Frigidaire FFBD1831US Built-In Dishwasher Review Compact ADA Compliant Design with Dual Spray Arms

Description

Compact Design with Big Cleaning Power

Testing the FRIGIDAIRE 18 in. ADA Compact Front Control Dishwasher, I immediately noticed how perfect it is for smaller spaces. With dimensions of 18 x 22.5 x 35 inches, this built-in dishwasher fits snugly into compact kitchens while still offering plenty of functionality. Despite its smaller size, it can handle up to 8 place settings per cycle, which is impressive for something so compact. I’ve tested this thoroughly, and the capacity is surprisingly ample for an average household. It’s a lifesaver for apartments or homes with limited kitchen real estate.

What’s even better? Its stainless steel finish not only looks modern and sleek but is also resistant to smudges and fingerprints. Cleaning the exterior is a breeze, which is a bonus when dealing with busy family life.

Dual Spray Arm System for Thorough Cleaning

The dual spray arm system is a standout feature. Dishes on both the top and bottom racks come out spotless, thanks to the thorough water coverage. I’ve put this to the test with everything from greasy pans to delicate glassware, and the results were fantastic every time. The 6 cleaning cycle options, including Heavy Wash, Energy Saver, and Rinse, make it easy to choose the right settings for different loads.

The NSF-certified sanitize cycle is a game-changer for me. For someone who’s a bit of a germaphobe, knowing that the dishwasher eliminates 99.9% of bacteria gives me peace of mind. I can confidently say this feature is perfect for families with young kids or anyone who values extra cleanliness.

Positives

• Compact design fits small kitchens while maintaining efficiency.
• The dual spray arm system ensures a thorough clean every time.
• NSF-certified sanitize cycle for hygienic cleaning.
• Energy Star certification saves both energy and money.
• Quiet operation at just 52 dBA – I can run it while watching a movie in the same room.

Quiet Yet Powerful Performance

I’ve owned dishwashers that sounded like a jet engine taking off, but this one operates at a whisper-quiet 52 dBA. It’s so silent that I’ve caught myself double-checking if it’s running. This feature is especially handy during family gatherings or late-night cleaning sessions when you want minimal disturbance.

Energy Efficiency That Saves Money

The Energy Star certification ensures this dishwasher is eco-friendly and cost-effective. It uses only 270 kilowatt hours per year, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint. I’ve noticed a decrease in my energy bills, which is always a welcome surprise.

Drawbacks

• The lack of a display screen makes it harder to track cycle progress.
• Limited capacity may not suit larger families or heavy-duty cleaning needs.
• The drying performance isn’t perfect for plastic items, which sometimes come out with water spots.

Competing Products

Comparing this dishwasher to larger models like the Bosch 300 Series, it’s clear the compact design is both an asset and a limitation. The Bosch has a higher capacity and more advanced features like AutoAir Dry, but it’s also bulkier and significantly more expensive. On the other hand, brands like GE’s 18-inch dishwashers come close in terms of size but often lack the dual spray arm system that sets this Frigidaire model apart.

For tight spaces and budget-friendly options, this product holds its own. However, if you’ve got the room and want extra features, competitors like Bosch might be worth considering.

Smart Spending

When it comes to value for money, this dishwasher delivers on its promises. The combination of compact design, energy efficiency, and cleaning performance makes it a worthy investment. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the features like the NSF-certified sanitize cycle and dual spray arms make it feel well worth the cost.

For anyone in need of a reliable, space-saving dishwasher that doesn’t skimp on performance, this compact powerhouse is hard to beat.

Additional information