A comparative analysis of built-in dishwashers shows that nearly half (49%) of models feature six wash cycles, making this the most common configuration on the market (refer to the comparative chart). The Honeywell HDS18SS falls into this category, providing the standard cycle versatility that most users expect. What distinguishes it, however, is its ultra-quiet noise level of 42 dB, making it ideal for open kitchens. Additionally, its compact yet efficient capacity of 8 place settings makes it perfect for smaller households or apartments.
Read on to discover whether the Honeywell HDS18SS offers the right balance of performance and convenience, or check out our Overview Summary below for a quick verdict and pricing history.
Table of Contents
Overview Summary
Performance Indicators:
Honeywell HDS18SS Price History:
Pros:
- ENERGY STAR certified efficiency
- 42 dB ultra-quiet operation
- 3.1 gallons per cycle
- Heated drying system
- Six versatile wash cycles
- Stainless steel build
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi connectivity
- Limited 8 place settings
- No auto door drying
- Two-rack design only
Honeywell HDS18SS: A Closer Look at Its Market Edge
💰 Full Spectrum Pricing: From Low-End to Top-Tier
The Honeywell HDS18SS falls into the $434 to $644 price range, which is the most common category for built-in dishwashers, covering 33% of the market. This positions it firmly within the budget-friendly segment while still offering full-feature performance.
In comparison, higher-end models priced above $1067 only represent 20% of the market combined. This competitive pricing makes the HDS18SS an attractive choice for value-conscious buyers seeking premium design without a premium price tag.
🔇 From Whisper to Roar: Placing Noise Levels in Perspective
With a whisper-quiet operating volume of 42 dB, the Honeywell HDS18SS fits within the 42 dB to 45 dB noise range, which includes 32% of built-in dishwashers. This places it among the quietest mainstream options on the market.
By contrast, models with noise levels between 50 dB and 53 dB make up 30%, while louder models above 54 dB are less common. The HDS18SS offers a clear acoustic advantage, especially for open kitchens or small spaces where silence matters.
⚖️ Weight Spectrum: Comparing This Unit to the Rest
Weighing between 80.7 and 98.4 pounds, the Honeywell HDS18SS lands in the most common weight class, which covers 42% of built-in models. This range strikes a solid balance between durability and ease of installation.
Lighter models under 62.7 lbs make up only 12%, while the heavier 98.5–116.2 lb range holds 17%. The HDS18SS offers the reassuring sturdiness of a well-built appliance without being overly difficult to handle during setup.
🍽️ Capacity Check: Comparing Place Settings Across Top Models
The Honeywell HDS18SS offers 8 place settings, placing it in the 7–8 setting range, which covers 16% of built-in dishwashers. While most models lean toward larger capacities—13–16 place settings dominate with 66% combined—the HDS18SS is tailored for smaller households or tighter kitchen spaces.
Its capacity may be lower than average, but it offers a more compact footprint without sacrificing the essential functions, making it ideal for apartments, condos, or second kitchens.
🔄 Comparing Wash Cycles Across Dishwashers
Equipped with 6 wash cycles, the Honeywell HDS18SS falls right into the most common category of built-in dishwashers—49% of models offer the same number of cycles. This makes it highly competitive in terms of versatility and user expectations.
Fewer cycles (3–5) appear in only 26% of models, while more advanced 7–10 cycle machines make up the remaining 25%. With this configuration, the HDS18SS provides a balanced range of cleaning options without overcomplicating operation.
Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher
Unpacking the Honeywell HDS18SS: Ratings and Key Specs
Our dedicated team at WashDryDazzle has put the Honeywell HDS18SS Under-counter Dishwasher to the test. Our goal? To help you, the user, make a wise choice.
💵 Price and Design (4.5/5)
At $449, the Honeywell HDS18SS feels like a smart buy for anyone looking to add a compact yet polished dishwasher to a modern kitchen. Its stainless steel finish gives it a clean, premium look, while the top-mounted digital touch controls keep the front panel sleek and easy to wipe down.
The solid door design adds durability and a professional feel, and the built-in status display window lets you check progress at a glance. It fits neatly into standard installations, making setup refreshingly straightforward.
| Price | $449 |
| Height | 32 inches |
| Width | 18 inches |
| Depth | 23 inches |
| Weight | 70 pounds |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Control Panel Location | Top Control |
| Display | Digital display |
| Touch or Tactile Controls | Touch control |
| Cycle status/progress indicator on display | display Window with status indicator |
| Wi-Fi Enabled (Smart Dishwasher) | N/A |
| Compatibility with home assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant) | N/A |
✨ Cleaning Performance (4.6/5)
With six practical wash cycles, including Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Rapid, and Rinse, the Honeywell HDS18SS handles everything from baked-on pots to delicate glassware with confidence.
