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 efficiency
- Stainless steel interior tub
- 8 wash cycles with smart wash
- Triple-filter cleaning system
- Heated Dry with turbo fan
- 19-hour delay start timer
- 10 place setting capacity
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi or smart connectivity
- Slightly higher water usage
- No built-in water softener
- 51 dB not ultra quiet
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 falls within the $1010 to $1319 price range, which represents about 18% of built-in dishwashers in the market. This places it above the two most common pricing brackets, $390 to $699 (38%) and $700 to $1009 (36%), where the majority of models are concentrated. As a result, the DWV-BS-18 sits comfortably in the mid-to-premium segment of the built-in dishwasher category.
Compared with higher-end models priced between $1320 and $1629 (6%) or above $1630 (around 2% combined), the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 remains more accessible while still offering premium styling and features. This positioning suggests the model aims to deliver a balance between upscale design and performance without reaching the very top tier of dishwasher pricing.
🔇 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)
Priced around $1,317, the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 feels more appealing in the premium compact dishwasher category than before. Its black stainless steel finish gives it a sleek, upscale look, while the top control design keeps the front clean and modern. The digital display, tactile controls, and audible alerts with indicator lights make operation simple and user-friendly. With its 18-inch width, 34-inch height, and sturdy 92.3 lb build, it feels solid and well-made for smaller kitchens.
| Price | $1317 |
| Height | 34 inches |
| Width | 18 inches |
| Depth | 22 inches |
| Weight | 92.3 lbs |
| Color | Black Stainless Steel |
| Control Panel Location | Top Control |
| Display | Digital display |
| Touch or Tactile Controls | Tactile control |
| Cycle status/progress indicator on display | Display Window with Audible alerts and indicator lights |
| Wi-Fi Enabled (Smart Dishwasher) | N/A |
| Compatibility with home assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant) | N/A |
✨ Cleaning Performance (4.4/5)
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 offers a well-rounded cleaning setup with 8 wash cycles, including Regular, Auto, Intensive Plus, Intensive, Daily, Delicate, Super, and Rinse. It also includes useful options such as Half Load, Extra Dry, Sanitize, and Hi Temp, which help it adapt to varying mess levels. Its 2 spray arms with a top nozzle support thorough wash coverage, while the triple-filter system uses a removable, easy-clean design. For better performance, the entire filter system should be cleaned atleast once a week.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 8 (Regular, Auto, Intensive Plus, Intensive, Daily, Delicate, Super, Rinse) |
| Specialized Cycles | Intensive Plus, Delicate, Super |
| Number of Options / Functions | 4 (Half Load, Extra Dry, Sanitize, Hi Temp) |
| Number of Spray Arms | 2 spray arms with Top Nozzle |
| Filter type (self-cleaning or manual/Removable Filter) | Triple-Filter System (Removable & Easy-Clean Design) |
| Sanitization | Yes |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes (19 hours) |
| Targeted washing zones | Upper-rack top nozzle with multi-level spray arms for comprehensive wash coverage |
| Soil sensor capability (Turbidity Sensor) | Yes (Smart Wash Technology) |
| Option / Function # 01 | Sanitize: Raises the final rinse temperature to reduce bacteria and confirm sanitization at the end of the cycle. |
| Option / Function # 02 | Hi-Temp: Increases both water temperature and wash time for improved cleaning of tough, greasy, or heavily soiled loads. |
| Option / Function # 03 | Extra Dry: Adjusts water temperature and extends drying to enhance moisture removal and deliver drier dishes. |
| Option / Function # 04 | Half Load: Allows washing smaller loads using only the upper or lower rack, saving water and energy. |
💨 Drying Performance (4.5/5)
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 delivers strong drying results with Heated Dry with Turbo Fan-Assisted Air Circulation. 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. This drying system combines a heating element with a built-in turbo fan to remove moisture more effectively. The heating element warms the dishes during the final rinse, while the turbo fan circulates the warm air throughout the tub.
This continuous airflow helps evenly evaporate moisture, reduces water spots, and leaves dishes drier at the end of the cycle. The Air Refresh function circulates fresh air or vents moist air after a wash cycle, operating in intervals to maintain freshness, prevent odors, and enhance drying performance. It also supports rinse aid. 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 Dry with Turbo Fan-Assisted Air Circulation |
| Fresh Air Circulation for Moisture and Odor | Fan-assisted air circulation during the drying phase to help reduce moisture and lingering odors |
| Auto Door Opening for Natural Drying | N/A |
| Rinse aid availability | Yes |
| Built-in Water Softener (For Hard Water) | N/A |
🔕 Noise Level (4.1/5)
At 51 dB, the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 is fairly quiet for everyday use, though it is not the quietest option in the compact dishwasher 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 quiet. Compared with the Frigidaire FFBD1831US and EdgeStar BIDW1802WH, the Bertazzoni DW18PR is slightly quieter at 49 dB.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.3/5)
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 is ENERGY STAR® certified (Energy Star-certified appliances meet strict energy efficiency standards set by the EPA, using less energy and reducing environmental impact), which is a good sign for buyers who want better long-term efficiency. It is rated at 34.9 kWh/month for daily use of the Regular Cycle with Heated Dry and runs on standard 120 Volts.
