Built-in and non-built-in dishwashers – what’s the difference?

Buying a dishwasher is a serious matter, and choosing the perfect one from a huge selection of models that meets all your requirements can be challenging, especially for an inexperienced buyer. Dishwashers vary not only in size but also in their ability to be integrated into cabinetry, so they come in:

• fully built-in,
• partially built-in and
• non-embedded.

You need to understand the differences between all these dishwashers, their pros and cons, and then decide which one is best for you.

Fully integrated dishwashers

A fully integrated dishwasher is installed in a niche within a kitchen cabinet, with a countertop covering the top and a door panel made of the same material as the cabinetry. When the door is closed, it's difficult to tell that it's a dishwasher and not a regular cabinet. This is the only difference between integrated and non-integrated dishwashers. The design features of this type of dishwasher determine its advantages:

• creation of a holistic and modern design for the kitchen space;
• The hidden location of the machine makes it safe for children;
• Built-in dishwashers are slightly quieter than freestanding models, but we believe this is a subjective opinion of users, as the stated noise levels for both machines are the same.

The only drawback of a fully integrated model is that it can't be placed anywhere in the kitchen; it must be integrated into the cabinetry. Firstly, built-in appliances lack decorative side panels. secondly, without hanging the front panel on the door, it may not stay open or may be difficult to openTherefore, to the question of whether it is possible to park such a machine separately, we would answer: no, it is not reasonable.

Please note! While offering identical specifications, fully integrated models are slightly more expensive than freestanding machines of the same brand.

Fully integrated dishwashers come in different sizes:

• 55x45x50(WxDxH) cm – these are compact models with a capacity of up to 6 sets;
• 45x60x82 (WxDxH) cm – these are narrow models with a capacity of up to 11 sets;
• 60x60x82 (WxDxH) cm – these are full-size models with a capacity of up to 17 sets.

Here are some examples of fully integrated dishwashers:

The BOSCH SMV50E10RU is a full-size, German-made dishwasher with a 13-place setting capacity. It features five wash programs and a pre-rinse function. It is fully leak-proof, and its noise level does not exceed 48 dB. Dimensions (WxDxH) are 60 x 55 x 82 cm. The average price is $500.

The BOSCH SPV 53M 20RU is a narrow, German-made dishwasher with a capacity of 9 place settings. Like the previous model, it features 5 built-in wash programs and full leak protection. A beam on the floor indicates when the wash cycle is complete. The noise level is only 46 dB. Dimensions (W x D x H) are 45 x 57 x 82 cm. An excellent model for a small kitchen for $370.

The Flavia CI 55 HAVANA is a compact, fully integrated dishwasher with a 6-place setting capacity. It features 7 built-in programs and partial leak protection. It also includes a dedicated glass holder. Dimensions (W x D x H) are 55 x 50 x 45 cm. The average price is $200.

Semi-integrated dishwashers

A partially integrated dishwasher differs from a fully integrated one in that its control panel is located on the top of the door. Underneath the control panel, either a cabinet front or a decorative panel matching the color and style of the kitchen is hung. Some people like to display their stylish appliances. A partially integrated dishwasher is the perfect option for neatly fitting the appliance into your furniture while still leaving the door visible.

Some dishwasher models have the option of being partially built-in, as the top lid can be easily removed and closed with the countertop.

Semi-integrated dishwashers can also be:

• full-size;
• narrow
• compact.

The following models are examples:

The Siemens SN 55M540 is a full-size, 13-placeholder dishwasher made in Germany. It features five wash programs, including a pre-soak program. It also features leak protection and a child lock. The noise level is 46 dB, and the dimensions (W x D x H) are 59.8 x 57.3 x 81.5 cm. Price starts at $480.

The Smeg PLA4525X is a slim, Italian-made dishwasher with a 10-placeholder capacity. It features nine built-in programs and a delicate cycle for delicate dishes. The machine operates very quietly, as the noise level is only 44 dB. Dimensions (WxDxH) are 45x57x82 cm. However, there is a drawback: only partial protection against water leaks, and the average price for this model is $810.

The BOSCH SKE52M55RU is a compact, Spanish-made dishwasher with a 6-place setting. It features 5 built-in programs. It features a child safety lock and all the necessary features, including a delayed start, a self-cleaning filter, an audible end-of-cycle signal, and more. The dimensions (WxDxH) are 60x50x45 cm, and the noise level is 45 dB. The average price is $500.

Non-built-in dishwashers

Non-integrated dishwashers are also called freestanding. Their unique feature is that they can be placed anywhere in the kitchen, as long as utility lines are convenient. These machines have decorative panels on the front and sides, and the top is also covered.

According to technical parameters freestanding dishwashers No worse or better than fully integrated dishwashers. Therefore, the choice of one model or another will be based on the dishwasher's external design. Non-built-in dishwashers are best suited for large kitchens where the machine can be placed separately from all the furniture.

Please note: Non-built-in models come in a wide range of colors, allowing you to choose a stylish and attractive dishwasher.

These models, like the previous ones, are available in three categories: slim, full-size, and small. Furthermore, all freestanding models can be divided into two groups: floor-standing (slim and full-size) and tabletop (small). Here are some examples of these models.

The Bosch SMS 40D02 is a full-size dishwasher with a 12-placeholder capacity. It features four wash modes and full leak protection. Unfortunately, there's no child lock. The noise level is 48 dB. It comes in a classic white finish. Its dimensions (WxDxH) are 60x60x85 cm. This budget-friendly model costs an average of $280.

The Siemens SR 26T897 is a slimline dishwasher with a 10-place setting capacity. It offers six wash modes, including an automatic program. It features full leak protection and a child safety lock. The stated noise level is only 43 dB. There is an additional program with accelerated washing, as well as the “Hygiene Plus” program, suitable for washing children's dishes. Its dimensions (WxDxH) are 45x60x85 cm. The average price is $480.

The Bosch SKS 50E11 is a compact, 6-placeholder dishwasher in a unique yellow color. It features five wash modes and partial leak protection. It's a bit noisy, with a noise level of 52 dB. Its dimensions (WxDxH) are 55 x 50 x 45 cm, making it suitable for countertop use. It will brighten up any room, adding a vibrant and cheerful touch. The average price is $360.

To summarize this review, we'd like to emphasize once again that there's no difference in technical specifications, reliability, or dimensions between a built-in and a conventional dishwasher. They differ only in their appearance and design features, such as the presence or absence of special fasteners for hanging the front panel on the door. Therefore, choosing a specific model should be based on your kitchen design.

   

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