A comparative noise level analysis of built-in dishwashers shows that 29% of models fall within the 50dB to 53dB range, placing them in a moderately quiet yet common category (see the comparative chart). The Danby DDW2400ESS sits within this segment, making it a practical choice for households seeking a balance between performance and everyday usability. In this Danby DDW2400ESS dishwasher review, we explore how this built-in model delivers with its 14-place setting capacity and 4 wash cycles, though it may not be the quietest option available.
Read on to discover why the Danby DDW2400ESS could be a reliable addition to your kitchen, or check out our Overview Summary below for a quick verdict and pricing history.
Table of Contents
Overview Summary
Performance Indicators:
Danby DDW2400ESS Price History:
Pros:
- Energy Star certified
- 14 place setting capacity
- Water-efficient 3.10 gallons per cycle
- Heated drying system
- Multiple wash options available
- Durable stainless steel interior
- Delay start up to 19 hours
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi or smart features
- No auto door drying
- No built-in water softener
- Only 4 wash cycles
Danby DDW2400ESS in Context: How It Ranks in Today’s Market
💰 Mapping the Market: A Visual Guide to Price Ranges
The Danby DDW2400ESS is priced in the $400 to $707 range, which represents the largest segment of built-in dishwashers at 40%. This places it firmly in the budget-to-mid-range category, making it accessible for most households looking for a full-size built-in model.
The next major segment, $708 to $1015, covers 33% of models, while higher price tiers above $1016 become progressively less common. This positioning gives the Danby model a clear affordability advantage, though it may lack some premium features found in higher-priced competitors.
🔇 Is It Whisper-Quiet? A Closer Look at Dishwasher Noise Levels
With a noise level of 51 dB, the Danby DDW2400ESS falls within the 50 dB to 53 dB range, which accounts for 29% of built-in dishwashers. This places it in a common mid-range noise category, offering a balance between quiet operation and cost.
Quieter models in the 42 dB to 45 dB range represent 34% of the market, making them more suitable for noise-sensitive environments. On the louder side, 54 dB to 57 dB models cover 11%, while ultra-quiet and very loud categories remain rare. Overall, the Danby delivers acceptable everyday quietness without standing out as ultra-silent.
⚖️ From Featherweight to Heavyweight: Placing It on the Scale
Weighing around 76.94 lbs, the Danby DDW2400ESS falls into the 62.8 lbs to 80.6 lbs category, which includes 25% of built-in dishwashers. This places it slightly below the most common weight range of 80.7 lbs to 98.4 lbs, which dominates at 39%.
Lighter models (45 lbs to 62.7 lbs) make up 14% of the market and are easier to handle during installation, while heavier models often indicate a more robust build. The Danby strikes a good middle ground, offering reasonable stability without being overly heavy.
🍽️ Capacity Check: Comparing Place Settings Across Top Models
With 14 place settings, the Danby DDW2400ESS falls into the 13 to 14 place setting category, which accounts for 29% of built-in dishwashers. This places it among the most common and practical capacity options for families.
The largest segment is 15 to 16 place settings at 34%, offering slightly higher capacity for bigger households. Smaller configurations like 9 to 10 (11%) and 11 to 12 (9%) are less common. Overall, this dishwasher provides a strong balance between capacity and space efficiency.
🔄 Cycle Variety Check: How This Dishwasher Compares
The Danby DDW2400ESS offers 4 wash cycles, placing it in the 3 to 4 cycle category, which represents only 8% of the market. This makes it less feature-rich compared to most built-in dishwashers.
The majority of models, about 50%, offer 6 wash cycles, making this the dominant configuration. Models with 5 cycles account for 16%, while higher-end options with 7 or more cycles are also fairly common. While the Danby covers essential cleaning needs, it may feel limited for users seeking more specialized wash programs.
Danby DDW2400ESS Dishwasher
Danby DDW2400ESS Performance Breakdown: Key Features and Ratings
The WashDryDazzle team recently put the Danby DDW2400ESS Under-counter dishwasher to the test, all in the interest of providing you with the most informed choice for your kitchen.
💵 Price and Design (4.4/5)
Priced around $518, the Danby DDW2400ESS offers a solid balance between affordability and functionality in the built-in dishwasher category. Its stainless steel finish gives it a clean, modern look that blends well with most kitchen setups.
