How to Install a Dishwasher
Before buying a new dishwasher, measure carefully. Moving cabinets or countertops is an expensive job best left to professionals. Instead, try to find a unit that will closely match the size of your old dishwasher. If you pay for delivery, find out if the store will properly dispose of your old appliance. There may be a small charge, but you will have to pay to throw your old dishwasher away regardless.
When purchasing a new dishwasher, consider if you would like to upgrade the features that are offered with the new unit. Newer dishwasher models already use less water and power to run than models of ten years ago. Look at the energy star ratings and water use information to make a decision on how much money you would like to spend for an even more efficient, environmentally friendly models. Depending on the cost of electricity and water in your area, you could easily save enough money to pay for these upgrades in a few years.
While you are waiting for the new dishwasher to be delivered, you must remove the old dishwasher. This is easily done. First, turn off any electric current to the circuit your dishwasher uses. Also take this time to turn off the water supply. Then unfasten any anchors, screws, or brackets that attach your dishwasher to the cabinets, floor, or countertop. Next, disconnect the supply hookup and the drain hose from the dishwasher.
Carefully pull the dishwasher towards you and away from the cavity. You will probably need a helper for this step. Now look at the back of the dishwasher to detach the electrical component of the dishwasher. If your dishwasher has a plug you can simply unplug it, if it has wires you must detach them. The wires should be bound together with electrical tape or a wire nut. Detach at the area the wires are connected; you should be able to remove the electrical tape or unscrew the wire nut to proceed.
When your new dishwasher arrives, plug in the appliance and slid it into place. If you do not have an accessible outlet, it is probably best to contact an electrician to install one. Look in your dishwasher’s appliance manual for diagrams illustrating how to reconnect the drain hookups and supply hose.
After everything is hooked up, turn on the water and the electricity to make sure the unit is functioning correctly. Before any longtime use, however, you must level the dishwasher. The height of the legs should each be able to be carefully adjusted to accommodate an uneven floor. A level is a helpful tool for the job to ensure your dishwasher is properly placed. Then use the attached brackets or screws and a power drill to bolt your dishwasher into place.
If you are still uneasy about the installation process, contact a professional. A contractor or even a person affiliated with the store where you bought your new appliance could install it for a reasonable fee. It should take less than an hour to install a new dishwasher into a previous space. If you are adding a dishwasher for the first time, it may take significantly longer, but a professional is the best option.
