Frigidaire 18 in. ADA Compact Front vs Kenmore 22-14709 18" Compact Built-In

Overview and Design

When selecting a compact dishwasher, buyers often weigh accessibility, noise, and cleaning power against budget constraints. The Frigidaire 18 in. ADA Compact Front and the Kenmore 22-14709 18" Compact Built-In represent two strong options in the 18-inch category. The Frigidaire 18 in. ADA Compact Front focuses on compliance and essential cleaning features, ensuring it meets specific accessibility guidelines. In contrast, the Kenmore 22-14709 18" Compact Built-In emphasizes advanced interior flexibility and quieter operation. Both units are designed to fit into smaller kitchen spaces where standard 24-inch models cannot install, making them ideal for apartments or secondary kitchens.

Cleaning Performance and Cycles

Cleaning effectiveness is determined by spray arm configuration and cycle options. The Frigidaire 18 in. ADA Compact Front utilizes a dual spray arm system located on the top and bottom racks to ensure thorough coverage. It provides six cleaning cycle options, including Energy Saver, Heavy Wash, and Rinse, giving users manual control over the process. The Kenmore 22-14709 18" Compact Built-In advances this with three pressurized spray arms that clean dishes from every angle using filtered water. Additionally, the Kenmore model features SmartWash technology, where sensor technology detects soil levels and automatically adjusts water temperature, pressure, and cycle time. This automation can lead to more consistent results without user intervention compared to manual cycle selection.

Noise Levels and Operation

Noise pollution is a critical factor for open-concept living spaces. The Frigidaire 18 in. ADA Compact Front operates at 52 dBA, which is considered quiet enough to run while in the same room. However, the Kenmore 22-14709 18" Compact Built-In achieves a lower noise level of 45 dBA. This difference makes the Kenmore unit whisper-quiet, allowing users to take a call or watch television nearby without distraction. The Kenmore model also includes leak detection, adding a layer of safety during operation that is not explicitly highlighted in the Frigidaire feature set. For households sensitive to appliance noise, the decibel difference is significant.

Capacity and Interior Layout

Interior flexibility dictates how many items can be washed in a single load. The Frigidaire 18 in. ADA Compact Front is rated to fit up to 8 place settings in one cycle. This provides a clear metric for users planning their meal cleanup. The Kenmore 22-14709 18" Compact Built-In does not specify a place setting count in the provided data but offers an EasyFlex Third Rack. This removable third rack holds extra utensils and tools, allowing users to slide trays on the left or right to make space for tall items in the middle rack. When paired with the MoreSpace Adjustable Rack, the Kenmore interior offers added flexibility for odd-shaped items that might not fit in a standard two-rack configuration.

Drying Technology

Drying performance often distinguishes mid-range from high-end dishwashers. The Frigidaire 18 in. ADA Compact Front employs a heated drying system where a heating element helps dry dishes after the wash cycle. While effective for ceramics, heated drying can sometimes struggle with plastics. The Kenmore 22-14709 18" Compact Built-In utilizes TurboDry technology, which combines a built-in fan to pull moisture and warm air out of the dishwasher with a heating element that boosts drying power. This dual approach ensures that even plastics come out dry and spot-free, reducing the need to ditch the dish towel after the cycle completes.

Energy Efficiency and Certification

Operating costs and environmental impact are influenced by energy certifications. Both the Frigidaire 18 in. ADA Compact Front and the Kenmore 22-14709 18" Compact Built-In are ENERGY STAR Certified. This certification indicates that both appliances maximize energy and dollar savings compared to non-certified models. The Frigidaire model explicitly mentions an Energy Saver cycle option to further reduce consumption during lighter loads. The Kenmore model's SmartWash sensor also contributes to efficiency by adjusting cycle time and water usage based on the actual soil level, preventing unnecessary energy expenditure on lightly soiled loads.

Accessibility and Compliance

For users with specific mobility needs, compliance standards are essential. The Frigidaire 18 in. ADA Compact Front is explicitly ADA Compliant, meeting the appliance standards in the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Guideline. This ensures controls and operation are accessible to a wider range of users. The Kenmore 22-14709 18" Compact Built-In focuses more on interior adjustability than external compliance standards in its provided feature list. While the adjustable racks help with loading, the Frigidaire model holds the advantage for users requiring certified accessibility features for installation in compliant housing.

Price and Value Verdict

Value is determined by the balance of cost against features and performance. The Frigidaire 18 in. ADA Compact Front is priced at $743.00, making it the more affordable option. It delivers solid cleaning, sanitation, and compliance at a lower entry point. The Kenmore 22-14709 18" Compact Built-In is priced at $849.99, reflecting its premium features like the third rack, sensor washing, and quieter motor. While the Kenmore 22-14709 18" Compact Built-In commands a higher price, the additional investment buys significant improvements in noise reduction and drying capability. Buyers should choose based on whether budget or advanced performance features are the higher priority.