A comparative noise-level analysis of built-in dishwashers shows that the largest share, about 32 percent, falls within the quieter 42–45 dB range. In this SPT SD-9254SSA Dishwasher Review, the model falls in the 50–53 dB range, a category that accounts for 30 percent of dishwashers (see the comparative chart). While not the quietest option, this 18-inch built-in dishwasher still delivers solid everyday performance with 6 wash cycles and an 8-place-setting capacity, making it ideal for small to mid-sized kitchens.
Read on to discover whether the SPT SD-9254SSA is the right built-in match for your home, or check out our Overview Summary below for a quick verdict and pricing history.
Table of Contents
Overview Summary
Performance Indicators:
SPT SD-9254SSA Price History:
Pros:
- Energy Star certified
- Six wash cycles included
- Uses 3.5 gallons per cycle
- Stainless steel interior build
- Delay Start Timer available
- Heated Dry improves results
- Smart Wash cleaning adjustments
- 8 place setting capacity
- Removable mesh filter system
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi connectivity
- Lacks third rack option
- No auto door drying
- Filter requires manual cleaning
- No built-in water softener
- Not ultra-quiet below 45 dB
Where the SPT SD-9254SSA Stands in the Current Market Landscape
💰 Full Spectrum Pricing: From Low-End to Top-Tier
The SPT SD-9254SSA falls within the 390 to 607 dollar bracket, a range that represents 29 percent of built-in dishwashers. This places it in one of the most populated pricing segments, signaling strong competition but also solid affordability for shoppers looking for a mid-range option.
Higher price categories such as 608 to 825 dollars (26 percent) and 826 to 1043 dollars (21 percent) hold a sizable share, while premium brackets above 1044 dollars represent much smaller portions. This positioning helps the SPT SD-9254SSA stand out as a cost-effective choice without dipping into low-end territory.
🔇 Hushed or Harsh? Understanding Dishwasher Noise Ratings
The SPT SD-9254SSA operates in the 50 to 53 dB noise category, which covers 30 percent of built-in dishwashers. This range is the second most populated segment and represents a balanced middle ground for users who want quiet performance without the premium cost of ultra-low-noise models.
Quieter dishwashers fall into the 42 to 45 dB category (32 percent), making that the largest quiet-performance range. Louder models in the 54 to 57 dB range account for 10 percent, while the noisiest segment, 58 to 63 dB, takes only 1 percent. The SPT SD-9254SSA offers respectable quietness but does not reach luxury-silent levels.
⚖️ From Featherweight to Heavyweight: Placing It on the Scale
At 54 pounds, the SPT SD-9254SSA falls into the 35 to 54.4 pound category, which includes 7 percent of built-in dishwashers. This places it in a lighter segment, which can make installation easier and handling more manageable compared to heavier units.
The most common weight ranges fall between 74 to 93.4 pounds (35 percent) and 93.5 to 112.9 pounds (27 percent), indicating that many built-in dishwashers are significantly heavier. While lighter weight aids convenience, heavier models often feel more robust. The SPT SD-9254SSA strikes a balance with a manageable weight that still maintains a stable feel.
🍽️ How Many Dishes Can It Handle? Market-Wide Capacity Comparison
With 7 to 8 place settings, the SPT SD-9254SSA sits in a category that covers 17 percent of built-in dishwashers. This makes it suitable for smaller households or kitchens with limited cabinet space while still delivering reasonable capacity for daily use.
Larger capacities dominate the market, with 13 to 14 place settings (29 percent) and 15 to 16 place settings (34 percent) being the most common. While the SPT SD-9254SSA cannot match full-size models in capacity, its smaller footprint offers flexibility for compact kitchens or apartments.
🔄 Program Variety: Comparing Cleaning Cycles Across the Board
Equipped with 6 wash cycles, the SPT SD-9254SSA falls in the most popular category, representing 51 percent of built-in dishwashers. This makes it highly competitive, providing enough versatility for most cleaning needs without overwhelming users with unnecessary programs.
