Frigidaire 18-Inch Compact Dishwasher FFBD1831US Review Dual Spray Arms and Energy Efficiency

Description

A Compact Dishwasher That Packs a Punch

The Frigidaire FFBD1831US has been an interesting addition to my kitchen setup, and while I thoroughly enjoyed testing it, there are a few aspects you might want to consider before making a decision. With its compact design, Energy Star certification, and impressive cleaning power, this dishwasher is certainly worth discussing.

Design and Build Quality

I was immediately drawn to the sleek stainless steel finish, which not only looks modern but also resists fingerprints, a must-have for anyone with kids or roommates who don’t believe in clean hands. Measuring 18 inches wide, it fits perfectly into smaller spaces, making it ideal for apartments or cozy kitchens. The interior, also stainless steel, adds durability and a premium touch, ensuring it can handle daily use without showing wear. However, its compact size limits it to 8 place settings per cycle, so larger families might find this a bit restricting.

One quirk I noticed is that the controls, while functional, could have been more intuitive. They’re front-facing, which is convenient, but some might find the lack of a digital display a little outdated.

Cleaning Performance and Cycle Options

The cleaning performance of this unit is where it really shines. Thanks to the dual spray arm system, dishes come out spotless, even after tackling greasy pans or baked-on messes. With six cycle options, including Economy, Intensive, Delicate, and Heavy Wash, there’s a setting for nearly everything. I personally found the NSF-certified sanitize cycle particularly useful, especially for baby bottles and cutting boards, as it eliminates 99.9% of bacteria.

What stood out most is the Energy Saver cycle, which balances cleaning efficiency with reduced water and electricity usage. It’s a thoughtful touch for anyone looking to minimize their environmental footprint. However, I did notice the heated drying system isn’t always consistent; some plastic items still had water droplets, which might frustrate those expecting bone-dry results every time.

Key Benefits

• Compact size perfect for smaller kitchens or apartments.
• Energy Star certification, saving both energy and money.
• Dual spray arms ensure thorough cleaning, even for tougher stains.
• Sanitize cycle for extra peace of mind in cleaning delicate items.

Areas for Improvement

• Limited capacity might not suit larger households.
• Inconsistent drying performance, particularly with plastics.
• No digital display, which can make cycle tracking less intuitive.

Quiet Operation and Usability

At 52 decibels, this dishwasher is surprisingly quiet. I’ve had conversations standing right next to it, and it never felt intrusive. This makes it great for open-plan spaces where loud appliances can become a nuisance. Loading it is straightforward, though I did feel the racks could have been designed with a bit more flexibility for larger items like mixing bowls or tall glasses.

The ADA compliance is worth mentioning too. Its design is considerate of those with mobility challenges, allowing for easier access and usability, a thoughtful addition for any household.

Competing Products

When compared to other compact dishwashers, such as the Bosch 18-inch models, the Frigidaire unit holds its own in terms of affordability and energy efficiency. Bosch often edges out competitors with quieter operation and more customizable racks, but their models tend to come with a higher price tag. On the flip side, budget-friendly brands might provide similar capacity but lack features like the sanitize cycle or Energy Star certification, which makes this dishwasher a middle ground between performance and value.

Value for Money

For its price, the Frigidaire FFBD1831US offers a solid blend of features, performance, and reliability. While it’s not the most advanced model on the market, the cost-efficiency is undeniable, especially if you’re looking for a compact, energy-efficient dishwasher that doesn’t skimp on cleaning power. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done without emptying your wallet.

This dishwasher might not be the ultimate choice for everyone, but it’s a smart investment for smaller households or anyone tight on kitchen space. If you’re after a practical, efficient, and affordable appliance, this might just be the one for you.

Additional information