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SPT

SPT SD-9254SSA 18" Built-In Dishwasher: Is This Slim Stainless Steel Pick Worth It in 2026?

The SPT SD-9254SSA works well for tight kitchen spaces with ENERGY STAR and 6 wash cycles, but its 52 dB noise and missing sanitize cycle are notable trade-offs for the price.

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Key Specifications

Noise Level
52 dB
Best For
Full Kitchen

Best For

How this product scores for different use cases

Small Kitchen / Apartment
95/100

At 17.6 inches wide, this built-in unit fits kitchens where a standard 24-inch dishwasher will not go. It is purpose-built for tight spaces and small apartments.

Budget Buyer
66/100

At $490.97 this unit sits above the $400 budget threshold. ENERGY STAR and a stainless tub add value, but the price reduces its appeal for cost-focused buyers.

Quiet Home
60/100

52 dB is louder than the 44-46 dB threshold needed for open-concept or noise-sensitive kitchens. This unit will be clearly audible during operation.

Family Household
43/100

At only 8 place settings and 17.6 inches wide, this unit is too small for a family washing for 4 or more people daily. The compact format limits load capacity significantly.

Premium Kitchen
42/100

No sanitize cycle, no steam cleaning, no WiFi, no interior lighting, and a 52 dB noise level put this well below premium standards. It lacks the features premium buyers expect.

Smart Connected
37/100

No WiFi, no app control, and no Alexa or Google integration are present. The only programmable feature is a 1-24 hour delayed start timer.

Our Verdict

This 18-inch format is the main reason to buy this dishwasher. It fits spaces where no standard 24-inch unit will go.

You get ENERGY STAR efficiency, a stainless steel tub, and 6 wash programs in a very compact body. Heated drying is a useful addition.

The 52 dB noise level is a real drawback. You will hear it running, especially in open kitchens or at night.

At $490.97 you are paying a premium for the compact format. The missing sanitize cycle and adjustable racks are gaps that competitors at this price often cover.

What We Like

  • 17.6-inch width fits kitchens where a standard 24-inch dishwasher does not fit.
  • ENERGY STAR certified reduces energy use and operating costs year-round.
  • Stainless steel tub retains heat better and resists staining compared to plastic tubs.
  • 6 wash programs hit the good benchmark tier and cover a wide range of load types.
  • Heated drying cycle actively dries dishes rather than relying on air drying alone.

What Could Be Better

  • 52 dB noise level is louder than the 44-46 dB standard found on quiet-rated dishwashers.
  • No sanitize cycle, a feature included on most competing dishwashers in this price range.
  • No adjustable upper rack, limiting how you load tall glasses or oversized items.
  • No child lock, a feature most competing built-in dishwashers at this price include.
  • No leak protection system, which competing models in the $450-$550 range commonly offer.
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Standout Features

18-inch compact format (17.6 inches actual width)
Standard dishwashers are 24 inches wide. This unit serves a niche no full-size model can fill, making it the defining spec of this product.
6 wash programs
The benchmark good tier is 6-7 cycles. Most dishwashers at this price offer 4-5 programs, placing this unit above average for cycle count.
ENERGY STAR certified
Many budget and compact dishwashers skip ENERGY STAR certification. This unit meets federal efficiency guidelines, which competing compact models often do not.

Full Specifications

Performance

Noise Level52 dB
Noise RatingNoisy

Best For

Use Case 1Full Kitchen
Use Case 2Apartment / Small Kitchen

Features

Included Features

Delayed Start
Heated Dry
Rinse Aid Dispenser
Stainless Steel Tub

Not Included

Adjustable Racks
Auto Sense
Child Lock
Food Disposer
Interior Lighting
Leak Protection
Quiet Operation
Sanitize Cycle
Steam Cleaning
Third Rack
WiFi Connected
Works with Alexa
Works with Google

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about SPT SD-9254SSA 18" Wide Built-In Stainless Steel Dishwasher w/Heated Drying, ENERGY STAR, 6 Wash Programs, 8 Place Settings and Stainless Steel Tub

How wide is this dishwasher?

It is 17.6 inches wide. This 18-inch format fits in spaces where a standard 24-inch dishwasher will not fit.

How loud is this dishwasher when it runs?

It runs at 52 decibels. That is louder than quiet-rated dishwashers, which typically operate at 44 to 46 dB or below.

Does this dishwasher have a sanitize cycle?

No. The specs do not include a sanitize cycle. It has 6 wash programs, but none are listed as a sanitize option.

Can you delay the start time on this dishwasher?

Yes. The delay start feature lets you program a start time between 1 and 24 hours in advance.

Does this dishwasher dry dishes with heat?

Yes. It includes a heated drying cycle that uses heat to dry dishes rather than relying on air drying alone.

Scores

Overall Score 79/100
Value Score 81/100
Popularity 72/100

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Tags

compact 18 inch built in energy star stainless tub heated dry 6 wash cycles mid range price small kitchen fit

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Scored 79/100

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