The dual spray arm system ensures water reaches every corner of the rack, while options like Sanitize at up to 156.2°F (69°C) and Hi Temp Wash at up to 140°F (60°C) boost cleaning power when needed. Its triple-filter system is removable and easy to clean, and for better performance, the entire filter system should be cleaned at least once a week.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 6 (Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Rapid, Rinse) |
| Specialized Cycles | Glass, Rapid, |
| Number of Options / Functions | 4 (Heating Dry, Sanitize, Hi-Temp, Energy Save) |
| Number of Spray Arms | 2 |
| Filter type (self-cleaning or manual/Removeable Filter) | Triple-Filter System (Removable & Easy-Clean Design) |
| Sanitization | Yes |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes (24 hours) |
| Targeted washing zones | Multi-spray arm cleaning system. |
| Soil sensor capability (Turbidity Sensor) | Yes (Smart Wash System) |
| Option / Function # 01 | Heating Dry: Uses a heater during drying to improve moisture removal. |
| Option / Function # 02 | Heats water up to 156.2°F (69°C) for hygienic cleaning in Heavy, Normal, and ECO cycles. |
| Option / Function # 03 | Hi Temp: Raises wash temperature up to 140°F (60°C) for better cleaning in Heavy, Normal, ECO, and Glass cycles. |
| Option / Function # 04 | Energy Save: Lowers energy use during washing in Heavy and Normal cycles. |
💨 Drying Performance (4.4/5)
The Honeywell HDS18SS uses a heated drying system powered by a base heating element to complete cycles with warm, ready-to-use dishes. Heat Drying uses a built-in heating element to warm the air inside the dishwasher during the final stage of the cycle.
This heat evaporates moisture from dishes, glasses, and the tub, helping them dry faster and more thoroughly compared to air drying alone. Rinse aid support further enhances results, as rinse aid in a dishwasher is a liquid drying agent that improves drying performance and reduces water spots on dishes.
| Hot Air Drying / Heat Drying | Heated Drying System (Base Heating Element) |
| Fresh Air Circulation for Moisture and Odor | RINSE option prevents odor |
| Auto Door Opening for Natural Drying | N/A |
| Rinse aid availability | Yes |
| Built-in Water Softener (For Hard Water) | N/A |
🔕 Noise Level (4.8/5)
Running at just 42 dB, the Honeywell HDS18SS is impressively quiet for a compact dishwasher. To put the 42 dB dishwasher noise level into perspective, standing about five feet away from the dishwasher would sound like a whisper or the faint rustling of leaves on a calm day, so quiet that it might blend into the background, barely noticeable unless you focus on it.
In comparison, competitors like the EdgeStar BIDW1802WH and SPT SD-9254SS operate around 52 dB, while the Avanti DWT18V3S runs closer to 53 dB, making this model noticeably calmer in shared living spaces.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.5/5)
The Honeywell HDS18SS 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 responsible choice for everyday use.
A Normal Cycle with Heat Dry, running 130 minutes, would use approximately 1.08 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity, similar 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 Dry for 30 days = 1.08 kWh/day x 30 days = 32.65 kWh/month. The 24-hour delay start timer also lets you schedule cycles during off-peak energy hours for extra savings.
| Energy Star rating | ENERGY STAR® |
| Estimated Energy Consumption / Wattage | 32.7 kWh/month for Daily use of Normal Cycle with Heat Dry |
| Voltage Required | 115 |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes (24 hours) |
💧 Water Usage (4.4/5)
The Honeywell HDS18SS uses about 3.1 gallons (11.73 liters) of water per wash in the Normal cycle, which strikes a nice balance between efficiency and cleaning performance. In comparison, the EdgeStar BIDW1802WH is slightly more frugal at around 2.5 gallons (9.46 liters) per wash, while the SPT SD-9254SS closely matches it at 3.10 gallons (11.73 liters). The Avanti DWT18V3S also falls within the same range, at roughly 3.1 gallons (11.73 liters), keeping this dishwasher competitive in everyday water usage.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 3.1 (gallon) in Normal Cycle |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.3/5)
The Honeywell HDS18SS offers a flexible range of cycle durations to match different cleaning needs. Heavy runs about 155 minutes for tough, baked-on messes, while Normal typically takes between 105 and 135 minutes for everyday loads.
ECO finishes in around 105 minutes, Glass wraps up in about 95 minutes, and Rapid delivers a quick refresh in roughly 60 minutes. For pre-rinsing, the Rinse cycle completes in just 20 minutes. For a deeper dive into specific wash cycles, please refer to our section: “Specialized Wash Cycles.”
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.2/5)
Designed for smaller households, the Honeywell HDS18SS accommodates up to 8 Place Settings (A Place Setting is defined further down in this section) with two well-spaced racks that comfortably fit plates up to 10 inches in diameter.