Other ranges such as 5 wash cycles (17 percent) or 7 and 8 cycles (10 percent each) offer additional variety, while the least common configurations are 3 to 4 cycles (8 percent) and 9 to 10 cycles (4 percent). The SPT SD-9254SSA fits squarely in the sweet spot for balanced wash-cycle options.
SPT SD-9254SSA Dishwasher
Breaking Down the SPT SD-9254SSA Dishwasher Review: Features and Ratings
The awesome team at WashDryDazzle took the SPT SD-9254SSA Under-counter dishwasher for a spin just for you. We wanted to see if it’s as dazzling as it sounds. Our goal? To help you make the best choice for your kitchen.
💵 Price and Design (4.4/5)
At around 485 dollars, the SPT SD-9254SSA sits in the mid-range for built-in dishwashers, offering good value considering its stainless steel finish and compact 18-inch width. The modern digital display, front-control layout, and solid door design make it feel straightforward and practical for everyday use.
Its 32-inch height and 22-inch depth fit most standard under-counter spaces, making installation simple. While tactile controls are not as sleek as touch panels, they are reliable and easy to use. Overall, it balances price with a clean, functional design.
| Price | $485 |
| Height | 32 inches |
| Width | 18 inches |
| Depth | 22 inches |
| Weight | 54 Pounds |
| Color | STAINLESS |
| Control Panel Location | Front Control |
| Display | Digital display |
| Touch or Tactile Controls | Tactile |
| Cycle status/progress indicator on display | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Enabled (Smart Dishwasher) | N/A |
| Compatibility with home assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant) | N/A |
✨ Cleaning Performance (4.6/5)
The SPT SD-9254SSA offers 6 wash cycles, including Heavy, Energy, Glass, Quick, and Rinse, giving enough variety for everyday needs. Helpful options like Hi-Temp Wash, which maintains water at 140 °F (60 °C), and Sanitize, which reaches 156 °F (69 °C), boost cleaning strength and hygiene.
It uses 2 spray arms for complete coverage and includes a 3-mesh removable filter system. For better performance, the entire filter system should be cleaned at least once a week. The dishwasher handles most soil levels well, especially when paired with the Heated Dry function.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 6 (Normal, Heavy, Energy, Glass, Quick, Rinse) |
| Specialized Cycles/Options | Glass |
| Number of Options / Functions | 3 (Sanitize, Hi-Temp Wash, Heated Dry) |
| Number of Spray Arms | 2 |
| Filter type (self-cleaning or manual/removable filter) | 3 mesh filter system (Removable, Manual) |
| Sanitization | Yes |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes |
| Targeted washing zones | complete cleaning coverage |
| Soil sensor capability (Turbidity Sensor) | Yes (Smart Wash System |
| Option / Function # 01 | Hi-Temp: Maintains water at 60°C for stronger cleaning. |
| Option / Function # 02 | Heated Dry: Activates the heater for improved drying. |
| Option / Function # 03 | Sanitize: Maintains water at 69°C for maximum hygiene. |
💨 Drying Performance (4.3/5)
This model uses a Heated Dry system that applies gentle heat inside the tub to evaporate moisture effectively. When combined with rinse aid, drying improves noticeably, especially on glassware and metal items. Rinse aid in a dishwasher is a liquid drying agent that improves drying performance and reduces water spots on dishes.
Since there is no auto door opening or fresh-air function, plastics may come out slightly damp, but overall drying results are consistent for its price range. A built-in water softener is not included so that performance may vary in hard-water homes.
