A comparative place-setting analysis of built-in dishwashers shows that the largest share of models falls in the 15 to 16 place-setting range at 35 percent, followed by the 13 to 14 place-setting range at 28 percent (see the comparative chart). The Frigidaire FFBD1831US dishwasher review places this model in the 7-8 place-setting category, where only 17 percent of dishwashers compete, making it a compact option for smaller households. This built-in unit focuses on efficiency with 3.2 gallons of water per normal cycle and six practical wash programs for everyday cleaning, though it offers less loading capacity than most full-size models.
Read on to discover why the Frigidaire FFBD1831US is a solid choice for smaller kitchens, or check out our Overview Summary below for a quick verdict and pricing history.
Table of Contents
Overview Summary
Performance Indicators:
Frigidaire FFBD1831US Price History:
Pros:
- ENERGY STAR certified
- Bi Beam spray coverage
- 3.2 gallons per cycle
- Sanitize and high temp options
- Six wash cycles
- 18 inch compact build
- Heat drying system
- Stainless steel interior
Cons:
- No Wi Fi connectivity
- Eight place setting limit
- No auto door drying
- Moderate 52 dB noise
- No air refresh system
- Two rack design
Frigidaire FFBD1831US in the Market Spotlight: A Competitive Comparison
💰 Visualizing Value: A Breakdown of Market Price Ranges
The Frigidaire FFBD1831US falls within the $625 to $949 price range, which represents the largest segment of built-in dishwashers at 38 percent. This places it directly in the most competitive part of the market, where most buyers are shopping for a balance between cost and features. The lower $300 to $624 range still accounts for a solid 28 percent, but these models often sacrifice build quality or performance.
Higher priced built-in dishwashers are far less common. Only 20 percent of models fall between $950 and $1274, while premium tiers above $1275 account for just 15 percent combined. This makes the FFBD1831US a strong value-driven option in a market dominated by mid-range buyers.
🔇 Hushed or Harsh? Understanding Dishwasher Noise Ratings
With a noise rating of 52 dB, the Frigidaire FFBD1831US sits in the 50 dB to 53 dB range, which includes 28 percent of built-in dishwashers. This places it among a large group of models designed for balanced performance, offering reasonable quietness without reaching premium silent pricing. The most common range is actually 42 dB to 45 dB at 33 percent, which is quieter but typically more expensive.
On the louder end, only 11 percent of dishwashers operate above 54 dB, making excessive noise less common in this category. While this Frigidaire is not ultra-quiet, it still avoids the noisy end of the spectrum and fits well into everyday household use.
⚖️ Weight in Context: Market-Wide Dishwasher Comparison
Weighing 58 pounds, the Frigidaire FFBD1831US falls into the 54.5 lb to 73.9 lb category, which represents 23 percent of built-in dishwashers. This places it among the lighter models, making it easier to handle during installation while still feeling solid enough for long-term use. The most common weight range is 74 lb to 93.4 lb at 37 percent, which includes many heavier full-size units.
Only 6 percent of models are lighter than 54.4 lb, meaning extremely lightweight dishwashers are rare. Meanwhile, heavier models above 93.5 lb account for 35 percent combined, offering more heft but often requiring more effort to install. This Frigidaire strikes a practical middle ground.
🍽️ How Many Dishes Can It Handle? Market-Wide Capacity Comparison
With 8 place settings, the Frigidaire FFBD1831US falls into the 7 to 8 place setting group, which accounts for 17 percent of built-in dishwashers. This positions it firmly in the compact segment, designed for apartments, small families, and kitchens where space matters more than large load capacity. The most common categories are 15 to 16 place settings at 35 percent and 13 to 14 place settings at 28 percent, showing that most built-in models are made for much larger households.
Smaller capacity models like this one are less common, but they serve a clear niche for users who want built-in convenience without oversized dimensions.
🔄 Cleaning Options Compared: Wash Cycles Across the Market
The Frigidaire FFBD1831US offers 6 wash cycles, placing it in the most common category for built-in dishwashers, which accounts for 50 percent of the market. This makes it perfectly aligned with industry standards, offering enough variety for daily, delicate, and heavy cleaning without becoming overly complex. Models with 5 wash cycles make up 17 percent, while those with 7 or 8 cycles together account for just 21 percent.
