First, choose a format that fits the available space and the actual amount of washing-up, then compare the capacity, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, Eco programme duration and noise level shown on the energy label. A delay-start function can help you time the cycle for when you return home or for a tariff period that has already been confirmed, but it will not save money without an off-peak tariff and without checking the assigned times.
If you are out for part of the day and run the cycle after dinner or before you return home, compare the capacity, delay-start function, Eco programme duration and noise level to make sure the appliance genuinely suits your daily routine. ADEME and Whirlpool France provide information on these criteria on energy labels and model specifications.
When the appliance needs to fit into a 45 cm space, beneath a worktop or inside a unit, check the width, height, depth, capacity and installation requirements before prioritising a scheduling function. UFC-Que Choisir and the manufacturers consulted point out that connections and overall dimensions matter just as much as width.
If the dishwasher runs while you are working from home, using the kitchen or sleeping, compare the decibel levels and noise class. ADEME states that a 3 dB increase corresponds to an almost doubling of noise, which can be noticeable in an open-plan room.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduling | Whether it has a delay-start function, the scheduling range and whether the time can be changed. Also check the off-peak tariff option and the time period stated in your contract or on your bill. | I want to start the cycle after a meal, before I return home or during a tariff period that genuinely applies to me. Enedis explains that the time period is assigned and cannot be chosen freely. |
| Noise | Noise level in dB and noise class on the label. Compare specific models rather than relying on a general description such as “quiet”. | In an open-plan kitchen, I want to be able to run the appliance without excessive disruption when I am at home. |
| Format and capacity | Width, height, depth, number of place settings and basket layout. Consider the capacity alongside the meals, dishes and utensils that build up between cycles. | My appliance needs to fit in the kitchen without being too small for the washing-up gathered at the end of the day. |
| Water, energy and duration | kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and Eco programme duration, using the same label basis. Check that the duration allows the cycle to finish at a time that fits your routine. | I want to compare water and electricity use without losing sight of the actual time at which the cycle ends. ADEME presents these figures as key points on the energy label. |
| Installation and repairability | Water inlet, power supply, drainage, stability, dimensions of the housing and door panel for an integrated model. Also compare the repairability index shown for the exact model. | I want to avoid discovering after ordering that the housing, connections or door panel are not compatible with the appliance I have chosen. |
A delay-start function postpones the starting time, but savings linked to off-peak hours require an eligible tariff and a time period that actually applies to you. Enedis states that the times are assigned and communicated by the supplier.
Check your contract, bill or supplier information before setting the start time. Adjust the schedule if you are notified of a change to the time period.
A 45 cm appliance may still be incompatible because of its depth, height, housing or door panel. A dishwasher also needs a water inlet, power supply and drainage.
Measure all three dimensions, consult the installation diagram for the exact model and confirm the connections before ordering.
Depending on the property and model, adapting the connections, professional installation or fitting a door panel may be necessary.
The Eco programme duration is shown on the energy label and may not fit your expected return time or the point at which noise is acceptable.
Compare the Eco duration with the kWh per 100 cycles and litres per cycle, then choose a start time that works with your routine.
The stated noise level and noise class make it easier to compare different models. According to ADEME, an additional 3 dB corresponds to an almost doubling of noise.
Compare the dB level and noise class of specific models; a quiet programme is an extra feature to check, not proof that the appliance will be quiet in every situation.
The Bosch range reviewed in France includes freestanding 45 cm and 60 cm dishwashers, with Eco cycle, noise and, depending on the model, drying or Home Connect information.
Whirlpool offers freestanding and integrated 45 cm and 60 cm dishwashers in France. The 45 cm models reviewed are particularly suited to narrow kitchens and offer a delay-start function of 1 to 24 hours.
The Electrolux range reviewed includes compact and fully integrated 45 cm dishwashers, suited to kitchens where fitting in with the cabinetry or limited space influences the choice.
These Joybuy options focus on compact and tabletop dishwashers suited to small spaces, with particular attention to scheduling cycles around the household’s routine.
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For a small household looking to delay the start until after a meal, this model offers a 24-hour delay-start function and a digital display.
Stated capacity of 6 place settings, 7 programmes, 49 kWh per 100 uses, 6.5 L per cycle and a 215-minute Eco programme.
The stated noise level is 47 dB; check the dimensions, installation requirements, water inlet, drainage and socket before buying.
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This compact option offers a 24-hour delay-start function for very small loads that can be scheduled around the time you return home.
Stated capacity of 3 place settings, 7 programmes, a 5 L tank or tap connection, with 4.2 L of water stated per wash.
The stated noise level is 56.3 dB; check the external dimensions, noise class, energy figures and drainage arrangements before choosing.
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This model is suitable for a narrow worktop when the cycle needs to be delayed by between 1 and 24 hours.
Stated width of 37 cm, advertised capacity of 4 place settings, 5 L tank and 9 programmes.
The capacity may require more frequent cycles if dishes build up. Check the noise level, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and Eco duration in the specifications for the exact model.
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For a small kitchen without a permanent connection, this model offers a delay-start function of 1 to 24 hours and a manually filled tank.
Stated capacity of 3 place settings, 7 programmes, LED display and dimensions of 420 × 436 × 465 mm.
Manual filling requires preparation before each use; also check the drainage, noise level, consumption and Eco duration if the cycle will run while you are at home.
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This freestanding option is designed for very small spaces where a compact appliance can handle small loads.
Stated dimensions of 49 × 34 × 49 cm, capacity of 3 place settings, cold-water tap connection and stated consumption of 2.9 L per cycle.
No delay-start function is listed in the available information: check this feature if the start needs to be automated. Also confirm the noise level, Eco duration and whether the drainage is compatible with your installation.
No. You must first have an off-peak tariff with your supplier and check the applicable time period in your contract, on your bill or with the supplier. Enedis sets the time period; the delay-start function only schedules the starting time.
No. EDF Particulier states that new time periods are being introduced gradually between November 2025 and the end of 2027 for affected customers. Check your times with your supplier and change the schedule after being notified of an update.
You need a water supply, an electricity supply and a waste-water outlet. According to UFC-Que Choisir, the appliance must be level and the connections must remain accessible; then check the requirements in the instructions for the model you have chosen.
No. Also check the height and depth of the housing, the installation diagram, the door panel, assembly requirements and connections. For example, Electrolux states that its EEA22100L model is supplied without a door panel and is not designed for raised installation.
Compare the capacity in place settings, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, Eco cycle duration, noise level and noise class. ADEME displays these figures on the label: the Eco duration is particularly useful for checking that a delayed start will finish the cycle at a time that suits your household.