A comparative wash cycle analysis of built-in dishwashers reveals that half of all models on the market offer six wash cycles, establishing it as the industry standard (see the comparative chart). The EdgeStar BIDW1802BL dishwasher fits squarely into this category, delivering 6 versatile cycles that cover everything from heavy-duty scrubbing to energy-efficient cleaning. Designed as a built-in unit, it accommodates 8 place settings and operates at a relatively quiet 52 dB, making it practical for small households or apartments where space and noise are a concern.
Read on to discover why the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL dishwasher is a reliable contender for compact kitchens, or check out our Overview Summary below for a quick verdict and pricing history.
Table of Contents
Overview Summary
Performance Indicators:
EdgeStar BIDW1802BL Price History:
Pros:
- Compact 18-inch design
- 8 place settings
- ENERGY STAR® certified
- 6 wash cycles
- Stainless steel tub
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi connectivity
- No water softener
- Lacks auto door drying
Market Comparison: Why the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL Holds Its Ground
💰 Price Range Snapshot: What the Market Looks Like
The EdgeStar BIDW1802BL falls in the $434–$644 price range, which covers the largest share of built-in dishwashers at 33%. This makes it a strong contender in the budget-friendly to lower mid-range category. Buyers looking for affordability without compromising on essential features will find it appealing.
In comparison, higher brackets like $645–$855 (24%) and $856–$1066 (23%) capture a substantial portion of the market, but the EdgeStar undercuts them, offering solid value at a more accessible price point.
🔇 Decibel Duel: Comparing Noise Levels Across Top Models
With a 52 dB rating, the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL falls within the 50–53 dB range, which accounts for 30% of built-in dishwashers. This aligns it with industry norms, offering quiet enough operation for most households.
However, models in the 42–45 dB range (32%) are noticeably quieter, appealing to buyers prioritizing near-silent performance. On the louder side, only 9% fall in the 54–57 dB range, showing the EdgeStar delivers acceptable noise levels without breaking into the ultra-quiet tier.
⚖️ From Featherweight to Heavyweight: Placing It on the Scale
At 52.9 pounds, the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL sits in the 35–54 lb range, which represents only 6% of built-in dishwashers. This makes it one of the lightest models available, simplifying installation and handling compared to bulkier units.
Most built-in models fall in heavier ranges like 74–93 lbs (36%) and 93–112 lbs (29%), designed for sturdiness. While the EdgeStar may lack some of that robust weight, its lighter build makes it a practical choice for smaller kitchens or frequent movers.
🍽️ Dinnerware Load Test: Ranking Dishwashers by Capacity
The EdgeStar BIDW1802BL offers 8 place settings, positioning it in the 7–8 place setting category, which represents 16% of built-in dishwashers. This makes it suitable for small households, apartments, or compact kitchens where space efficiency is key.
Larger capacities dominate the market, with 13–14 settings (32%) and 15–16 settings (34%) being the most common. While the EdgeStar doesn’t compete with those full-sized models, its smaller capacity is perfect for those who don’t need a family-sized dishwasher.
🔄 Comparing Wash Cycles Across Dishwashers
The EdgeStar BIDW1802BL includes 6 wash cycles, placing it in the most common configuration for built-in dishwashers. According to the chart, 50% of models offer exactly 6 cycles, making this the standard sweet spot between flexibility and simplicity.
Other categories like 5 cycles (17%) and 7–8 cycles (21%) are less dominant, while advanced options with 9–10 cycles (5%) are rare. This positions the EdgeStar as a practical choice that delivers the standard variety most buyers expect.
EdgeStar BIDW1802BL Dishwasher
EdgeStar BIDW1802BL Performance Breakdown: Key Features and Ratings
The WashDryDazzle team recently put the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL 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)
At around $480, the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL strikes a good balance between affordability and functionality for a built-in dishwasher. Its compact 18-inch width and 33-inch height make it an ideal choice for smaller kitchens while still offering a sleek look with black, stainless steel, or white finishes.
The front control panel features tactile buttons, making it simple to use, and the digital display provides cycle status updates at a glance. Overall, the design is practical, minimalistic, and user-friendly for everyday use.
| Price | $480 |
| Height | 33 inches |
| Width | 18 inches |
| Depth | 23 inches |
| Weight | 52.9 pounds |
| Color | Black/ stainless steel/White |
| Control Panel Location | Front Control |
| Display | Digital |
| Touch or Tactile Controls | Tactile |
| Cycle status/progress indicator on display | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Enabled (Smart Dishwasher) | N/A |
| Compatibility with home assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant) | N/A |
✨ Cleaning Performance (4.5/5)
This dishwasher offers 6 wash cycles (Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Rapid, and Rinse) and 3 key options (Sanitize, Hi Temp, Heated Dry), covering a wide range of cleaning needs. With two spray arms and a multi-spray arm system, it ensures thorough coverage.
