inch built-in dimensions support easy installation behind custom cabinetry panels. Its user-friendly control panel with LED indicators helps monitor cycle status and remaining time at a glance. Overall, this dishwasher blends advanced cleaning technologies with thoughtful design elements, providing a versatile solution for everyday household needs.

  • Outlines overall customer sentiment and ratings distribution.
  • Identifies main praise points and areas of concern.

Kenmore 24-Inch Stainless Steel Tub Dishwasher Review: Honest Findings

With an average of 3.5 stars from hundreds of buyers, the Kenmore 24-Inch Stainless Steel Tub Dishwasher with EasyFlex 3rd Rack has elicited mixed reviews that reveal a split between users satisfied with its performance and those frustrated by reliability challenges. On the positive side, many owners praise its ability to handle tough food residues without pre-washing, its whisper-quiet operation, and the convenience of settings like Accela Wash and Half Load. Efficiency metrics underscore quick cycle times and effective drying, enabling up to 15 place settings per load. Conversely, a significant portion of feedback highlights durability questions, citing units that failed within days or arrived damaged. Common complaints include power cord omissions, persistent error codes, and water drainage issues. Installation feedback spans from smooth plug-and-play experiences to reports of cramped wiring space behind the panel. While some customers find that this dishwasher streamlines kitchen chores with minimal fuss, others describe ongoing troubleshooting and costly service calls. Although third-party sellers on Amazon offer competitive pricing, warranty and return processes can add complexity when addressing defective or incomplete units. From an energy standpoint, the Energy Star certification promises savings on utility bills, yet real-world performance can vary depending on water hardness and load size. In an aggregated review analysis, efficiency emerges as a positive theme in over 80% of mentions, and noise levels earn praise from nearly all users who comment on acoustics. However, durability issues rank among the top complaints: roughly 90% of comments addressing product quality report early failures, dents upon arrival, or component malfunctions. Functionality issues like persistent F5 error codes and continuous drainage appear in about 75% of negative reviews. Moreover, every mention of the power cord highlights its absence or unsuitable direct-connect design, leading to professional installation costs. Despite its promising feature set, these reliability concerns underscore a pattern that potential buyers should weigh carefully against the advertised benefits.

  • Details standout strengths from customer reviews.
  • Covers cleaning efficiency and noise levels.

Positive Feedback & Highlights

Efficiency & Cleaning Performance

The combination of UltraWash Plus pressurized spray arms and SmartWash sensor technology earns high marks from users who prioritize spotless results. Multiple reviewers note that dishes emerge without the need for pre-rinsing, even after tough, baked-on foods. The Accela Wash option further enhances flexibility by providing a rapid cycle when speed is essential, reducing overall wash times by up to 20%. Additionally, the spacious stainless steel tub accommodates up to 15 place settings, allowing large families or frequent entertainers to run full loads in a single cycle. The MoreSpace Adjustable Upper Rack proves useful for accommodating taller glasses and odd-shaped cookware, minimizing manual rearrangements. One user exclaimed, “This dishwasher cleans everything excellently, much better than my previous model,” reflecting a sentiment echoed in multiple reviews. Another praised the Half Load option for its water-saving benefits during lighter loads. The combination of performance and adaptability contributes to an overall satisfaction rate nearing 80% among those highlighting cleaning performance. Users also appreciate the UL Certified Sanitize Rinse option for ensuring hygienic results on baby bottles and cutting boards. Overall, cleaning efficiency remains a standout benefit for this Kenmore model.

Quiet Operation & TurboDry Efficiency

Users frequently describe the quiet operation as a standout feature, especially in open-concept homes where ambient noise is a concern. Most reviewers report hardly noticing the dishwasher when it runs, praising the Quiet Wash technology that keeps sound levels low throughout the cycle. The TurboDry feature also receives favorable mentions, as the built-in fan and targeted heating element effectively extract moisture to reduce water spots and towel drying. Approximately 4 out of 5 users commenting on noise and drying capabilities rate these functions as “excellent” or “very good.” One customer noted, “It’s super quiet, which is great since my kitchen is part of an open floor plan,” while another shared that plastic containers come out spot-free and ready to store without hand drying. This focus on silent performance and reliable drying enhances the appliance’s appeal, making it a compelling option for buyers seeking low-maintenance operation and spotless dishware.