The included cutlery basket with a built-in cup shelf helps keep utensils organized and prevents smaller items from shifting during the wash. While it is not built for large family loads, it handles daily dishwashing needs efficiently in compact kitchen spaces.
| Number of Place Settings | 8 Place Settings |
| Dish or Plate Size: A Rack can Accumulate | 10 inches |
| Number of Racks | 2 |
| Special Utensil Holders or Baskets | Cutlery Basket with Cup Shelf |
| Adjustable height of Rack | Pull-Out Sliding Racks |
8 – 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.
An 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 a single 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 an 8-place setting dishwasher.
🔒 Safety Features (4.4/5)
The Honeywell HDS18SS includes a practical lock feature that helps prevent accidental changes during a cycle, adding peace of mind in busy kitchens. The dishwasher is 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. These thoughtful touches make everyday use feel safer and more reliable.
| Child Lock – Safety Feature | Lock Feature |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safety Feature | Displays an error code when overflow is detected |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.5/5)
With a stainless steel exterior and interior tub, the Honeywell HDS18SS is built to handle daily use with confidence. 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. To keep your warranty valid, use the product only as intended, follow the instructions in the manual, and avoid misuse, mishandling, accidents, neglect, or abuse.
| Finish Type / Material | Stainless Steel |
| Interior Tub Material | Stainless Steel |
| Warranty Duration | 1-year limited warranty |
Pre-set Wash Cycles Offered by the Honeywell HDS18SS
Designed for efficient cleaning, the Honeywell HDS18SS Fix Dishwasher offers multiple wash cycles that handle everything from light rinses to heavy-duty messes. Here’s what you can expect from each cycle:
| Program | When to Use | Cycle Description | Water Usage (L) | Cycle Time (Min) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy | For heavily soiled loads such as pots and pans | Pre-Wash, Wash (60°C), Rinse (65°C), Rinse with Sani (69°C), Drying | 19.7 | 155 |
| Normal | Standard program for regularly soiled dinner dishes or silverware | Pre-Wash, Wash (50–55°C), Rinse (58–60°C), Rinse with Sani (69°C), Drying | 9.5–18.5 | 105–135 |
| ECO | For regular tableware; highly efficient in energy and water use | Pre-Wash, Main Wash (50–55°C), Rinse (58–60°C), Rinse with Sani (69°C), Drying | 15.5 | 105 |
| Glass | For lightly soiled glasses, crystal, and fine china | Pre-Wash, Wash (48–50°C), Rinse (50–55°C), Drying | 15.5 | 95 |
| Rapid | Shorter wash for lightly soiled loads; no drying | Pre-Wash, Main Wash (48–50°C), Rinse (50–55°C) | 12.5 | 60 |
| Rinse | For rinsing dishes, glasses, and silverware not washed right away | Pre-Wash, Wash | 6.7 | 20 |
The Real Deal on the Honeywell HDS18SS: Pros and Cons Listed
Pros
- ENERGY STAR certified, consuming approximately 32.7 kWh monthly for efficient daily Normal Cycle operation.
- Uses only 3.1 gallons per Normal cycle, helping control water consumption without sacrificing cleaning performance.
- Operates at a quiet 42 dB, keeping kitchen noise levels comparable to a soft background whisper.
- Offers six wash cycles, including Heavy, ECO, Glass, Rapid, and Rinse for flexible dishwashing performance.
- Heated drying system improves moisture evaporation, delivering drier dishes at the end of each cycle.
- The sanitize option reaches up to 156.2°F (69°C), supporting hygienic cleaning of everyday dishware.
- Compact 18-inch built-in design fits standard installations while maintaining a stainless steel premium appearance.
- The dual spray arm system enhances water coverage, ensuring more consistent cleaning across both racks.
- Removable triple-filter system simplifies maintenance and helps trap food debris efficiently.
- Digital touch controls with a status display provide clear visibility into cycle progress and modern usability.
Cons
- Limited to 8 place settings, reducing capacity for larger loads or bulk dishwashing sessions.
- No Wi-Fi connectivity or smart assistant compatibility for remote monitoring or control.
- Lacks auto door opening or fresh air circulation for enhanced natural drying performance.
- Only two racks are included, missing the flexibility of a third rack or a dedicated cutlery tray.
- The built-in water softener is not included, which may affect performance in hard-water regions.
Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher
Who Makes the Best Use of the Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher
- Apartment dwellers who want a space-saving built-in dishwasher that blends neatly into smaller kitchens without overwhelming the layout.
- Couples or small families looking for an easy way to stay on top of daily dishes without turning cleanup into a nightly chore.
- Busy professionals who value quiet kitchen appliances that let them work, relax, or take calls without background distractions.
