BOSCH SPS4EMW61E

Is it possible to remove the top panel of a freestanding dishwasher, and how tall will it be afterwards?
Yes, on most freestanding dishwashers the top lid can be removed. This brings the appliance's height down from 85 cm to 81.5 cm, allowing it to fit under a standard countertop.

What is the difference between freestanding/undercounter/built-in/fully integrated dishwashers?
A freestanding model has its own outer casing and top lid. An undercounter model sits under the counter but keeps its original front door and control panel. A built-in (semi-integrated) model has its front covered by a kitchen cabinet panel, though the control panel stays visible. A fully integrated model is completely hidden behind the cabinet door, with the control panel mounted on the top edge of the door.

What does it mean that the front panel on the door is not included in the delivery?
For built-in and fully integrated models, the dishwasher ships without an outer decorative panel. That panel, matching your kitchen's design, is supplied and fitted by your kitchen furniture provider.

What is the duration of each program?
Duration depends on the cycle chosen. Quick or 1-hour cycles run about 30–60 minutes, while an Auto cycle (45–65°C) takes around 2–2.5 hours. The Eco 50°C program can run 3.5 to 4 hours, since it washes at a lower temperature with longer water contact time to save energy.

On the control panel of the dishwasher, it is not possible to change the program and Eco50 is still illuminated.
A cycle is currently running or was interrupted. Reset the appliance by pressing and holding the "Start" button (or the button marked Reset 3s) for 3 seconds. The display will then show 1 minute remaining, and once that counts down and the water drains, you'll be able to select a new program.

Does the dishwasher have a function to open the door before the program ends?
Yes. Models with EfficientDry automatically open the door slightly during the drying phase, improving results and saving energy. Models with OpenAssist let you open handle-free doors just by pushing on them at any point during the cycle, which pauses the program.

What is Zeolite?
Zeolite is a natural mineral used in dishwashers with PerfectDry technology. During drying, it absorbs moisture and converts it into dry, hot air, resulting in exceptionally dry dishes — plastics included — with very little energy use. The mineral regenerates on its own and never needs replacing.

There is water in the dishwasher after delivery.
This is completely normal and actually a sign of quality control — every Bosch or Siemens dishwasher undergoes a thorough wet test at the end of the production line to confirm watertight seals and proper function of all systems.

The new dishwasher is wet inside and has an odor, is that normal?
Yes, this comes from residual water left over from factory testing, which can affect the air quality inside the sealed packaging. Before first use, we recommend running the Machine Care cycle, or a standard intensive program with cleaner and no dishes loaded.

Can the water and drain connections of the dishwasher be extended?
Yes. To extend the AquaStop inlet hose, an original BSH extension kit (part code SGZ1010) is required. The drain hose can be extended with a standard connector and suitable hose, up to a total length of 3.5 to 4 meters.

Why should I choose a more expensive dishwasher?
Higher-end models tend to run quieter and more efficiently (energy class A/B), offer premium drying via Zeolite, have more flexible interior layouts (VarioDrawer cutlery drawer, Max Flex baskets), include Home Connect connectivity, and last longer thanks to premium materials like a full stainless-steel tub.

What are the advantages of connecting a dishwasher to the Home Connect app?
Home Connect lets you start cycles remotely, receive notifications (cycle finished, low salt or rinse aid), download new specialized programs, get remote diagnostics from customer service, and set water hardness or dosing preferences directly from your phone.

The entire control panel is lit up and the dishwasher cannot be operated.
This is likely caused by an active child lock or a minor software glitch. Try holding the key/padlock icon button for 4 seconds to unlock it. If that doesn't help, unplug the dishwasher or switch off its breaker for 5 minutes to perform a hard reset.

What is the difference between EfficientDry, PerfectDry, extra drying, and OpenAssist?
EfficientDry automatically opens the door at the end of the cycle. PerfectDry uses Zeolite minerals for thorough, cupboard-ready drying without needing to open the door. Extra Dry is an optional setting that raises the final rinse temperature and extends the drying phase. OpenAssist provides an automatic touch-to-open door for handleless kitchen designs.

What is an XXL dishwasher?
An XXL dishwasher is a built-in model with a taller body — 86.5 cm instead of the standard 81.5 cm. That extra 5 cm of interior height makes it well suited to large plates, baking sheets, or tall-stemmed wine glasses.

For questions about Bosch large home appliances, you can find all the useful information here