The manually removable filter is easy to clean; however, for optimal performance, the entire filter system should be cleaned at least once a week. The Sanitize option reaches 156 °F (69 °C), while the Hi Temp option goes up to 140 °F (60 °C), enhancing hygiene and stain removal.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 6 (Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Rapid, and Rinse) |
| Specialized Cycles | N/A |
| Number of Options / Functions | 3 (Sanitize, Hi Temp, Heated Dry) |
| Number of Spray Arms | 2 |
| Filter type (self-cleaning or manual/removable filter) | Manual – Removable Filter |
| Sanitization | Yes |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes (up to 24 hours) |
| Targeted washing zones | multi-spray arm cleaning system. |
| Soil sensor capability (Turbidity Sensor) | Yes |
| Option / Function # 01 | Sanitize: Heats water to 156°F (69°C); available only in Heavy, Normal, and ECO cycles. |
| Option / Function # 02 | Hi Temp: Heats water up to 140°F (60°C); available in Heavy, Normal, ECO, and Glass cycles. |
| Option / Function # 03 | Heated Dry: Uses electric heater for drying; available in all cycles except Rinse. |
💨 Drying Performance (4.2/5)
The EdgeStar BIDW1802BL utilizes heat drying to complete its drying cycles. 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 consumes more energy compared to other methods.
A rinse aid dispenser is also included (rinse aid sold separately), which helps prevent water spots and boosts drying efficiency. While it lacks features like auto door opening or fresh air circulation, it still delivers a reliable drying performance for everyday needs.
| Hot Air Drying / Heat Drying | Heat Drying |
| Fresh Air Circulation for Moisture and Odor | N/A |
| Auto Door Opening for Natural Drying | N/A |
| Rinse aid availability | Yes (rinse aid sold separately) |
| Built-in Water Softener (For Hard Water) | N/A |
🔕 Noise Level (4.3/5)
The dishwasher operates at 52 dB, which is a relatively quiet level for a built-in model. To put the 52 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 peaceful.
Compared with similar models, the SPT SD-9254W and Midea MDF18A1AST also run at 52 dB, while the Honeywell HDS18SS is quieter at 42 dB. Overall, it offers a peaceful experience, but it isn’t the most silent option available.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.6/5)
The EdgeStar BIDW1802BL is ENERGY STAR® certified (Energy Star-certified appliances meet strict energy efficiency standards set by the EPA, using less energy and reducing environmental impact). A Normal Cycle with Heat Drying, running approximately 130 minutes, uses about 1.088 kWh of electricity, which is comparable to running a 1-ton AC on full load for about 65 minutes. Energy consumption for running this dishwasher daily on Normal Cycle with Heat Drying for 30 days = 1.088 kWh/day × 30 = 32.65 kWh/month.
It also includes a 24-hour delay start timer, allowing you to schedule cycles during off-peak energy hours.
| Energy Star rating | ENERGY STAR® |
| Estimated Energy Consumption / Wattage | 32.7 kWh/month for Daily use of Normal Cycle with Heat Drying |
| Voltage Required | 120 Volts |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes (up to 24 hours) |
💧 Water Usage (4.4/5)
The EdgeStar BIDW1802BL uses about 3.10 gallons (11.73 liters) of water per cycle on Normal mode, which is efficient for an 18-inch built-in dishwasher. In comparison, the SPT SD-9254W and Midea MDF18A1AST also consume around 3.1 gallons (11.73 liters), while the Honeywell HDS18SS is slightly higher at 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters). This keeps the EdgeStar in line with most competitors, offering solid water efficiency without unnecessary waste.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 3.10 Gallons (11.73 liters) per wash in Normal cycle |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.3/5)
This model features six primary cycles: Heavy (145–160 minutes), Normal (135–155 minutes), ECO (105–130 minutes), Glass (95–100 minutes), Rapid (60 minutes), and Rinse (20 minutes). The variety ensures flexibility, whether you’re tackling heavily soiled pots or just freshening up a few glasses. While some cycles run longer, the shorter options strike a balance between convenience and efficiency. For a deeper dive into specific wash cycles, please refer to our section: “Specialized Wash Cycles.”
