A comparative noise level analysis of built-in dishwashers shows that nearly 30% of models fall within the [50–53 dB] range (see the comparative chart). The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Dishwasher Review highlights this 18-inch dishwasher sitting right in that segment, balancing power with a tolerable sound level. Designed as a built-in unit, it offers 10 place settings and 8 wash cycles, including Auto, Intensive Plus, and Delicate, making it a versatile choice for mid-sized households.
Read on to see why the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 is gaining attention, or check out our Overview Summary below for a quick verdict and pricing history.
Table of Contents
Overview Summary
Performance Indicators:
ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Price History:
Pros:
- ENERGY STAR certified
- 8 versatile wash cycles
- Heated drying system
- Delay start timer
- Stainless steel interior
- Panel-ready option
Cons:
- 10-place setting capacity
- No child lock safety
- Manual filter cleaning
- No Wi-Fi or smart features
Where the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Stands in the Current Market Landscape
💰 From Low-Cost to Luxury: Understanding the Price Spectrum
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 sits in the $1,489 to $1,700 range, which only 4% of built-in dishwashers occupy. This places it firmly in the premium segment, far above the most common bracket of $434 to $644 that covers 33% of models.
While its price may deter budget-conscious buyers, it reflects advanced features, diverse finishes, and build quality. Buyers in this category are typically prioritizing style and long-term durability over initial cost savings.
🔇 Decibel Duel: Comparing Noise Levels Across Top Models
Operating between 50 and 53 dB, the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 falls into the category that includes 30% of built-in dishwashers. This makes it a standard performer in terms of quietness, offering a noise profile similar to many mid-tier models.
The quietest models (42–45 dB) represent 32% of the market, catering to open-plan homes. While not ultra-quiet, the DWV-BS-18 provides acceptable sound control that most households will find perfectly manageable.
⚖️ Lighter or Heavier? Comparing Weight Across Dishwashers
Weighing 92.3 lbs, the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 fits into the 74–93.4 lbs range, which covers 36% of dishwashers. This makes it part of the most common weight category, striking a balance between sturdiness and ease of installation.
Heavier models above 113 lbs make up only 7% of the market, often offering extra stability but requiring more effort to handle. The DWV-BS-18’s weight suggests reliable build quality without crossing into impractical heaviness.
🍽️ Place Setting Showdown: How This Model Stacks Up
With a 10-place setting capacity, the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 sits in a smaller segment, representing just 11% of built-in dishwashers. Most competitors fall in the 13–14 (32%) and 15–16 place setting (34%) categories, offering larger capacities for bigger families.
While this dishwasher may not compete with larger models in terms of volume, its compact design is better suited for smaller kitchens or households looking for a balance between space-saving and daily usability.
🔄 Program Variety: Comparing Cleaning Cycles Across the Board
Equipped with 8 wash cycles, the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 is positioned in a less common category, shared by only 10% of built-in dishwashers. The majority, 50%, offer 6 cycles, making that the standard benchmark in the market.
This gives the DWV-BS-18 an edge in versatility, with specialized programs like Intensive Plus and Delicate offering greater flexibility. However, buyers who rarely use advanced settings may see this as more than they need.
ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Dishwasher
A Closer Look at the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Features and Ratings
The awesome team at WashDryDazzle took the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Under-counter Dishwasher for a spin just for you. We wanted to see if it’s as dazzling as it sounds. Our goal? To help you make the best choice for your kitchen.
💵 Price and Design (4.4/5)
At around $1550, the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 positions itself in the mid-to-premium range for 18-inch dishwashers. Its sleek black stainless steel finish is the most popular, but buyers also have a wide variety of bold colors to choose from, including blue gloss, copper, and even panel-ready options. Panel-ready dishwashers lack a finished front, designed to accept a custom cabinet panel for a seamless kitchen look. A top control panel with tactile buttons and a clear LED status display adds a modern, streamlined touch.
| Price | $1550 |
| Height | 33 inches |
| Width | 18 inches |
| Depth | 25 inches |
| Weight | 92.3 lbs |
| Color | Black Stainless Steel/ DuraSnow/ Black Matte/ Blue Gloss/ Blue Matte/ Red Gloss/ Red Matte/ Copper/Hand Hammered Copper/Oil-Rubbed Bronze/ Panel Ready/Unfinished Wood |
| Control Panel Location | Top Control |
| Display | Digital display |
| Touch or Tactile Controls | Tactile |
| Cycle status/progress indicator on display | Cycle status display LED |
| Wi-Fi Enabled (Smart Dishwasher) | N/A |
| Compatibility with home assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant) | N/A |
✨ Cleaning Performance (4.6/5)
With 8 versatile wash cycles, including Intensive Plus, Daily, and Delicate, this dishwasher adapts easily to everyday messes and tougher grease. It comes with two spray arms and a multi-spray system for thorough cleaning, while four useful options, such as sanitize, hi-temp, extra dry, and half-load, add flexibility.
