What's this? Based mainly on washing, it 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:
$529.99
We expect this model to perform similarly to the tested Kenmore 1328[3] although it may differ in price and features.
The Kenmore 1304[ ] is a dishwasher available from
Kenmore.
The 1304[ ] typically costs
$529.99.
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 1304[ ].
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.
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.
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 Kenmore 1328[3] were applied to untested model Kenmore 1304[ ], which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both.
Kenmore, the largest dishwasher brand in this country, is known for its reliability and dependability and has three lines: Kenmore, Kenmore Elite, and Kenmore Pro. Prices range from approximately $250 for a basic Kenmore model to $1,600 for the double-drawer dishwasher in stainless steel ($1,400 in white). Major features such as the TurboZone power-scrubbing mode tend to be shared among the higher-priced Kenmore models ($650 and up) and the Elite models. Kenmore recently introduced steam cleaning, hidden-control models as well as top-rack-only wash on some Elite models.
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 add 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
No
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
All
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.
I have had this dishwasher for 14 months. The first year was not a problem. Called Sears when it wasn't drying and noticed that some dishes were not getting clean. I noticed the glasses were coming out with a film on them and some dishes had food particles still on. They were able to fix the drying problem that was due to a broken vent. The tech ordered a part that he felt would fix the cleaning problem. It didn't, so we called again. This time the tech replaced 3 different parts. He believed it to be mainly a rinsing problem.<br /><br />That was last week. It is now worse than ever and approx 1/2 the dishes need to be re-done. It takes 3 weeks to schedule an appointment, three weeks to receive parts and have tech return to put them in, to only have to begin the cycle again, because it still isn't working. 2.5 months now and my dishwasher still isn't working. Tech recommended using only 1 tablespoon of detergent due tot the new eco-friendly machines only use about 1 gallon of water, but run at least twice as long as they used to. Whatever they have done, it doesn't work! I've used Kenmore for all my kitchen appliances for 25 years, but I am looking at a different brand. I am also disappointed that CR still lists this machine so high.<br /><br />I have bought Kenmore due to the service that Sears provides. The tech is very knowledgeable and tries his best to get it working properly but it is a design problem.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
By Julie
from Hudson WI
(5 of 6 customers found this review helpful)
2.0
Run, it doesnt work
9/24/2012
Pros
Attractive Design
Easy To Load
Quiet
Simple Controls
Cons
Doesn't Clean Thoroughly
Doesn't Dry Well
Long Cycle
Unreliable
Best Uses
Delicate Items
General Purpose
Larger Kitchens
Pots and Pans
Comment:
It doesn't clean dishes and runs for 2 to 3 hours during a cycle.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
By Colorado Consumer
from Fort Collins, CO
(14 of 18 customers found this review helpful)
2.0
I wish I could buy my old Kenmore again!
3/24/2012
Pros
Quiet
Cons
Awkward Loading
Doesn't Clean Thoroughly
Doesn't Dry Well
Long Cycle
Best Uses
General Purpose
Smaller Kitchens
Comment:
I really regret this choice. I even feel let down by CR. We spent a lot of hard earned money on a dishwasher that disappoints on every use. I know regulations made them run so long and dry so poorly, but the appliance manufacturers should have gone to bat for their customers. No wonder our economy is in the dumps. Buying a new appliance means trading down, for more money. If I could make the choice over, I would choose the machine disparaged by the rep as the landlord's special - a machine with a mechanical dial. Then I could force it to re-do something if necessary. We're spending more on dishwasher soap, and premium rinse agent, and still need a towel. We bought a long service contract - I regret that, too. It's not worth it.