Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher Review: Your Complete Guide

You stare at that pile of dirty dishes sitting in your sink. Again. Your hands are sore from washing. Your time is precious. Your kitchen is small. You dream of a dishwasher but where would you even put it?

Enter the Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher. This compact kitchen appliance promises to transform your dishwashing routine without eating up your entire kitchen. But does it actually work? Does it clean dishes properly? Is it worth your money?

You’re about to find out everything you need to know about the Hermitlux countertop dishwasher. We’ll explore its features, performance, and whether it deserves a spot on your counter.

Key Takeaways:

• Compact Design: The unit measures just 16.85 x 16.73 x 18.03 inches, making it perfect for small kitchens, apartments, dorms, and RVs.
• Dual Water Supply Modes: You can either fill the built-in 5-liter water tank manually or connect it directly to your faucet for continuous water supply.
• Five Washing Programs: Standard, Fast, ECO, Strong, and Fruit cleaning modes give you flexibility for different washing needs.
• 4 Place Settings Capacity: This dishwasher holds enough dishes for 2 people per meal, including plates up to 10.25 inches loaded at an angle.
• High Temperature Cleaning: The unit uses high temperature water and PTC hot wind drying to sanitize baby products and tackle greasy dishes.
• Glass Door Design: You can watch your dishes getting cleaned through the transparent front door, which adds both functionality and visual appeal.

What Makes the Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher Special

The Hermitlux stands out in the crowded countertop dishwasher market for several reasons. This machine brings full-size dishwasher features into a compact package. You get professional cleaning power without needing to remodel your kitchen.

The most notable feature is its versatility. You can place it anywhere on your counter. Fill the water tank with a pitcher or funnel. No complex installation required. No need to wrestle with faucet adapters if you don’t want to. The built-in 5-liter tank gives you complete freedom in placement.

The transparent glass door isn’t just for show. It lets you monitor the wash cycle without interrupting it. You can see when dishes are clean. You know exactly what’s happening inside. This feature makes the dishwasher feel less like a mystery box and more like a trustworthy kitchen partner.

Understanding the Five Washing Programs

The Hermitlux offers five distinct washing programs. Each program serves a specific purpose. You choose based on your dishes and how dirty they are.

Standard Cleaning handles your everyday dishes. Plates from dinner, glasses from lunch, silverware from breakfast. This mode runs for about 69 minutes and delivers thorough cleaning without wasting water or energy.

Fast Cleaning saves time when you’re in a rush. Your dishes aren’t heavily soiled. You just need them clean quickly. This program finishes faster than standard mode while still providing good results.

ECO Cleaning reduces water and energy consumption. You care about the environment. You want to lower your utility bills. This mode takes longer but uses fewer resources. Your dishes still come out clean.

How the Dual Water Supply System Works

The Hermitlux gives you two ways to supply water. This flexibility is incredibly valuable for different living situations.

Water Tank Mode provides maximum convenience. The built-in 5-liter reservoir holds enough water for a complete wash cycle. You simply fill it using the included funnel.

The funnel prevents overflow and gives you precise control. You can place the dishwasher anywhere on your counter. No faucet connection needed. This mode is perfect for RVs, boats, or kitchens where the sink location makes connections difficult.

Faucet Mode works like a traditional dishwasher. You connect a hose from the machine to your faucet. The dishwasher draws water automatically.

You don’t need to manually refill anything. This mode is ideal if your dishwasher sits near the sink. You run multiple cycles without refilling. The connection process is straightforward once you have the right adapter.

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The 4 Place Setting Capacity Explained

Capacity matters when choosing a countertop dishwasher. The Hermitlux holds 4 place settings. What does that actually mean for your daily use?

A place setting includes one dinner plate, one salad plate, one bowl, one glass, and silverware for one person. The Hermitlux fits dishes for two people per meal. Two large dinner plates, a couple of bowls, several glasses, and your forks, knives, and spoons.

