A dishwasher is a fantastic contemporary device that saves a lot of time while cleaning the kitchen. It’s also an energy-efficient and water-efficient appliance.
And the best part is, installing a dishwasher is a simple process. All it requires is some basic equipment and a few hours of your time. That said, you should follow some essential steps (mentioned below) to ensure the installation process goes smoothly.
This blog will serve as a step-by-step guide on how to install a dishwasher. Let's begin.
Tools and Materials Required
Here are some tools and materials you’ll need when installing a dishwasher:
- Screwdrivers
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Drill and spade bit
- Pipe joint compound
- Wire connectors
- Dishwasher connector kit
- Electric appliance cord
Steps to Install a Dishwasher
With the tools and materials covered, let’s look at the steps you need to follow to install a dishwasher:
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Shut off The Power and Hot Water
Before you start the installation process, turn off the hot water and power used to hook up your dishwasher by following two easy steps:
- Find your home’s breaker and switch off the power connected to your dishwasher
- Shut off the valve located under the sink to ensure hot water is turned off
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Determine The Space
After turning off the power, determine the space required for the dishwasher. Make sure you place your dishwasher near the sink since it uses the waste lines connected to the sink.
It will be a lot easier to replace an existing dishwasher since dishwashers generally come in one standard size: 24 inches deep, 24 inches wide, and 35 inches high.
On the other hand, if you're installing a dishwasher for the first time, you might need to remove a cabinet to make space for it. If the cabinets are not built-it, you might have to use a saw to cut into the cabinet's face.
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Place The Dishwasher
After determining the placement and space, the next step is to position the dishwasher. You can do this by following these steps:
- Slide and place your dishwasher under your kitchen counter
- Feed the power cord
- The next step is to feed your kitchen's water supply line
- After that, feed the drain hose
- Position the dishwasher in the center and make sure you don’t push it too far back
- Raise the dishwasher so that it is level with the counter using its adjustable legs
- You can also unbolt the legs using pliers so you can bring it to the counter height
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Anchor The Dishwasher
Once the dishwasher’s position is determined, fasten it using the screws. Start by accessing the dishwasher’s mounting brackets. Now, with the help of screws, fasten these brackets to the cabinet frame that you can find under your kitchen counter.
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Attach The Supply Line
Some dishwashers come with a special pipe fitting, ‘dishwasher 90.’ However, you can purchase a dishwasher installation kit if your dishwasher does not have a dishwasher 90. This installation kit contains all the basic tools needed to connect the dishwasher to the supply line.
The dishwasher 90 is a ninety-degree elbow, allowing the water line to lie flat instead of bending at an angle. You'll need to connect this elbow to your dishwasher valve or the supply line located under the dishwasher.
Once you’ve attached the dishwasher 90 to the drain and water lines, you can move toward the next step – the electrical connections.
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Connect Electrical Wires to The Dishwasher
The next step is to connect the electrical wires to the dishwasher. Before doing this step, make sure you’ve shut off the power.
If your dishwasher already has a power supply, find the electrical wires from the junction box and put them into the power spot. To do this, uncap the wires, roll them through the wire nut, and carefully tighten them to ensure they stay secure.
Some experts also suggest wrapping these cables with electrical tape. If you do this, make sure all your connections are matched. For instance, green to green, white to white, etc.
Lastly, place the copper wire under the screw and tighten it to ensure all connections are secure. Once it's done, screw your junction box back in place.
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Connect Your Drain Hose
Often, the drain hose is usually connected to the dishwasher. However, if that’s not the case, you can attach it with the help of a hose clamp.
Based on your sink's configuration and code requirements, the drain hose has many possible configurations.
To attach a drain hose, find the sink tailpiece under the sink. You need to fit it onto the pipe you see under the sink. You can use a clamp to securely attach it to the sink tailpipe or the disposal, depending on your preference.
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Test The Dishwasher
Now that you've followed all the steps to connect your drain hose, water line, power, and dishwasher, it's time to check the dishwasher. Turn on the water valve and check for leaks.
If you notice a leak, check the connections at the bottom of your dishwasher or try clamping the hose again. If you don’t see any leaks, secure the dishwasher to the countertop through the mounting brackets using screws.
Once you are done, turn the breaker’s power back, and your dishwasher is ready to use.
Final Words
A dishwasher is an excellent labor-saving device that helps you wash dishes quickly and efficiently. This contemporary home appliance saves a significant amount of energy and water and is easy to use. On top of that, its installation process is simple – a few basic tools and materials are enough.
If you’re unsure about how to install a dishwasher, follow the steps mentioned above, and thank us later. You can also contact Mesa Plumbing Company for reliable, satisfactory, and professional plumbing services.