Homes without space under the worktop
A countertop model may be an option if you’ll still have enough room to cook once it’s in place, and you can access a suitable socket and drain.
Who are these types of dishwasher suitable for?
Your choice depends as much on the space available and the connections you have as it does on how much washing-up you need to do.
Small households with little washing-up each day
A 3-place-setting model may be enough for smaller loads. If your washing-up tends to pile up, consider a 6-place-setting model, as long as you have room for it.
Homes with a suitable cupboard
A built-in compact model keeps your worktop clear, but it needs a compatible cabinet space and connections.
What should you check before choosing?
Start by measuring the space and locating the water supply, drain and socket. Then compare the dishwasher’s capacity with the washing-up you do each day.
| What to consider | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Available space | Measure the width, depth and height, allowing room for the door to open and the hoses to run. Make sure the surface is flat, stable and suitable for the appliance. | I still want to be able to prepare meals once the appliance is installed. According to the product specifications from Daan Tech and Candy, the Bob and CP 6E51LS are 34 cm and 55 cm wide respectively. |
| Water supply and drainage | Check whether the model has a tank or connects directly to the water supply. Separately, check where the drain hose will lead and how it will be secured. | If I can’t connect to a permanent water supply, a tank could be a good option. I’ll still need somewhere for the waste water to drain after every use. |
| Capacity | Compare the number of place settings with your daily washing-up and the amount of worktop space the appliance will take up. Also check that your usual dishes and utensils will fit. | For smaller loads, 3 place settings may suit my needs. If the washing-up tends to pile up, I’ll consider a 6-place-setting model, while keeping its size in mind. |
| Electrical supply | Check the manual’s requirements and your existing electrical circuit before plugging the appliance in. Legrand and Promotelec recommend a dedicated circuit when installing or modifying a dishwasher circuit. | I’d rather get an uncertain installation checked than rely on an extension lead or a socket that’s too far away. |
| Regular use | Factor in water, electricity, detergent and maintenance costs, and check which products your chosen model requires. | I’m looking for an appliance that will be practical to fill, drain and run regularly as part of my daily routine. |
What mistakes should you avoid?
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Assuming a water tank means you don’t need to plan for drainage
A tank can replace a permanent water supply connection, but the dishwasher will still produce waste water. Daan Tech says that Bob needs a drain hose.
Check where the hose will drain, whether into a sink or another outlet, and make sure it’s long enough and can be secured as described in the manual.
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Choosing based only on the number of place settings
A larger capacity won’t help if the appliance takes up the space you need for cooking or its door can’t open properly.
Mark out the model’s dimensions on your worktop and allow extra room for the door to open and for the connections.
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Leaving electrical checks until after you’ve bought it
An accessible socket doesn’t necessarily mean the circuit is suitable. Legrand and Promotelec recommend a dedicated circuit for a newly installed or modified dishwasher circuit.
Check the model’s requirements and, if in doubt, ask a qualified electrician to inspect the circuit.
Brands and types to know
These models show a few different ways to fit a dishwasher into your kitchen. The brands mentioned here may offer other appliances with different features.
Daan Tech
The Bob is an example of a mini countertop model for kitchens where width is limited.
- Daan Tech lists a width of 34 cm, a capacity of 3 place settings, and the option to use a tank or connect to the water supply.
- Even with the tank, you’ll still need to drain the water through a hose.
Candy
The CP 6E51LS is an example of a 6-place-setting tabletop model that connects directly to the water supply.
- Candy lists the dimensions of this freestanding model as 550 × 501 × 443 mm.
- You’ll need enough space and the right connections for this type of installation.
Electrolux
The ESL2500RO is an example of a built-in compact model for households looking to free up worktop space.
- Electrolux describes this model as a fully integrated appliance, measuring 55 cm and holding 6 place settings.
- It needs a suitable cabinet and compatible connections; it isn’t designed to sit freestanding on a worktop.
Bosch
The SKS2ITW00E is another example of the dimensions of a 55 cm freestanding compact model.
- Bosch lists dimensions of 450 × 551 × 500 mm and water consumption of 8,0 L for its Eco cycle.
- Bosch says this model is no longer available. Its specifications are included here as a guide to the size, not as a buying recommendation.
Countertop dishwashers available on Joybuy
These dishwashers sit on a worktop. Compare their size and capacity, then check the drainage, water supply and connection requirements for each model before choosing.
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AIRMSEN countertop dishwasher, 5 L tank, 5+1 cycles
The built-in tank may suit households that don’t want a permanent connection to the water supply. Before installation, check the space required, the route for the drain hose and the model’s electrical requirements.
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Bob mini, 3 place settings, 34 cm, metallic grey and white
Its stated width of 34 cm is worth comparing with the space you actually have available for cooking. It holds 3 place settings. Check the water supply method and drainage setup for the version on sale, as well as making sure the surface is stable.
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AIRMSEN tabletop dishwasher, 5 L tank, 9 programmes, 37 × 50 cm, white
Measure the available depth and allow room for the door to open before choosing this slim model. The product specification lists an energy rating of D. Also check the drain hose route and electrical requirements before installation.
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COMFEE CDWMT305WD, 3 place settings, 7 programmes, white
This mini model is designed for smaller loads, and the product specification lists an energy rating of D. Before setting it up, check how to drain the waste water and what electrical requirements apply.
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Heinrich's HTG 8840 Schwarz, 6 place settings, 7 programmes
Its stated capacity of 6 place settings may suit you if the washing-up tends to pile up between cycles. The product specification lists 47 dB and an energy rating of D. Before buying, measure the space and check the water supply, drainage and electrical requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Can a dishwasher with a water tank work without a mains water connection?
Yes, if the model can be filled by hand. Daan Tech says this is possible with Bob, but notes that a hose is still needed to drain the waste water into a sink or another outlet.
What should you measure before putting an appliance on your worktop?
Measure the appliance and the available surface, allowing room for the door to open and the hoses to run. Make sure the surface is flat, stable and suitable for the model’s weight, and check the manual for the exact clearances required.
Is a standard worktop socket enough?
Don’t assume it is without checking the circuit. For an installation created or modified in France, Legrand and Promotelec recommend a dedicated dishwasher circuit. If in doubt, ask a qualified electrician to inspect the existing installation.
What will you need for everyday use?
Allow for water, electricity, detergent and maintenance. Check the manual to see whether the model also uses dishwasher salt or rinse aid, and how often you’ll need to fill its tank or run a cycle.
Does the legal guarantee apply to a new appliance bought in France?
The legal guarantee of conformity applies to goods sold by a business to a private individual in France, as the Ministry of the Economy explains. It’s separate from any commercial guarantee that may be offered. Check who the seller is and keep your proof of purchase.