The interior measures carefully to maximize space. The dish rack holds plates up to 10.25 inches in diameter when loaded at an angle. You can fit standard dinner plates without problems. The silverware basket keeps utensils organized. Dual spray arms ensure water reaches every surface.

Real-world capacity is actually quite generous for the size. Users report fitting two large dinner plates, three salad plates, two bowls, two glasses, two coffee mugs, plus complete silverware for two people. That’s enough for a couple’s dinner or a small family’s lunch.

Cleaning Performance and Temperature Control

Cleaning performance determines whether a dishwasher is useful or just taking up counter space. The Hermitlux delivers impressive cleaning power for its compact size.

The dual high-pressure spray arms work together. One arm sits at the bottom. Another rotates above. Water shoots from multiple angles. Every dish surface gets hit with cleaning spray. Stubborn food particles get blasted away. Even dried-on barbecue sauce and milk residue come off completely.

Temperature plays a crucial role in sanitation. The Hermitlux uses high-temperature water during wash cycles. This heat helps break down grease and oils. It sanitizes dishes naturally. No harsh chemicals needed.

The Glass Door Design Advantage

The transparent glass door sets the Hermitlux apart from dishwashers with solid fronts. This design choice offers both practical and aesthetic benefits.

Visual monitoring is the primary advantage. You can see your dishes during the entire cycle. You watch the spray arms rotating. You observe water jets hitting your plates. You know exactly when the cycle finishes. No guessing. No opening the door to check and interrupting the process.

The glass door also adds a modern aesthetic to your kitchen. The dishwasher looks sleek and contemporary. It doesn’t hide behind an opaque panel like an appliance you’re ashamed of. Instead, it becomes a conversation piece. Guests ask about it. You demonstrate how it works.

Touch Panel Controls and Ease of Use

Operating the Hermitlux is refreshingly simple. The top touch panel provides intuitive control over all functions.

Clear buttons indicate each washing program. You press the one you want. LED indicators show which program is active. You see the cycle progress at a glance. No complicated menu systems to navigate. No confusing button combinations to remember.

The control panel sits on top of the unit. This placement makes operation easy even when the dishwasher sits under upper cabinets. You don’t need to bend down or reach awkwardly. Everything is right there at comfortable height.

The machine also includes automatic features that reduce your involvement. Once you start a cycle, the dishwasher handles everything. It progresses through washing, rinsing, and drying automatically. Some models include an auto-shutoff feature. The machine turns off when the cycle completes. You save energy. You get peace of mind.

Installation and Setup Process

One major advantage of the Hermitlux is the minimal setup required. Traditional dishwashers need professional installation. They require plumbing modifications. The Hermitlux is completely different.

For water tank mode, setup takes minutes. You unbox the dishwasher. You place it on your counter. You make sure it has clearance of at least 19.88 inches above if you have upper cabinets. You fill the water tank using a pitcher or the included funnel. You plug it in. You’re ready to wash dishes.

Faucet connection requires a bit more effort. You need to attach the water intake hose to your faucet. The package includes adapters for standard faucets. If you have a pull-down spray faucet, you might need additional adapters from a hardware store. Once connected, the hose draws water automatically.

Energy Efficiency and Water Usage

Small dishwashers often surprise people with their efficiency. The Hermitlux uses resources smartly.

Water consumption is remarkably low. The 5-liter tank is enough for a complete wash cycle. That’s approximately 1.3 gallons. By comparison, hand washing dishes for two people typically uses several gallons of hot water. The dishwasher actually saves water when used properly.

Energy usage is also modest. The unit runs on standard 120V power. The heating element and pump don’t consume excessive electricity. The ECO mode reduces energy use even further for normal loads. Over time, the water and energy savings help offset the purchase price.

The high-temperature cleaning also reduces the need for harsh detergents. You can use less detergent per cycle. Smaller amounts still deliver clean dishes thanks to the hot water and strong spray pressure. This reduces chemical usage and saves money on cleaning supplies.

