For an open-plan kitchen, start by comparing the noise level in dB and the airborne acoustical noise emission class shown on the energy label. Then check the capacity, water consumption per cycle, energy use per 100 cycles and the duration of the Eco programme. The choice between freestanding, built-under and fully integrated models mainly depends on the installation and visual finish: energy-label figures should still be compared model by model.
If the living room is occupied during a cycle, the declared noise level in dB and its noise emission class become priorities. Compare these with the duration of the Eco programme too, rather than relying on the word “quiet” alone.
A freestanding appliance can be suitable when you are not planning to fit a furniture door. Its energy-label data should still be compared with those of other formats.
An integrated or fully integrated model allows you to conceal the appliance behind a furniture door. Before choosing, confirm the niche dimensions, door panel and installation method specified by the manufacturer.
Consider this if: you want a finished door with no furniture panel, or your kitchen does not allow for complete integration.
Good to know: it is generally more visible in the living space; the format does not indicate the model’s noise level or consumption.
Consider this if: you want to fit it beneath the worktop while keeping the controls visible.
Good to know: the niche, plinth and type of door panel must be compatible with the exact model.
Consider this if: your priority is to conceal the appliance behind a door panel that matches your open-plan kitchen.
Good to know: the door panel adds further fitting and dimensional requirements; also check the model’s repairability score.
When comparing models in different formats, start with the energy label, then confirm the installation requirements and the programmes you will actually use.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Noise comfort | Compare the dB figure and the noise emission class on the label. Also consider the duration of the Eco programme if the cycle runs while you are at home. | I want to be able to talk, relax or watch a programme in the living room without being excessively disturbed by the cycle. ADEME states that the noise level and noise class appear on the energy label. |
| Capacity and installation | Compare the number of place settings with your usual volume of washing-up. Check the width, niche, plinth, door panel and control panel according to the format you choose. | The capacity needs to suit my meals and cookware, without choosing an appliance that cannot be installed or panelled as intended. |
| Consumption and programmes | Compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and the Eco duration on the same basis. For Quick or Intensive cycles, look for comparable test results where available. | I want to limit consumption without confusing the label’s reference programme with programmes used occasionally. |
| Repairability | Check the repairability index shown for the exact reference. Also consult information about parts and repair instructions where available. | When two appliances have similar labels, I also want to compare their repairability and access to essential parts. |
Freestanding, built-under and fully integrated models mainly differ in installation and visual finish. In an open-plan kitchen, noise deserves a direct comparison between models.
Compare the dB figure and noise class on the labels of your shortlisted models, then look at the duration of the Eco programme. An integrated door panel or the name of a programme is not enough to characterise noise.
The label expresses electricity use in kWh per 100 cycles and water use in litres per reference cycle. Quick or Intensive programmes may operate differently.
Compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and the Eco duration. If you regularly use an Intensive or Quick programme, look for measurements taken on those programmes using a comparable basis.
A fully integrated model is designed to receive a furniture door panel. The niche dimensions, plinth and fixing system determine the expected result in the living space.
Measure the available space and compare it with the installation diagram and the exact model’s door-panel requirements before ordering.
The door panel and any modifications to the cabinetry are elements that need to be included in the kitchen project.
Noise and consumption are not the only buying criteria. In France, the repairability index applies to household dishwashers covered by the regulations.
Add the model’s repairability score to your comparison and consult EPREL when information about parts or repair instructions is provided.
Bosch’s French documentation covers freestanding, built-under, built-in, integrated and fully integrated formats, making it easier to compare presentation and installation requirements.
Beko’s French catalogue includes freestanding, built-in models with visible control panels and fully integrated appliances.
Miele’s French catalogue brings together integrated, fully integrated and freestanding models, with energy classes and noise levels shown for each model.
Joybuy options for an open-plan kitchen, including a freestanding model and an integrated model to compare according to declared noise level, capacity and installation requirements.
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For households looking for plenty of capacity without a furniture door, this freestanding model offers 41 dB and 14 place settings.
Energy class C, with Eco, Auto, Intensive and Quick programmes, plus automatic door opening at the end of the cycle.
Check the exact reference’s label for kWh per 100 cycles, Eco duration, noise class and repairability index. Also allow sufficient clearance in front of the door when it opens at the end of the cycle.
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For a fitted kitchen with a matching door panel, this fully integrated model offers 13 place settings and an Extra Silence programme at 42 dBA.
The stated general noise level is 44 dB(A), with energy class B, a three-level adjustable basket and automatic door opening.
The 42 dBA figure applies to the Extra Silence programme. Confirm the niche dimensions, door panel, fixed hinge, Eco consumption, noise class and repairability index for the exact model.
Yes. The European Commission states that electric household dishwashers, including built-in appliances, are covered by the labelling rules. For the exact reference, compare the energy class, kWh per 100 cycles, water per cycle, capacity, Eco duration, airborne acoustical noise emissions and their class.
No. ADEME describes classes A and B as particularly quiet, but the level of disturbance also depends on the room, what you are doing and your sensitivity to noise. Use the noise class together with the dB figure to compare models, rather than treating it as a guarantee that the appliance will be completely imperceptible.
Yes. According to Légifrance, the French scheme covers mains-powered household dishwashers, including the relevant integrated and built-in models. Check the score shown for the exact reference rather than one for another version in the same range.
For household dishwashers sold in the European Union, the European Commission states that certain parts, including hinges, door seals, spray arms, filters and baskets, must remain available for ten years after the model is withdrawn from the market. Also consult EPREL for the specific model where repair instructions or parts information are provided.