At the higher end, dishwashers with 9 to 10 wash cycles are rare at only 4 percent. This confirms that 6 cycles remain the sweet spot for balancing simplicity and functionality in today’s built-in dishwasher market.
Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher
Frigidaire FFBD1831US Detailed Breakdown: Ratings and Features
The WashDryDazzle team recently put the Frigidaire FFBD1831US under counter dishwasher to the test, all in the interest of providing you with the most informed choice for your kitchen.
💵 Price and Design (4.2/5)
Priced around $750, the Frigidaire FFBD1831US positions itself as a compact built-in dishwasher designed for smaller kitchens that still want a premium feel. Its 18-inch width makes it ideal for apartments or tight layouts, while the stainless steel, white, and black finishes allow it to blend easily into various kitchen styles.
The front control panel features a digital display with cycle progress indicator lights, giving clear feedback during operation. While it skips smart connectivity, the clean, solid-door design and standard installation make it simple, functional, and visually modern.
| Price | $750 |
| Height | 32 inches |
| Width | 18 inches |
| Depth | 24 inches |
| Weight | 58 pounds |
| Color | Stainless Steel/White/Black |
| Control Panel Location | Front Control |
| Display | Digital Display |
| Touch or Tactile Controls | Tactile |
| Cycle status/progress indicator on display | cycle progress indicator lights |
| Wi-Fi Enabled (Smart Dishwasher) | N/A |
| Compatibility with home assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant) | N/A |
✨ Cleaning Performance (4.4/5)
The Frigidaire FFBD1831US delivers reliable cleaning with six wash cycles, including Heavy, Normal, 1 Hour, China Crystal, Energy Saver, and Rinse, covering everything from delicate glassware to stubborn cookware. Its two spray arms provide full-rack coverage, ensuring water reaches every corner of the load.
The manual three-mesh removable filter effectively traps food particles, though it requires routine care for best results. High Temp heats water up to 140 °F (60 °C), while the Sanitize option boosts it to 167 °F (75 °C) for added hygiene. For better performance, the entire filter system should be cleaned at least once a week.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 6 (Heavy, Normal, 1 Hour, China Crystal, Energy Saver, Rinse) |
| Specialized Cycles | Energy Saver |
| Number of Options / Functions | 3 (Sanitize, High Temp, Heat Dry) |
| Number of Spray Arms | 2 spray arms |
| Filter type (self-cleaning or manual/removable filter) | Manual – Removable three mesh Filter system |
| Sanitization | Yes |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes, up to 24 hours |
| Targeted washing zones | Bi-Beam Dual-Direction Full-Rack Coverage |
| Soil sensor capability (Turbidity Sensor) | Yes |
| Option / Function # 01 | Sanitize: In this option, the water temperature will be 69°C. |
| Option / Function # 02 | High Temp: Selecting High Temp maintains water at 140°F (60°C) max |
| Option / Function # 03 | Heat Dry: activates the heater during drying. |
💨 Drying Performance (4.3/5)
This dishwasher uses Heat Drying to handle moisture after the wash cycle. Heat Drying uses a built-in heating element to warm the air inside the dishwasher during the final stage of the cycle. This heat evaporates moisture from dishes, glasses, and the tub, helping them dry faster and more thoroughly compared to air drying alone.
Rinse aid is also supported, and rinse aid in a dishwasher is a liquid drying agent that helps improve the drying performance and reduce water spots on dishes. While it lacks fresh-air circulation or automatic door opening, its traditional heated drying still delivers dependable results.
| Hot Air Drying / Heat Drying | Heat Drying |
| Fresh Air Circulation for Moisture and Odor | N/A |
| Auto Door Opening for Natural Drying | N/A |
| Rinse aid availability | Yes |
| Built-in Water Softener (For Hard Water) | N/A |
🔕 Noise Level (4.0/5)
Operating at 52 dB, the Frigidaire FFBD1831US is reasonably quiet for a compact built-in dishwasher. To put the 52 dB noise level into perspective, standing about five feet away from the dishwasher would sound similar to a quiet conversation or the gentle hum of a modern refrigerator, which would be noticeable when paying attention but otherwise feels quiet.
