Households that spend time in an open-plan kitchen
If you eat, chat, watch TV or work near the appliance, compare its noise level while keeping in mind the capacity you need for your usual loads.
Who is this guide for?
UFC-Que Choisir points out that noise matters more when the dishwasher shares space with your living area. Where the appliance is installed and when you run it will also affect which features to prioritise.
Households replacing a dishwasher
First, check the dimensions, connections and whether the appliance needs to accommodate a furniture door panel. A model with an appealing noise rating will only be useful if it fits the space.
Households looking to run cycles at a different time
A delay-start function can help you avoid running the appliance during meals or leisure time. If the cycle needs to start late, also consider how noisy the appliance will be once it is running and, if you live in a flat, check the building rules.
Which criteria should you consider?
For an open-plan kitchen, first rule out appliances that will not fit the space. Then compare the noise ratings of models that offer the capacity you need. The European regulation uses the Eco programme to measure, among other things, the noise emissions shown on the label; this figure may not reflect the noise levels of other programmes.
| Criterion | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Noise in the living area | The dB level and noise class of the exact model; if possible, an independent test covering the programmes you use. | If people chat or relax nearby, I want to minimise disruption while the cycle is running. Around 33% of consumers prioritise a quiet living area. |
| Installation | The available dimensions, connections and whether the appliance is compatible with any furniture door panel. | If I’m replacing an appliance or need to use a specific space, the new model has to fit first and foremost. Around 27% of consumers put this compatibility first. |
| Capacity and usual cycle | The number of place settings, how the baskets are arranged and the length of the Eco programme; washing and drying results if a test of the model is available. | Given the amount of washing-up in my household, I want to load the appliance without having to run multiple cycles. Around 20% of consumers prioritise capacity and how the cycle they use performs. |
| When the appliance runs | Whether it has a delay-start function, the length of the programme you choose and, if you live in a flat, the building rules. | If the dishwasher runs during meals, I’d rather be able to move the cycle to a time that suits my household and neighbours. Around 20% of consumers prioritise scheduling. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Relying solely on a ‘Silence’ label
A marketing name is no substitute for the comparable information on the energy label. When comparing models for the same type of installation, look at the individual specifications of each one.
Compare their dB levels, noise classes, capacities and Eco programme durations before weighing up their features.
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Assuming the noise rating applies to every programme
The European regulation bases the energy label’s noise figure on the Eco programme. So don’t assume a quick or intensive cycle will be just as quiet.
Identify the programme you’ll use most often and check its duration in the manual. If an independent test covers the exact model, look at its findings on noise too.
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Scheduling a cycle overnight without considering your neighbours
A delay-start function does not reduce the noise of the cycle. In France, Service-Public.fr notes that noise can constitute an abnormal neighbourhood nuisance during the day as well as at night. ANIL also advises checking the co-ownership rules or building regulations, where applicable.
Before regularly choosing a late start time, check the cycle duration, the appliance’s noise level and the rules that apply in your building.
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Choosing a dB figure before measuring the space
An incompatible space or furniture door panel could prevent you from installing the model you’ve chosen. A capacity that is too small could also mean running more cycles than expected.
Measure the space, confirm the type of installation and estimate how much washing-up you usually have before comparing models with similar noise ratings.
Brands to consider
These examples relate to specific ranges or models. Always check the details and label for the model you’re considering, rather than assuming the same features apply across an entire brand.
Bosch
The range includes built-in and freestanding models, with noise information you can compare model by model.
- Bosch Electroménager France lists a noise level of 42 dB for the built-in SMV4ECX28F and a noise class of B for the freestanding SMS4EVW36F.
- These details relate to two different models; they do not describe the whole range or indicate how noisy either appliance will seem in your kitchen.
Miele
A brand worth considering if you’re comparing integrated appliances and want to check the noise rating for each model.
- The Miele France catalogue lists a noise level of 41 dB for the G 7795 SCVi XXL AutoDos K2O, among other models.
- This figure applies to this specific model. Check its dimensions, capacity and programmes too before making your choice.
Siemens
The brand offers built-in and freestanding dishwashers, as well as scheduling features on some compatible appliances.
- According to Siemens Electroménager France, Home Connect lets you schedule the start time on compatible models.
- This feature changes when the cycle runs, but does not tell you how noisy it is. Compare the model’s label separately and take your home’s requirements into account.
Dishwashers to consider on Joybuy
These models cover two 60 cm installation types, freestanding and built-in, as well as a compact tabletop model with a delay-start function. For an open-plan kitchen, compare the listed specifications with your space, the amount of washing-up you have and the programme you plan to use.
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Hotpoint H4FD641A freestanding dishwasher, 14 place settings, 60 cm
Worth considering if you have space for a freestanding appliance and need capacity for 14 place settings. The listing states 41 dB and a white finish. Compare this figure with the label for the exact model, and check the dimensions and connections before buying.
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Samsung DW80H72YBB0U1 built-in dishwasher, 13 place settings, 60 cm
Worth a look if your kitchen is designed for a 60 cm built-in dishwasher and 13 place settings will meet your needs. Check the space dimensions, whether the furniture door panel is compatible and what the class B rating in the listing refers to. To assess noise, consult the energy label for the exact model and information about the programmes you use.
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Heinrich's HTG 8840 Schwarz tabletop dishwasher, 6 place settings
Worth considering if a tabletop appliance with capacity for 6 place settings suits your space and household’s washing-up needs. The listing states 47 dB, seven programmes and a delay-start function of up to 24 hours. Measure the available space and check the water supply. A delay-start function changes when the noise occurs, not its level during the cycle.
Frequently asked questions
How is a dishwasher’s noise level shown on the energy label?
The label shows a noise level in dB and a noise class from A to D. European regulations require noise emissions to be measured or calculated using the Eco programme, so compare this information across models without automatically applying it to other cycles.
Is a noise class of A or B enough for an open-plan kitchen?
No. According to ADEME, classes A and B indicate particularly quiet appliances, but they are not the only factors to consider. Also compare the dB rating of the exact model, its capacity and the duration of the Eco cycle. An independent test covering the programmes you usually use can provide additional information.
Is a built-in dishwasher quieter than a freestanding one?
The type of installation alone won’t tell you. Choose a format that suits the space and the furniture door panel you want, then compare the noise information on the labels of the specific models.
Can a delay-start function let you run the appliance at night?
It lets you change the start time, but does not reduce the noise it makes. In France, Service-Public.fr explains that an abnormal neighbourhood nuisance can occur during the day or at night. If you live in a flat, also check the co-ownership rules or building regulations before regularly scheduling late-night cycles.
What should you check for maintenance and after-sales service?
Check the manual and product information for the model you’re considering. Look for maintenance programmes, any consumables, warranty terms, repair options and installation instructions. The noise rating won’t tell you anything about these points.