Electrolux ESL79200RO Dishwasher: Key Features

The Electrolux ESL79200RO is a fully integrated dishwasher designed to handle a full household’s daily dishwashing with flexible loading, quiet operation, and efficient cleaning. It offers a range of programs and features that aim to make loading easier, cleaning more thorough, and energy consumption lower. This article explains what this specific model brings to a modern kitchen, covering its design, wash programs, capacity, and practical considerations for potential buyers.

Design and Installation

The ESL79200RO is a built-under or fully integrated model, meaning it is designed to be concealed behind a custom kitchen cabinet door. This allows it to blend seamlessly with the rest of your kitchen cabinetry. Key design elements include:

Full integration: The control panel is hidden on the top edge of the door, so you only see the cabinet front when the dishwasher is closed.
Stainless steel interior: The tub is made of stainless steel, which is more durable and better at holding heat than plastic, improving drying performance and resisting stains and odors.
Height-adjustable upper basket: You can raise or lower the upper basket to accommodate taller items in either the upper or lower rack, making loading more flexible.
Cutlery basket: It includes a cutlery basket, though some users prefer a third rack for cutlery; this model uses a standard basket, which can be placed in different positions in the lower rack.

Installation requires standard connections for water supply, drain, and electrical power. Because it is a fully integrated model, you will need a custom door panel, which is typically supplied by the kitchen manufacturer. The dishwasher is designed to fit standard 60 cm wide cabinet openings.

Wash Programs and Cycles

The ESL79200RO offers a variety of wash programs to handle different levels of soiling and types of dishes. Common programs you would find on this model include:

Eco: This is the most energy-efficient program, using lower temperatures and less water, ideal for normally soiled dishes. It is the program used for the energy label rating.
Auto: Sensors detect how dirty the dishes are and adjust the water and temperature accordingly, saving energy on lightly soiled loads.
Intensive: A high-temperature, high-pressure cycle for heavily soiled pots, pans, and baking dishes.
Quick: A shorter cycle for lightly soiled dishes that you need quickly, though it may not dry as thoroughly.
Glass: A gentle cycle with lower temperatures and less water pressure, designed to protect delicate glassware and crystal.
Pre-rinse: A short rinse cycle to keep dishes moist if you plan to run a full load later, preventing food from drying on.

Each program has a specific duration, temperature, and water usage. The Eco program, for example, typically runs longer (around 3-4 hours) but uses the least energy and water. The Intensive program runs at a higher temperature (around 70Â°C) to break down baked-on food.

Cleaning Performance and Features

Electrolux dishwashers, including the ESL79200RO, often incorporate specific technologies to improve cleaning results. While the exact branding may vary, the features generally include:

Spray arm design: The dishwasher uses multiple spray arms (typically one under each basket) with strategically placed nozzles to ensure water reaches every corner of the load.
Soil sensor: The Auto program uses a turbidity sensor that measures the amount of food particles in the water during the cycle, adjusting the cycle time and water usage to match the soil level.
Water softener: The built-in water softener removes minerals from hard water, preventing limescale buildup on dishes and inside the dishwasher. You need to add salt to the reservoir regularly.
Heat exchanger: Some models include a heat exchanger, which is a plastic chamber on the side of the tub that holds clean water. This helps maintain a constant temperature during the wash and improves drying by cooling the final rinse water.

While the ESL79200RO may not have a dedicated third rack for cutlery, the flexible loading options and the cutlery basket still provide good capacity. The upper basket’s height adjustment is particularly useful for fitting tall glasses or large bowls.

Energy Efficiency and Running Costs

The ESL79200RO is designed to be energy efficient, which is important for both environmental impact and your utility bills. Its energy rating is typically A+ or A++ (depending on the specific market and year of manufacture), which means it uses less electricity and water than older or less efficient models.