A Normal Cycle with a Heated Dry system, running 146 minutes, would use approximately 1.16 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity. To put this in perspective, it is similar to running a 1-ton AC at full load for about 75 minutes. Energy consumption for running this dishwasher daily on the Normal Cycle with the Heated Dry system for 30 days = 1.16 kWh/day x 30 days = 34.88 kWh/month. It also includes a 19-hour Delay Start Timer. This function allows you to schedule a wash cycle to begin at a later time. This feature is perfect for running the dishwasher during off-peak energy hours or ensuring clean dishes are ready when you need them.
| 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 (19 hours) |
💧 Water Usage (4.2/5)
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 uses about 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters) of water per wash in the Regular Cycle, which is fairly typical for compact built-in dishwashers. In comparison, the Frigidaire FFBD1831US also uses 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters) per wash in its Normal Cycle. Meanwhile, the EdgeStar BIDW1802WH and Bertazzoni DW18PR are slightly more water-efficient, using about 2.5 gallons (9.46 liters) per wash in their Normal Cycles. Overall, the water consumption remains reasonable for daily household use.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters) per wash in Regular Cycle. |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.4/5)
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 provides a wide range of cycle lengths to suit different cleaning needs. The Regular cycle runs 105–140 minutes, while the Auto cycle runs 110–155 minutes, depending on soil level. Heavier cleaning programs, like Intensive Plus, run for 165 minutes, and Intensive runs for 130 minutes. The Light Wash cycle runs 117 minutes, and the Delicate cycle runs 90 minutes. For quicker cleaning, the Super cycle completes in about 50 minutes, while the Rinse cycle runs just 15 minutes.
For a deeper dive into specific wash cycles, please refer to our section: “Specialized Wash Cycles.”
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.3/5)
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 offers capacity for 10 Place Settings (A Place Setting is defined further down in this section), which is suitable for small families or compact kitchens. It can accommodate plates up to 12 inches, giving enough space for larger dinnerware. Inside, the dishwasher uses three racks and a silverware basket with multiple compartments, helping keep utensils organized and improving overall loading flexibility for everyday dishwashing.
| 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 | Silverware basket with multiple compartments |
| Adjustable height of Rack | Two adjustable racks (Lower Rack with Folding Tines, Foldable Cup Shelf) |
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 (4.2/5)
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 includes several useful safety elements to support reliable daily operation. A Control Lock helps prevent accidental button presses, especially useful in homes with children. The unit is also UL-certified and CEE Tier 1-compliant, reflecting recognized safety and efficiency standards.
Additionally, the dishwasher is equipped with a non-slip base, ensuring it stays securely in place during operation. But 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 | Control Lock |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safety Feature | Built-in overflow and leak detection system with F1 error code alert |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.3/5)
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 is built with a stainless-steel finish and stainless-steel interior tub, which helps improve durability and long-term performance. 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 includes a 1-year parts and service warranty. To keep your warranty valid, use the product only as intended, follow the instruction manual, and avoid misuse, mishandling, accidents, neglect, or abuse, as these are not covered.
| Finish Type / Material | Stainless Steel |
| Interior Tub Material | Stainless Steel |
| Warranty Duration | 1-year limited warranty on parts and labor |
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:
| Program | When to Use | Cycle Time | Available Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular | Daily, regular, or typical loads of normally soiled dishes that need a complete, balanced wash | 105–140 minutes | Half Load, Sanitize, Hi-Temp, Extra Dry |
| Auto | Mixed loads with varying soil levels, as the dishwasher automatically adjusts water, temperature, and cycle time | 110–155 minutes | Half Load, Sanitize, Hi-Temp, Extra Dry |
| Intensive Plus | Heavily soiled dishes that have been sitting and need deeper, more powerful cleaning | 165 minutes | Half Load, Sanitize, Hi-Temp, Extra Dry |
| Intensive | Tough, heavily soiled dishes and cookware requiring strong washing performance | 130 minutes | Half Load, Sanitize, Hi-Temp, Extra Dry |
| Light Wash | Freshly soiled daily dishes that need a gentle but effective clean | 117 minutes | Half Load, Sanitize, Hi-Temp, Extra Dry |
| Delicate | Lightly soiled, fragile items like glassware or fine dishware that need careful handling | 90 minutes | Half Load, Extra Dry |
| Super | Normally soiled daily dishes when you want faster cleaning and quicker turnaround | 50 minutes | Half Load, Sanitize, Hi-Temp, Extra Dry |
| Rinse | Pre-rinse dishes to prevent odors before running a full wash cycle later | 15 minutes | Half Load |
Breaking Down the Pros and Cons of the ZLINE DWV-BS-18
Pros
- ENERGY STAR certified, supporting reduced electricity consumption and improved environmental efficiency during regular dishwasher use.
- Uses about 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters) per cycle, offering moderate water efficiency for an 18-inch built-in dishwasher.
