Frigidaire dishwashers are known for balancing performance with affordability. They pack features like heated drying, dual spray arms, and sanitization cycles into machines that don’t break the bank.
Whether you need a compact unit for a studio apartment or a workhorse for a large family, finding the right model can be tricky. We’ve cut through the noise to bring you the top Frigidaire dishwashers of the year. We analyzed customer feedback, expert specs, and cleaning technologies to help you make the right choice.
Read on to find the perfect dishwasher to handle your messiest meals.
- Rotating BladeSpray arm
- Fan-assisted EvenDry technology
- Kill 99.9% of bacteria
- NSF certified
- Nine washing cycles
- Front control panel
- MaxBoost Dry technology
- Adjustable space-saving racks
- 34-minute quick wash
- 14 place settings
- Auto cycle time sensor
- 30 minute quick cycle
- 3 spray arms
- Stay put door
- 4 hour delay start timer
A Brief History of Frigidaire
Frigidaire started in 1918 by revolutionizing home cooling (1). W.C. Durant bought the company behind the first self-contained refrigerator and rebranded it. It wasn’t long before “Frigidaire” became a household name.
By 1929, they expanded into freezers and room air conditioners. Over the decades, they built a massive portfolio of home appliances, eventually launching their dishwasher line.
Today, Frigidaire is owned by Electrolux and focuses on high-tech, user-friendly appliances. Their modern machines offer smart organization, energy efficiency, and time-saving features designed for busy households.
Types of Frigidaire Dishwashers
Frigidaire categorizes its dishwashers into three distinct lines: Professional, Gallery, and the standard Frigidaire series. All current models are built-in; they do not manufacture portable dishwashers at this time.
Frigidaire Professional
The Professional line is the top tier. It features commercial-grade styling and robust handles. These models are designed for power and usually include the best drying tech available from the brand.
Pros
- EvenDry Technology: Fan-assisted airflow delivers consistently dry dishes.
- SpacePro Organization: Includes a third rack for utensils and adjustable internal layouts.
- PrecisionWash Zones: Targets hard-to-reach items like water bottles.
- 30-Minute Wash: A rapid cycle that actually cleans effectively.
- Floor Light: A beam hits the floor to let you know when the cycle is running.
- Silence: These are the quietest models in the lineup.
Cons
- Noise Level: At 47 dBa, it is quiet but louder than premium Bosch units.
- Availability: Can be harder to find in stock at big-box retailers.
- Price: This is the most expensive tier.
Frigidaire Gallery
The Gallery series is the sweet spot for most homeowners. It balances high-end features with a mid-range price tag. If you want smudge-proof stainless steel and reliable cleaning without the “Professional” markup, look here.
Pros
- Variety: A wide range of prices and feature sets.
- OrbitClean: A rotating spray disk that provides 4x better water coverage.
- Material: Many models feature durable stainless steel tubs.
- Finish: Smudge-proof stainless steel resists fingerprints.
- Speed: Most include the Quick Wash option.
Cons
- Noise: Generally around 49 to 52 decibels, which is noticeable.
- Racks: Some silverware baskets can be clunky to load.
- Drying: Lower-end Gallery models may lack the fan-assisted dry.
Frigidaire Standard
The standard series is the budget-friendly entry point. These are functional, no-frills machines often used in rentals or starter homes. They get the job done but skip the advanced sensors and quiet insulation.
Pros
- Price: Very affordable.
- Sizes: Available in both standard 24-inch and compact 18-inch widths.
- Colors: Options often include black, white, and stainless steel.
- Sanitization: Many are NSF certified to kill bacteria.
- Controls: Simple, easy-to-use interfaces.
Cons
- Loudness: Can reach 60 decibels, which disrupts conversation.
- Tub Material: Often plastic, which retains odors and stays wet longer.
- Learning Curve: Interface icons can sometimes be confusing.
- Drying: Expect some water left on plastics.
Buying Guide
Frigidaire offers a lot of specs, but only a few really matter for your daily routine. Here is what to watch for.
Size and Dimensions
First, grab your tape measure. Standard dishwashers are 24 inches wide, but smaller kitchens might require an 18-inch “slimline” model. Don’t forget to measure the height from your floor to the underside of the counter to ensure a snug fit.
Washing Performance
To get the best clean, look for models with OrbitClean. This proprietary spray arm rotates a disc at the bottom of the tub, providing four times the water coverage of a traditional arm. It is excellent for blasting away stuck-on food without pre-rinsing.
