As a home appliance specialist with extensive experience in the field of kitchen technology, I am well-versed in the intricacies of dishwashers and their operational dynamics. The duration of a dishwasher cycle can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of dishwasher, the selected cycle, and the load size.

Dishwasher Types: There are different types of dishwashers, such as built-in, portable, and drawer dishwashers. Built-in dishwashers are typically more efficient and may have longer cycles due to their advanced features.

Cycle Selection: Dishwashers come with various cycle options, each designed for different types of cleaning needs. For instance, a "Normal" or "Heavy" cycle might take longer to ensure thorough cleaning of heavily soiled dishes, while a "Quick" or "Light" cycle is designed for lightly soiled dishes and takes less time.

Load Size and Soil Level: The amount and soil level of the dishes being washed can also affect the cycle time. A full load of heavily soiled dishes will require a longer cycle to ensure they are properly cleaned.

Energy Efficiency and Technology: Modern dishwashers are designed to be more energy and water efficient. They often use sensors to determine the optimal wash time based on the load and soil level. This can lead to longer cycles compared to older models that may have had preset times.

Manufacturer Settings: Some dishwashers come with manufacturer settings that can affect the cycle length. For example, certain models might have a default setting that prioritizes thorough cleaning over speed.

Now, addressing the concern about newer dishwashers running for an alarmingly long time, it's important to note that while they may seem to run longer, this is often due to their advanced features and sensors that ensure a more effective clean. The "Normal" cycles on newer dishwashers stretching to two hours or more, compared to around one hour for older machines, is not necessarily a drawback. It reflects the dishwasher's ability to adapt to the needs of the load and provide a more thorough cleaning.

In summary, the time it takes for a dishwasher to run can vary widely, but newer models, despite their longer cycle times, are designed to be more efficient and effective. It's essential to consider the type of dishwasher, cycle selected, load size, and the technology it employs when evaluating its performance.

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Why newer dishwashers run for an alarmingly long time. It's counter-intuitive. New dishwashers tend to run a lot longer than older machines, yet the new ones are advertised as using less electricity and less water. --Normal-- cycles stretch to two hours and beyond, vs. around one hour for older machines.Jun 24, 2014read more >>