Before Buying: 2 Must-Ask Dishwasher Questions

[@edgar9651]

From reading a book from the marketing expert Rory Sutherland I learned about the most important function of a dish washer: The most important function of a dishwasher is to hide the dirty dishes. That also works if the thing is off and totally silent. ;)

[@kitchensbyrannes]

Hahaha 🤣 Yeah. I agree. And even a very cheap dishwasher can do that.

[@MrRastow]

Something worth pointing out when selecting a different brand dishwasher in combination with ikea kitchens is that you may need a special opening mechanism. I had already decided on a Siemens dishwasher and the salesman kindly hinted at potential problems with the installation. Instead of having to buy the required sliding hinge set from ikea (for 60€), I ended up buying a Siemens machine with integrated "vario hinge" (model SX73HX60CE). It looks absolutely amazing, is way cheaper & of higher quality than ikea counterparts, can only recommend!

[@kitchensbyrannes]

Thanks for the information. I am not certain what the issue is. I've seen hundreds of dishwashers being installed in Ikea kitchens without any special opening mechanism. What's the specific problem?

[@MrRastow]

@@kitchensbyrannes I believe it is because of the small toe kicks ikea has (8cm). If you install a 80cm metod front panel without sliding hinge, the dishwasher door won't open.

[@kitchensbyrannes]

Ah.....we're in Europe, right? I wish I was 🙏

[@MrRastow]

@@kitchensbyrannes Yes, I am from Germany. Nevertheless, all your tips were very useful for me. Wouldn't have been able to build my kitchen without them! :)

[@mattlisch8952]

Hey Rannes! I am planning to end a row of cabinets with a dishwasher. Installing a panel there at the end seems to be not so easy - maybe this is an idea for some video content? I guess there are some pro tips and options to explore concerning that particular problem. Keep it up, your content is awesome

[@kitchensbyrannes]

Yes, you're right; I should do a video about this. But you cannot wait for that, I guess. When I put up that panel, I do it like this: First and foremost, I never cut the panel at the floor, always at the top. Put the panel (26x36") in place where you want it. Shim it to horizontal if needed. Use your laser/level and mark where you must cut it in height. Next, cut the depth to approx. 24 5/8", but be sure to check if your wall is vertical. If not, cut to adapt to the wall. Attach the panel to the wall with 90° brackets. Maybe leftovers from a 47" corner cabinet or reinforced rail for the sink cabinet. If your floor is falling down into the room, you will have to shim it as it must support the countertop.

[@mattlisch8952]

Thank you! That‘s what most people recommend on the usual DIY forums. I‘ve also come across different ideas like using a piece of (laminate) countertop as a sturdy end panel or contructing a beefy endpiece from two-by-fours covered with panel pieces. The latter may also house additional electrical outlets, which I find an excellent idea

[@kitchensbyrannes]

That's a good idea too, if you have the room.

[@AidanSkoyles]

I got the "fancy" Ikea dishwasher. It's fine. Reasonably quiet. Had to 3D print my own vent extender though, bc the one supplied was not deep enough.

[@kitchensbyrannes]

Quiet is good. and you got to flex your 3D printing skills! I also have a 3D printer, and it comes in handy very often.

[@AidanSkoyles]

@@kitchensbyrannes love your videos btw. So pleased with the way my diy ikea kitchen turned out. Thanks

[@kitchensbyrannes]

@@AidanSkoyles I'm happy to hear that you find the videos helpful 👍🙏

[@jebotech4931]

The warranty is also important. Get one with a 5 year warranty.

[@kitchensbyrannes]

Yes, I agree. Good point ☝️