Dishwasher: how to choose and buy well
Built-in or freestanding
This difference affects everything: installation, cost and convenience. A freestanding machine has its own side panels and top, so you can put it anywhere there is water and a drain. A built-in one hides behind the kitchen cabinet front, and a fully integrated one also has the control panel on the top edge of the door. A semi-integrated one leaves the panel in view.
Before writing your request, measure the space: height, width and depth. Slim models, 45 cm wide, suit small kitchens, while standard 60 cm ones hold more dishes. There are also compact countertop models for a small space.
Capacity and features
Capacity is counted in place settings: 9–10 for a couple, 12–14 for a large family. Start with that, then look at the features.
- A third rack (a cutlery tray) frees up room for dishes.
- AquaStop protects against leaks, which matters especially in a flat.
- An inverter motor is quieter and lasts longer.
- Type of drying: condensation, turbo drying or zeolite, which affects cycle time and energy use.
- Noise level, if your kitchen opens into the living room.
If your water is hard, find out about the built-in water softener and the salt it needs. Ask about programmes too: a quick 30–60 minute one, an eco one and an intensive one for pans are handy for daily use.
What to put in your request
- Built-in or freestanding, and the size of the space.
- Width — 45 or 60 cm.
- Capacity — number of place settings.
- Model — for example Bosch SPV.
- Features — third rack, AquaStop, inverter, type of drying, noise.
- New or used.
- Delivery and carrying up.
- Connection — to water, drain and electricity, fitting into the cabinets.
- City, budget.
Example: “I need a new fully integrated 45 cm dishwasher for 10 place settings, with a third rack and AquaStop. Melbourne, 3rd floor with a lift, fitting and connection needed. Budget up to $620.”
How to compare offers
Ask whether the price includes hoses, a trap, the door-front fixings and the connection itself. For a built-in machine, check whether a template for fitting the door front comes in the box. Also ask about service in your city, especially for rarer brands.
If you buy used, ask about its age, whether the basket smells, and whether the pump and the heater work. A video of a cycle doesn't hurt.
How it works on BlaBlaPrice
You write a request once, and sellers of appliances reply with offers: model, price, delivery and installation terms. The offers are compared, the best-value one is placed first, and reviews are visible by each seller. Nobody sees your phone number except the seller you choose. More in how it works.
For a full set, also look at cooker hoods and fridges.
