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.
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
(11 of 15 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.
How long have you owned it:
Three-to-six months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
By
Bottlewasher by hand
from
Parker, CO
(6 of 8 customers found this review helpful)
1.0
Door Latch Defect
3/4/2012
Pros
Attractive Design
Simple Controls
Cons
Best Uses
General Purpose
Comment:
After installing, we placed dishes into it several times and shut the door. When we loaded the final time for that first day, the door would not close. The receiving part of the latch seems stuck. The Sears technician said this is a know defect and will take 10 days for a repair.
![Kenmore-1304[ ]Dishwasher-image](http://static2.consumerreportscdn.org/cro/cdn-resources/content/products/images/models/large/missing-product-image.jpg "Kenmore 1304[ ]")
11 people have reviewed this model.
Sensor
