What is an integrated dishwasher?

An integrated dishwasher (also known as a built-in or built-under dishwasher) is designed to match the rest of your kitchen cabinetry.

Integrated dishwashers fit beneath your counter top and provide a neat, flush finish to your existing decor. They often allow for a fitted, custom cupboard door that conceals the dishwasher when the appliance is fully closed.

Unlike freestanding dishwashers, which can be taken with you when you move, integrated dishwashers are more-or-less permanently installed into your dishwasher cavity.

How do I choose an integrated dishwasher?

Dishwasher size is your first and most important consideration. Your existing dishwasher opening may also be different to the current standard, so it’s essential you take precise measurements to ensure you purchase the right size.

First, measure the depth, width and height of your allocated dishwasher space. This will help refine your options to the right size. It’s best to leave a little extra depth (20-30mm) to allow for the water and electricity cables.

If you plan on having your dishwasher blend in with your kitchen cabinetry, remember that you’ll also need to organise a matching front panel with a kitchenmaker.

Once you have all those dimensions, you’re free to explore the options! 

Semi-integrated vs fully-integrated – what’s the difference?

Semi integrated

Semi integrated dishwashers are designed to be installed into your kitchen cupboards, with only the controls left visible. The remaining space on the door can be covered with a panel that matches the rest of your kitchen – if your cupboards have a beech finish, for example, you can cover the door of the dishwasher with a beech panel to match. 

Alternatively, some semi integrated dishwashers can be fitted with a stainless steel panel.

Fully integrated

Like semi integrated models, fully integrated dishwashers provide a flush finish to your kitchen. Compared to standard and semi integrated dishwashers, they’re ideal for anyone wanting to create a smooth minimalist style in their kitchen. 

Unlike a semi-integrated dishwasher, the fully-integrated dishwasher control panel is located inside the top of the door. When you shut the door, you won’t see the controls at all, and the dishwasher is fully concealed within your bench. You’ll only be able to tell there’s a dishwasher there when it’s open – otherwise, it’ll sit flush with the rest of your kitchen cabinets.

A third option is a DishDrawer® style dishwasher:

DishDrawer®

Unique to Fisher & Paykel, DishDrawer® dishwashers feature one or two dishwasher ‘drawers’ with a comprehensive range of programs and features. The main advantage of owning a two drawer DishDrawer is that you can run two different cycles at once – for example, a heavy wash program for pots and pans in the lower drawer and a delicate cycle for glassware in the top drawer. The drawer design is also very ergonomic, making these dishwashers easy to load and use.

Are built-in dishwashers all the same size?

No – dishwasher dimensions can vary slightly between brands and models. There is however a standard dishwasher size range, with the majority of built-in units measuring within 810-850mm high, 540-570mm deep and 585-605mm wide. Some models also feature height-adjustable legs, which allow you to bring the appliance perfectly flush to your benchtop.

Certain styles, such as the DishDrawer®, also have specific plumbing requirements for their hoses. You can find all of the details on our website, including comprehensive product videos, user reviews and other helpful content, along with our great range of dishwashers.