The front control panel with a digital display is easy to access and use, especially for those who prefer visible controls over hidden ones. With standard 24-inch dimensions, it fits seamlessly into most cabinetry, though it lacks smart connectivity features found in higher-end models.
| Price | $518 |
| Height | 34 inches |
| Width | 24 inches |
| Depth | 23 inches |
| Weight | 76.94 lbs |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Control Panel Location | Front Control |
| Display | Digital display |
| Touch or Tactile Controls | Press Buttons |
| Cycle status/progress indicator on display | Cycle status display window with indicator light |
| Wi-Fi Enabled (Smart Dishwasher) | N/A |
| Compatibility with home assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant) | N/A |
✨ Cleaning Performance (4.3/5)
With 4 wash cycles, including Auto, Intensive, Regular, and Quick, this dishwasher covers most everyday cleaning needs effectively. The Hi-Temp option raises water temperature to 140 °F (60 °C), helping tackle grease and sanitize dishes. Its dual spray arms provide full-tub coverage, ensuring consistent cleaning results.
The removable manual cylinder filter works efficiently, though for better performance, the entire filter system should be cleaned at least once a week. While it lacks advanced multi-zone washing, its core performance remains dependable for daily use.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 4 (Auto, Intensive, Regular, Quick) |
| Specialized Cycles | Quick |
| Number of Options / Functions | 5 (Half Load, Hi-Temp, Ultra Hot, Extra Rinse, Extra Dry) |
| Number of Spray Arms | 2 |
| Filter type (self-cleaning or manual/Removeable Filter) | Removable manual Cylinder Filter system |
| Sanitization | Hi Temp raises the temperature to (60°C) |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes (19 hours) |
| Targeted washing zones | full-tub spray arm coverage |
| Soil sensor capability (Turbidity Sensor) | Turbidity (Soil) Sensor with Smart Temperature Sensor |
| Option / Function # 01 | Half Load: Washes a smaller load using less water and energy |
| Option / Function # 02 | Hi-Temp: Uses higher water temperature for better cleaning |
| Option / Function # 03 | Ultra Hot: Extra high temperature for heavy grease and sanitizing |
| Option / Function # 04 | Extra Rinse: Adds an additional rinse to remove detergent residue |
| Option / Function # 05 | Extra Dry: Extends drying time for better drying results |
💨 Drying Performance (4.2/5)
The Danby DDW2400ESS uses a heated drying system, which relies on an internal heating element to remove moisture after washing. Heat drying uses an internal heating element or system to actively warm the air inside the dishwasher after the wash cycle.
This added heat speeds up moisture evaporation and leaves dishes dry more quickly, but it uses more energy than other methods. It also includes rinse-aid support, which helps reduce water spots and improve drying consistency, though the lack of auto door opening slightly limits the efficiency of natural airflow drying.
| Hot Air Drying / Heat Drying | Heated Dry (heating element–based drying) |
| Fresh Air Circulation for Moisture and Odor | Basic passive ventilation design |
| Auto Door Opening for Natural Drying | No |
| Rinse aid availability | Yes |
| Built-in Water Softener (For Hard Water) | N/A |
🔕 Noise Level (4.2/5)
Operating at 51 dB, this dishwasher falls into the moderately quiet range for built-in models. To put the 51 dB noise level into perspective, standing about five feet away from the dishwasher would sound similar to a quiet conversation or the gentle hum of a modern refrigerator, which would be noticeable when paying attention, but otherwise, it feels quiet.
In comparison, competitors like SAMSUNG DW80N3030USAA (51 dB) offer similar performance, while quieter models like Kenmore 2214642 (45 dB) are less noticeable, and louder options like Magic Clean MCDW24WI (57 dB) are more prominent.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.5/5)
This dishwasher is Energy Star-certified (Energy Star-certified appliances meet strict energy-efficiency standards set by the EPA, using less energy and reducing environmental impact), making it a reliable option for energy-conscious households. A Regular Cycle with Heated Dry, running 129 minutes, would use approximately 1.11 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity.
