Mealtime is delicious, but dinnertime cleanup can leave a sour taste in the mouth. It’s no secret that doing the dishes is hardly anyone’s favorite pastime, but with the exciting features found on Thermador dishwashers, you might just reconsider.
In this brand feature, we give the floor to Thermador as we take a look at what makes these appliances so great and what you should consider, along with Thermador dishwasher reviews of three top-performing models from our catalog.
Epicureans have been trusting in Thermador appliances for more than 100 years, thanks to the brand’s revolutionary engineering, like Thermador Pedestal Burners that deliver restaurant-grade heat right at home. The luxury name encourages its users to go beyond the limits of the everyday kitchen and to venture into the new and extraordinary.
That sounds easier said than done when it comes to taking care of the dishes. But Thermador proves, once again, the power of thinking outside the box with a reliable collection of high-end dishwashers that turns the job into a joy.
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Thermador Dishwasher Lines
For those who believe presentation is an important part of the culinary experience, Thermador’s trio of high-end dishwashers provide a sparkling canvas for display. The Thermador Radiance Collection comes in three distinct lines, the Emerald, Topaz, and Sapphire series, each progressing in features and functions, respectively.
Each set features 24-inch top-control dishwashers in a choice of three handle designs (custom, Professional, or Masterpiece), plus a custom panel option for those daring to follow their creative intuition. Regardless of which line you select from, Home Connect App Wi-Fi compatibility, Powerfully Quiet technology, a standard 3rd rack, and a minimum of 15 place settings included on each model provide premium dishwashing performance that keeps up with your culinary adventures. Here’s how the series compare:
Emerald Dishwashers
Thermador’s introductory dishwasher line comes with core features that are also found in each following line. But with superior dishwasher enhancements, including a Chef’s Tool Drawer 3rd rack, quiet 48-dBA operation with a floor beam indicator, and an adjustable upper rack, these dishwashers offer a glimpse of the Thermador Radiance Collection’s full potential.
Topaz Dishwashers
Transition into next-level dish care with the Topaz dishwasher series, featuring the power and function found in the Emerald line—kicked up an extra notch. Along with an adjustable upper tray and a 3rd rack, the addition of fold-down tines and an even quieter 44-dBA performance with a Time Remaining floor beam give the already impressive blueprint of the Emerald series an extra dose of luxury. This set also introduces the addition of a water softener in each model, perfect for combating the harsh Arizona climate and hard water.
Top features:
- 48 dBA → 44 dBA
- PowerBeam → Time Remaining PowerBeam
- Water softener included
Sapphire Dishwashers
The Thermador Sapphire dishwasher series is a dishwashing experience unlike any before. For starters, the Topaz series features are not only standard—they’re upgraded. Instead of a static 3rd rack, an adjustable Chef’s Tool Drawer provides even more ways to load dishes. Or how about a dishwasher that registers 42 dBA? But the standout is StarDry Zeolite drying technology that delivers top-of-the-line results considered to be unmatched by any manufacturer on the market.
Fancy add-ons like a Push-to-Open door and Thermador’s signature Sapphire Glow dishwasher interior are perfect reminders of the quality experience this line of high-end dishwashers offers.
Top features:
- 44 dBA → 42 dBA
- Chef’s Tool Drawer → Adjustable Chef’s Tool Drawer
- Water softener included
→ Learn More: An Inside Look at Thermador Appliances
Compare Thermador Dishwashers at a Glance
Not sure which Thermador dishwasher fits your kitchen best? Use this quick comparison to see how the Emerald, Sapphire, and Star Sapphire models stack up in terms of noise, features, and design options.