Also, check for a “Heavy” or “PowerPlus” cycle if you frequently cook with baked-on grease.
Drying Technology
Frigidaire uses a few different terms for drying. SaharaDry and EvenDry are fan-assisted systems that help pull moisture out. They work well, but plastics may still have a few drops.
For the best results, look for MaxBoost Dry. This system uses a heater and a fan to force hot air out of the tub, significantly improving drying performance on plastics and glass.
Tub Material
This is a major differentiator. Budget models use plastic tubs. Plastic is durable but noisy, and it doesn’t retain heat well, which hinders drying.
Higher-end models feature stainless steel tubs. These resist odors/stains, dampen sound, and reflect heat to help dry your dishes faster. If your budget allows, always choose stainless steel.
Noise Level
Dishwasher noise is measured in decibels (dBa).
- 55-60 dBa: Loud. You will hear it in the next room.
- 50-54 dBa: Average. You can hear it, but you can talk over it.
- 47-49 dBa: Quiet. Frigidaire’s best models sit here.
If you have an open-concept kitchen, prioritize a model under 50 dBa.
Hard Food Disposer vs. Filtration
Older Frigidaire models used hard food disposers (grinders) at the bottom. These are great for destroying food scraps but are noisy.
Newer models use a filtration system. This is quieter and more energy-efficient, but it means you have to manually clean the filter at the bottom of the tub once a month.
Warranty
Frigidaire typically offers a one-year limited warranty on parts and labor (2). It generally covers manufacturer defects but not installation errors.
Top Tip
Product Reviews
Our top five Frigidaire dishwasher picks are the result of extensive research into specs, user reviews, and market comparisons. We evaluated cleaning power, drying tech, noise levels, and overall value. Whether you are on a tight budget or looking for a sleek upgrade, we have a recommendation for your kitchen.
Here are the machines that made the cut.
Frigidaire Top Control Dishwasher
Best Quiet Frigidaire Dishwasher
If silence is golden, this is the Frigidaire model you want to look at. While the “Professional” series hits 47 decibels, this Gallery Top Control model sits at a comfortable 49 decibels. It is significantly quieter than standard builder-grade models, making it a solid choice for open floor plans.
Beyond the noise level, this unit brings a high-end feel with its integrated top controls. It keeps the front panel sleek and modern. It hits the sweet spot between advanced features and mid-range pricing.
What We Like
BladeSpray Arm
This isn’t your average sprayer. The BladeSpray arm rotates independently to blast water in two different directions. It ensures better coverage for dishes tucked into the corners of the bottom rack.
EvenDry System
Nobody likes opening the dishwasher to find a dripping mess. The fan-assisted EvenDry system circulates air to remove moisture, ensuring your plates and glasses come out cabinet-ready.
Third-Rack Convenience
The dedicated third rack is a game-changer for organization. It frees up the silverware basket for larger items and gives you a perfect flat space for spatulas, knives, and measuring spoons.
Sanitization Cycle
The NSF-certified sanitize cycle increases the final rinse temperature to kill 99.9% of bacteria. It gives you peace of mind when washing baby bottles or cutting boards.
What We Don't Like
Interior Layout
The rack tine spacing can feel a bit odd for certain dishes. Some users note that deep cereal bowls or tall wine glasses can be tricky to position securely.
Stiff Door Hinge
The door spring is tight. You might need to give it a firm push to open it fully, and it requires a deliberate shove to latch it shut.
Product Specs
| Noise Level | 49 decibels |
| Washing Cycles | Five |
| Drying Cycle | EvenDry |
| Dishwasher Capacity | 14 place settings |
| Size | 24 inches |
Our Ratings
Frigidaire 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher
Best Slim Frigidaire Dishwasher
Small kitchen? No problem. This 18-inch model is the perfect solution for studio apartments, butler pantries, or tiny homes. It is a built-in unit, so it slides seamlessly under your counter without the hassle of portable faucet hookups.
Despite its narrow profile, it holds up to eight place settings. That is plenty for a couple or a single professional. It doesn’t skimp on cleaning power, either; dual spray arms ensure the top and bottom racks get equal attention.
What We Like
Compact Powerhouse
It fits where standard dishwashers can’t. If you are tight on square footage, this lets you have a dishwasher without sacrificing cabinet space.
Sanitize Option
Like its bigger brothers, this compact unit is NSF certified. It hits high temperatures to eliminate bacteria, which is a great feature to have in a smaller machine.