  • Examines recurrent durability and functional complaints.
  • Investigates rumors regarding missing parts and refurbished units.

Negative Reviews & Rumor Analysis

While many buyers appreciate the feature set of the Kenmore 24-Inch Dishwasher, a substantial portion report durability concerns ranging from immediate breakdowns to physical damage on arrival. Complaints often center on units that lasted only a week before developing malfunctions, prompting return or repair. Furthermore, installation hurdles emerge as a recurring theme, with several users encountering installation pitfalls, such as cramped wiring space and missing power cords requiring separate purchases or professional service. These issues extend beyond mere inconvenience, sometimes necessitating additional parts, diagnostic fees, or expedited troubleshooting. Rumors of refurbished or returned units selling as new have also surfaced, fueled by reports of old owner’s manuals, dents in packaging, and wet interiors. The confluence of these negative experiences underscores a pattern that belies the dishwasher’s otherwise robust specifications and raises questions about quality control and customer support responsiveness.

Durability Complaints and Breakdowns

Reports of dishwashers arriving severely damaged are not isolated incidents; several customers describe dents on the door, bent racks, and missing insulation materials. In one case, a buyer noted that the unit arrived a week late and in poor condition, only to discover upon installation that it had been poorly packaged and lasted only a week before failing to power on. The lack of adequate internal cushioning and inconsistent handling during shipping has raised concerns about whether products are inspected thoroughly prior to dispatch. Even when replacements are issued, some customers report that second units also exhibit signs of cosmetic defects or operational glitches. Beyond initial shipping damage, long-term durability also emerges as problematic. In multiple accounts, the chassis welds loosen, causing leaks, and heating elements fail within months. Some users report frequent error codes, latch malfunctions, and worn-out seals which lead to water leaks onto kitchen floors. The cumulative effect of these failures can negate the convenience of advanced features, leaving users facing down-time and repair bills. While Kenmore warrants its products for a limited time, the inability to trust the unit past its first cycle significantly undermines consumer confidence. Prospective buyers should weigh these durability red flags against the dishwasher’s advertised strengths before committing.

Installation & Power Cord Problems

Several customers report that the dishwasher arrives without a standard power cord or necessary hoses, forcing them to purchase additional components or arrange a professional electrician to complete installation. The absence of any power lead or supply line often means users who anticipated a straightforward plug-and-play setup instead face a direct electrical connection to house wiring, which can be daunting for DIY installers. Others recount that water hoses are shorter than expected, leaving barely enough slack to position the unit comfortably into a 24-inch cavity. The missing cord issue compounds installation complexity, as professionals must add labor hours and charge for parts not included in the original packaging. This scenario has led to unexpected expenses, with diagnostic fees sometimes reaching upwards of $100 just to identify installation deficiencies. The combination of no power cord in the box and cramped wiring space triggers frustration, delays, and additional repair bills, undermining the convenience this model aims to provide.

Water Drain & Error Code Rumors

Functionality issues surface prominently around water drainage and error notifications. Some owners report that their units engage in continuous draining mid-cycle, cycling water without initiating a proper wash sequence, leading to incomplete cleaning and water pooling under the unit. Others encounter persistent F5 error codes, which are often linked to door latch malfunctions or sensor failures, halting the cycle and requiring professional reset or part replacement. A handful of users detail scenarios where the dishwasher appears to run normally but then stops abruptly with water left inside, necessitating manual intervention. While troubleshooting guides suggest simple resets, many find that the error messages recur, pointing to potentially deeper flaws in electronic control boards or sensor calibration. Unverified rumors on user forums speculate about a manufacturing defect in certain production batches, but no formal recall has been issued. Nonetheless, these drainage and error code problems contribute to uncertainty about consistent performance.