- Eco-conscious users who appreciate appliances designed to reduce water and energy use while keeping dishes consistently clean.
- Parents with young children who want added peace of mind from sanitizing cycles for bottles, cups, and everyday tableware.
- Renters or homeowners seeking a straightforward installation experience without complicated setup or constant maintenance concerns.
- Style-conscious individuals who enjoy a clean, modern kitchen look that pairs well with stainless steel finishes and minimal controls.
- Glassware lovers who want gentle cleaning options that help protect delicate items while maintaining sparkle and clarity.
- People sensitive to noise who prefer a dishwasher that fades into the background during evening or late-night use.
- Remote workers and freelancers who appreciate a calm home environment while managing dishes between work
Who May Not Need Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher
- Large families who need a dishwasher capable of handling frequent, high-volume loads in a single, time-saving cycle.
- Tech enthusiasts who prefer smart appliances with app control, remote monitoring, or voice assistant integration.
- Households in hard water areas that rely on built-in water softening to prevent mineral spots and residue buildup.
- Frequent hosts who often wash oversized cookware, serving platters, or party dishes that require extra interior space.
- Buyers are looking for premium, luxury-style features and high-end customization options beyond basic, everyday functionality.
- People who want ultra-fast cleaning cycles for quick turnarounds between meals or entertaining sessions.
- Homeowners planning major kitchen remodels who need full-size appliances to match expansive cabinetry and open layouts.
Alternatives to Honeywell HDS18SS
EdgeStar BIDW1802WH
The EdgeStar BIDW1802WH stands out with its compact built-in design and clean white finish, which blends easily into modern kitchens. It offers six practical wash cycles, including a gentle Glass option and a Rapid cycle for quick refreshes. The dual spray arm system delivers consistent water coverage, while heat-assisted drying helps reduce lingering moisture. With an adjustable upper rack and simple front-button controls, it feels straightforward to use for everyday dishwashing without unnecessary complexity.
Read more about this model in our comprehensive EdgeStar BIDW1802WH Dishwasher Review.
EdgeStar BIDW1802WH Dishwasher
SPT SD-9254SS
The SPT SD-9254SS offers a polished stainless steel look, paired with a clear front LED display that makes cycle progress easy to follow. Its six wash programs cover everything from heavy-duty cleaning to delicate glass care, giving you flexibility for mixed loads. Dual spray arms and heated drying work together to deliver consistent results, while the removable filter system keeps maintenance manageable. The overall design feels practical and user-friendly, making it a solid alternative for compact kitchen setups.
Learn more about this model by exploring our detailed SPT SD-9254SS Dishwasher Review.
SPT SD-9254SS Dishwasher
Avanti DWT18V3S
The Avanti DWT18V3S adds a premium touch with a stainless steel exterior and top-mounted LED controls for a clean, modern appearance. It offers a versatile set of cycles, including Automatic, Intensive, and Delicate, allowing it to adapt to everything from everyday dishes to fragile glassware. Features like Half Load and Extra Dry enhance flexibility, while the built-in water softener helps maintain cleaning quality in tougher water conditions.
Discover all the details in our thorough Avanti DWT18V3S Dishwasher Review.
Avanti DWT18V3S Dishwasher
Our Closing Take on Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher Review
Wrapping everything together, the Honeywell HDS18SS feels like a thoughtful balance of performance, efficiency, and everyday practicality. Its quiet operation, flexible wash cycles, and reliable heated drying system make it a steady companion for keeping daily dish loads under control without adding noise or hassle to your kitchen routine.
The stainless steel build adds a touch of modern style, while energy and water efficiency help keep long-term costs in check. If you want a compact built-in dishwasher that delivers consistent results and simple, dependable usability, this model is an easy choice to bring home.
Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Honeywell HDS18SS suitable for small kitchens or apartments?
Yes, its compact built-in design fits smaller spaces while still handling everyday dish loads comfortably.
How quiet is the Honeywell HDS18SS during normal operation?
It runs very quietly, making it easy to use during work hours or evenings without disturbing the room.
Does this dishwasher handle delicate glassware safely?
Yes, it includes a gentle glass cycle designed to clean fragile items while helping prevent scratches.
Can I run this dishwasher during off-peak energy hours?
Yes, the delay start feature lets you schedule cycles for times when electricity rates may be lower.
Does the Honeywell HDS18SS help reduce water and energy usage?
Yes, its efficient design supports lower resource use while still delivering reliable everyday cleaning performance.
Is installation complicated for a built-in setup?
No, the standard installation process is straightforward for most kitchens with proper plumbing and electrical connections.
How does this model compare to similar compact dishwashers?
It stands out for quiet operation, solid cleaning performance, and balanced efficiency compared to other compact built-in alternatives.
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- How to Dispose of and Recycle a Dishwasher?
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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.