To put this in perspective, it is similar to running a 1-ton AC at full load for about 67 minutes. Energy consumption for running this dishwasher daily on Regular Cycle with Heated Dry for 30 days = 1.11 kWh/day x 30 days = 33.34 kWh/month. It also features a delay start timer, allowing flexible scheduling.
| Energy Star rating | Energy Star |
| Estimated Energy Consumption / Wattage | 33.3 kWh/month for Daily use of Regular Cycle with Heated Dry |
| Voltage Required | 120 volts |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes (19 hours) |
💧 Water Usage (4.4/5)
The Danby DDW2400ESS uses about 3.10 gallons (11.7 liters) per wash in a normal cycle, which is quite efficient for a full-size built-in dishwasher. In comparison, the SAMSUNG DW80N3030USAA uses around 3.0 gallons (11.36 liters), making it slightly more efficient, while the Kenmore 2214642 consumes 4.5 gallons (17.03 liters), which is significantly higher. The Magic Clean MCDW24WI uses about 3.4 gallons (12.9 liters), placing it comfortably in the efficient mid-range.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 3.10 gallons (11.7 liters) per wash in normal cycle |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.3/5)
This dishwasher offers a practical range of cycle times suited to different needs. The Regular cycle runs approximately 122 to 145 minutes, while the Auto cycle adjusts between 110 and 155 minutes depending on soil levels. For heavier loads, the Intensive cycle takes about 130 minutes, and the Quick cycle completes in just 50 minutes for lightly soiled dishes.
This flexibility makes it easy to match cleaning time with your schedule. For a deeper dive into specific wash cycles, please refer to our section: “Specialized Wash Cycles.”
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.5/5)
With a capacity of 14 place settings (A Place Setting is defined further down in this section), the Danby DDW2400ESS is well-suited for medium to large households. It features two racks and a dedicated cutlery basket, allowing for organized loading of utensils and dishes. The rack design supports plates up to 12.6 inches, making it practical for larger dinnerware. While it lacks a third rack, the overall space utilization is efficient for everyday use.
| Number of Place Settings | 14 Place Settings |
| Dish or Plate Size: A Rack can Accumulate | 12.6 Inches |
| Number of Racks | 2 |
| Special Utensil Holders or Baskets | Cutlery basket |
| Adjustable height of Rack | Fixed top rack with adjustable cup shelf, Foldable Lower Rack Tines |
14 – Place Setting Dishwasher:
A place setting refers to the dishes and utensils needed for one person’s meal. In dishwashers, it indicates the number of such sets the appliance can handle in one cycle.
A 14-place setting dishwasher is designed to wash 14 dinner plates, 14 dessert plates, 14 soup bowls, 14 cups, 14 glasses, and 14 sets of cutlery in one cycle.
In reality, the exact combination can vary due to item sizes and shapes. For example, you might fit 14 dinner plates, 14 dessert plates, 12 soup bowls, 12 cups, 10 glasses, and 14 sets of cutlery comfortably in a 14-place setting dishwasher.
🔒 Safety Features (4.3/5)
The Danby DDW2400ESS includes essential safety features, such as a child lock, to help prevent accidental operation, especially in homes with kids. It is also equipped with a non-slip base, ensuring it stays securely in place during operation. However, do not place or use the machine on an unstable or uneven platform. For safe operation, avoid placing the dishwasher near gas or electric burners. Also, do not use extension cords or adapter plugs.
| Child Lock – Safety Feature | Child Lock |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safety Feature | Error Code for Leak Detection |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.4/5)
Built with stainless steel inside and out, this dishwasher is designed for long-term durability. Stainless Steel is a strong, corrosion-resistant material prized for its durability, sleek appearance, and ability to withstand high temperatures and exposure to moisture without rusting or degrading.
The dishwasher is sturdy, but avoid overloading the top surface with heavy items. It comes with a 1-year parts-and-labor warranty. To keep your warranty valid, use the product only as intended and avoid misuse or neglect.