In comparison, the Avanti DWT18V3S runs slightly louder at 53 dB, while the Bosch SPE53B55UC is quieter at 46 dB, and the Honeywell HDS18SS is much quieter at 42 dB. This model sits comfortably in the middle of the noise spectrum.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.5/5)
The Frigidaire FFBD1831US is ENERGY STAR® certified (Energy Star-certified appliances meet strict energy efficiency standards set by the EPA, using less energy and reducing environmental impact), making it a smart option for eco-conscious households. A Normal Wash Cycle with Heat Dry System, running 130 minutes, would use approximately 1.11 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity.
To put this into perspective, it’s like running a 1-ton AC at full load for about 67 minutes. Energy consumption for running this dishwasher daily on Normal Wash Cycle with Heat Dry System for 30 days = 1.11 kWh/day x 30 days = 33.48 kWh/month. The Delay Start Timer lets you run cycles during off-peak hours for even more savings.
| Energy Star rating | ENERGY STAR® |
| Estimated Energy Consumption / Wattage | 33.5 kWh/month for Daily use of the Normal Wash Cycle with the Heat Dry System |
| Voltage Required | 120 Volts |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes, up to 24 hours |
💧 Water Usage (4.4/5)
The Frigidaire FFBD1831US uses 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters) of water per wash in the Normal Cycle, which is efficient for a built-in dishwasher in this size category. Compared to competitors, the Avanti DWT18V3S uses slightly less at 3.1 gallons (11.73 liters), while the Honeywell HDS18SS matches it at 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters). The Bosch SPE53B55UC uses 3.5 gallons (13.25 liters) per cycle, making Frigidaire a balanced option for conserving water without sacrificing performance.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 3.2 gallons (12.11 Liters) per wash in Normal Cycle. |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.3/5)
The Heavy Wash runs between 155 and 160 minutes, making it ideal for tackling tougher loads. Normal Wash takes about 125 to 160 minutes for everyday cleaning. Energy Saver runs for 130 minutes, while China Crystal finishes delicate items in around 105 minutes. The 1 Hour Wash can complete a cycle in 60 to 100 minutes for quick results.
Rinse Only cycles run between 20 and 55 minutes. For a deeper dive into specific wash cycles, please refer to our section: “Specialized Wash Cycles.”
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.1/5)
This dishwasher offers 8 place settings (defined further down in this section), making it well-suited for small households or apartments. It can handle plates up to 11 inches, and its two-rack layout keeps dishes organized during washing. A cutlery basket with a cup shelf provides added flexibility for utensils and smaller items. While it is not built for large families, it efficiently manages everyday dish loads without feeling cramped.
| Number of Place Settings | 8 Place Settings |
| Dish or Plate Size: A Rack can Accumulate | 11 inches |
| Number of Racks | 2 racks |
| Special Utensil Holders or Baskets | Cutlery Basket with cup shelf |
| Adjustable height of Rack | Adjustable Lower Rack |
8 – Place Setting Dishwasher:
A place setting refers to the dishes and utensils needed for one person’s meal. In dishwashers, it indicates the number of such sets the appliance can handle in one cycle.
An 8-place-setting dishwasher is designed to wash 8 dinner plates, 8 dessert plates, 8 soup bowls, 8 cups, 8 glasses, and 8 sets of cutlery in a single cycle.
In reality, the exact combination can vary due to item sizes and shapes. For example, you might fit 8 dinner plates, 8 dessert plates, 6 soup bowls, 6 cups, 4 glasses, and 8 sets of cutlery comfortably in an 8-place setting dishwasher.
🔒 Safety Features (4.5/5)
The Frigidaire FFBD1831US includes Child Lock Controls to prevent accidental changes during operation, which is especially helpful in homes with children. It is also NSF-certified and ADA-compliant, ensuring it meets strict sanitation and safety standards.
The dishwasher features a non-slip base, ensuring it stays securely in place during operation. But do not place or use the machine on an unstable or uneven platform. For safe operation, avoid placing the dishwasher near gas or electric burners. Also, do not use extension cords or adapter plugs.
| Child Lock – Safety Feature | Child Lock Controls |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safety Feature | Overflow triggers error codes. |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.6/5)
With a stainless steel exterior and an interior tub, this dishwasher is built to withstand heat, moisture, and daily use with confidence. Stainless Steel is a strong, corrosion-resistant material prized for its durability, sleek appearance, and ability to withstand high temperatures and exposure to moisture without rusting or degrading.
