At a Glance:
What Is a Panel Ready Dishwasher?
How Are Panel Ready Dishwashers Implemented?
Pros and Cons of Using a Panel Ready Dishwasher
What You Need to Know Before Buying a Panel Ready Dishwasher
3 of the Best Panel Ready Dishwashers
Who Would Most Benefit From a Panel Ready Dishwasher?
If you’re someone who likes a cohesive design to your kitchen and home, panel ready dishwashers might just be the perfect appliance for you. In recent years, panel ready dishwashers have grown in popularity thanks to the customization options they give to buyers and the powerful cleaning features they provide to their dish cleaning. In this article, we discuss what a panel ready dishwasher is, the pros and cons of using one, and three top choices for those looking to buy a panel ready dishwasher.
Explore Available Panel Ready Dishwashers
If you are in search of a new dishwasher, consider panel ready options. Seamlessly blend your dishwasher with your cabinets, creating a unified look.
Panel Ready DishwashersWhat Is a Panel Ready Dishwasher?
A panel ready dishwasher is a specialized appliance designed to seamlessly integrate with the overall aesthetic of a kitchen. Unlike traditional dishwashers, which have exposed front panels, panel ready models feature a customizable front panel that can match the cabinetry or design scheme of the kitchen. This allows the dishwasher to blend in with the surrounding cabinets, giving the kitchen a cohesive and streamlined appearance.
How Are Panel Ready Dishwashers Implemented?
To correctly implement a panel ready dishwasher into your kitchen, it’s important to follow some specific steps. First, the dimensions of the dishwasher should be considered during the kitchen design or remodeling process. This will ensure that the dishwasher fits well into its designated space, but that it also seamlessly matches the kitchen cabinetry. If the dishwasher is too small, it might break the cohesive look.
The custom front panel, matching the kitchen cabinetry, is then attached to the dishwasher, effectively hiding its true identity. This panel is often created by the same makers or sellers of the cabinetry, not the sellers of the appliance. So, it’s important to coordinate with your cabinet sellers during a kitchen remodel.
Pros and Cons of Using a Panel Ready Dishwasher
Though the panel ready dishwasher offers many benefits to its user, that doesn’t mean it’s the right appliance for everyone:
Pros
Here are some pros to using a panel ready dishwasher in your kitchen:
- Seamless Integration: The primary benefit of a panel ready dishwasher is its ability to blend in with your kitchen cabinetry. This allows you to create a cohesive look for the design of your kitchen.
- Customization: Creating a cohesive look isn’t the only benefit that panel ready dishwashers give you. You also have the freedom to choose whatever front panel you desire. That means anything the appliance retailers have to offer, as well as your own custom panels that fit your design and aesthetic.
- Resale Value: A well-designed kitchen with a panel ready dishwasher can potentially increase the resale value of your home. That’s because a lot of home buyers like the appeal of a cohesive kitchen and a hidden appliance.
Cons
Here are some cons to using a panel ready dishwasher in your kitchen:
- Limited Stock: Because of their popularity, it’s possible that some stock of panel ready dishwashers might be limited compared to standard models. That can reduce your choices in terms of features, brands, and even price ranges.
- Installation Complexity: Retrieving the custom panel for the dishwasher and mounting it to the front can require precise measurements. It might even require installation expertise, forcing you to hire an additional professional to assist with the installment.
- Cost: Panel ready dishwashers are typically more expensive than standard models due to their customization options. However, the final price of the dishwasher will often depend on its features and the needs of your household.
Related: 3 Best Black Stainless Steel Dishwashers on the Market
What You Need to Know Before Buying a Panel Ready Dishwasher
Here are some important things to keep in mind before buying a panel ready dishwasher:
Custom Panel Options
First and foremost, it’s crucial to check if your cabinet manufacturer offers compatible custom panel options. If they don’t, you might need to discuss alternatives. Consider the variety of panel styles, finishes, and materials to ensure you can still achieve a similar aesthetic. It’s also possible that you might be able to source your panel from another company.
Compatibility
It’s good to make sure that the dimensions of your panel ready dishwasher match your kitchen space. To do so, measure the available area carefully, considering the depth, width, and height limitations. It’s also helpful to be aware that the custom panel may add new dimensions to the appliance, which could hinder its installation or look once the custom panel is fitted.
Installation Process
Before buying your dishwasher, it’s helpful to understand the installation process. Basically, it’s important to determine if it can be done as a DIY project, or if professional assistance is required. Some dishwashers may come with a panel kit and installation instructions. Other dishwashers may need additional accessories or expertise for proper installation.
Brand and Features
Though the customized panel is a huge benefit to the design of your kitchen, it’s also important to consider their features and how they meet the needs of your household.
Research reputable dishwasher brands that offer panel ready options and compare their features, performance, and reliability. Next, consider specific features that might benefit your kitchen even more, such as noise level, energy efficiency, and special functions.