| Finish Type / Material | Stainless steel |
| Interior Tub Material | Stainless steel |
| Warranty Duration | 1 Year Parts & Labor |
Exploring the Danby DDW2400ESS’s Wash Programs
The Danby DDW2400ESS’s Fix dishwasher features specialized cleaning cycles to tackle messes, ensuring your dishes shine every time. Here’s a quick breakdown of the available wash cycles:
| Program | When to Use | Time | Water Usage | Available Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular | Daily, normal dishes | 122–145 min | 11–12 liters | Half Load, Hi-Temp, Ultra Hot, Extra Rinse, Extra Dry |
| Auto | Mixed or variable soil loads | 110–155 min | Adjusts automatically | Half Load, Hi-Temp, Ultra Hot, Extra Rinse, Extra Dry |
| Intensive | Heavily soiled dishes | 130 min | 15 liters | Half Load, Hi-Temp, Ultra Hot, Extra Rinse, Extra Dry |
| Quick | Lightly or normally soiled dishes, faster wash | 50 min | 14 liters | Half Load, Hi-Temp, Ultra Hot, Extra Rinse, Extra Dry |
Danby DDW2400ESS Advantages and Drawbacks
Pros
- Energy Star certified, ensuring efficient power usage and reduced environmental impact
- Uses only 3.10 gallons (11.7 liters) per cycle, supporting water-efficient operation
- 14 place setting capacity accommodates larger dish loads in a single wash
- Offers 4 wash cycles, including Auto, Intensive, Regular, and Quick, for flexible cleaning
- Heated drying system improves moisture removal and overall drying performance
- Hi-Temp option reaches 140 °F (60 °C) for enhanced cleaning and sanitization
- Includes 5 wash options like Half Load and Extra Dry for added customization
- Dual spray arms provide full-tub coverage for consistent cleaning results
- Stainless steel interior improves durability and resists stains and odors
- The front control panel with a digital display allows easy monitoring and operation
- Delay start timer up to 19 hours enables flexible scheduling
- Removable manual filter system supports effective filtration with regular cleaning
Cons
- Only 4 wash cycles, fewer than many competitors offering 5 to 7 options
- Operates at 51 dB, not as quiet as premium models below 45 dB
- Lacks Wi-Fi connectivity and smart home assistant compatibility
- No auto door opening feature for improved natural drying
- Does not include a built-in water softener for hard water areas
- No third rack or cutlery tray for additional loading flexibility
- Manual filter requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- Basic passive ventilation limits advanced drying efficiency
- Limited advanced wash technologies compared to higher-end models
Danby DDW2400ESS Dishwasher
Who Will Benefit Most from Danby DDW2400ESS Dishwasher
- Small families and couples who want a reliable daily-use dishwasher that keeps kitchen cleanup simple and stress-free
- Busy professionals who prefer a hands-off cleaning solution that fits easily into a routine without extra effort
- Home cooks and meal preppers dealing with regular dish loads and looking for consistent, dependable cleaning results
- Eco-conscious users who want a dishwasher that helps reduce water and energy waste without compromising performance
- Parents managing everyday kitchen mess who want a convenient way to handle dishes quickly and efficiently
- Renters or homeowners seeking a standard built-in option that blends well with existing kitchen layouts
- People who prefer simple controls and straightforward operation without dealing with overly complex settings
- Anyone upgrading from manual dishwashing to a practical, modern appliance that saves time and effort
Who May Not Be Suited for Danby DDW2400ESS Dishwasher
- Tech enthusiasts who prefer smart connectivity, app controls, or integration with home assistants for automation
- Large households or frequent hosts need higher capacity and more flexible loading for heavy daily usage
- Users who prioritize ultra-quiet operation and want a dishwasher that runs almost silently in open spaces
- People living in hard water areas who may need advanced solutions to prevent mineral buildup on dishes
- Buyers looking for a wide variety of wash programs and more advanced cleaning customization options
- Those who prefer premium features like automatic door opening or enhanced airflow drying systems
- Users want minimal maintenance appliances without needing to regularly clean internal components
- Anyone seeking high-end luxury dishwashers with cutting-edge features and top-tier performance
Best Substitutes for Danby Built-In Dishwasher
🥇 SAMSUNG DW80N3030USAA
The SAMSUNG DW80N3030USAA stands out for its 15-place setting capacity and flexible 3-rack design, offering greater loading versatility than many standard models. Its three rotary spray arms ensure thorough cleaning, while features like sanitize mode and Express 60 cycle add convenience for daily use. The hybrid tub design keeps the build lightweight, and the vent-drying system improves airflow. Overall, it delivers a balanced mix of performance and practicality.
Read more about this model in our comprehensive SAMSUNG DW80N3030USAA Dishwasher Review.