The 1-year limited warranty provides homeowners with peace of mind. The dishwasher is sturdy, but avoid overloading the top surface with heavy items. To keep your warranty valid, use the product only as intended, follow the instructions in the manual, and avoid misuse, mishandling, accidents, neglect, or abuse.
Frigidaire FFBD1831US Wash Cycle Guide for Every Need
The Frigidaire FFBD1831US fixed dishwasher comes equipped with targeted wash cycles designed to handle tough messes and deliver spotless results. Take a look at the available cleaning modes below:
| Program | When to Use | Options Available | Water Used (Liters) | Cycle Time (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy Wash | Recommended for pots and dinnerware with light to heavily soiled loads | Sanitize, High Temp, Heat Dry | 19.7 L | 155 to 160 |
| Normal Wash | Recommended for lightly to heavily soiled loads | Sanitize, High Temp, Heat Dry | 9.5 to 18.5 L | 125 to 160 |
| Energy Saver | Shorter wash for lightly soiled loads that do not need drying | N/A | 15.5 L | 130 |
| China Crystal | For lightly soiled china and crystal | Heat Dry | 15.5 L | 105 |
| 1 Hour Wash | For lightly soiled and pre-rinsed dishes and silverware | Heat Dry | 12.5 L | 60 to 100 |
| Rinse Only | Pre-rinse to prevent food from drying and reduce odors. Do not use detergent | Heat Dry | 6.7 L | 20 to 55 |
Detailed Pros And Cons Of Frigidaire FFBD1831US
Pros
- ENERGY STAR certified, helping reduce electricity use and monthly power costs
- Uses only 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters) per cycle, delivering strong water efficiency
- Six wash cycles cover heavy, normal, quick, delicate, and energy-saving needs
- Bi-Beam dual-direction spray arms provide full rack cleaning coverage
- Sanitize option heats water to 69 °C for improved hygiene
- High Temp mode maintains 140 °F (60 °C) for stubborn food removal
- Heat drying system speeds up moisture evaporation after wash cycles
- Stainless steel tub resists stains, odors, and heat damage
- Compact 18-inch width fits smaller built-in kitchen spaces
- Front digital controls with cycle progress indicator lights improve usability
- Eight-place setting capacity supports daily dish loads efficiently
- Removable three mesh filter traps food debris for cleaner washing performance
- Delay start timer allows flexible scheduling up to 24 hours
- NSF-certified sanitization ensures safe and hygienic cleaning
Cons
- No Wi Fi or smart home assistant compatibility
- Lacks auto door opening for natural air drying
- No fresh air circulation system for odor control
- Only two racks with no third cutlery tray
- Smaller eight-place setting capacity than full-size built-in models
- Manual filter requires regular cleaning for best performance
- 52 dB noise level is not among the quietest options
- Limited to heat drying without fan-assisted airflow.
Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher
Who Makes the Best Use of Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher
- Apartment dwellers who want a built-in dishwasher that fits neatly into smaller kitchens without crowding their cooking space
- Couples or small families looking for an easy way to stay on top of daily dish cleanup
- Busy professionals who want clean dishes waiting for them without spending time at the sink
- Parents who value extra hygiene when washing baby bottles, plates, and everyday kitchenware
- Eco-conscious users who like reducing water and energy waste while keeping their kitchen routine efficient
- Renters or condo owners wanting a built-in look without needing a large, full-size appliance
- People who enjoy tidy kitchens and want dishes cleaned quietly in the background
- Home cooks who prepare regular meals and want reliable cleaning without complicated settings
Who Might Skip Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher
- Large families who regularly generate big loads of dishes and need a higher-capacity dishwasher
- Frequent entertainers who often host dinners and need to wash many plates, glasses, and cookware at once
- People who prefer ultra-quiet appliances for open-plan living spaces
- Tech lovers who want smart home control, app monitoring, or voice assistant features
- Users who rely on advanced drying systems for perfectly dry plastic containers
- Homes in hard water areas that depend on built-in water softening for better results
- Shoppers looking for premium luxury appliances with high-end customization and design features
- Those who prefer minimal maintenance and do not want to deal with manual filter cleaning
Top Replacement Options for Frigidaire FFBD1831US
Avanti DWT18V3S
The Avanti DWT18V3S is a solid, compact built-in dishwasher that balances performance and practicality. It offers six automatic wash programs, heat drying, and several flexible options, such as half-load and extra dry, making it adaptable to different cleaning needs. The top control panel with an LED display keeps the design clean and modern, while the stainless steel interior helps resist odors and stains. Its multi-spray arm system delivers reliable coverage across both racks for everyday dishwashing.