| Hot Air Drying / Heat Drying | Heated Dry |
| Fresh Air Circulation for Moisture and Odor | N/A |
| Auto Door Opening for Natural Drying | No |
| Rinse aid availability | Yes |
| Built-in Water Softener (For Hard Water) | No |
🔕 Noise Level (4.2/5)
With an operating level of 52 dB, the SPT SD-9254SSA falls in the moderate quiet range for built-in dishwashers. To put the 52 dB noise level into perspective, standing about five feet away from the dishwasher would sound like a quiet conversation or the gentle hum of a modern refrigerator, noticeable when paying attention but otherwise peaceful. Compared to competitors, it matches the Midea MDF18A1AST (52 dB), is louder than the Honeywell HDS18SS (42 dB), and is slightly quieter than the Frigidaire FFCD2418US (55 dB). It runs steadily without sharp or disruptive sounds.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.7/5)
The SPT SD-9254SSA is ENERGY STAR® certified (ENERGY STAR-certified appliances meet strict energy-efficiency standards set by the EPA, use less energy, and reduce environmental impact). A Normal Wash Cycle with Turbo Drying System, running 130 minutes, would use approximately 1.08 kWh of electricity.
To put this into perspective, it’s like running a 1-ton AC at full load for about 65 minutes. Energy consumption for running this dishwasher daily on Normal Wash Cycle with Turbo Drying System for 30 days = 1.08 kWh/day × 30 days = 32.6 kWh/month. The Delay Start Timer adds flexibility by allowing you to schedule cycles during off-peak hours or at your convenience.
| Energy Star rating | ENERGY STAR® |
| Estimated Energy Consumption / Wattage | 32.7 kWh/month for Daily use of the Normal Wash Cycle with the Heated Drying System |
| Voltage Required | 120 V |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes |
💧 Water Usage (4.4/5)
The SPT SD-9254SSA uses 3.5 gallons (13.50 liters) per wash in the Normal Cycle, which places it slightly above ultra-efficient models but still comfortably within a reasonable range for an 18-inch built-in dishwasher. Compared with alternatives, it uses a bit more water than the Midea MDF18A1AST at 3.1 gallons (11.7 liters) and the Honeywell HDS18SS at 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters), but remains close to the Frigidaire FFCD2418US at 3.2 gallons (12.11 liters). Overall, its consumption is balanced for its capacity and cleaning strength.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 3.5 gallons (13.50 Liters) per wash in Normal Cycle |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.3/5)
Cycle durations on the SPT SD-9254SSA range from a quick 20-minute Rinse to a more thorough 155-minute Heavy program. The popular Normal Cycle runs between 105 and 135 minutes, offering a good balance of cleaning strength and energy use. Lighter programs like Glass (95 minutes) and Quick (60 minutes) provide convenient options when time is limited. Overall, the range of cycle times is practical for daily use. For a deeper dive into specific wash cycles, please refer to our section: “Specialized Wash Cycles.”
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.2/5)
With 8 Place Settings (defined further down in this section), this dishwasher suits small to medium households. The two-rack layout provides a straightforward loading experience, and the cutlery basket helps organize utensils efficiently. It can accommodate plates up to 11 inches, which is helpful for most dinnerware. While not as spacious as full-size models, its layout makes innovative use of the compact interior and works well for everyday loads.
| Number of Place Settings | 8 Place Settings |
| Dish or Plate Size: A Rack can Accumulate | 11 inches |
| Number of Racks | 2 |
| Special Utensil Holders or Baskets | Cutlery Basket |
| Adjustable height of Rack | pull out racks |
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 SPT SD-9254SSA includes essential safety features, such as a child lock to prevent accidental operation. It is also equipped with 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. These safety basics help maintain a secure setup in everyday household use.
| Child Lock – Safety Feature | Child lock |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safety Feature | Water leakage error code |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.6/5)
The SPT SD-9254SSA features a stainless steel exterior and interior, providing strong durability and resistance to heat and moisture. 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.
It comes with a 1-year warranty, which is standard for dishwashers in this price range. 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 instruction manual, and prevent misuse, mishandling, accidents, neglect, or abuse, as these are not covered.