Feature DWHD640EFM
(Emerald)DWHD660EFM
(Sapphire)DWHD661EPR
(Star Sapphire)Noise Level 48 dBA 42 dBA 44 dBA Drying Technology Extra Dry StarDry® StarDry® Wi-Fi Connectivity ✅ Yes ✅ Yes ✅ Yes 3rd Rack Chef’s Tool Drawer 3rd Rack Adjustable Chef’s Tool Drawer Panel Ready ❌ No ❌ No ✅ Yes Best For Everyday Performance Entertaining & Glassware Luxury, Panel-Ready Kitchens
Each Thermador series offers standout features — from whisper-quiet cleaning to advanced drying and premium customization. If you’re still unsure, visit your nearest Spencer’s showroom or chat with a product expert online to find your perfect fit.
Thermador Dishwasher Features
The luxury of Thermador dishwashers can be summed up in three main factors: performance, loading ability, and convenience. Take a look at what the brand offers.
Performance
- StarDry with Zeolite: Zeolite minerals super-heat water for quick moisture evaporation with virtually no need for hand-drying.
- Star Speed: Power through full loads using the industry’s fastest wash cycle with a 20-minute runtime.
- Sens-A-Wash: This feature gauges soil levels in a dishwasher and adjusts the wash as needed, helping to save time and energy.
- PowerBoost: Select this option for a burst of heat and water pressure on the lower rack, ideal for quick cleanup of heavily soiled dinnerware like pots, pans, and casserole dishes.
- Extra-Tall-Item Sprinkler: At 22 inches tall, this spray reaches tall dishes like pitchers and bottles with ease.
Loading
- Adjustable Upper Rack: Gain extra room for bulky dishes by raising or lowering this rack in three positions.
- Adjustable Chef’s Tool Drawer: Load utensils and miscellaneous dishes above on this rack for extra space below. On the Topaz and Sapphire series, this 3rd rack features expandable wings for more loading versatility.
- Flexible Folding Tines: Fold these spokes down to access more rack space for large cookware.
Convenience
- Home Connect App: All Thermador dishwashers come with Wi-Fi-compatible control to easily manage remotely from a smart device.
- Push-to-Open: A gentle nudge on Sapphire dishwasher models is all it takes for the door to open.
- Sapphire Glow: Add ambiance to your dishwashing routine with Thermador’s iconic blue-light dishwasher interior lighting.
- Time Remaining PowerBeam: A handy floor beam lets you know when the dishwasher is in use. On Topaz and Sapphire models, a convenient timer projects telling you just how long until a cycle is complete.
Who Should Shop Thermador Dishwashers?
On the inside, Thermador dishwashers are full of pizzazz, but on the outside, their craftsmanship is pretty simple. The top-control design creates a clean interface, but the ability to customize the handles offers a touch of design flexibility buyers can exploit to suit a spectrum of looks, from minimal to truly one-of-a-kind.
But front controls mean Thermador dishwashers rely on Wi-Fi programming once a machine starts running. Users still have the option to open the dishwasher manually to adjust settings, but it’s a lot easier (and cleaner) on a personal device.
The outstanding performance these dishwashers deliver is a value any buyer or user can appreciate, but keep in mind, that these dishwashers come at a higher price point. For reference, this is how Thermador ($1,399–$2,299) compares to premium dishwasher brands Monogram ($1,400–$2,250) and Miele ($1,099–$3,099).
We recommend Thermador dishwashers to:
- Buyers with a bigger budget
- Shoppers looking for the top dishwasher performance
- Fans of sleek design
- Users familiar with connected appliances
- Households with hard water issues
→ Learn More: 6 (Other) Dishwasher Brands We Recommend
Thermador Dishwashers Pros & Cons
Innovations like StarDry® and Sens-A-Wash® ensure top-tier performance. High-quality materials offer durability and a sleek finish. Wi-Fi and Home Connect® enable remote control and monitoring. Panel-ready designs and flexible racks suit various kitchens. Every model is ENERGY STAR® certified for savings. Premium features come with a luxury price tag. Currently, there are no slim or small-space options. A more curated lineup means fewer models to choose from.Pros
Advanced Features
Premium Build
Smart Connectivity
Customizable Options
Energy Efficient
Cons
Higher Price
No Compact Models
Limited Selection
Our Best Thermador Dishwasher Picks
Here are three recommended Thermador dishwashers that are changing the game of dish care. From the best drying to easy loading, each one of these picks is a useful kitchen tool ideal for any aspirational kitchen.