Read more about this model in our comprehensive Avanti DWT18V3S Dishwasher Review.
Avanti DWT18V3S Dishwasher
Honeywell HDS18SS
The Honeywell HDS18SS stands out for its quiet operation and refined cleaning performance. It includes six wash programs covering heavy, normal, eco, glass, rapid, and rinse cycles, giving it good flexibility for different types of loads. The heat-drying system and sanitization options help keep dishes hygienic and dry, while the stainless steel interior enhances durability and long-term cleanliness. With a modern top-control layout and energy-efficient operation, it feels well-suited to compact built-in kitchens.
Discover all the details in our thorough Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher Review.
Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher
Bosch SPE53B55UC
The Bosch SPE53B55UC brings a more premium feel with its smart connectivity, refined washing technology, and advanced drying system. Its PrecisionWash technology uses sensors to adjust cleaning for each load, while the PureDry system focuses on energy-efficient moisture removal. The three-rack layout offers added loading flexibility, and the Home Connect app allows remote monitoring and control. With quieter operation and a sleek stainless steel finish, it delivers a more polished built-in dishwasher experience.
Learn more about this model by exploring our detailed Bosch SPE53B55UC Dishwasher Review.
Bosch SPE53B55UC Dishwasher
Wrapping Up the Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher Review
The Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher strikes a thoughtful balance between compact design and everyday performance, making it a smart choice for smaller kitchens that still demand reliable cleaning. Its strong wash coverage, sanitization options, and heat-drying system handle daily dish loads with ease, while ENERGY STAR efficiency helps keep running costs in check.
Compared to larger built-in models, it saves space without feeling underpowered, and it holds its own against competitors in this category. If you want a built-in dishwasher that is practical, efficient, and easy to live with, the Frigidaire FFBD1831US is a dependable pick for your kitchen.
Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the Frigidaire FFBD1831US dishwasher work well for everyday dishwashing needs
Yes, it handles daily plates, glasses, and cookware with reliable cleaning across its multiple wash cycles.
Is this dishwasher suitable for smaller kitchens or apartments
Yes, its compact built-in design fits neatly into tight spaces while still offering practical dishwashing capacity.
How effective is the heat drying system on this dishwasher
The heat drying system helps evaporate moisture, leaving dishes mostly dry and reducing the need for towel drying afterward.
Does this dishwasher support energy efficient operation
Yes, it is ENERGY STAR certified, meaning it uses less electricity and water while still delivering dependable cleaning performance.
Can this dishwasher handle delicate glassware safely
Yes, the China Crystal cycle gently cleans fragile items while protecting glassware from damage and excessive heat.
Is the noise level low enough for everyday home use
Yes, it runs at a moderate sound level that stays comfortable for normal kitchen environments without becoming distracting.
How does this model compare to other compact built in dishwashers
It offers a strong mix of efficiency, wash performance, and value, making it a competitive option against similar built-in models.
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Keeping Your Dishwasher Clean and Functioning Smoothly
A clean and well-maintained dishwasher not only performs better but also lasts longer. Check out these articles from our website to keep your dishwasher in peak working order:
- Dishwasher Running For Too Long? 7 Unexpected Causes and Quick Fixes!
- How to Fix a Dishwasher Troubleshooting and Repair
- How to Remove and Prevent Mold in Your Dishwasher
- Dishwasher Problems Caused by Hard Water and How to Fix Them
- Dishwasher Not Heating Water? Uncover Possible Reasons
Additional Reads to Enhance Your Dishwashing Knowledge
- Choosing the Right Dishwasher Size
- How to wash a Hat in the Dishwasher without damaging it
- How Much Electricity Does a Dishwasher Use?
- How to Use the Delay Start Option?
- How Do Countertop Dishwashers Work?
At WashDryDazzle, we are committed to providing insightful resources and curated lists to help you discover the best products tailored to your specific needs. Furthermore, our comprehensive dishwasher guides and specialized education articles are designed to empower you with optimal appliance management.
