Abstract: A dishwashing machine is provided which comprises: a housing having a first washing compartment and a second washing compartment spatially separated from each other by a partition wall; first spray means for spraying the washing water onto the dishes within the first compartment; second spray means for spraying the washing water onto the dishes within the second compartment, the first and the second spray means operable independently of one another to permit selective washing of the dishes accommodated in the first and the second compartments; a drainpipe for allowing the washing water to be drained therethrough at the termination of an washing operation; and a multi-way valve, responsive to the particular mode of operation of the dishwashing machine for selectively coupling the pressurized washing water to the first spray means, the second spray means and the drain pipe.