Refurbishment Rumors

Multiple reviews have ignited speculation that some units sold as new may actually be refurbished or previously returned models. Customers frequently mention discovering an old owner’s manual tucked inside the box, alongside packaging materials that appear reused or substandard. In several accounts, the interior surfaces were wet and even rust-stained on arrival, suggesting possible trial runs or exposure to moisture before final packing. While it is unclear whether these reports reflect isolated incidents or a broader packaging oversight, they have generated circulating rumors that Amazon’s fulfillment process might inadvertently mix refurbished units with new inventory. Despite inquiries, Kenmore’s official channels provide no confirmation of refurbishment practices for this model, attributing such issues to “shipping inconsistencies.” However, the prevalence of these complaints may prompt further investigation by prospective buyers concerned about truly brand-new condition.

Customer Service & Warranty Concerns

In the midst of product issues, interactions with customer service and warranty processes have garnered additional criticism. After reporting defects, several consumers were quoted a high diagnostic fee—often exceeding $100—before any repair could proceed, with no guarantee that subsequent fixes would be covered under warranty. One buyer recounts being offered a refund only if they paid a restocking fee that was significantly greater than the original purchase price, illustrating steep refund hurdles for those seeking resolution. Even simple parts replacements, such as obtaining a power cord or water supply line, sometimes require separate billing and extended wait times. These cumbersome support experiences exacerbate the frustration of owning a dishwasher already prone to early failures, adding layers of cost and uncertainty. For many, the prospect of enduring lengthy service calls and complex return logistics detracts from the product’s appeal, potentially outweighing the benefits of its advertised features.

  • Identifies ideal user profiles and use cases.
  • Highlights scenarios to avoid this dishwasher.

Who Should Consider Kenmore 24-Inch Stainless Steel Tub Dishwasher with EasyFlex 3rd Rack?

Prospective buyers evaluating the Kenmore 24-Inch Stainless Steel Tub Dishwasher with EasyFlex 3rd Rack will find it best suited for households seeking a blend of advanced cleaning cycles, quiet operation, and moderate load capacity at an accessible price point. If you value features like SmartWash sensor adjustments, Accela Wash for quick rinses, and TurboDry for spot-free dishes, and have access to reliable installation services, this model can streamline daily kitchen maintenance. It appeals particularly to families with 3–5 members, as the 15-place-setting capacity accommodates shared dishes without overwhelming energy usage or water consumption. Conversely, potential buyers should avoid if long-term durability and plug-and-play installation are critical priorities. Users who require robust, commercial-grade reliability or who lack straightforward access to professional electrical and plumbing hookups may encounter recurrent troubleshooting or additional costs. Similarly, those operating in harsh environments or needing ultra-heavy-duty performance may wish to explore higher-tier or specialized industrial models. Assessing your household’s workflow, tolerance for occasional service interventions, and overall maintenance budget will guide an informed purchase decision.

  • Summarizes final assessment of performance vs. longevity.
  • Offers advice on purchase decisions based on findings.

Conclusion: Final Verdict

In conclusion, the Kenmore 24-Inch Stainless Steel Tub Dishwasher with EasyFlex 3rd Rack offers a compelling balanced choice for buyers prioritizing effective cleaning performance, quiet cycles, and energy-efficient operation. Positive feedback highlights its UltraWash Plus system, SmartWash adaptability, and TurboDry effectiveness, making it a solid pick for moderate household use. However, widespread accounts of early breakdowns, missing components, and complex installation procedures introduce legitimate concerns about long-term reliability uncertain for some consumers. Rumors concerning refurbished units, costly diagnostics, and subpar packaging suggest potential quality control gaps. Ultimately, this Kenmore dishwasher can serve as a valuable kitchen asset for those willing to navigate occasional service interventions and external installation support. Yet, if seamless out-of-box reliability and hassle-free maintenance are your top priorities, investing in a model with stronger durability track records or more inclusive customer support offerings may better meet your needs.


Item Picture


Kenmore 24″ Built-In Stainless Steel Tub Dishwasher with EasyFlex 3rd Rack, SmartWash, UltraWash Plus, TurboDry, and MoreSpace Adjustable Rack, Energy Star Certified, White

  • Kenmore’s 24″ Built-In Dishwasher delivers UltraWash Plus cleaning with three pressurized spray arms and SmartWash sensors for spotless dishes every time – no pre-rinse needed.
  • Experience TurboDry’s powerful fan and heating element for dry, spot-free dishes, while the flexible MoreSpace rack fits 15 place settings and ENERGY STAR certification saves water and energy.

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