You’re replacing an appliance behind an existing cabinet door
Measure the space and check the door’s weight, dimensions and fittings before planning to reuse it. Installation requirements vary by model, as shown by Beko’s guidance for the BDIN18451.
Who is this option for?
Having a space for a dishwasher doesn’t, by itself, determine which type of appliance you need. The cabinet door you want to keep also affects your choice.
You want the controls to be visible
A semi-integrated model leaves its control panel visible within the fitted kitchen. Bosch says the panel gives you access to key cycle information; check that it will sit neatly with your cabinet door.
You have space under the worktop and don’t need a matching cabinet door
UFC-Que Choisir says that some freestanding models can be installed under a worktop. However, you’ll need to confirm that the top is removable and that the appliance will fit the space once it has been taken off.
What should you check before choosing?
Fully integrated
Consider this if: you want a cabinet door to conceal the appliance and its controls.
Bear in mind: the cabinet door and its fittings must be suitable for the model. For example, Electrolux says the EES42210L is supplied without a cabinet door.
Semi-integrated
Consider this if: you want the appliance to blend in with your units while keeping the controls visible.
You’ll need to accept that: the control panel remains visible. Bosch describes it as providing direct access to key cycle information.
Freestanding under a worktop
Consider this only if: a visible appliance door will suit your kitchen and the model has a removable top.
Limitation: removing the top doesn’t turn a freestanding model into an appliance designed to take a matching kitchen cabinet door.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Space dimensions | Measure the usable height, width and depth, then compare them with the installation diagram for the model. Check the plinth and door clearance too. | I’m replacing an appliance in an existing unit: it needs to fit the space and the door must be able to open. |
| Cabinet door and fittings | Check whether a cabinet door is supplied, as well as its dimensions, maximum weight and hinge type. For the BDIN18451 only, Beko specifies a single-pivot hinge and a door weighing 3 to 9 kg. | I want to keep or fit a cabinet door that matches my units, without assuming it will fit the new appliance. |
| Control panel appearance | Confirm whether the cabinet door conceals the controls or leaves the control panel visible. If you’re considering a freestanding model under the worktop, check that the space doesn’t require a matching cabinet door. | I’d find visible controls useful, or I’d prefer a door that hides them. This choice determines which installation type to consider. |
| Under-worktop installation | For a freestanding model, confirm that its top can be removed and check its dimensions once it’s off. Bosch says removing the top can free up around 2 to 3 cm on the models concerned, but this doesn’t guarantee a fit in every space. | I have space under the worktop, but I still need to check that the appliance can be installed there without a kitchen cabinet door. |
| Connections | Check the water inlet, waste outlet and electrical supply before ordering. Promotelec says that in France the dishwasher socket must be on a dedicated circuit; follow the model’s instructions for the connections too. | I want to check that my kitchen connections will allow the planned installation before the appliance arrives. |
Which mistakes should you avoid?
-
Relying on the stated width alone
Two appliances with a similar width may need different depths. Bosch lists the SMV4EVX36F at 815 × 598 × 550 mm and the SMI6ZCS10E at 815 × 598 × 573 mm.
Measure the entire space, the plinth and the clearance needed to open the door, then compare these measurements with the installation diagram for your chosen model.
-
Assuming the cabinet door is supplied or can be reused
Electrolux says the EES42210L is supplied without a cabinet door. Even if you already have a door, its fittings and weight must be suitable for the new appliance.
Ask for the installation instructions and check who supplies the door, its dimensions and the fittings required.
Supplying, adapting or fitting the cabinet door may be an additional step in your project.
-
Mistaking a freestanding model with a removable top for an integrated one
UFC-Que Choisir says that some freestanding models can fit under a worktop, but they aren’t designed to fit into a dedicated space with a kitchen cabinet door.
Choose this option only if you’re happy for the appliance door to remain visible. Confirm that the top can be removed and check the model’s installation instructions.
-
Waiting until delivery to check the connections
The model’s instructions explain how to connect the water supply, waste outlet and electricity. Promotelec says that in France the dishwasher socket must be on a dedicated circuit.