- Eight wash cycles, including Auto, Intensive Plus, Delicate, and Super, provide flexible cleaning for different dishwashing needs.
- Heated Dry with turbo fan-assisted circulation improves moisture evaporation and helps dishes come out noticeably drier.
- Smart Wash technology automatically adjusts washing parameters based on load conditions for more efficient cleaning performance.
- Triple-filter removable filtration system helps trap food particles and maintain consistent washing performance.
- Three-rack interior with removable utensil rack improves loading flexibility and utensil organization.
- 10 place setting capacity supports moderate dish loads while maintaining compact 18-inch dishwasher dimensions.
- A delayed start timer of up to 19 hours allows scheduling wash cycles for convenience and energy management.
- Stainless steel interior tub improves durability and helps resist heat, stains, and long-term corrosion.
Cons
- A noise level of 51 dB is quiet, but not among the quietest compact dishwasher options.
- No Wi-Fi connectivity or smart home assistant compatibility for remote monitoring or control.
- Missing built-in water softener, which could affect performance in hard water areas.
- Requires professional installation by a qualified technician, which adds potential setup costs.
- Water consumption is slightly higher than that of some competitors, using about 2.5 gallons per cycle.
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.
- 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 compact 18-inch built-in dishwasher designed for straightforward everyday dishwashing. It offers 6 wash cycles, including Heavy, Normal, China Crystal, and Energy Saver, along with options like Sanitize, High Temp, and Heat Dry for improved cleaning flexibility. The unit supports 8 place settings across two racks and uses dual spray arms with Bi-Beam full-rack coverage to evenly reach dishes. With ENERGY STAR certification, a stainless steel interior, and a 24-hour delay-start timer, it balances efficiency with practical functionality.
Read more about this model in our comprehensive Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher Review.
Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher
EdgeStar BIDW1802WH
The EdgeStar BIDW1802WH is another compact 18-inch built-in dishwasher that focuses on efficient cleaning and simple operation. It includes 6 wash cycles, such as Heavy, ECO, Glass, Rapid, and Rinse, supported by a smart soil sensor that helps adjust cleaning performance automatically. The dishwasher holds 8 place settings across two racks and uses a multi-spray arm system for balanced coverage. With ENERGY STAR certification, 2.5 gallons (9.46 liters) of water per cycle, heated drying, and a 24-hour delay start, it offers solid efficiency in a compact footprint.
Learn more about this model by exploring our detailed EdgeStar BIDW1802WH Dishwasher Review.
EdgeStar BIDW1802WH Dishwasher
Bertazzoni DW18PR
The Bertazzoni DW18PR combines compact dimensions with a slightly more refined cleaning system. It features 6 wash cycles, including Heavy, ECO, Rapid, Glass, and Rinse, along with options like Sanitize, Hi Temp, Heated Dry, and Energy Save for added flexibility. Inside, it accommodates 8 place settings and uses three spray arms with full-coverage wash zones to improve water distribution during cycles. The dishwasher also carries ENERGY STAR certification, a stainless-steel interior tub, and a 24-hour delay-start timer, making it a well-balanced, compact alternative.
Discover all the details in our thorough review of the Bertazzoni DW18PR Dishwasher.
Bertazzoni DW18PR Dishwasher
Final Thoughts on ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Dishwasher Review
After looking closely at its design, performance, and features, the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher stands out as a solid option in the compact 18-inch built-in category. It offers 8 versatile wash cycles, reliable triple-filter cleaning, and heated drying with turbo-fan-assisted air circulation, helping dishes come out cleaner and drier.
The stainless steel interior, ENERGY STAR certification, and 10-place setting capacity also add long-term value and efficiency. While it lacks smart connectivity and runs slightly louder than some competitors, it still delivers dependable everyday performance. If you want a stylish compact dishwasher with strong cleaning capability and flexible cycles, the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 is certainly worth considering for your kitchen.
ZLINE DWV-BS-18 Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many wash cycles does the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher offer for different cleaning needs?
The ZLINE DWV-BS-18 includes eight wash cycles such as Regular, Auto, Intensive, Delicate, and Super for flexible dishwashing performance.
How much water does the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher use per wash cycle?
This dishwasher uses about 3.2 gallons or 12.11 liters of water per cycle in the Regular wash program.
Is the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher considered energy efficient for daily use?
Yes, it is ENERGY STAR certified and uses about 34.9 kWh per month with daily use.
How quiet is the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher during operation?
It operates at about 51 dB, which sounds similar to a quiet conversation or a modern refrigerator hum.
What drying system does the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher use?
It uses heated drying with turbo fan-assisted air circulation to help remove moisture and improve drying performance.
How many place settings can the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher hold at one time?
The dishwasher holds up to 10 place settings across three racks, providing reasonable capacity for a compact 18-inch model.
Does the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 dishwasher support smart Wi-Fi connectivity or voice assistants?
No, the ZLINE DWV-BS-18 does not include Wi-Fi connectivity or compatibility with smart home assistants.
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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.
