To replace an appliance in an existing kitchen, first measure the usable width, height and depth of its space, then compare them with the installation diagram for the exact model. The appliance dimensions alone are not enough to confirm that it will fit. For dishwashers, slimline, standard and XXL models suit different spaces; you’ll also need to check the door panel, plinth, ventilation and connections separately. If the existing installation needs modifying, ask a professional to assess the work involved.
The height beneath your worktop and the width of the space determine which sizes to consider. Bosch’s product pages for three models list a slimline appliance measuring 448 mm wide, a standard model measuring 598 mm wide and an XXL model measuring 865 mm high. These dimensions don’t replace the installation diagram for the model you choose.
Before reusing the door, compare the integration type, fixings, door opening and plinth. For example, Electrolux says that its fully integrated EES68510L and KESC7300L dishwashers are supplied without a furniture door.
If you already have a housing unit or space in place, check the dimensions required by the new appliance. For a fridge, also allow for the airflow gaps specified in the manual: Electrolux describes a low-level air inlet and a high-level outlet for this type of appliance.
First rule out any models whose installation diagram doesn’t match your kitchen. Then compare the installation requirements and features of the models that remain.
| Criteria | What to check | What this means for you |
|---|---|---|
| Space dimensions | Measure the usable width, height and depth. Compare these measurements with the installation diagram for the exact model, rather than relying on its stated width alone. | I want to replace my appliance without finding out during installation that an obstruction or insufficient depth stops it from fitting. |
| Height beneath the worktop | For a dishwasher, distinguish between the appliance height and its adjustment range. Bosch lists the standard SMV4EVX36F at 815 mm high and the XXL SBH4HVX14E at 865 mm; check the installation dimensions for each model. | My worktop is staying in place, so I need a model whose installed height genuinely matches the available space. |
| Door panel and plinth | Check the integration type, whether a furniture door is included, the fixings and the clearance needed to open the door. Check the model manual for any requirements relating to the door panel. | I want to keep the look of my kitchen without assuming that my existing door will fit the new appliance. |
| Ventilation and connections | For a fridge, keep the air inlets and outlets specified by the manufacturer clear. For a dishwasher, locate the water supply, drain and electrical supply; Promotelec says a dishwasher socket should be on a dedicated circuit. | I want to know whether the existing unit and connections will allow installation before choosing a model. |
| Energy use and noise | Once you’ve confirmed the installation requirements, compare the energy labels. The ADEME says a dishwasher’s energy use is shown in kWh per 100 reference cycles and its water use in litres per cycle. Also check the stated noise level. | If several appliances fit my space, their usage figures can help me choose between them, particularly if the kitchen is near a living area. |
A suitable width doesn’t confirm that there’s enough height beneath the worktop or depth, or that there’s sufficient clearance for installation.
Measure all three usable dimensions of the space and compare them with the installation diagram before ordering.
Bosch lists the SMV4EVX36F at 815 mm high and the SBH4HVX14E at 865 mm. The adjustable feet don’t guarantee that one model will fit where the other did.
Choose the height category based on your measurements, then check the adjustment range in the manual.
Electrolux states that its EES68510L and KESC7300L models are supplied without a furniture door. You can only reuse an existing door if its dimensions and fixings are suitable.
Check what’s included with the model and compare the door and plinth requirements with your kitchen unit.
Electrolux specifies a low-level air inlet and high-level outlet for built-in fridges. For a dishwasher, Promotelec says a dedicated electrical circuit is required.
Follow the airflow requirements for your model. If the unit, plumbing or electrics need modifying, ask a professional to assess the work.
These examples show different integration types and the documents worth checking. Compatibility always depends on the specific model and kitchen.
Its product pages let you compare several dishwasher sizes, as well as examples of built-in ovens and fridges.
Its information on fully integrated dishwashers and built-in fridges helps you distinguish between the furniture door and ventilation requirements.
An older Miele brochure distinguishes between appliances designed to be built in and fully integrated models. This is a useful distinction when your kitchen is already fitted.
This selection includes dishwashers and built-in fridge-freezers for an existing kitchen. Compare each model with the space and installation requirements that apply to it, rather than assuming its stated size guarantees compatibility.
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If you’re replacing an appliance in an existing unit, check the space dimensions, airflow gaps and door panel compatibility in the manual. This model is described as built-in, with a top-mounted freezer and an E energy rating. Also confirm which door panel components are needed for installation.
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This size may be worth considering as a replacement for a dishwasher in a space of the corresponding width. The product name indicates a capacity of 13 place settings and a B energy rating. Compare the installation diagram with the available height and depth, door panel, plinth and existing connections.
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If you have an existing space for a fridge, check the installation dimensions and ventilation clearances in this model’s manual. Its name indicates a capacity of 252 L, No Frost technology and a C energy rating. These features alone don’t determine whether it will fit your unit.
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This 14-place-setting model has an E energy rating and may be suitable as a replacement for a dishwasher in the same width category. Check the installation diagram for the required space height and depth, as well as the door panel, plinth and connections. A width of 60 cm alone isn’t enough to confirm it will fit.
Measure the usable width, height and depth of the space, then compare them with the installation diagram for the exact model. If the appliance will have a door panel, also check the details of your existing door, its fixings, the plinth and any obstacles that could prevent it from opening.
No. They’re a useful first check, but the installation dimensions and clearances are shown in the installation documentation. Bosch lists the standard SMV4EVX36F dishwasher at 815 mm high and the XXL SBH4HVX14E at 865 mm. Choose based on the height you actually have available and the diagram for your chosen model.
Yes, as long as its dimensions, weight and fixing system meet the requirements for the new appliance. Electrolux says that its fully integrated EES68510L and KESC7300L models are supplied without a furniture door, so check the manual before planning to reuse your existing door.
Keep the airflow gaps specified for your chosen model clear. For built-in fridges, Electrolux describes an air inlet at the bottom and an outlet at the top. The appliance manual sets out the requirements for the unit.
Check the space, any door panel, the water supply, the drain and the electrical supply. Promotelec says a dishwasher socket should be on a dedicated circuit. If the existing installation needs adapting, ask a suitably qualified professional to assess the work.