Best Overall:
Thermador Emerald 24" Stainless Steel Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
Shop Thermador Emerald 24" Top Control Dishwasher
When premium performance meets sleek design, you get the Thermador Emerald Series dishwasher — a standout choice for any modern kitchen.
This 24" top control built-in model offers quiet yet powerful cleaning, with advanced features that deliver professional-grade results every time.
Enjoy ultra-quiet operation at just 48 dBA, plus Sens-A-Wash® technology that detects soil levels and adjusts the cycle accordingly. With six wash programs and four options, including an Extra Dry setting, your dishes come out spotless and ready for use.
The Topaz blue interior lighting adds a subtle touch of luxury every time you open the door.
Key Features
- Sens-A-Wash® for smart cleaning performance
- Extra Dry option for improved drying results
- Ultra-quiet 48 dBA operation
- Topaz® Blue LED interior lighting
- ENERGY STAR® certified for energy efficiency
- Sleek top control panel with easy program selection
Best Panel-Ready Dishwasher:
Thermador Star Sapphire 24" Custom Panel Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
Shop Thermador Star Sapphire 24" Custom Panel Dishwasher
Luxury meets innovation in the Thermador Star Sapphire dishwasher — a true showpiece for high-end kitchens.
Designed to blend into your cabinetry, this 24" custom dishwasher combines sleek style with cutting-edge efficiency. With Star Speed® cleaning a full load in 20 minutes and StarDry®, the top drying innovation available, it offers unmatched convenience and quality.
Inside, the adjustable upper rack, 3rd rack, and Extra-Tall-Item Sprinkler make room for everything — including up to 18 wine glasses in one cycle.
Add in Sapphire Glow® blue interior lighting, Wi-Fi capability, and ultra-quiet operation at just 44 dBA, and you’ve got a dishwasher that’s as refined as it is powerful.
Key Features
- Star Speed® 20-minute wash cycle
- StarDry® for superior drying results
- Custom panel-ready for a seamless look
- Adjustable racks with 16 place settings
- Sapphire Glow interior lighting
- Wi-Fi compatible with Home Connect®
- 44 dBA ultra-quiet operation
Best Luxury:
Thermador Emerald 24" Stainless Steel Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
Shop Thermador Emerald 24" Top Control Dishwasher
Upgrade your kitchen with the sleek and efficient Thermador Emerald dishwasher — the perfect blend of premium performance and elegant design. This 24" built-in Thermador dishwasher offers whisper-quiet operation at just 48 dBA, making it a considerate addition to any open-concept space.
Inside, flexible loading features like a Chef’s Tool Drawer, folding tines, and an adjustable upper rack make it easy to accommodate everything from delicate glassware to bulky cookware.
Powered by Sens-A-Wash® technology, it intelligently adjusts the wash for spotless results, while Wi-Fi compatibility adds smart convenience.
Key Features
- Sens-A-Wash® smart cleaning performance
- Chef’s Tool Drawer for added loading space
- Flexible folding tines and adjustable upper rack
- Quiet 48 dBA operation
- Wi-Fi compatible with Home Connect®
- ENERGY STAR® certified for energy savings
Best for Entertainment:
Thermador Sapphire 24" Stainless Steel Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
Shop Thermador Sapphire 24" Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Entertain with confidence thanks to the Thermador Sapphire dishwasher — designed to handle glassware, dinnerware, and cookware with ease.
Enjoy whisper-quiet performance at just 42 dBA — so quiet, you'll barely notice it's running, even on the toughest cycles.
Its luxurious Sapphire Glow® blue interior lighting sets the tone every time you open the door.
Ideal for hosting, this dishwasher accommodates up to 18 wine glasses per cycle with the help of flexible racking, a 3rd rack, and a dedicated Extra-Tall-Item Sprinkler. Plus, with StarDry® and Sens-A-Wash® technology, every item comes out sparkling clean and dry — no towel required.