Stainless Steel Tub
We love that Frigidaire included a stainless steel tub here. It retains heat better than plastic and resists odors, which is crucial in smaller living spaces where smells can travel fast.
24-Hour Delay Start
You can program the wash to start whenever you want. Set it to run while you are at work or during off-peak energy hours to save a little money on your utility bill.
What We Don't Like
Noise Level (52 dBa)
It is not silent. At 52 decibels, it hums at the volume of a quiet conversation. In a small apartment, you will definitely hear it running.
Limited Capacity
It holds eight place settings. If you love to host dinner parties or use a lot of large mixing bowls, you might find yourself hand-washing the overflow items.
Product Specs
| Noise Level | 52 decibels |
| Washing Cycles | Eight |
| Drying Cycle | Heated dry |
| Dishwasher Capacity | Eight place settings |
| Size | 18 inches |
Our Ratings
Frigidaire Gallery Built-In Dishwasher
Best Drying Ability
Wet dishes are the number one complaint people have about modern dishwashers. This Frigidaire Gallery model tackles that problem head-on. It features MaxBoost Dry technology, which Frigidaire claims drives moisture off plastics and glass faster than standard heated dries.
Aside from drying, it looks great. The stainless steel exterior elevates the look of any kitchen, and the feature set is robust enough to handle heavy daily use.
What We Like
MaxBoost Dry Technology
This system uses a heating element combined with a powerful fan. It pushes moist air out and pulls fresh air in, leaving Tupperware and glassware drier than most competitors in this price range.
OrbitClean Spray Arm
The rotating spray disk provides four times better water coverage than a standard arm. It is excellent at blasting off baked-on oatmeal or cheese.
DishSense Technology
You don’t have to guess which cycle to use. The sensors automatically detect how dirty the water is and adjust the cycle time for the most efficient clean.
34-Minute Quick Wash
Need plates for a dinner party in a hurry? This cycle washes a lightly soiled load in just over half an hour. It is fast, effective, and a total lifesaver.
What We Don't Like
Lightweight Door Feel
The door stays put where you leave it, but some users feel the construction is a bit light. It doesn’t have that heavy “thud” of more expensive luxury brands.
Middle-of-the-Road Noise
At 52 dBa, it isn’t “library quiet.” It is acceptable for most homes, but if you are sensitive to background hums, you might want to look for a 49 dBa model.
Product Specs
| Noise Level | 52 decibels |
| Washing Cycles | Five |
| Drying Cycle | MaxBoost |
| Dishwasher Capacity | 14 place settings |
| Size | 24 inches |
Our Ratings
Frigidaire Gallery EvenDry™ Dishwasher
Largest Frigidaire Dishwasher
Big families generate big messes. This Gallery model is designed to handle high volume. With a capacity of 14 place settings and a tall tub design, it swallows up pots, pans, and plates with ease.
It also features a versatile third rack. While many brands offer this, Frigidaire’s implementation is straightforward and easy to use. It gives you a dedicated zone for all those small items that usually fall through the cracks, leaving the main racks free for the bulky stuff.
What We Like
OrbitClean Coverage
Large loads need serious water coverage. The OrbitClean spray arm ensures that water reaches every corner of the tub, so you don’t end up with dirty plates at the back of the rack.
Smudge-Proof Finish
Stainless steel looks great until the kids touch it. This model has a smudge-proof coating that resists fingerprints and wipes clean easily, keeping your kitchen looking sharp.
Top Controls
The controls are hidden on the top edge of the door. This prevents accidental button presses (great for households with curious toddlers) and gives the unit a seamless look.
Adjustable Racks
The interior is flexible. You can adjust the top rack to fit taller items below, making it much easier to load oversized pasta pots or cookie sheets.
What We Don't Like
Long Cycle Times
Efficiency comes at a cost. The normal cycle can run anywhere from two to three hours. If you need dishes fast, you will have to rely on the Quick Wash setting.
Drying Consistency
While EvenDry is a good feature, some users report that water can pool on the concave bottoms of mugs. Using a rinse aid is highly recommended to help this unit perform its best.
Product Specs
| Noise Level | 49 decibels |
| Washing Cycles | Seven |
| Drying Cycle | EvenDry |
| Dishwasher Capacity | 14 place settings |
| Size | 24 inches |
Our Ratings
Frigidaire 24-Inch Built-In Dishwasher
Best Budget Choice
If you want a reliable dishwasher without paying for bells and whistles, this is the one. It is a favorite for landlords and budget-conscious homeowners because it covers the basics perfectly.
