A:Answer Hello and thanks for your interest in this great dishwasher. Cycle times are determined by the soil level, water temperature, and options that are selected. The longest cycle is for heavily soiled dishes or cookware with dried-on or baked-on soils, and lasts for 2 hours, 30 minutes. This cycle uses approximately 6.6 gallons of water. However, the light cycle uses approximately 2.4 gallons, and the normal cycle 3.4 – 6 gallons. If we can be of additional assistance, please let us know. -Gina@GEA