The sanitize mode raises the final rinse to 167 °F (75 °C), ensuring hygienic results, while the hi-temp option extends wash time with hotter water. The removable manual filter requires weekly cleaning for optimal performance.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 8 (Regular, Auto, Intensive Plus, Intensive, Daily, Delicate, Super, Rinse) |
| Specialized Cycles | N/A |
| Number of Options / Functions | 4 (Half Load, Extra Dry, Sanitize, Hi Temp) |
| Number of Spray Arms | 2 |
| Filter type (self-cleaning or manual/removable filter) | Manual – Removable Filter |
| Sanitization | Yes |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes |
| Targeted washing zones | multi-spray arm cleaning system. |
| Soil sensor capability (Turbidity Sensor) | Yes (Auto Cycle) |
| Option / Function # 01 | Sanitize: Raise rinse temperature for hygienic cleaning |
| Option / Function # 02 | Hi-Temp: Boosts wash temperature and cycle time. |
| Option / Function # 03 | Extra Dry: Adds heat and drying time for better results |
| Option / Function # 04 | Half Load: Runs with fewer dishes to save energy |
💨 Drying Performance (4.3/5)
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 relies on heated drying to remove moisture from dishes. 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. The unit also supports rinse aid, which helps prevent water spots and streaks, improving the overall drying outcome, especially on glassware.
| Hot Air Drying / Heat Drying | Heated Dry |
| 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 (4.5/5)
Operating at 51 dB, this dishwasher falls into the mid-quiet category. 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 calm.
Compared to competitors like the Frigidaire FFBD1831US (52 dB) and EdgeStar BIDW1802WH (52 dB), it runs slightly quieter. It matches the ZLINE DWVZ-304-18-MB, which also runs at 51 dB.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.6/5)
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). A Regular Cycle with Heated Dry, running 130 minutes, would use approximately 1.16 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity. To put this into perspective, this is similar to running a 1-ton AC on full load for about 70 minutes.
Energy consumption for running this dishwasher daily on Regular Cycle with Heated Dry for 30 days = 1.16 kWh/day × 30 days = 34.8 kWh/month. A delay start timer is also included, allowing users to schedule cycles during off-peak hours.
| Energy Star rating | ENERGY STAR® |
| Estimated Energy Consumption / Wattage | 34.9 kWh/month for Daily use of Regular Cycle with Heated Dry |
| Voltage Required | 120 Volts |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes |
💧 Water Usage (4.5/5)
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 uses about 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters) of water per wash in the Regular Cycle. This level of efficiency makes it competitive in its class. For comparison, the Frigidaire FFBD1831US also consumes 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters) per cycle, the EdgeStar BIDW1802WH is slightly lower at 3.1 gallons (11.73 liters), and the ZLINE DWVZ-304-18-MB matches closely at 3.2 gallons (11.73 liters). This dishwasher strikes a balance between performance and water savings, making it a sensible choice for eco-conscious buyers.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters) per wash in Regular Cycle. |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.4/5)
Cycle times on the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 vary depending on soil level and program selection. The Auto cycle runs between 110–155 minutes, while the Regular program lasts 105-140 minutes. For heavy-duty loads, Intensive Plus extends to 165 minutes, while Intensive runs for approximately 130 minutes. Daily and Delicate cycles take 117 and 90 minutes, respectively. For quick cleaning, the Super cycle completes in just 50 minutes, while the Rinse cycle wraps up in 15 minutes. For a deeper dive into specific wash cycles, please refer to our section: “Specialized Wash Cycles.”
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.2/5)
This model accommodates 10 Place Settings (A Place Setting is defined further down in this section), which is ideal for smaller households or compact kitchens. The racks can fit dishes up to 12 inches in size, while a dedicated cutlery basket ensures utensils stay organized and easy to unload. The layout is practical and user-friendly, although not as spacious as larger 24-inch dishwashers, making it better suited for those prioritizing space efficiency over maximum capacity.
| Number of Place Settings | 10 Place Settings |
| Dish or Plate Size a Rack can Accumulate | 12 inches |
| Number of Racks | 3 |
| Special Utensil Holders or Baskets | Cutlery Basket |
| Adjustable height of Rack | The Upper Rack can be adjusted |
10 – 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 10-place setting dishwasher is designed to wash 10 dinner plates, 10 dessert plates, 10 soup bowls, 10 cups, 10 glasses, and 10 sets of cutlery in one cycle.