SPT SD-9254SSA Wash Modes and How They Work
The SPT SD-9254SSA Fix 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 | Purpose | Cycle Description | Water Usage (Liters) | Cycle Time (min) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy | For hard-to-clean, heavily soiled dishes, pots, and pans | Pre Wash → Main Wash (60°C) → Rinse (65°C) → Rinse with Sanitize (69°C) → Drying | 19.7 L | 155 |
| Normal | Standard cycle for daily, regularly soiled dinner dishes or silverware | Pre Wash → Main Wash (50–55°C) → Rinse (58–60°C) → Rinse with Sanitize (69°C) → Drying | 9.5–18.5 L | 105–135 |
| Energy | Efficient program for normally soiled tableware with low energy and water consumption | Pre Wash → Main Wash (45–50°C) → Rinse (50–55°C) → Rinse with Sanitize (69°C) → Drying | 15.5 L | 105 |
| Glass | Gentle cleaning for lightly soiled loads, such as glasses, crystal, and fine china | Pre Wash → Main Wash (48–50°C) → Rinse (50–55°C) → Drying | 15.5 L | 95 |
| Quick | Short cycle for lightly soiled dishes that do not need drying | Pre Wash → Main Wash (50°C) → Rinse (55°C) | 12.5 L | 60 |
| Rinse | For rinsing dishes, glasses, and silverware that will be washed later | Pre Wash → Rinse | 6.7 L | 20 |
SPT SD-9254SSA Advantages and Drawbacks
Pros
- Energy Star certified for efficient power use
- Uses only 3.5 gallons per Normal Cycle
- Six wash cycles, including Heavy, Energy, and Glass
- Hi-Temp Wash maintains water at 140°F (60°C)
- Sanitize option reaches 156°F (69°C) for hygiene
- Two spray arms provide complete cleaning coverage.
- Heated Dry improves drying consistency.
- Removable 3-mesh filter system for thorough maintenance
- 8 place settings with 11-inch plate capacity
- Stainless steel interior and exterior for durability
- 52 dB noise level, similar to a quiet conversation
- Delay Start Timer offers flexible scheduling.
- Digital display with clear progress indicators
- A cutlery basket helps organize utensils efficiently.
- Standard built-in installation fits most 18-inch openings.
- Rinse aid compartment reduces water spots.
- Smart Wash adjusts cleaning automatically using sensors.
- Compact 54-pound weight eases installation.
Cons
- No Wi-Fi or smart home assistant integration.
- No auto door opening for natural drying.
- No fresh air circulation feature.
- No built-in water softener for hard water.
- Plastic items may retain moisture after cycles.
- Only tactile controls, no touch panel option.
- Third rack not included.
- Manual cleaning is required for the filter system.
- No advanced leak protection system beyond the error code.
- Heated Dry increases energy use on longer cycles.
SPT SD-9254SSA Dishwasher
Who Makes the Best Use of SPT SD-9254SSA Dishwasher
- Small families who want an easy-to-use built-in dishwasher that handles daily loads without taking up too much space.
- Busy professionals who prefer simple controls and reliable cleaning performance without constantly adjusting advanced features.
- Eco-conscious users who appreciate an appliance designed to reduce energy and water waste while delivering consistent results.
- Apartment dwellers need a dishwasher that fits into tighter kitchen layouts without sacrificing everyday convenience.
- Parents who value sanitizing functions for keeping dishes, bottles, and utensils extra clean without extra effort.
- Couples or singles who want dependable cleaning power without investing in an oversized machine.
- Renters or homeowners upgrading older kitchens who want a modern, stainless-steel dishwasher that blends well into most interiors.
- People who like predictable wash options and want a machine that covers all essentials without overwhelming choices.
- Users who prefer low-maintenance appliances with straightforward loading and uncomplicated settings.
- Home cooks who appreciate cycles that handle everything from quick cleanups to deeper after-meal washes.
Who Might Skip SPT SD-9254SSA Dishwasher
- Large families who frequently run heavy, oversized loads and need greater capacity in each cycle.
- Homeowners with tough water may face mineral buildup without a built-in water softening feature.
- Tech enthusiasts who expect Wi-Fi controls, app monitoring, and smart home integration for automation.
- Shoppers who prioritize ultra-quiet performance and prefer machines with lower sound levels.
