Replacing a dishwasher in an existing fitted kitchen
You’re keeping the worktop, plinth and possibly the cabinet door. Measuring the housing space and checking the door’s movement should come before choosing the programmes.
Who is this guide for?
Looking for a seamless row of cabinets
You want the appliance hidden when the door is closed. A fully integrated model can do this, provided the cabinet door and its fixings are compatible with your chosen model.
Prefer to keep the controls visible
You want to access the control panel on the front without opening the door. A semi-integrated model keeps the panel visible, but still requires a suitable housing space and cabinet door.
What should you check before buying?
In an existing kitchen, check the fit and door clearance first; the look of the control panel and installation arrangements come next.
| Consideration | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Housing dimensions | Measure the internal width, available height and usable depth, then compare them with the model’s diagram—not just its stated 45 or 60 cm size. | If the appliance is replacing one in an unchanged housing space, being able to fit and adjust it is the priority. Around 36% of consumers would put this compatibility first. |
| Cabinet door and plinth | Check the cabinet door’s dimensions and weight, how it attaches, and whether the dishwasher door clears the plinth when opened. | Reusing a cabinet door only makes sense if it can open without catching. This compatibility would be the main concern for around 29% of consumers. |
| Integration type | Choose between a full-size cabinet door with controls on the top edge and a visible control panel on the front; confirm the installation type stated for the model. | If you want a seamless row of cabinets or, conversely, to see the controls without opening the door, appearance and access to the control panel come first. Around 21% of consumers would prioritise this choice. |
| Installation and connections | Check with your installer whether removal is needed, how the cabinet door will be attached, which connections are required and whether any modifications are necessary. | If the installation needs to be coordinated with your kitchen fitting, it’s essential to know what the work involves before ordering. For around 14% of consumers, this would be the first thing to sort out. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Relying on the stated width alone
Two appliances listed in the same size category may need different installation heights. Available depth matters too, particularly if connections take up space at the back of the housing.
Before ordering, compare all three key dimensions and the required clearances with the installation diagram for the exact model.
A mismatch could mean modifying the unit or delaying installation.
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Assuming any hinge will work with your existing cabinet door
Bosch states that a fixed door won’t suit every plinth height, and that it may need to be cut to fit some configurations. A sliding door system also needs to be checked against your kitchen and the model concerned.
Give your installer the cabinet door’s dimensions and weight, along with the plinth height, then check its opening path on the installation diagram.
Modifying a cabinet door or plinth adds work to the installation.
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Choosing the appliance without planning for the cabinet door and installation
In a fitted kitchen, the cabinet door, its fixings and the installation work are all part of the project—not just the choice of appliance.
Before buying, confirm who will supply the cabinet door and which removal, connection and modification work is included in the planned installation.
Brands to know when comparing configurations
Bosch
The range available in France includes 45 and 60 cm integrated dishwashers, in both semi-integrated and fully integrated designs, with different door systems.
- Bosch distinguishes between fixed and sliding doors, describing the latter as suitable for certain low plinths.
- The acceptable plinth height depends on the model and installation, so compare the diagram with your kitchen.
Siemens
The range available in France lets you compare 45 and 60 cm integrated appliances, with either a visible control panel or a full-size cabinet door.
- Some Siemens models carry the varioHinge designation, which is worth looking out for when comparing door systems.
- This designation doesn’t apply across the whole range; check the fixings and dimensions of each model.
Beko
The French product specifications for some 60 cm integrated dishwashers state the installation height and the maximum cabinet door weight.
- These manufacturer specifications help you compare a model with the measurements of your housing space and cabinet door.
- Height ranges and weight limits vary by model, so don’t assume the figures on one product page apply to another.
Integrated models available on Joybuy
These models are listed for fitted kitchens, with a stated 60 cm size in their product names. Before choosing one for an existing housing space, check the installation dimensions and cabinet door compatibility in the manual for the specific model.
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Samsung DW70H72WCB0U1, 60 cm, 13 place settings
Worth considering for a fitted kitchen designed for an integrated dishwasher. The product name states 60 cm, 13 place settings and energy class C. Check the installation diagram for the housing dimensions, cabinet door fixings and clearance in front of the plinth.
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Samsung DW80H72YBB0U1, 60 cm, 13 place settings
Worth considering for a housing space designed for an integrated appliance of this size. The product name states 60 cm, 13 place settings and energy class B, but the heights listed for this model don’t match. Ask the manufacturer to confirm the installation measurement on the diagram before planning the installation.
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Whirlpool W2I HD526 A, 60 cm, 14 place settings, white
Worth comparing for a fitted kitchen where the housing space matches the stated size. The product name lists 60 cm, 14 place settings, a white finish and energy class E. Before reusing a cabinet door, check the installation height range, door system and maximum door weight.
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AEG FSB34707Z fully integrated, 60 cm, 14 place settings
Worth considering if you’re looking for a full-size cabinet door, subject to confirming the fit. The product name states 60 cm, 14 place settings and energy class C, while another dimension listed for this model contradicts the stated width. Before ordering for an existing housing space, check the actual width against the manufacturer’s diagram.
Frequently asked questions
What should I measure before ordering an integrated dishwasher?
Measure the internal width, available height and usable depth of the housing space, as well as the plinth height. If you plan to keep your cabinet door, note its dimensions and weight too, then compare everything with the installation diagram for the exact model.
Can I reuse my cabinet door with any fully integrated model?
No. Whether you can reuse it depends on factors including its weight, the fixings required and the space needed to open it in front of the plinth. Bosch distinguishes between fixed and sliding doors; check the installation requirements for your chosen model rather than relying on the words ‘fully integrated’ alone.
When should I choose a semi-integrated model over a fully integrated one?
Choose a semi-integrated model if you want the control panel to remain visible on the front. A fully integrated model hides the appliance when closed, with the controls on the top edge of the door. Both types need a compatible housing space and cabinet door.
What should I check about the connections?
Locate the water inlet, waste outlet and electrical supply, then check that their positions and specifications match the model’s installation instructions. If the project requires electrical work, ask a professional to assess the job.
Is the manual still useful after installation?
Yes. It explains the model-specific start-up settings and maintenance, including how to adjust the water softener to suit your water hardness. UFC-Que Choisir recommends referring to it.