Dishwashers today may take longer on their wash cycles, but they are more efficient than your previous unit may have been. The U.S. Department of Energy, the EPA Energy Star program, and consumer demand has driven dishwasher manufacturers to make dishwashers much more energy and water efficient over the last several years. But there are always tradeoffs to using less energy and water. Longer wash cycles will actually lower the energy consumption. It’s a little counter-intuitive, most people experiencing a long cycle will imagine the power meter spinning out of control. However, the truth is that it’s much more efficient to take less water from the water heater and run the dishwasher longer. The bottom line is that the price of high efficiency is longer wash cycles. Note: If you feel the dishwasher controls are too hard to press, we recommend taking advantage of your warranty and reach out to Bodewell Service by calling 1-833-426-3393.