First, choose a format that works for your kitchen: a freestanding model for a separate space, a built-in model if you have a suitable housing unit, or a compact one if space and the amount of washing-up are limited. If you want to run a cycle while people are using the living area, compare the decibel rating and noise emission class for the exact model. Don’t overlook capacity, the stated energy and water consumption, or the repairability index.
If you eat, chat or work from home in the living area while the dishwasher is running, compare the decibel rating and noise emission class on the label. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important noise levels are when appliances share your living space.
Start by checking the space available. A built-in model needs a suitable housing unit, while a compact dishwasher may suit a smaller kitchen, but will have a lower capacity.
Compare water use per cycle, kWh per 100 cycles and capacity on the energy label. For appliances covered by the scheme in France, check the model’s repairability index separately.
In a busy open-plan kitchen, the available space determines which formats will work. Then compare noise, capacity and usage information to find the right model for your needs.
| Criteria | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Noise while the room is in use | The decibel rating and A to D noise emission class on the exact model’s label; ADEME describes classes A and B as particularly quiet. | If the dishwasher is running during a meal or while I’m working from home, I want to be able to stay in the room without excessive noise; around 33% of consumers may prioritise this acoustic comfort. |
| Format and installation | The dimensions of the space and, for a built-in model, whether the housing unit and any required furniture door are compatible. | If my kitchen is already fitted, I need to find an appliance that will fit before comparing its other features; around 27% of consumers may prioritise this compatibility. |
| Capacity and loading | The number of place settings and the space needed for the plates and utensils you usually use. | When meals leave me with a lot of washing-up, I want to avoid running extra cycles because the capacity is too small; around 20% of consumers may prioritise washing capacity. |
| Consumption and repairability | kWh per 100 cycles and litres per cycle on the label, followed by the repairability index applicable to the model. | If I plan to use the appliance regularly, I want to compare its stated consumption and repair options; this may be the main consideration for around 20% of consumers. |
A marketing name is no substitute for the decibel rating and noise emission class shown for the model. Noise levels may also vary during a cycle.
Compare the information on the energy label before considering the programmes on offer.
According to UFC-Que Choisir, a built-in dishwasher must fit into a purpose-made housing unit. A furniture door and installation service may also be required.
Check the dimensions, door type and installation arrangements for the model you’re considering.
The six-place-setting compact models featured by UFC-Que Choisir take up less space, but if capacity is too limited, you may need to run more cycles.
Also consider the space needed for your plates and saucepans, then compare the stated consumption per cycle.
The French index covers factors such as documentation, ease of dismantling and spare parts; it doesn’t predict whether an appliance will break down.
Use it to compare the repairability of models that fit your kitchen, alongside noise, capacity and consumption.
Worth exploring if you’re comparing models in different formats and paying particular attention to stated noise levels.
Consider its freestanding models if a separate space works for your kitchen.
Consider its freestanding models if you’re looking for a capacity that you can compare with the amount of washing-up you usually have.
Worth exploring if you’re looking for a built-in dishwasher and your kitchen already has a suitable housing unit.
Compare the decibel rating and A to D noise emission class on the energy label for the exact model. ADEME says classes A and B are particularly quiet; how noticeable the sound is will also depend on the room and when the cycle is running.
A built-in model needs a purpose-made housing unit, as UFC-Que Choisir points out. Before buying, check the dimensions, type of installation and whether a furniture door is required.
Compare kWh per 100 cycles and litres of water per cycle, using the units shown on the energy label. According to the European Commission, the label also gives the Eco programme duration, capacity and noise level; the stated consumption figures alone can’t predict your actual usage.
Yes, for household dishwashers covered by the French scheme, according to the Ministry of the Economy and the decree of 22 April 2022 published by Légifrance. The score out of 10 covers factors such as documentation, ease of dismantling and spare parts; it doesn’t guarantee that the appliance won’t break down.