What are open panel dishwashers?

open panel dishwashers Some users believe that open-panel dishwashers are so called because their doors don't allow for cabinetry. The control panel is located at the front, on the top of the dishwasher, just like on a washing machine. This is quite an interesting notion. Let's figure out what's true and what's fiction. And, ultimately, let's learn as much as possible about this type of dishwasher.

What kind of machine is this?

The dishwasher we're all familiar with has a control panel (push-button or touchscreen) on the top edge of the door. The display is also located there, but some built-in dishwashers have a control panel located forward, similar to washing machines. This panel doesn't retract during the wash cycle and is always visible. The open panel is so called because the installed furniture front does not cover it, which inevitably affects the aesthetics of the kitchen.

The open panel of the dishwasher can be electronic or mechanical.

What does this mean? There's a category of dishwasher users who categorically don't want to see the appliance in front of them, so they hide it behind the cabinet front. A dishwasher with a hidden panel is completely hidden and is no different from other cabinets and kitchen units. A dishwasher with an open panel can't be completely hidden, which is what bothers them, but let's not get ahead of ourselves.

What are its advantages and disadvantages?

I'd like to learn more about what a dishwasher with an open panel is and whether it's worth buying. To make a choice, you need to examine the pros and cons of this type of appliance. Let's start, as usual, with the pros.

Access to the control panel at any time to change the washing program.
You can sometimes keep an eye on the washing process without even going near the dishwasher.
Stylish ergonomics that influence the interior composition of the entire kitchen.

The last advantage on our list is purely subjective, but many will agree that a kitchen decorated in a high-tech style would greatly appreciate a bright panel illuminated with multicolored indicators. Such an element would beautifully complement the interior, adding expressiveness. Now, about the downsides.

We've already mentioned one relative drawback, saying that the open panel is always visible. But, unfortunately, this isn't the only drawback.

Firstly, models with this control panel layout are considered exclusive. Manufacturers charge a 20-30% premium for this, regardless of any justification.
Secondly, an open panel is more vulnerable to damage and dirt; it needs to be constantly wiped down. And if water is accidentally spilled on it, a short circuit is possible.

Anything can happen in the kitchen while cooking. Even a small amount of moisture on the control panel can be dangerous.

Thirdly, an open dishwasher panel is even better than candy for a child; they'll just be tempted to grab it. A child safety lock can save the day, but as it turns out, not all open-panel dishwashers have one. That leaves you unable to keep an eye on your little one, and you never know what might happen.

Examples of models

Now that we've covered the advantages and disadvantages of open-panel dishwashers, let's look at the specific models of these machines currently available on the market. The selection is limited, so our review will be brief.

Smeg PLA6442X2 Let's start our review with the Bosch Series 6 SCE 52M55 dishwasher. This compact model is partially integrated and can also be used freestanding. It holds 8 place settings and has 5 wash programs. It's fully leak-proof, 60 cm wide, and offers a variety of features. The delay timer is well-designed, allowing you to delay the start of a program from 1 to 24 hours. The machine is a bit pricey. The current price, with a discount, is $733, but what can you do? It's a worthwhile extra charge for exclusive features.

Smeg PLA6442X2. This is a prime example of a full-size dishwasher with an open panel. It's also not cheap, but unlike the previous model, it holds 13 place settings. You can wash a whole mountain of dishes. Like all Smeg machines, it's packed to the brim:

display and modern electronic control;
9 washing modes;
half load function;
protection from child interference;
complete protection against leaks;
sensor that monitors water purity;
a set of indicators showing the presence of salt and rinse aid, etc.

The reliability of the car also does not raise doubts among experts, but you will have to pay a lot for this reliability. The average price of the model is about $1,135, and that's even with the discount.

Siemens iQ500 SK 76M544. Another compact dishwasher with an open panel. Its baskets can hold six place settings, but the wash chamber isn't large enough for larger items. It's quiet, offers six programs, and offers a wide range of features, including exclusive ones like Vario Speed Plus and Extra Dry. It's also notable for its low noise level and good energy efficiency. The average price is $932.

So, you've seen that open-panel dishwashers can be very advanced technically, but they also often come with a hefty price tag. Are these machines worth the money? Experts and manufacturers say they are, but we won't take their word for it. Let's see what people have to say; perhaps their reviews will shed some light on our main question.

People's opinions

Natalia, Moscow

I bought a Siemens iQ500 SK 76M544 last year. It's a very good machine, and most importantly, it's compact. It doesn't hold a lot of dishes, but that capacity alone is more than enough for me. It cleans almost any dirt; even old pans have looked their best in this machine. The display shows a countdown, so you can always see how much time remains until the end of the wash. Not every machine has this feature, and my Siemens looks unique, unlike any other. Five stars!

Alexandra, Tver

The Siemens iQ500 SK 76M544 does its job flawlessly. It processes 3-in-1 tablets well. I haven't tried the powder yet, but I think it would clean just fine with that. My son and I live alone, so this small dishwasher is sufficient for us; it wouldn't be suitable for a larger family. It's a bit pricey. I'd recommend it!

My recommendation is conditional because the price of this model is excessively high. In my opinion, this is in no way justified by the manufacturer's costs, but I may be wrong.

Ivan, Naberezhnye Chelny

The Smeg PLA6442X2 dishwasher is very stylish, with a control panel that's always within easy reach. It's made of very high-quality materials and makes a good first impression. It's a very capable dishwasher. I don't understand half of its functions, and I don't even use them. It's enough for me that it washes dishes well and doesn't break, but let the experts figure out the rest. I recommend it!

Alena, Krasnodar

The Bosch Series 6 SCE 52M55 dishwasher I bought last year didn't even last a year before it broke. The heating element failed. They replaced it for free because the warranty was still underway. Now that it's out, I'm dreading another breakdown. It's an expensive dishwasher, and I don't want to lose it. Maybe it's just a manufacturing defect, or maybe it's because Bosch has gotten too brazen and started making appliances that are half-baked.

Sergey, Moscow

The year before last I bought my firstHansa ZWM 416 WH dishwasher 45 cm wide. My experience with it was unsuccessful. Firstly, it turned out I didn't need such a large machine on my own, as I don't accumulate that much dishware. Secondly, it broke down for the first time after five months, followed by a second and third breakdown. Ultimately, the machine had to be scrapped for spare parts.

After some time, I purchased a reliable and expensive Bosch Series 6 SCE 52M55 dishwasher with compact dimensions. What does "compact" mean, you ask? It's simple: this machine has very small dimensions of 60 x 50 x 60 cm. I placed this "tiny" machine right on the edge of the kitchen counter and use it as needed. I'm very happy, because my dishes always sparkle and sparkle with cleanliness!

So, we've figured out what a dishwasher with an open panel is. We hope this information is at least a little useful. We've tried to be as objective as possible, and if we've overdone it here and there, we apologize. Good luck!