The short answer is yes, you can replace a freestanding dishwasher with an integrated one, but you will need to make some modifications to your kitchen cabinets and plumbing. In this article, we will explain the differences between freestanding and integrated dishwashers, the pros and cons of each type, and the steps you need to take to make the switch.
A freestanding dishwasher is a standalone appliance that can be placed anywhere in your kitchen, as long as it has access to a power outlet and a water supply. A freestanding dishwasher usually has a finished exterior that matches the rest of your kitchen appliances, and can be easily moved or replaced if needed.
An integrated dishwasher, on the other hand, is a built-in appliance that is designed to fit inside a kitchen cabinet. An integrated dishwasher has a hidden control panel that is only visible when the door is open, and a front panel that matches the rest of your kitchen cabinets. An integrated dishwasher is more aesthetically pleasing and saves space, but it is also more expensive and harder to install or repair.
There are two types of integrated dishwashers: fully integrated and semi-integrated. A fully integrated dishwasher has a completely concealed front panel, while a semi-integrated dishwasher has a visible control panel at the top of the door.
What are the Pros and Cons of Freestanding and Integrated Dishwashers?
Both freestanding and integrated dishwashers have their own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your preferences, budget, and kitchen layout. Here are some of the main pros and cons of each type:
Cheaper and more widely available than integrated dishwashers
Easier to install and uninstall, as they only require a power outlet and a water supply
Easier to access and repair, as they do not need to be removed from the cabinet
More flexible and portable, as they can be moved or replaced without affecting the kitchen cabinets
Cons:
Less attractive and less cohesive than integrated dishwashers, as they do not blend in with the kitchen cabinets
Take up more space and create a gap between the cabinets
May be louder and less energy-efficient than integrated dishwashers, as they are not insulated by the cabinet
Integrated Dishwashers
Pros:
More attractive and more cohesive than freestanding dishwashers, as they blend in with the kitchen cabinets
Save space and create a seamless look in the kitchen
May be quieter and more energy-efficient than freestanding dishwashers, as they are insulated by the cabinet
Cons:
More expensive and less widely available than freestanding dishwashers
Harder to install and uninstall, as they require modifications to the kitchen cabinets and plumbing
Harder to access and repair, as they need to be removed from the cabinet
Less flexible and less portable, as they cannot be moved or replaced without affecting the kitchen cabinets
How to Replace a Freestanding Dishwasher with an Integrated One?
If you decide to replace your freestanding dishwasher with an integrated one, you will need to follow these steps:
Measure your existing dishwasher and the space available in your kitchen. You will need to choose an integrated dishwasher that fits the dimensions of your cabinet and has the same capacity as your freestanding dishwasher. You will also need to check the height, width, and depth of the door and the control panel of the integrated dishwasher, as they may differ from the freestanding dishwasher.
Remove your freestanding dishwasher from the kitchen. You will need to disconnect the power cord, the water supply hose, and the drain hose from the dishwasher, and carefully pull it out from the space. You may need to unscrew the dishwasher from the countertop or the floor, depending on how it is secured. You will also need to cap off the water supply valve and the drain pipe to prevent leaks.
Prepare the cabinet for the integrated dishwasher. You will need to cut out a hole in the cabinet for the power cord, the water supply hose, and the drain hose of the integrated dishwasher. You will also need to adjust the height and the width of the cabinet opening to fit the integrated dishwasher. You may need to remove the cabinet door, the drawer, or the shelf from the cabinet, depending on the type and the size of the integrated dishwasher. You will also need to install a mounting bracket or a support rail to secure the integrated dishwasher to the cabinet.
Install the integrated dishwasher in the cabinet. You will need to slide the integrated dishwasher into the cabinet opening, and connect the power cord, the water supply hose, and the drain hose to the appropriate outlets. You will also need to level and align the integrated dishwasher with the cabinet, and screw it to the mounting bracket or the support rail. You will also need to attach the front panel and the door of the integrated dishwasher to the cabinet door, and adjust the hinges and the latch to ensure a proper fit and closure.
Test the integrated dishwasher and enjoy your new appliance. You will need to turn on the power and the water supply, and run a test cycle to check for any leaks, noises, or errors. You will also need to read the user manual and familiarize yourself with the features and the settings of the integrated dishwasher. You will also need to dispose of your old freestanding dishwasher properly, or donate it to a charity or a recycling center.