In reality, the exact combination can vary due to item sizes and shapes. For example, you can comfortably fit 10 dinner plates, 10 dessert plates, 8 soup bowls, 8 cups, 6 glasses, and 10 sets of cutlery in a 10-place setting dishwasher.
🔒 Safety Features (4.3/5)
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 incorporates several essential safety elements for everyday use. It is equipped with a non-slip base, ensuring it stays securely in place during operation. However, it’s important not to place or use the machine on an unstable or uneven platform. UL certification adds confidence in its sanitation and safety standards. For safe operation, avoid placing the dishwasher near gas or electric burners. Also, avoid using extension cords or adapter plugs to prevent hazards.
| Child Lock – Safety Feature | N/A |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safety Feature | Water leakage error code |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.5/5)
Built with a stainless steel finish and interior tub, the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 is designed to withstand daily use while maintaining its sleek look. 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 feels sturdy, though users should avoid placing heavy items on the top surface. ZLINE provides a 1-year warranty on parts and service. To keep your warranty valid, follow the instructions in the manual and avoid misuse or neglect.
Pre-set Wash Cycles Offered by the ZLINE DWV-BS-18
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Fix dishwasher comes equipped with targeted wash cycles designed to handle tough messes and deliver spotless results. Take a look at the available cleaning modes below:
| Wash Cycle | Description | Temperature Range | Duration (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto | Automatically adjusts temperature, water quantity, energy use, and program duration based on soil level. | 113–140 °F (45–60 °C) | 110–155 |
| Regular | Standard program for daily or typical use to completely wash normally soiled dishes. | 122–131 °F (50–55 °C) | 105–140 |
| Intensive Plus | Designed for heavily soiled dishes that have been left sitting before washing. | Up to 158 °F (70 °C) | 165 |
| Intensive | Suitable for heavily soiled dishes needing thorough cleaning. | 149–158 °F (65–70 °C) | 130 |
| Daily | Best for normally soiled everyday dishes. | 131–140 °F (55–60 °C) | 117 |
| Delicate | Gentle wash for lightly soiled or delicate dishes. | 113 °F (45 °C) | 90 |
| Super | Faster program for normally soiled daily dishes when time is limited. | 122 °F (50 °C) | 50 |
| Rinse | Quick rinse cycle for dishes you plan to wash later (no detergent). | Cold water | 15 |
Breaking Down the Pros and Cons of the ZLINE DWV-BS-18
Pros
- ENERGY STAR® certified for efficient energy use and lower utility costs.
- Operates at 51 dB, similar to a quiet conversation.
- Four options: sanitize, high-temperature, extra dry, and half-load flexibility.
- Heated drying ensures faster moisture removal and a spotless finish
- Stainless steel tub resists corrosion, moisture, and high heat.
- Delay start timer allows scheduling during off-peak hours.
- Multiple finishes available, including panel-ready customization.
- Three racks and a cutlery basket provide organized loading.
- Digital LED display with tactile top controls for easy operation
- UL certification ensures compliance with sanitation and safety standards compliance
Cons
- Smaller 10-place setting capacity limits larger family loads
- The manually removable filter requires weekly cleaning
- Lacks Wi-Fi and smart assistant connectivity
- No child lock safety feature included
- No built-in water softener for hard water areas
- Does not feature auto door opening for natural drying
ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Dishwasher
Who Makes the Best Use of ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Dishwasher
- Small families or couples seeking a stylish built-in dishwasher that saves space without compromising performance.
- Busy professionals who want reliable cleaning power with options that adjust to different loads and schedules.
- Eco-conscious users who value energy efficiency and responsible water usage in everyday kitchen appliances.
- Apartment or condo dwellers who need a dishwasher that fits seamlessly into tighter kitchen layouts.
- Style-conscious homeowners who want finish options ranging from stainless steel to bold matte colors.
- New parents who appreciate sanitizing functions for cleaner baby bottles, utensils, and kitchenware.
- Rental property owners are seeking a durable dishwasher that strikes a balance between design, quiet performance, and efficiency.
Who Should Skip ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Dishwasher
- Large families that require a dishwasher capable of handling oversized daily loads with more place settings.
