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
- 6 wash cycles including ECO
- Ultra-quiet 42 dB operation
- Sanitizes up to 69°C
- Stainless steel interior and door
- Top control with touch display
- Includes child lock safety feature
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi or smart features
- No auto door open drying
- No third rack
- Manual filter, not self-cleaning
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 (4.4/5)
The Honeywell HDS18SS brings a stylish, compact built-in design that’s perfect for modern small kitchens or apartments. Its sleek stainless-steel finish pairs nicely with most interiors, and the controls are cleanly integrated into the top of the door for a seamless look.
While it doesn’t have a flashy touchscreen or custom panel options, the minimalist aesthetic and quality finish feel premium for the price range. If you’re not chasing designer finishes, it strikes a nice balance between form and function.
| Price | $449 |
| Height | 33 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 |
| 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)
With six distinct wash programs, the HDS18SS hits the sweet spot for everyday use, and it’s not just about the numbers. The Heavy, Normal, and ECO cycles are well thought out, offering thorough cleaning with high-temperature rinses up to 69°C for sanitization. Whether you’re washing greasy pots or delicate glassware, each program is tailored to its task.
While it doesn’t boast advanced soil sensors or zone targeting, the multi-stage rinsing and hot water integration ensure solid, consistent results.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 6 washing programs: heavy, normal, eco, glass, rapid, and rinse |
| Specialized Cycles | N/A |
| 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) | Manual – Removeable Filter |
| Sanitization | Yes |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes |
| Targeted washing zones | multi-spray arm cleaning system. |
| Soil sensor capability (Turbidity Sensor) | Yes |
| Option / Function # 01 | Heating Dry: In this function heater will work during the drying process. |
| Option / Function # 02 | Sanitize: This function maintains water at 69°C (156.2°F) max, available in “Heavy,” “Normal,” and “ECO” cycles |
| Option / Function # 03 | Hi Temp: Selecting “Hi Temp Wash” keeps water at 60°C (140°F) max. Available in “Heavy,” “Normal,” “ECO,” and “Glass” cycles |
| Option / Function # 04 | Energy Save: This function reduces energy usage during washing. Available in “Heavy” and “Normal” cycles |
💨 Drying Performance (4.2/5)
Drying on the HDS18SS is built into nearly all primary cycles, except Rapid, and it uses a heated drying process paired with high-temperature rinse water. For most dish loads, this results in dry dishes without water spots.
Even when the Rinse with Sani feature is activated, plastic items, like many compact models, may retain a few drops, particularly after shorter cycles. It’s efficient, but not quite as advanced as fan-assisted or auto-open drying systems found in premium models.
| 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 |
| Built-in Water Softener (For Hard Water) | N/A |
🔕 Noise Level (4.8/5)
At just 42 dB, this dishwasher operates quieter than a soft conversation, making it an excellent fit for open-concept spaces or small apartments. You can comfortably run a cycle while working, watching TV, or entertaining guests without any disruptive background hum. It’s one of the quietest in its class, and that alone makes it a standout if noise sensitivity is a concern.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.3/5)
The ECO mode on this unit is tailored for energy-conscious users, consuming just 15.5 liters of water while operating efficiently between 50–69°C. Although it may not have an Energy Star certification listed, the presence of multiple low-consumption cycles (such as Normal and ECO) indicates solid efficiency. This dishwasher leans green without compromising on clean, though newer innovative models may edge it out slightly with real-time load sensing.
| Energy Star rating | ENERGY STAR® |
| Estimated Energy Consumption / Wattage | 33.6 kWh/month for Daily use of Normal Cycle with Heat Dry |
| Voltage Required | 115 |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes |
💧 Water Usage (4.4/5)
The Honeywell HDS18SS shows thoughtful engineering when it comes to water efficiency. Depending on the cycle, water consumption ranges from just 6.7 liters (Rinse program) to 19.7 liters (Heavy cycle). Most everyday loads will fall within the 9.5–15.5 liter range, which is pretty standard for an 8-place setting built-in model. While not the lowest in its class, it strikes a practical balance between performance and conservation, especially in ECO and Normal modes.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 12.11 (liters) 3.2 (gallon) in Normal Cycle |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.2/5)
With cycles ranging from 20 to 155 minutes, there’s good flexibility to suit your schedule. The 60-minute Rapid cycle is ideal for a quick refresh of lightly soiled dishes, while the Heavy and ECO modes go longer to deliver a deeper clean. That said, the 155-minute Heavy cycle might feel a bit long if you’re in a hurry, and there’s no ultra-fast 30-minute option like in some newer models. Still, the range covers most cleaning needs well.
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.0/5)
Offering eight place settings, the HDS18SS is a mid-size built-in unit, ideal for couples or small families. It’s smaller than standard 12-14-place models, but it uses the space wisely. While it doesn’t feature fold-down tines or third racks, the layout is functional for daily dishwashing needs. If you’re upgrading from a countertop model, it’s a noticeable step up. However, those with larger households may find themselves running more frequent loads.
| 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 |
| Adjustable height of Rack | pull out dish 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.
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 (4.0/5)
The Honeywell HDS18SS includes standard built-in safety features like leak protection and overheating control, offering peace of mind during operation. However, it lacks a dedicated child lock or innovative diagnostics, which might be a consideration for households with young kids or tech-forward users. It’s safe and stable for daily use, but not particularly advanced in the safety department.
| Child lock – Safety Feature | Yes |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safety Feature | Overflow triggers error codes. |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.3/5)
With a stainless steel tub and sturdy build quality, the HDS18SS feels built to last. Honeywell has a strong reputation for home appliances, and this model upholds that standard. While long-term field data is limited due to its niche size category, early feedback and material quality suggest durability over time. Plus, having essential cycles without overcomplicating the interface adds to its long-term usability.