SAMSUNG DW80N3030USAA Dishwasher
🥈 Kenmore 2214642
The Kenmore 2214642 is a feature-rich dishwasher designed for users who want more control and versatility. With 8 wash cycles and multiple cleaning options, it offers greater customization than most models in this category. Its quiet 45 dB operation makes it noticeably less intrusive during use, while the Turbo Dry system improves drying efficiency. The 3-rack design and EasyFlex third rack provide excellent loading flexibility, making it a strong option for more demanding kitchen needs.
Learn more about this model by exploring our detailed Kenmore 2214642 Dishwasher Review.
Kenmore 2214642 Dishwasher
🥉 Magic Clean MCDW24WI
The Magic Clean MCDW24WI offers a practical mix of performance and simplicity with its 5 wash cycles and intuitive controls. It features a stainless steel interior for durability and a triple-filter system that supports consistent cleaning results. While its noise level is slightly higher than average, it compensates with useful functions like sanitize and extra dry. The adjustable rack system adds flexibility, making it a dependable option for everyday dishwashing without unnecessary complexity.
Discover all the details in our thorough Magic Clean MCDW24WI Dishwasher Review.
Magic Clean MCDW24WI Dishwasher
Summing Up the Danby DDW2400ESS Built-In Dishwasher Review
Wrapping it all together, this Danby DDW2400ESS dishwasher review shows a well-balanced built-in dishwasher that focuses on reliability, efficiency, and everyday practicality. It fits comfortably in the mid-range segment, offering solid cleaning performance, water efficiency, and a spacious 14 place setting capacity. While it may not compete with premium models in terms of advanced features or ultra-quiet operation, it delivers consistent results where it matters most.
If you want a dependable dishwasher that handles daily loads without overcomplicating things, the Danby DDW2400ESS is a smart choice. It offers real value for the price, making it a worthwhile upgrade for your kitchen.
Danby DDW2400ESS Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Danby DDW2400ESS dishwasher good for everyday use in most kitchens?
Yes, it handles daily dishwashing well with reliable cleaning performance and enough capacity for regular household needs without feeling complicated.
How quiet is the Danby DDW2400ESS compared to other built-in dishwashers?
It runs at a moderate noise level, similar to a quiet conversation, making it noticeable but not disruptive in most kitchens.
Does the Danby DDW2400ESS clean heavily soiled dishes effectively?
Yes, it offers intensive cleaning modes and high-temperature options that help remove grease and stubborn food from heavily soiled dishes.
How efficient is the Danby DDW2400ESS in terms of water and energy usage?
It is energy efficient and uses a reasonable amount of water per cycle, helping reduce utility costs over time.
What type of drying system does the Danby DDW2400ESS use?
It uses a heated drying system that helps remove moisture quickly, though it may use slightly more energy than natural drying methods.
Does this dishwasher require regular maintenance or filter cleaning?
Yes, the filter system needs regular cleaning to maintain performance, but the process is simple and easy to manage.
How does the Danby DDW2400ESS compare to other similar dishwashers in its category?
It offers strong value with essential features, though some competitors provide quieter operation or more advanced wash cycle options.
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Maintaining the Hygiene and Efficiency of Your Dishwasher
A clean and well-maintained dishwasher not only performs better but also lasts longer. Check out these articles from our website to keep your dishwasher in peak working order:
- Dishwasher Problems Caused by Hard Water and How to Fix Them
- How to Clean Dishwasher Spray Arms?
- Is Pre-Rinsing Necessary? Dishwasher Myths Busted
- Dishwasher Making Buzzing Noise? Top 6 Fixes to Restore Peace
- The Dishwasher’s Impact on Knives: What You Need to Know
Helpful Resources to Master the Art of Dishwashing
- All About Dishwasher Racks: What Everyone Should Know!
- Stainless Steel vs. Plastic Tub Dishwashers: Which is Better?
- Dishwasher Cycles and Settings Explained
- How Do Countertop Dishwashers Work?
- How to Dispose of and Recycle a Dishwasher?
WashDryDazzle is committed to delivering valuable insights and meticulously compiled lists, ensuring you discover the best products to meet your requirements. We also provide extensive dishwasher guides and expert education to help you maintain proper appliance care and management.