- Tech enthusiasts looking for Wi-Fi, app connectivity, or smart home integration with Alexa or Google Assistant.
- Households with young children who prefer the extra reassurance of a built-in child lock safety feature.
- People living in areas with hard water would benefit from a dishwasher with a built-in water softener.
- Users who prefer ultra-quiet models with noise levels under 45 dB for open-plan or noise-sensitive environments.
Best Substitutes for ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Dishwasher
Frigidaire FFBD1831US
The Frigidaire FFBD1831US is a sleek 18-inch built-in dishwasher with an 8-place setting capacity, front control panel, and stainless-steel finish. It offers 6 wash cycles, including options for China Crystal and Energy Saver, making it flexible for both delicate and everyday use. With ENERGY STAR certification and a 52 dB noise rating, it strikes a balance between efficiency and quietness. It’s a dependable choice for those seeking a lightweight and compact unit.
Read more about this model in our comprehensive Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher Review.
Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher
EdgeStar BIDW1802WH
The EdgeStar BIDW1802WH is another strong alternative in the compact dishwasher market. It provides 8 place settings and 6 wash cycles, ranging from Heavy to ECO and Glass, ensuring it adapts to different cleaning needs. Its front control panel and stainless steel tub give it a modern look, while ENERGY STAR® certification keeps it efficient. Operating at 52 dB, it delivers performance without excessive noise.
Learn more about this model by exploring our detailed EdgeStar BIDW1802WH Dishwasher Review.
EdgeStar BIDW1802WH Dishwasher
ZLINE DWVZ-304-18-MB
The ZLINE DWVZ-304-18-MB combines style and strength with its matte finishes and elegant handle options. Like the DWV-BS-18, it offers 10 place settings, 8 wash cycles, and ENERGY STAR® efficiency, but with a slightly different design appeal. Its 51 dB noise level and heated dry mechanism provide dependable operation, while the adjustable racks and third rack add extra flexibility.
Discover all the details in our thorough ZLINE DWVZ-304-18-MB Dishwasher Review.
ZLINE DWVZ-304-18-MB Dishwasher
Final Thoughts on ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Dishwasher Review
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 blends sleek design, ENERGY STAR® efficiency, and versatile wash cycles into a compact 18-inch dishwasher that doesn’t compromise on performance. With features like adjustable racks, a heated dry system, and multiple cycle options, it handles everyday cleaning while keeping noise levels low. Our performance evaluation shows it balances power and efficiency well, and while it isn’t perfect, the pros far outweigh the cons. If you’re seeking a stylish built-in dishwasher with reliable cleaning and drying performance, the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 is a smart investment worth considering.
ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many wash cycles does the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher offer?
It offers 8 wash cycles, including Auto, Regular, Intensive, Daily, Delicate, Super, Rinse, and Intensive Plus.
What is the noise level of the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher?
It operates at 51 dB, which is about as quiet as a gentle refrigerator hum or a soft conversation.
How much water does the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher use per cycle?
It consumes around 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters) of water per Regular Cycle, making it fairly water-efficient.
Is the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher ENERGY STAR certified?
Yes, it is ENERGY STAR® certified, meaning it meets strict energy efficiency standards and helps reduce electricity consumption.
What drying method does the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher use?
It uses heated drying, which warms the air inside the tub to evaporate moisture and leave dishes dry quickly.
How many place settings can the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher hold?
It accommodates up to 10 place settings, making it suitable for couples, small families, or apartment living.
Does the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher have smart features like Wi-Fi?
No, it doesn’t support Wi-Fi or smart home assistants, focusing instead on reliable cleaning performance and simple tactile controls.
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Keeping Your Dishwasher in Top Shape
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your dishwasher operating at its best and lasting longer. Below, you’ll find practical advice from our website to help maintain both cleanliness and efficiency:
- Get Rid of Ants in Your Dishwasher: 6 Powerful Tips
- Dishwasher Problems Caused by Hard Water and How to Fix Them
- Dishwasher Running For Too Long? 7 Unexpected Causes and Quick Fixes!
- How to Load Your Dishwasher Properly: Expert Efficiency Guide
- How to Clean Dishwasher Spray Arms?
Expand Your Dishwashing Knowledge Further
- Heat Dry vs. Air Dry
- How to Dispose of and Recycle a Dishwasher?
- How to wash a Hat in the Dishwasher without damaging it
- Understanding the Sanitization Function in Dishwashers
- What is a Dishwasher High Loop and Why You Need One
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.