Maintenance and Cleaning Requirements

Keeping your Hermitlux running well requires minimal maintenance. Regular care prevents problems and extends the machine’s life.

The filter needs occasional cleaning. Food particles accumulate in the filter during wash cycles. You should rinse it under hot water every few weeks. The process takes just minutes. Remove the filter, rinse thoroughly, replace it. Simple.

The spray arms rarely get clogged but should be checked periodically. Remove them and rinse out any debris. Make sure all spray holes are clear. Water needs to flow freely for optimal cleaning performance.

Real User Experiences and Performance

Real-world feedback reveals how the Hermitlux performs in actual homes. Users share consistent experiences across different situations.

Many users praise the cleaning effectiveness. Plates come out spotless. Glasses shine. Silverware is thoroughly cleaned. Even tough messes like dried pasta sauce and oatmeal residue wash away completely. The high-pressure spray arms do their job well.

The compact size gets frequent compliments. People in small apartments appreciate the space savings. RV owners love the portable nature. College students in dorms find it perfect for their limited space. The footprint is small but capable.

Some users note that dishes come out slightly damp rather than bone dry. The drying function works but doesn’t always achieve the complete dryness of full-size dishwashers. Many users don’t mind letting dishes air dry a bit longer or giving them a quick towel wipe.

Best Uses and Ideal Situations

The Hermitlux excels in specific situations. Understanding where it shines helps you decide if it’s right for you.

Small apartments are perfect for this dishwasher. You don’t have space for a full-size unit. You’re tired of hand washing. The Hermitlux fits on your limited counter space. It handles your daily dishes without overwhelming your kitchen.

RVs and boats benefit tremendously. The compact size and dual water supply modes make it ideal for mobile living. You can use tank mode when parked anywhere. Switch to faucet mode at campsites with hookups. The portability and versatility are unmatched.

Dorm rooms often lack dishwashers. Students eat in their rooms but hate the dirty dish situation. The Hermitlux solves this problem. It’s small enough for dorm restrictions. It doesn’t require complex installation. Students can take it home during breaks.

Comparing Hermitlux to Other Countertop Dishwashers

The countertop dishwasher market has grown significantly. Several brands compete for your attention. How does the Hermitlux stack up?

Compared to the Comfee models, the Hermitlux holds its own. The Comfee offers a UV light for extra sanitization and an automatically opening door for better drying. However, the Hermitlux costs less while delivering comparable cleaning performance. For budget-conscious buyers, the value proposition is strong.

Against the Danby larger countertop models, the Hermitlux is more compact and portable. Danby units hold more dishes but require more space and only offer faucet hookup. The Hermitlux gives you the flexibility of tank mode.

Compared to no-name brands, the Hermitlux has better build quality and more reliable performance. Some cheaper models have issues with leaking, poor cleaning, or short lifespans. The Hermitlux delivers consistent results with better construction.

What You Need to Buy and Use It

Getting started with your Hermitlux requires a few additional items beyond the dishwasher itself.

Dishwasher detergent is essential. You need detergent specifically designed for automatic dishwashers. Don’t use hand washing dish soap. The wrong soap creates excessive suds and can damage the machine. Small dishwasher tablets or powder detergent work perfectly.

Rinse aid improves drying performance. While optional, it helps water sheet off dishes instead of forming droplets. Your dishes dry faster and more completely. Glasses come out sparkling clear without water spots.

You’ll need proper electrical access. The dishwasher plugs into standard outlets. Make sure your counter location has a nearby outlet. Extension cords should be avoided for safety reasons.

For faucet mode, you might need additional faucet adapters. The standard adapters work with most faucets. Pull-down spray faucets often require special adapters available at hardware stores.

Common Questions and Concerns Addressed

Potential buyers often have similar questions. Let’s address the most common concerns directly.