3 of the Best Panel Ready Dishwashers
Here are three high-quality, panel ready dishwasher options to consider:
1. Bosch 800 Series 24” Custom Panel Built In Dishwasher
Bosch 800 Series 24in Custom Panel Built In Dishwasher
Model #: SGV78B53UC
This Bosch panel ready dishwasher is perfect for those who like luxury features that can benefit their dishwashing needs. That includes features such as its CrystalDry technology, which effectively dries even plastic dishes, and the adjustable upper rack that can change to nine different positions.
Thanks to its quiet operation, this dishwasher also runs at a remarkable 42 DBA, making it one of the quietest for its size on the market. Next to that, it also gives users the ability to remotely monitor and control their dishwasher with the Home Connect Remote app.
2. KitchenAid 24” Panel Ready Built In Dishwasher
KitchenAid 24in Panel Ready Built In Dishwasher
Model #: KDTM704LPA
Thanks to the intuitive design of this KitchenAid panel ready dishwasher, users can fit a majority if their dishes into a load, including pots and pans. That’s especially due to the FreeFlex third rack, that’s designed to fit glasses, mugs, bowls, silverware, and cooking tools, leaving the bottom open for all of your larger items.
With its ProWash cycle, this washer also has sensors that can measure the soil levels during a cycle to adapt the wash time and water temperature accordingly. That not only provides your dishes with an exquisitely clean, but it also keeps this model energy efficient, saving you on utility costs.
3. Miele 24” Fully Integrated Built In Dishwasher
Miele 24in Fully Integrated Built In Dishwasher
Model #: PFD 104 SCViXXL 120 V
With the impressive design and power of this Miele dishwasher, you can clean up to a 16-place setting worth of dishes in just 52 minutes. With its automatic door opening process, the dishwasher can dry your dishes more quickly than other brands. Like the other models in this list, you can also make this Miele dishwasher panel ready by adding a customized panel to its front.
It also includes other features, like a built-in water softener, which turns your water to the optimum degree of hardness. That helps your dishwasher use detergent sparingly and prolongs the life of the appliance at the same time.
Related: How to Clean Whirlpool Dishwasher
Who Would Most Benefit From a Panel Ready Dishwasher?
Often, those who would benefit most from a panel ready dishwasher are homeowners who prioritize a seamless kitchen design. Those who have invested in custom kitchen cabinetry or those who have an open-concept kitchen, where the dishwasher is visible from multiple areas, will appreciate the ability to seamlessly integrate the dishwasher into the overall aesthetic.
Essentially, if you’re someone who wants a visually harmonious kitchen now, or you think you might want the option to customize your kitchen in the future, buying a panel ready dishwasher might be the best option for you.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about panel ready dishwashers:
What Does a “Panel Ready Dishwasher” Mean?
A panel ready dishwasher is a dishwasher that has the ability to be customized using a unique front panel. Homeowners can either create that panel to match the cabinetry in their kitchen, ultimately hiding the appliance or customize it with a design of their choice.
Do Panel Ready Dishwashers Cost More?
Though most panel ready dishwashers cost a bit more due to their customization options, it’s often not a major increase compared to standard dishwashing models.
Need affordable, quality panel ready dishwashers? Take a look at these custom panel ready options from Texas Appliance.
Do I Have To Put a Custom Panel on My Dishwasher?
Though panel ready dishwashers have the option to be customized, you don’t have to install a custom front panel that matches your cabinetry. If you like the dishwasher and brand for all the other features it offers, the manufacturer or retailer often has a standard front panel that comes with the machine, or a few different options for you to choose from.
What Size Panel Do I Need for a Panel Ready Dishwasher?
The size of your custom panel for a panel ready dishwasher will often change based on the dimensions of your kitchen and the dishwasher itself. If you’re having trouble figuring out the size of panel you should order or keep in mind, it’s best to talk with your appliance retailer or your cabinet manufacturers. They can help ensure your measurements are perfect to help create a seamless kitchen design.
Why Trust Texas Appliance?
With roots back to the 1950s, Texas Appliance is an established, locally owned and operated, residential major appliance retailer serving both residential and builders’ needs. Our 4 locations allow us to offer a full spectrum of appliances to meet your every need. With over 40 major quality brands, Texas Appliance has one of the largest displays of built–in and free–standing appliances in the state of Texas.
We will be the best appliance dealer in our markets by exceeding our customers' expectations in every way. We will treat our customers, vendors, and fellow employees with respect, honesty, integrity, and appreciation. The difference between a "Good" company and a "Great" company lies in its' employees' determination.
Shop Panel Ready Dishwashers at Texas Appliance
Stop by Texas Appliance’s Fort Worth Store and Outlet locations to see what a difference buying locally with an experienced staff can make. Or shop panel ready dishwashers online! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you pick out the perfect panel ready dishwasher — whether you call us at 817-299-2800, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.
Learn More: Bosch Dishwasher Review