This fisher-paykel dishwasher series comparison walks through the lineup tier by tier so you can match a model to your kitchen and budget. Fisher & Paykel dishwashers come in five series tiers. Every tier uses the same basic architecture — German-engineered wash systems, stainless steel tub (Series 5 and up), and the flood protection leak protection system. The differences are in noise level, drying performance, rack flexibility, and smart features.
Quick comparison
Series 5 (from $$650)
The entry point. 50 dB noise level — audible from adjacent rooms. Hybrid tub (stainless interior, plastic base). Standard drying with no heated dry option. Two spray arms. Basic rack system with limited adjustability. Best for: budget-conscious buyers who don’t mind hearing their dishwasher run.
Series 5 (from $$800)
The most popular. 44 dB — still audible but much quieter. Full stainless steel tub. PrecisionWash with intelligent sensors that analyze soil level and adjust the cycle. Third rack for utensils. RackMatic height-adjustable middle rack. Best for: most households. This is where Fisher & Paykel’s value proposition is strongest.
Series 7 (from $$950)
44 dB with AutoAir drying — the door automatically opens at the end of the cycle to release steam and improve drying. Flexible third rack. Interior LED lighting. WiFi connectivity on some models. Best for: households that want better drying without the Series 9 price.
Series 9 (from $$1,100)
42 dB — the quietest dishwashers Fisher & Paykel makes. fan-assisted drying technology uses a heated drying cycle to absorb moisture and convert it to heat, dramatically improving drying (including plastics). MyWay flexible third rack accommodates larger items. Touch controls. WiFi with SmartHQ app. Best for: demanding users who want the best drying performance and whisper-quiet operation.
Series 11 (from $$1,400)
All Series 9 features in a premium design package. Custom panel-ready options for integrated kitchen design. Professional-grade flex hinge for custom panels. 38 dB on some models. Best for: high-end kitchen renovations where the dishwasher must match cabinetry seamlessly.
Key decision factors
Drying: the big differentiator
Fisher & Paykel dishwashers don’t use a traditional heated dry element (which bakes food particles onto dishes). Instead, they use condensation drying — residual heat from the wash evaporates water, which condenses on the cooler stainless walls and drains away. This works well for ceramics and glass but leaves plastics wet. The Series 7 AutoAir and Series 9 fan-assisted drying solve this:
- AutoAir (Series 7) — Opens the door 4 inches to release steam. Simple and effective. Improves plastic drying by approximately 40%.
- fan-assisted drying (Series 9) — a heated drying cycle in a separate chamber absorb moisture from the air and release heat. The most effective drying technology Fisher & Paykel offers — plastics come out dry.
Noise
The jump from 50 dB (Series 5) to 44 dB (Series 5) is dramatic — 6 dB represents roughly a 50% reduction in perceived loudness. The further reduction to 42 dB (Series 9) is noticeable but less dramatic. If your kitchen is open to living areas, 44 dB or lower is strongly recommended.
Third rack
Available on Series 5 and up. The third rack is a shallow tray at the top of the dishwasher for utensils, measuring cups, and small items. It frees up space in the lower racks and eliminates the need for a silverware basket. The MyWay rack (Series 9) is deeper and accommodates cereal bowls and larger items.
Our recommendation
For most households, the Series 5 offers the best value — 44 dB, stainless tub, PrecisionWash, and third rack at under $1,000. Upgrade to the Series 9 if plastic drying matters to you (families with kids use a lot of plastic) or if kitchen noise is a priority.
Need help deciding? Schedule a consultation and we’ll recommend the right model for your kitchen and usage patterns.
fisher-paykel dishwasher series comparison: key takeaways
The thread running through this fisher-paykel dishwasher series comparison is that the wash core stays the same up and down the range — what you pay more for is quieter operation, smarter drying, and more flexible racking. Pick the lowest tier whose noise level and drying you can live with, and you avoid paying for features that won’t change your daily experience.
Keeping any series dishwasher running well long-term
Whichever tier you land on, the maintenance habits are identical: clean the filter at the base of the tub every few weeks, wipe the door gasket, and run a hot empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner monthly to clear grease from the spray arms. Soft, consistent care keeps PrecisionWash sensors reading accurately and prevents the drainage faults that send most dishwashers in for service.
If a wash arm stalls, water won’t drain, or the leak-protection system trips, have your model and serial number handy — they’re on the tub rim visible when the door is open. Our technicians source pumps, spray arms, and control boards through trusted parts suppliers, back labor with a 30-day warranty, and diagnose before quoting, with dishwasher service starting at from $129 depending on the diagnosis.