- People who want advanced drying features, such as auto-door opening or airflow systems, for dehydrated plastic items.
- Buyers need extensive rack customization, including a third rack or more flexible storage options.
- Those who regularly wash oversized cookware that requires extra interior space and taller rack adjustment.
- Households want strong leak protection systems beyond fundamental warning indicators.
- Shoppers who prefer premium features and luxury touches rather than a function-focused design.
- Individuals who expect extended warranty coverage and long-term service guarantees beyond one year.
Top Replacement Options for SPT SD-9254SSA
1. Midea MDF18A1AST
The Midea MDF18A1AST is an 18-inch built-in dishwasher offering a familiar layout with 8 place settings, stainless steel construction, and a reliable front-control panel. It provides six wash cycles, including ECO and Delicate, supported by a two-spray-arm cleaning system and a sanitary option for extra hygiene. Noise levels remain steady, and its heated dry function adds convenience for everyday use. With its sensor-based cleaning and versatile loading, it’s a well-rounded alternative for many homes.
Read more about this model in our comprehensive Midea MDF18A1AST Dishwasher Review.
Midea MDF18A1AST Dishwasher
2. Honeywell HDS18SS
The Honeywell HDS18SS stands out for its notably quiet performance, with a 42 dB rating, making it one of the quietest 18-inch built-ins available. It offers six wash programs, touch controls, and a stainless-steel interior for long-lasting durability. Its multi-spray arm cleaning system ensures good coverage, while features like delay start and sanitize add extra flexibility. With full digital controls and a clean, modern aesthetic, it fits nicely into contemporary kitchens.
Learn more about this model by exploring our detailed Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher Review.
Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher
3. Frigidaire FFCD2418US
The Frigidaire FFCD2418US offers a larger footprint with 14 place settings, making it a good fit for households needing more space. It relies on a multi-spray system with three spray arms and includes five cycles, such as 1-Hour Wash and Energy Saver. Though it uses an analog-style control panel, it delivers solid cleaning performance with sanitize and high-temp wash options. Its stainless steel interior and self-cleaning filter simplify long-term maintenance.
Discover all the details in our thorough Frigidaire FFCD2418US Dishwasher Review.
Frigidaire FFCD2418US Dishwasher
End Notes on SPT SD-9254SSA Dishwasher Review
The SPT SD-9254SSA brings together a practical blend of performance, efficiency, and everyday convenience, making it a strong contender in the 18-inch built-in category. Its balanced wash cycles, solid stainless-steel build, and reliable cleaning features stand up well in our performance tests, and the competitive analysis shows it holds its own against popular alternatives. With thoughtful options like sanitize, heated dry, and an Energy Star rating, it delivers dependable value without unnecessary complexity. If you’re looking for a compact built-in dishwasher that quietly handles daily chores and fits comfortably into most kitchens, the SPT SD-9254SSA is definitely worth considering for your next upgrade.
SPT SD-9254SSA Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How quiet is the SPT SD-9254SSA during daily use?
It operates at 52 dB, which sounds similar to a soft conversation and feels comfortable for most kitchen environments.
Does this dishwasher offer enough wash cycles for different needs?
Yes, it includes six cycles like Heavy, Quick, Energy, and Glass, offering good flexibility for everyday dishwashing.
Is the SPT SD-9254SSA efficient with energy and water usage?
It is Energy Star certified and uses 3.5 gallons per Normal Cycle, helping reduce long-term utility costs.
Can it fit larger dishes or cookware easily?
It supports plates up to 11 inches, which works well for standard dinnerware but may not fit oversized cookware.
How effective is the drying performance after each wash?
The Heated Dry feature works well, especially with rinse aid, though some plastic items might remain slightly damp.
Is installation straightforward for most kitchen layouts?
Yes, it’s built for standard 18-inch under-counter spaces, making installation simple for most kitchens.
Who is the SPT SD-9254SSA most suitable for?
It’s ideal for small families, couples, and anyone wanting dependable cleaning without overly complex features.
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