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 for efficient energy and water use
- Ultra-quiet operation at just 42 dB
- Offers six wash cycles, including ECO and Rapid
- Includes high-temperature sanitizing up to 69°C
- Stainless steel interior and exterior for durability
- Features heat drying for better moisture removal
- The top control panel with a digital display looks sleek
- Pull-out racks support up to 10-inch dishes
- Includes a removable filter for easy maintenance
- Compact 18-inch width fits tight spaces
- Overflow protection with an error alert system
- Consists of a child lock for added safety
Cons
- No innovative features or Wi-Fi connectivity
- Lacks auto door open or fresh air drying
- No third rack or specialized utensil tray
- Doesn’t include a built-in water softener
Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher
Who Makes the Best Use of the Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher
- Apartment dwellers or condo owners who want a sleek, efficient dishwasher that doesn’t crowd the kitchen
- Couples or small families who need a daily-use dishwasher that won’t overconsume energy or water
- Eco-conscious users looking for an ENERGY STAR-certified model with practical water- and energy-saving options
- Seniors or those who prefer intuitive, simple-to-use appliances without overly complex settings
- Busy individuals or remote workers who appreciate quiet operation that doesn’t interrupt meetings or downtime
- Parents who want the peace of mind that comes with high-heat sanitizing cycles for kids’ dishes and bottles
- Safety-conscious homeowners who value the included child lock and overflow protection
- Minimalists who want core features, versatile programs, and a clean design without bells and whistles
- Style-focused buyers who want stainless steel durability with a modern digital display and top control layout
- Renters or budget-conscious shoppers looking for premium-grade cleaning performance at a mid-range price point
Who May Not Need Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher
- Large families needing to clean more than eight place settings in one load may find the capacity limiting.
- Smart home users who prefer Wi-Fi connectivity or app-based dishwasher controls will find this model lacking.
- Households in hard water areas that rely on built-in water softeners for mineral and scale control
- Buyers looking for a third rack or dedicated tray for large utensils may want to explore other options.
- Individuals who prefer ultra-fast cycles may find the shortest 60-minute option insufficient for daily needs.
- Frequent entertainers or home chefs who regularly use large pots and pans may outgrow this unit quickly.
- Individuals who prioritize ultra-high-end features or innovative touchscreen interfaces, typically found in luxury models, are the target audience.
- Households that regularly use non-standard, oversized plates might find space tight in the lower rack.
Alternatives to Honeywell HDS18SS
EdgeStar BIDW1802WH
The EdgeStar BIDW1802WH is a reliable built-in dishwasher offering eight place settings, front control tactile buttons, and a digital display. It features six wash cycles, including ECO and glass modes, with options like sanitize, heated dry, and hi-temp wash. Its upper rack is height-adjustable, and the stainless-steel interior adds to its durability. While it’s a bit louder at 52 dB, it delivers solid day-to-day performance with Energy Star efficiency.
Read more about this model in our comprehensive EdgeStar BIDW1802WH Dishwasher Review.
EdgeStar BIDW1802WH Dishwasher
SPT SD-9254SS
The SPT SD-9254SS strikes a balance between quiet performance and versatility, offering six practical cycles and three useful options, including sanitize and hi-temp. It includes front-facing push-button controls, a digital display, and an 8-place setting capacity. Its durable stainless-steel tub and overflow protection help prevent leaks during operation. Although it lacks high-tech innovative features, it performs consistently and efficiently, making it an excellent pick for mid-sized kitchens.
Learn more about this model by exploring our detailed SPT SD-9254SS Dishwasher Review.
SPT SD-9254SS Dishwasher
Avanti DWT18V3S
Avanti’s DWT18V3S stands out with an attractive metallic finish, LED top controls, and six automatic cycles, including Super, Delicate, and Automatic. It offers five functional options, such as sanitize, extra dry, and half load, giving users more flexibility. The stainless steel interior and adjustable rack add to its premium feel. With a slightly higher noise level of 53 dB, it remains a solid choice for households seeking functionality and sleek design.
Discover all the details in our thorough Avanti DWT18V3S Dishwasher Review.
Avanti DWT18V3S Dishwasher
Our Closing Take on Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher Review
If you’re looking for a compact built-in dishwasher that quietly gets the job done without overcomplicating things, the Honeywell HDS18SS is a solid choice. It offers a well-rounded mix of performance, energy efficiency, and modern design, all wrapped in an ultra-quiet 42 dB package. With six practical wash cycles, a sanitizing option, and a sleek stainless-steel interior, it covers most daily needs with ease.
While it may not have innovative features or a third rack, it delivers consistent, reliable cleaning at a comfortable mid-range price. If that sounds like your dishwasher, the HDS18SS is worth considering.
Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Honeywell HDS18SS dishwasher Energy Star certified?
Yes, it’s ENERGY STAR® certified, which means it’s designed to save both water and electricity during daily use.
How loud is the Honeywell HDS18SS while running?
It runs at just 42 dB, making it one of the quietest options available for open kitchens or small spaces.
How many wash cycles does this dishwasher offer?
The HDS18SS includes 6 wash cycles, including ECO, Heavy, Glass, Rapid, and Rinse for everyday cleaning needs.
Can it sanitize dishes and baby bottles?
Yes, it has a sanitize option that reaches up to 69°C, perfect for hygienically cleaning bottles and utensils.
Does it have adjustable racks for larger items?
Yes, the dishwasher has pull-out racks that can handle dishes up to 10 inches in size comfortably.
Is it a good fit for small families or apartments?
Absolutely, its compact size and 8-place setting capacity make it a great choice for smaller households.
Does the Honeywell HDS18SS have smart features?
No, it doesn’t support Wi-Fi or smart home integration, but it offers reliable performance with essential functions.
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