For a standard 12-place setting load, the Eco program typically uses around 9-10 liters of water and about 0.9-1.0 kWh of electricity per cycle. Over a year, assuming one cycle per day, this translates to roughly 300-350 kWh of electricity and 3,500 liters of water. These figures are estimates and can vary based on your water pressure, water temperature, and how you load the dishwasher.

To keep running costs low, always scrape off large food particles before loading (but no need to pre-rinse), run full loads, and use the Eco program for normal loads. The Eco program is longer, but it uses the least energy and water, making it the most cost-effective option for everyday use.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Like any appliance, the ESL79200RO can experience occasional issues. Here are some common problems and what you can check before calling a technician:

Dishes not drying completely: This can be due to using the wrong program (Quick cycles often have poor drying), not using rinse aid, or a clogged air vent. Ensure rinse aid is topped up and the heat exchanger (if present) is not blocked.
Dishes have white spots or film: This is usually a sign of hard water and low salt levels. Check the salt reservoir and refill it if needed. Also, ensure the water softener is set to the correct hardness level for your area.
Dishwasher not draining: Check the drain hose for kinks or blockages, and clean the filter at the bottom of the tub. Food particles can clog the filter and prevent proper drainage.
Error codes on display: The control panel may show error codes (e.g., i20 for water inlet issues, i30 for drainage issues). Consult the user manual for specific meanings. Often, these are related to water supply or drain blockages.
Unusual noise during operation: This could be caused by dishes knocking against each other, a foreign object (like a fork) hitting the spray arm, or a worn bearing in the pump. Check the spray arms for obstructions.

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the filter and checking the spray arms monthly, can prevent many of these issues.

Comparison with Other Models

When comparing the ESL79200RO to other dishwashers in the Electrolux lineup or from other brands, consider the following factors:

Third rack: Some newer models offer a third rack for cutlery and small items, which frees up space in the lower basket. The ESL79200RO uses a cutlery basket instead, which some users find less convenient.
Quietness: The noise level is measured in decibels (dB). The ESL79200RO typically operates around 44-47 dB, which is quiet enough to be unobtrusive. Newer models may be even quieter (around 40 dB).
Smart features: This model does not have Wi-Fi connectivity or app control. If you want to start your dishwasher remotely or receive notifications, you would need a more advanced model.
Drying system: Some high-end models use a mineral-based drying system (like Zeolith or CrystalDry) that absorbs moisture and provides better drying for plastics. The ESL79200RO uses a standard heat exchanger or condensation drying, which is adequate but may leave plastics slightly damp.

If you prioritize a third rack or smart features, you may want to look at newer or higher-end models. However, the ESL79200RO offers a solid balance of features and reliability for a standard integrated dishwasher.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capacity of the Electrolux ESL79200RO?

The ESL79200RO is designed for 12 standard place settings. This means it can hold up to 12 dinner plates, 12 side plates, 12 bowls, 12 cups, and the corresponding cutlery, though in practice you may need to adjust for larger items like pots and pans.

Can I use dishwasher tablets with this model?

Yes, you can use all-in-one tablets (e.g., 3-in-1 or 5-in-1) that contain detergent, rinse aid, and salt. However, if you use them, you may not need to add separate rinse aid or salt, but it is still recommended to keep the salt reservoir filled if your water is hard, as the tablet’s salt may not be sufficient for very hard water.

How do I clean the filter?

The filter is located at the bottom of the tub. Turn it counterclockwise to remove it, then rinse it under running water to remove food particles. Use a soft brush if needed. Clean the filter at least once a month to maintain performance.

Why does my dishwasher smell?

A bad odor is usually caused by food debris stuck in the filter or the spray arms. Clean the filter, run a hot water cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of white vinegar placed on the top rack, and leave the door ajar after a cycle to allow the interior to dry.

Can I install this dishwasher myself?

Installation requires connecting to the water supply, drain, and electrical outlet. If you are comfortable with basic plumbing and electrical work, you can do it, but it is recommended to have a professional install it to ensure proper connections and avoid leaks or electrical hazards.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.

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