Indesit, an Italian brand acquired by Whirlpool and now part of Arçelik, sells simple, low-cost dishwashers across Europe and Australia. Their appeal is often the price—few features, basic functionality. But real-user experiences reveal recurring issues: mid-cycle failures, sensor errors, rust, and tricky electronics. Here’s a full review based on troubleshooting guides, Reddit feedback, and service resources.
About Indesit Dishwashers
Founded in 1975, Indesit sits in the budget appliance segment with features like half-load, quick-wash, soil sensors, and Aquaintense cleaning zones. Their models vary between freestanding and integrated designs with 12–14 place settings. Despite simple design, they promise energy efficiency and quiet cycles—but real-world longevity and reliability are mixed. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
✅ Strengths & What Indesit Gets Right
- Low price point: Indesit dishwashers are usually priced well under premium brands, making them accessible for tight budgets.
- Basic functionality: Includes sanitize, quick wash, half-load cycles, and sensor-based cleaning in most models. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Quiet operation: Many users find the noise level acceptable for daily use, especially in smaller kitchens. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Spares somewhat available: Key parts like inlet valves, pumps, and control modules can often be sourced, though some vintage components are harder to find. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
⚠️ Common Problems & Recurring Faults
Stops Mid-Cycle or Won’t Start
One of the most frequent issues: your cycle halts early or the machine never starts. Causes include door latch failure, blown fuses, or faulty control boards. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Drainage or Filling Issues
Error codes, flood sensors (A01/F01) and pump faults (F02–F11) are often triggered by blocked filters, clogged hoses, or failing pumps. Some cases require careful diagnosis or replacement parts. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Poor Cleaning & Salt Indicator Errors
Glassware may appear cloudy and dishes stain. Many owners overlook the salt reservoir. A blinking salt light despite the cure being full may signal a water-level sensor failure. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Heating & Drying Faults
Symptoms like dishes being only 70% dry, no steam after cycles, and low wash temperatures often point to heater or thermostat faults—or even bad capacitors on control boards. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Buttons, Controls & Power Surge Damage
Post-power outage behavior—like random program changes or persistent beeping—usually traces to corrupted control boards. Impacts soft-reset or firmware stability. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Rust on Racks and Interior
The rack coating on Indesit models may wear quickly, especially when utensils scratch it. Users suggest re-racking kits or spray coating to extend life. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Flood Sensor Tripping Frequently
Water buildup in the drip tray triggers flood sensors, often due to internal leak into the base or failed drainage. Temporary fix: tilt the machine to clear the sensor. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
👥 Voices from Real Owners (Reddit Highlights)
“I tipped it backwards at 45 degrees and poured some water out which made it work fine… device seems to have tripped again.” — anti-flood sensor issue :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
“The salt light blinking red, but deposit is full… needed to replace the water level sensor.” — DIY repair saved cycle completion :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
“Stopped mid-cycle… replaced heater under warranty; recurred six months later.” — repeated failures cost warning. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
“After power outage the dishwasher randomly starts cycling programs… likely damaged control board.” — erratic electronic behavior. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
✅ Pros & Cons: At a Glance
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable, simple models for basic use | Stops mid-cycle; rarely avoids software or control board faults |
| Standard features like quick wash, half load, sensors | Drain/fill faults common; error codes appear frequently |
| Parts modestly available | Rusting racks and heater failure within 5–8 years |
| Low noise and acceptable water usage | Poor drying unless rinse aid is carefully managed |
| Compact footprint—fits small kitchens | Service support limited; technicians often generalists |
🛠 DIY Troubleshooting Tips
- Clean filters and spray arms regularly to avoid blockages and pump strain. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
- If flood error (A01/F01), tilt the machine at ~45° to drain base and reset sensor. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
- Persistent salt light? The water-level sensor may need replacing. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
- Dishwasher stops mid-cycle? Test door latch and control board continuity. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
- Drying issue? Test heating element and check control board capacitors. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
- Power outage bugs? Reset the appliance fully and monitor programs; persistent issues may need board replacement. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
- Rust forming? Use rack coating kits or avoid sharp loading scratches. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
🎯 Who Should Consider an Indesit Dishwasher?
It’s worth a look if you:
- Need a cheap dishwasher for light, occasional use.
- Only require basic cycles—no smart controls or extra features.
- Are comfortable performing simple maintenance or part swaps.
But avoid it if you:
- Expect consistent drying, spot-free glassware, and long-term reliability.
- Need strong local service support or brand commitment.
- Prefer newer tech or noise-free precision washing without regular upkeep.
✅ Final Verdict
Indesit dishwashers serve their role as basic, budget-friendly kitchen helpers. You get standard wash cycles, sensor cleaning, and no-frills performance at a low upfront cost. But trade-offs are noticeable: poor drying, frequent mid-cycle stops, sensor and board issues, and rusting racks are common headaches.
For light users who keep expectations low and can manage minor repairs, they can work fine for 5–10 years. Yet if reliability, excellent cleaning, and solid support matter to you, investing in brands like Bosch, Beko, or higher-end Whirlpool lines tends to offer better long-term value.
Use it carefully, clean it often, and be ready if things break—but don’t expect luxury. For minimal kitchens and modest needs, Indesit is serviceable. For most, though—think of it as entry-level living, not lasting performance.