Key Features
- StarDry® for industry-leading drying performance
- Sens-A-Wash® adapts for optimal cleaning
- Accommodates up to 18 wine glasses
- 3rd rack and adjustable upper rack
- Sapphire Glow interior lighting
- Extra-Tall-Item Sprinkler for oversized items
- Quiet 42 dBA operation
- Wi-Fi compatible with Home Connect®
- ENERGY STAR® certified
What to Look for When Shopping for Dishwashers
Thermador dishwashers are proof that dish care doesn’t have to be basic. But splurging on a luxury dishwasher doesn’t have to be a necessity to enjoy clean dishes. Here are four aspects to keep in mind when shopping for a new dishwasher.
Cleaning Performance
A dishwasher needs to clean well—otherwise, you’ll just be drawing straws to see who’s handwashing for the night. Efficient dishwashers offer multi-level spray action that targets every zone on every rack, hot water temperatures, and powerful sensors that detect how dirty a wash is to adjust the time and heat accordingly.
Drying Ability
Not all dishwashers provide drying technology, which is why those that do are such a bonus. Some models use a heating element located at the bottom of the tub, and some even pair the hot plate with a fan for impressive results. Thermador was the first brand to introduce Zeolite mineral drying to dishwashers, but since its debut, Bosch (Thermador’s parent brand) has added to feature its 800 Series dishwashers.
Noise Level
By far, dishwashers are the loudest appliances in the kitchen, with the loudest models registering levels of around 65 decibels (dBA). Compared to the average vacuum cleaner at 70 dBA, that says a lot. For the best noise reduction, look for a stainless-steel dishwasher tub and quiet motor operation (brands like LG use an inverter motor that has fewer parts and is quieter).
Special Features
Dishwashing doesn’t have to be a life-changing experience, but having extra features on a dishwasher helps make the duty a little more tolerable. The most common is Wi-Fi connectivity, while some brands provide bottle jets, neat floor beams that let you know when the dishwasher is in use, and flexible loading, all of which elevate the ordinary dishwasher into something truly useful.
→ Learn More: A Guide to Shopping for Dishwashers
Frequently Asked Questions
Thermador dishwashers stand out for their advanced washing programs like Power Boost and Auto Wash, delicate and glass care settings, and smart features. They offer a blend of high efficiency, sophisticated technology, and luxury design.
For cleaning, use mild soapy water for stainless steel surfaces and a damp cloth for non-stainless steel. Regularly clean the filter and spray arms, and descale the dishwasher at least once a year.
Popular settings include the Power Boost for heavily soiled dishes, Auto Wash for automatic adjustment, Delicate for fragile items, and Sanitize for optimal hygiene.
Yes, Thermador dishwashers are designed with energy-efficient features like the Half Load setting, which is perfect for smaller loads and conserves water and energy.
Thermador dishwashers are known for their quiet operation, with some models operating at sound levels below 40 decibels, making them barely audible.
Thermador dishwashers are often compared favorably with other top brands for their advanced features, durability, and efficient cleaning performance.
Why Trust Spencers TV & Appliance?
Since 1973, Spencers TV & Appliance has grown to 11 locations throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. The secret to our longevity is simple: personal service. Customer satisfaction has always been the focus of our business, and throughout the years, we have been able to work hard with our suppliers to bring you the best prices. After all, getting customers the best price and personal attention is how we compete with big-box stores, day in and day out.
Not only do we offer top-rated appliances, name-brand electronics, and the best mattresses on the market but we also provide water treatment solutions and perform kitchen design services. Stop by your nearest Spencers and see what you’re missing!
Shop Thermador Dishwashers at Spencer’s TV & Appliance
At Spencers TV & Appliance, we provide high-quality, name-brand products at great prices — check out our catalog to shop dishwashers online today. Your friends in the business are always happy to help you find the perfect Thermador dishwasher for your kitchen. Call us, or better yet, stop by at one of our locations in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale regions. Visit us today!