Does it really get dishes clean? Yes, when used properly. Load dishes correctly. Don’t overcrowd. Use appropriate detergent. The spray arms reach everything. Dishes come out clean and sanitized.

Is it loud? The Hermitlux operates at about 67 decibels. That’s similar to normal conversation volume. It’s noticeable but not disruptive. Much quieter than garbage disposals or blenders.

Can I use it for pots and pans? Small pots and pans fit if they’re under 10.25 inches. Large cookware won’t fit. The dishwasher is designed primarily for plates, bowls, glasses, and silverware.

How long do cycles take? Standard cycles run about 69 to 90 minutes depending on the program. Fast cycles finish quicker. Strong cycles take longer. The glass door lets you monitor progress throughout.

Does it dry dishes completely? The PTC hot wind drying function works well. Some dishes may have slight dampness. Opening the door after the cycle helps air circulation. Many users report good drying results.

Can I wash baby bottles? Absolutely. The high-temperature cleaning and strong program are perfect for baby bottles. The heat sanitizes effectively. Parents appreciate this feature for infant feeding items.

Making Your Purchase Decision

You’ve learned about the Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher’s features, performance, and real-world use. Now comes the decision. Is this the right dishwasher for your situation?

Consider your space limitations first. Measure your counter carefully. Make sure you have at least 19.88 inches of clearance above. Check that the footprint of 16.85 x 16.73 inches fits your available space. The unit needs room for the door to open fully.

Think about your household size. The 4 place setting capacity works well for couples and small families. If you’re cooking for more than three people regularly, you might need to run multiple cycles or consider a larger unit.

Evaluate your water supply situation. If connecting to your faucet is easy, you have one option. If your sink makes connections difficult, the tank mode provides a solution. The dual mode flexibility is a significant advantage.

Consider your budget. The Hermitlux prices reasonably for the features offered. Compare the cost against the value of your time currently spent hand washing. Factor in water and energy savings over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much water does the Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher use per cycle?

The Hermitlux uses approximately 5 liters of water per complete wash cycle. This equals about 1.3 gallons. This amount is significantly less than the average person uses when hand washing dishes for two people. The efficient water usage makes it both environmentally friendly and cost effective for your water bill.

Can I use regular dish soap in this dishwasher?

No, you must use detergent specifically designed for automatic dishwashers. Regular dish soap creates too many suds. Excessive suds can damage the dishwasher and prevent proper cleaning. Use dishwasher tablets, powder, or gel designed for machines. These products are formulated to work with the spray system and temperatures inside automatic dishwashers.

Does the Hermitlux need to be permanently installed?

No permanent installation is required. The Hermitlux is truly portable. You simply place it on your counter, fill the water tank or connect the intake hose to your faucet, and plug it into a standard electrical outlet. The drain hose hangs over your sink edge. You can move the unit anytime. This makes it perfect for renters and people who relocate frequently.

What size plates fit inside the Hermitlux dishwasher?

The Hermitlux accommodates plates up to 10.25 inches in diameter when loaded at an angle. Standard dinner plates fit comfortably. Very large serving platters or oversized dinner plates might not fit. The interior design maximizes space for typical household dishes. Most users find the capacity sufficient for their everyday plate sizes.

How loud is the Hermitlux during operation?

The Hermitlux operates at approximately 67 decibels during normal wash cycles. This noise level is comparable to a normal conversation or background music. You can comfortably watch television in the same room. The sound is noticeable but not disruptive to daily activities. Many users report being pleasantly surprised by the relatively quiet operation compared to their expectations.

Can I wash fresh produce in the Hermitlux?

Yes, the Hermitlux includes a dedicated Fruit Cleaning program specifically designed for washing fruits and vegetables. This program uses appropriate water pressure that cleans produce without causing damage. You can effectively remove dirt, pesticides, and surface contaminants from your fruits and vegetables. This unique feature adds extra value beyond just washing dishes and makes the dishwasher more versatile for different kitchen tasks.