Check your existing installation before ordering and ask a suitably qualified professional to assess anything you’re unsure about.
A few examples from different brands
These examples show why you should check the measurements and cabinet-door requirements for each model, rather than making assumptions based on the brand alone.
Bosch
Bosch offers fully and semi-integrated dishwashers, as well as advice on measuring the space.
- Bosch lists the fully integrated SMV4EVX36F at 815 × 598 × 550 mm and the semi-integrated SMI6ZCS10E at 815 × 598 × 573 mm.
- These measurements apply to the models listed; they don’t confirm that either will fit your space or work with your cabinet door.
Electrolux
Electrolux’s range includes the EES42210L, a 45 cm fully integrated model.
- Electrolux’s product details state that the EES42210L is supplied without a cabinet door, so you’ll need to arrange one separately.
- If you’re replacing an appliance, check the instructions for the exact model or product code before reusing a cabinet door.
Beko
Depending on the range, Beko offers freestanding, fully integrated and semi-integrated models with a visible control panel.
- For the fully integrated BDIN18451, Beko specifies an installation height of 82 to 92 cm, a single-pivot hinge and a supported door weight of 3 to 9 kg.
- These limits apply to the BDIN18451. They don’t mean that another model will fit the same space or take the same cabinet door.
Fully integrated models on Joybuy
These models are examples of fully integrated dishwashers for a fitted kitchen. Their inclusion here doesn’t confirm that they’ll fit your space or work with your cabinet door. Compare the instructions for each model with your measurements before choosing.
Image unavailable
Samsung DW80H72YBB0U1, 60 cm, 13 place settings
A 60 cm integrated model to consider if you’re looking for an appliance to fit your space. The product title lists 13 place settings and a B energy rating. Check the installation dimensions, fitting requirements and maximum cabinet-door weight in the instructions.
Image unavailable
Samsung DW70H72WCB0U1, 60 cm, 13 place settings
Another 60 cm integrated model to compare with your measurements. The product title lists 13 place settings and a C energy rating. Check the installation documentation for the required dimensions, door movement and compatibility between the cabinet door and plinth.
Image unavailable
Whirlpool W2I HD526 A, 60 cm, 14 place settings, white
This integrated model is listed as 60 cm, with 14 place settings and an E energy rating. Before choosing it for an existing space, compare the installation diagram, clearances and cabinet-door fitting instructions with your kitchen.
Image unavailable
AEG FSB34707Z fully integrated dishwasher, listed as 60 cm
The product title describes a fully integrated model with 14 place settings and a C energy rating. The dimensions listed for this model don’t clearly match the stated 60 cm format. Check the official dimensions and cabinet-door fitting instructions before deciding.
Frequently asked questions
Does a fully integrated dishwasher come with a cabinet door?
Not necessarily. Electrolux says the EES42210L is supplied without a cabinet door. Check what’s included with your chosen model and whether your existing door is compatible with its fitting system.
When can a freestanding model be installed under a worktop?
UFC-Que Choisir says this is possible with some models that have a removable top, provided the space doesn’t require a matching kitchen cabinet door. Bosch says removing the top can free up around 2 to 3 cm on the models concerned. Even so, measure the available space and check the instructions for the exact model.
What’s the difference between fully and semi-integrated?
A fully integrated model is designed to take a cabinet door that conceals the controls; a semi-integrated model has a visible control panel. Choose the look you prefer, then check the space dimensions and cabinet-door fittings separately.
Can I reuse the cabinet door from my old dishwasher?
Yes, if its dimensions, weight and fittings are suitable for the new model. For the BDIN18451 specifically, Beko states that it has a single-pivot hinge and supports a door weighing 3 to 9 kg. Always compare your panel with the instructions for the model you’re considering.
What should I check about the electrical supply in France?
Promotelec says the dishwasher socket must be on a dedicated circuit and highlights the need to position it near the water inlet and waste outlet. If you’re unsure about the existing setup, ask a suitably qualified professional to check it before installation.