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.2/5)
With space for 8 place settings (A Place Setting is defined further down in this section), the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL is tailored for smaller households or apartments. It fits dishes up to 11 inches in diameter and comes with two racks, a silverware basket, and a cup tray for organized loading. While it doesn’t have a third rack, its compact size still manages to accommodate everyday dining needs effectively.
| Number of Place Settings | 8 Place Settings |
| Dish or Plate Size: A Rack can Accumulate | up to 11 inches |
| Number of Racks | 2 |
| Special Utensil Holders or Baskets | Silverware basket and cup tray |
| Adjustable height of Rack | Yes (upper Rack) |
8 – Place Setting Dishwasher:
A place setting refers to the dishes and utensils required for a single person’s meal. In dishwashers, it indicates the number of such sets the appliance can handle in one cycle.
A 8-place setting dishwasher is designed to wash 8 dinner plates, 8 dessert plates, 8 soup bowls, 8 cups, 8 glasses, and 8 sets of cutlery in one cycle.
In reality, the exact combination can vary due to item sizes and shapes. For example, you might fit 8 dinner plates, 8 dessert plates, 6 soup bowls, 6 cups, 4 glasses, and 8 sets of cutlery comfortably in a 8-place setting dishwasher.
🔒 Safety Features (4.3/5)
This dishwasher includes a door lock for child safety and a non-slip base, ensuring the unit stays secure during operation. For safe operation, avoid placing the dishwasher near gas or electric burners. Additionally, avoid using extension cords or adapter plugs. Together, these features add peace of mind, keeping both the appliance and your household safe during daily use.
| Child lock – Safety Feature | Door lock |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safety Feature | The leakage sensor automatically shuts off the water flow when a leak is detected. |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.5/5)
Built with a stainless steel finish and tub, the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL is designed to withstand daily wear. 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 warranty, which covers standard household use. To keep your warranty valid, follow the manual carefully and avoid misuse, mishandling, or non-household applications.
Wash Cycles Available on the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL
The EdgeStar BIDW1802BL 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 | Cycle Sequence | Main Wash Temp | Water Consumption | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy | Hard-to-clean, heavily soiled dishes, pots, and pans | Pre-wash → Main-wash → Rinse → Rinse with Sanitize → Drying | 140 °F (60 °C) → 149 °F (65 °C) → 156 °F (69 °C) | 5.2 gallons (19.7 liters) | 145–160 min |
| Normal | Standard cycle for regularly soiled dinner dishes and silverware | Pre-wash → Main-wash → Rinse → Rinse with Sanitize → Drying | 131 °F (55 °C) → 140 °F (60 °C) → 156 °F (69 °C) | 2.5–4.9 gallons (9.5–18.5 liters) | 135–155 min |
| ECO | Efficient cycle for normally soiled tableware; saves energy and water | Pre-wash → Main-wash → Rinse → Rinse with Sanitize → Drying | 122 °F (50 °C) → 131 °F (55 °C) → 156 °F (69 °C) | 4.1 gallons (15.5 liters) | 105–130 min |
| Glass | For lightly soiled loads such as glasses, crystal, and china | Pre-wash → Main-wash → Rinse → Drying | 122 °F (50 °C) → 131 °F (55 °C) | 4.1 gallons (15.5 liters) | 95–100 min |
| Rapid | Short wash for lightly soiled loads that do not need drying | Pre-wash → Main-wash → Rinse | 122 °F (50 °C) → 131 °F (55 °C) | 3.3 gallons (12.5 liters) | 60 min |
| Rinse | Quick rinse for dishes, glasses, and silverware before full wash | Pre-wash → Rinse | N/A | 1.8 gallons (6.8 liters) | 20 min |
What We Like and Don’t Like About the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL
Pros
- Compact 18-inch width fits well in small kitchen spaces
- Offers 8 place settings with racks, a silverware basket, and a cup tray
- ENERGY STAR® certified for reduced power usage and efficiency
- Uses only 3.10 gallons (11.73 liters) per Normal cycle
- Operates at 52 dB, similar to a quiet conversation
- Includes 6 wash cycles plus sanitize, hi-temp, and heated dry options
- Delay start timer up to 24 hours for convenience
- Heat drying mechanism leaves dishes clean and spot-free
- Stainless steel tub enhances durability and resists rust
- The multi-spray arm cleaning system ensures thorough wash coverage
- Door lock safety feature and leakage sensor for added protection
Cons
- No Wi-Fi or innovative assistant connectivity options
- Lacks auto door opening or fresh air drying features
- No built-in water softener for hard water areas
- Doesn’t include a third rack for extra utensils
- Limited to 8 place settings, less than full-sized models
EdgeStar BIDW1802BL Dishwasher
Who Makes the Best Use of EdgeStar BIDW1802BL Dishwasher
- Couples or small families who want a dependable dishwasher that fits daily kitchen routines without taking over the space
- Apartment dwellers or renters who need a built-in dishwasher that installs easily and feels at home in compact kitchens
- Eco-conscious users who value reduced energy and water consumption while still enjoying spotless results on their dishes
- Busy professionals who want the convenience of scheduled cycles, ensuring clean dishes are ready when they come home.
