Choosing a dishwasher that fits

Start with the opening

Check whether you need a freestanding, integrated or semi-integrated dishwasher. Measure the space and compare the exact installation drawing. Slimline and full-size are useful descriptions, but not substitutes for verified dimensions. Allow for the door opening, hoses and access to connections.

Look beyond place settings

The place-setting figure is a standardised capacity measure, not a guarantee that your largest pans will fit. Check basket adjustment, cutlery storage, plate clearance and the way you normally load up after cooking. Ask for photos of the actual baskets and any supplied accessories.

Choose programmes you will use

• Check the manual’s eco programme information when comparing label consumption.
• A quick cycle has its own load and soil limits; it may not dry like a longer cycle.
• Check noise information if the kitchen shares your living space.
• Inspect the control position, especially behind an integrated furniture door.

Plan delivery and connection

Confirm suitable water, waste and electrical connections and tell us about awkward access. Integrated fitting and furniture-door work need a separate agreement and may cost extra. Ask about the included standard installation offer rather than assuming every property is ready.

Compare the label fairly

Read energy and water use on the same declared programme basis. Do not compare an older A-plus scale directly with a rescaled A–G letter. For second-hand or graded stock, establish the exact model and use its documentation.

A practical running-cost check

Use the electricity unit rate from your own bill—not a fixed national price. If a label states 50 kWh per 100 cycles and your rate is £0.25 per kWh, the energy cost is 50 ÷ 100 × £0.25 = £0.125 per labelled cycle. These are example figures, not a tariff or a stock specification. Actual use varies; water charges, detergent and standing charges are not included. Check whether the label refers to washing only, washing and drying, or another programme basis.