Why choose a dishwasher with suitable dimensions?
Different sizes of dishwashers exist and there are several reasons for this. First of all, as not all kitchens have the same surface area, the space available for a dishwasher differs depending on the accommodation. In a large kitchen, you should not hesitate to opt for an XXL dishwasher because a small model could almost seem ridiculous. Might as well make the most of the space. Conversely, in a small kitchen, the choice will be towards equipment that takes up little space.
In addition to the surface area of the kitchen, it is also necessary take into account the composition of the family. A small dishwasher will be perfect for a single person or a couple without children but will not be sufficient for a family of 6 people. You will have to turn it twice or do some of the washing up by hand. This is why you need to buy a dishwasher with suitable dimensions.
Types of installation for a dishwasher
The choice of dishwasher dimensions also depends on the type of equipment: a free-standing model or a built-in model.
In the first case, the dishwasher can be placed anywhere in the kitchen. It is therefore not necessary to respect precise dimensions. On the other hand, a built-in or integrated dishwasher must be placed in a precise and even predefined location. It must therefore fit without difficulty in the place provided for this purpose. This time, the dimensions of the equipment are important.
The only difference between the built-in and integrated dishwasher is the presence of a cabinet door. In fact, a built-in dishwasher is completely hidden and is not visible in a kitchen.
The installation can influence the choice of dishwasher but with a few tips, it is possible to save a little space. Removing the feet from a standard dishwasher can save between 2 to 3 cm which may be sufficient to embed the device in the niche provided for this purpose, generally under the work surface near the water inlet, an electrical outlet and a drain.
There are so-called “space-saving” models with a width of only 45cm but with a high capacity (10 seats maximum). These devices remain efficient and meet the needs of a small family who does not have much space in their kitchen.
The number of place settings
The dimensions of a dishwasher vary depending on the capacity of the equipment. To benefit from the best equipment, you must therefore opt for a device that corresponds to the composition of the home. Three sizes dishwashers are to be distinguished.
The mini dishwasher is characterized by dimensions that allow it to be installed in small kitchens and even on a worktop or other household appliance. It measures 55cm wide, 40 to 45 cm high and 50 cm deep. This appliance is ideal for those who have always dreamed of having a dishwasher but have very little space. It is perfect for a studio, a mobile home or a second home. Its capacity is 4 to 6 place settings.
The small width dishwasher has a capacity of 8 to 10 place settings. Its width is identical to that of a mini dishwasher but it is narrower (60cm) and higher (80 to 85cm). It easily finds its place in a small kitchen and is suitable for a couple without children.
Finally, the standard size dishwasher measures 60 cm wide, 85 cm high and 60 cm deep. Its capacity is estimated at 12 place settings minimum because it can amount to 16 place settings on some models. It is the most common model in French kitchens and the most economical even for a couple without children. In fact, it is better to run your standard dishwasher three times a week rather than one program per day with your mini dishwasher.
Note that many models are modular. This means that it is possible to go from a maximum of 6 place settings to 8 or 10 simply by removing a few storage items. Then you just have to optimize the storage so that all the dishes can fit in the dishwasher.
When choosing your dishwasher you need to look at the dimensions because they will define its capacity in terms of number of place settings and even its location in the kitchen.