It features a front control panel that is simple to operate, no hidden menus or confusing codes. You get 14 place settings, a delay start timer, and a heated dry option. It proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get clean dishes.
What We Like
Triple Spray Arms
Budget dishwashers often skimp on spray arms, but not this one. It features three arms (top, middle, and bottom) to ensure water circulates thoroughly through the whole tub.
Stay-Put Door
The door hinge is friction-based, meaning it stays open at whatever angle you leave it. This makes loading and unloading much easier since the door won’t flop down or snap shut on your shins.
Angled Upper Tines
The upper rack tines are angled to hold cups securely. This prevents water from pooling on the tops of mugs and keeps delicate glasses from rattling against each other.
Heated Drying Element
Many modern dishwashers rely solely on condensation drying. This model includes a traditional heating element, which is often more effective at drying plastic items in a plastic tub environment.
What We Don't Like
Loud Operation (60 dBa)
There is no sugarcoating it: this machine is loud. At 60 decibels, it sounds like a loud conversation or background laughter. You probably won’t want to run it while watching a movie nearby.
Plastic Tub
To keep the cost down, the interior is plastic. It creates more noise and can stain over time if you wash a lot of tomato-based dishes.
Product Specs
| Noise Level | 60 decibels |
| Washing Cycles | Three |
| Drying Cycle | Heated dry |
| Dishwasher Capacity | 14 place settings |
| Size | 24 inches |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Noise Level | Washing Cycles | Drying Cycle | Capacity | Size |
| Frigidaire Top Control Dishwasher | Quiet Frigidaire Dishwasher | 49 dB | 5 | EvenDry | 14 place settings | 24″ |
| Frigidaire 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher | Slim Fridigaire Dishwasher | 52 dB | 8 | Heated dry | 8 place settings | 18″ |
| Frigidaire Gallery Built-In Dishwasher | Drying Ability | 52 dB | 5 | MaxBoost | 14 place settings | 24″ |
| Frigidaire Gallery EvenDry™ Dishwasher | Largest Fridigaire Dishwasher | 49 dB | 7 | EvenDry | 14 place settings | 24″ |
| Frigidaire 24-Inch Built-In Dishwasher | Budget Choice | 60 dB | 3 | Heated dry | 14 place settings | 24″ |
Frigidaire Dishwasher FAQs
Are Frigidaire Dishwashers Reliable?
User experiences vary. While many customers love the cleaning performance and price point, reliability ratings are mixed. Consumer Reports has previously flagged Frigidaire for higher repair rates compared to brands like Bosch (3). However, parts are widely available and generally affordable if repairs are needed.
How Long Do Frigidaire Dishwashers Last?
You can expect a Frigidaire dishwasher to last about 10 years with proper maintenance (4). Cleaning the filter regularly is key to longevity.
Are Whirlpool and Frigidaire the Same Company?
No, they are totally separate entities. Whirlpool Corporation owns the Whirlpool brand. Frigidaire is owned by the Swedish company Electrolux.
Is Frigidaire Made in the USA?
The brand has a long history of US manufacturing, but ownership is Swedish (Electrolux). While many units are still assembled in North American factories, production locations can shift globally depending on the specific model and components.
Do Frigidaire Dishwashers Have Filters?
Yes. Most modern Frigidaire models use a removable mesh filter system located at the bottom of the tub. It traps food particles to prevent them from recirculating. You should rinse this filter under a tap once a month to prevent odors.
How Does Air Dry Work on a Frigidaire Dishwasher?
The Air Dry setting simply lets the dishes dry naturally without using the heating element. It saves energy but takes longer, and you might find some water spots on glassware.
Is It Necessary To Use Rinse Aid in a Dishwasher?
It is highly recommended. Modern Energy Star dishwashers use less water and lower heat than older models. Rinse aid breaks the surface tension of water, helping it slide off dishes so they dry faster and without spots.
How Do I Reset My Frigidaire Dishwasher?
To reset the control panel, locate the “Cancel” button (often paired with the Start button). Press and hold it for 3 seconds until the lights change or the display clears. If that doesn’t work, you can flip the circuit breaker off for one minute and then flip it back on.
What Does the i30 Error Code Mean?
The i30 error code indicates a leak or water accumulation in the bottom pan of the dishwasher. This triggers the safety system to stop the cycle. If you see this, check for drain blockages or kinks in the drain hose.