- Parents who appreciate a sanitizing option for bottles, lunch containers, and items that require extra reassurance of cleanliness
- Students or roommates in shared housing who want a practical way to keep dish duty simple and arguments at bay
- Seniors or caregivers looking for a user-friendly dishwasher with straightforward controls and reliable cleaning performance
Who Won’t Benefit from EdgeStar BIDW1802BL Dishwasher
- Large families who need a full-sized dishwasher capable of handling frequent, oversized loads in one cycle
- Tech enthusiasts who expect innovative features like Wi-Fi connectivity or voice assistant integration in modern appliances
- Households in hard water areas, where the lack of a built-in water softener can lead to spotting and mineral buildup
- Homeowners with spacious kitchens who prefer a high-capacity dishwasher to match their cooking and hosting habits
- Those who frequently use oversized cookware, trays, or specialty dishes that exceed the dishwasher’s rack capacity
- Buyers seeking high-end luxury finishes or advanced drying methods, such as auto door opening or fresh air circulation
EdgeStar BIDW1802BL Alternatives You Should Know About
SPT SD-9254W
The SPT SD-9254W offers the same 18-inch built-in design and an 8-place setting capacity, making it a close match to EdgeStar. It features six wash cycles, tactile push-button controls, and stainless-steel durability inside and out. A handy delay start timer and reliable sanitize option add extra convenience. While its functionality is straightforward, it keeps daily dishwashing efficient and worry-free.
Read more about this model in our comprehensive SPT SD-9254W Dishwasher Review.
SPT SD-9254W Dishwasher
Midea MDF18A1AST
The Midea MDF18A1AST combines practicality with thoughtful design, offering six wash cycles, including a delicate setting for delicate items like glassware. Its stainless-steel tub and versatile cup shelves enhance usability, while energy and water efficiency keep it eco-friendly. With a sanitize option and adjustable delay start, it provides flexibility for different lifestyles. Noise is kept to a moderate level, making it a dependable addition to any kitchen without being disruptive.
Learn more about this model by exploring our detailed Midea MDF18A1AST Dishwasher Review.
Midea MDF18A1AST Dishwasher
Honeywell HDS18SS
The Honeywell HDS18SS stands out with its ultra-quiet 42 dB operation, making it one of the quietest 18-inch dishwashers. Its top-control panel and touch interface give it a sleek, modern finish, while six wash cycles cover everything from heavy pots to delicate glassware. Safety features, including overflow protection and a child lock, add peace of mind, and its stainless-steel interior reinforces durability. This model strikes a balance between style, silence, and solid cleaning power.
Discover all the details in our thorough Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher Review.
Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher
Final Thoughts on EdgeStar BIDW1802BL Dishwasher Review
The EdgeStar BIDW1802BL proves itself to be a reliable, compact built-in dishwasher that strikes a balance between everyday practicality and performance. With its six wash cycles, Energy Star certification, and thoughtful features like sanitize and heated dry, it delivers dependable cleaning without complicating your routine. While it may not suit larger families or those seeking smart connectivity, it fits beautifully into smaller kitchens or households that value efficiency. If you’re looking for a dishwasher that works hard, saves space, and keeps dishes sparkling, the BIDW1802BL is well worth considering.
Check today’s availability and see if it’s the right fit for your kitchen.
EdgeStar BIDW1802BL Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many place settings can the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL handle in one load?
It fits up to 8 place settings, making it a practical option for smaller households or apartments.
Is the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL dishwasher Energy Star certified for efficiency?
Yes, it carries an Energy Star rating, ensuring lower energy and water consumption during everyday use.
What is the noise level of the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL during operation?
It operates at 52 dB, which is quiet enough for open kitchens and comfortable daily use.
Does this dishwasher include a sanitize option for extra cleaning?
Yes, it includes a sanitize function that uses high-temperature water for hygienic cleaning of dishes and utensils.
How many wash cycles are available on the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL?
The dishwasher features six wash cycles, including Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Rapid, and Rinse.
Can the racks in the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL be adjusted for larger dishes?
Yes, the upper rack is height-adjustable, allowing more flexibility for fitting taller items like pans or large plates.
Does the EdgeStar BIDW1802BL have built-in smart or Wi-Fi features?
No, it does not include smart connectivity but keeps things simple with tactile controls and digital display.
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