When fitting out a kitchen after moving in, start by checking the units, spaces and connections in your home before choosing an oven, hob, extractor hood and dishwasher. Built-in appliances are suitable if each model’s dimensions and installation requirements match your kitchen. If they don’t, you could consider a freestanding appliance instead, although it will look different. For the dishwasher, compare the energy label information once you’ve confirmed the installation plan.
If the spaces, door fronts and plinths are already in place, check that they’re compatible with the appliance before comparing its features. Bosch explains that the available space, cabinetry and type of dishwasher can all affect installation.
The oven, hob, extractor hood and dishwasher all need to fit into the same kitchen layout. IKEA offers units designed to accommodate several of these appliances, although each model still has its own installation requirements.
In an open-plan kitchen, a dishwasher’s noise level can matter just as much as whether it fits in your units. The label described by ADEME and the European Commission also lets you compare energy use, water consumption and capacity on the stated basis.
Start with what your home can accommodate, then compare the kitchen layout and the features you need from compatible appliances.
| What to consider | What to check when buying | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Spaces and door fronts | Measure the space and plinth; check the door front and door system against the model’s installation plan. | When the units are already fitted, I want the door to open properly without having to alter the front. Around 31% of consumers put compatibility with their units at the heart of their choice. |
| Power supply and connections | Locate the water supply, waste outlet and electrical supply; for gas, have the requirements for your home checked. | If I’m planning to buy a hob or dishwasher, I need to know whether my home’s connections are suitable before choosing an appliance. Connection requirements are the top priority for around 31% of consumers. |
| Kitchen layout | Plan the positions of the cooking appliances, extractor hood, sink and dishwasher; distinguish between spaces for built-in appliances and those suitable for freestanding models. | When I move in, I’m looking for a layout that lets me cook and wash up without choosing each appliance in isolation. This is the top consideration for around 19% of consumers. |
| Everyday use | For a compatible dishwasher, compare capacity, energy use per 100 cycles, water use per cycle and noise levels on the labels. | In an open-plan kitchen, I want to consider noise and energy use before making my choice. Around 19% of consumers prioritise these everyday-use considerations and durability. |
For an integrated dishwasher, Bosch explains that the available space, cabinetry and type of door all affect installation. A suitable width alone doesn’t confirm that the appliance will fit.
Measure the space and plinth, then check the door front and hinges against the installation diagram for the exact model.
Having a gas supply doesn’t tell you everything you need to know about installing a gas hob. GRDF highlights ventilation points that need to be checked, depending on the layout of the room.
Have the planned installation and the requirements for your home checked before choosing this option. Don’t assume that having an extractor hood is confirmation that it’s suitable.
The energy rating doesn’t tell you how much water is used per cycle, the capacity or the noise level. ADEME and the European Commission describe these additional details on dishwasher labels.
First rule out models that aren’t suitable for your installation, then compare the figures on the same basis.
A unit designed for appliances doesn’t automatically confirm that the door front, hinges or connections will be compatible with a specific model.
Use the unit’s dimensions as a starting point, then check the instructions for the appliance you’re considering separately.
Its information on integrated dishwashers can help you prepare to check the space and door front.
Its range of integrated dishwashers in France lets you explore different types of installation.
A product page for a 45 cm fully integrated dishwasher gives you an example of a format to consider for a narrow space.
Its units for built-in appliances can be a useful reference if your kitchen is designed around this range of units.
These two integrated dishwashers are options for the washing-up part of a kitchen you’re fitting out. Before choosing between them, check the space, door front and installation requirements for each model. The oven, hob and extractor hood will need their own checks.
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Worth considering if your kitchen has a space for an integrated dishwasher. The product name lists capacity for 13 place settings and an energy rating of B. Check the installation plan against the space, door front and plinth, then consult the label to compare energy use and noise levels.
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Worth considering for a built-in dishwasher space whose dimensions and door front can be checked against the instructions. The product name lists capacity for 13 place settings and an energy rating of C. Check the model’s installation requirements and label figures before comparing it with other options.
Measure the available space and plinth, then note the details of the door front and door system. Bosch explains that the cabinetry and installation vary depending on the available space and type of appliance, so compare these details with the installation plan for the exact model.
No. For an integrated dishwasher, also check the usable height and depth, door front, plinth and hinges using the technical documentation.
Follow the model’s instructions and use a suitably qualified professional for any work or connections that require skills specific to your installation. Bosch warns that installing a dishwasher can be complex and even dangerous; this isn’t a general rule that applies in the same way to every appliance and home.
Make sure the gas supply and conditions in your home allow for the planned installation. GRDF lists air inlets, air outlets and an opening window among the points to check in a room with a gas appliance; what applies depends on the room’s layout.
As well as the energy rating, compare the energy used per 100 cycles, water used per cycle, capacity, Eco programme duration and noise level on their labels. ADEME and the European Commission present these figures as useful points of comparison. Check separately that each model can be installed in your kitchen.