Semi-integrated dishwashers are dishwashers that will fit into the space a kitchen cabinet would take, but the cabinet door would have to be adjusted, as the control panels for these dishwashers are on the front of the machine. This allows you to load the machine, set the programmes and close the cabinet door to integrate the machine into your kitchen. You can still check the machine because you can see the control panel so you can keep track of the cycle progress.
Most semi-integrated dishwashers are full size dishwashers, 60cm wide, with a 12 place setting capacity. Baumatic have a compact model at 46cm wide that only takes 6 place settings, but at £880 this is on the more expensive side of the scale.
As with all modern dishwashers, semi-integrated models feature different programmes for different wash requirements. The wash cycles usually include an economy program, lightly soiled, pots and pans and a normal cycle. Each program operates a different temperature, affecting the energy consumption of the machine. Some of the more expensive models have separate drawers facilitating partial loads for those days when you don’t have a full load of dishes to wash.
Colours of Semi-integrated dishwashers
Semi-integrated dishwashers are available mainly in white and stainless steel so they can co-ordinate with the other appliances in the kitchen so they do not need a cabinet door to cover the bottom section of the door if you prefer. They do need to be plumbed in inside the kitchen cabinets, which can make them expensive to install in an existing kitchen unless you have space near the washing machine and can use the same water supply and drainage.
Noise control is an area that semi-integrated dishwashers have excelled in, with most machines operating at 40dB or slightly higher, giving them a reputation for being among the quietest dishwashers on the market. These machines are popular in large families, as most of them take 8 to 12 place settings, larger than most fully integrated dishwashers.
Types of Semi-integrated dishwashers 
Baumatic’s semi-integrated dishwasher models start at £330 for a 12 place setting machine with 8 programmes. Hotpoint has an affordable 12 place setting machine for £350, as do Whirpool and Bosch. In the more expensive ranges, Miele offers various models in the £800 to £1500 range, with their top of the range model at £2200. This semi-integrated dishwasher takes 14 place settings, has 11 programmes, Auto open and close door, the facility to delay the programme start by up to 24 hours, and many more features designed to make dishwashing as convenient as possible.
If you have the space in your kitchen, a semi-integrated dishwasher offers convenience combined with appearance and the facility to conceal most of the machine behind a kitchen cabinet door. This means that your kitchen will look more fitted and finished, adding to the appeal of your home.
