You just bought a new dishwasher, but the only problem is that you don’t know how to install it. While you can easily find videos and instructions online for how to install dishwashers, it’s always a good idea to have a professional plumber do it for you. However, if you are a savvy DIYer, follow these steps for installing a new dishwasher.
Step 1: Remove the Old Dishwasher
The first step to installing your new dishwasher is removing the old one. Here are step-by-step instructions for how to remove the old dishwasher:
- Shut off electricity to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker
- Turn off the water supply at the shut-off valve
- Remove the front access panel
- Disconnect old wiring connections
- Disconnect the old water supply line
- Place a bowl underneath the connection to collect any water that leaks after you remove the water supply line
- Disconnect the drain hose
- Remove the screws from the brackets that anchor the dishwasher to the bottom of the countertop
- Pull the old dishwasher out and move it to another location
- Tape the existing electrical cable to the floor to prevent it from being disturbed when inserting the new dishwasher
Step 2: Prepare the New Dishwasher
Preparing the new dishwasher for installation is relatively easy. Start by removing the front access panel and attaching the 90-degree elbow fitting from the installation kit to the new dishwasher valve. Then, disconnect the old supply line from the shut-off valve and attach the new water supply line to the shut-off valve. Lastly, disconnect the old drain hose from the sink tail pipe or garbage disposal unit and attach the new drain hose to the sink tail pipe or disposal. It’s important that you secure any slack in the drain hose to the rear of the sink cabinet to avoid backwash from the sink drain.
Step 3: Connect Water, Drain, and Electrical Lines
The last step is connecting the water, drain, and electrical lines. Start by connecting the water supply to the 90-degree fittings using pliers. Then, turn on the water supply and look for any leaks. Continue with connecting the drain hose according to the manufacturer’s instructions and completing the electrical connections using wire nuts per the manufacturer’s instructions. Last, turn on the electrical supply and check to see if the dishwasher is working properly.
Important Tips
When installing a dishwasher, it’s helpful to make sure the front of the unit is flush with the cabinet fronts. This makes everything flow together and turns it into a cohesive design. Second, use a leveler to ensure the dishwasher is level and plumb so it can drain properly. Lastly, adjust the leveling legs as necessary and tighten the locknuts.
Get Help From a Professional
Installing a new dishwasher is sometimes not as straightforward as it appears. To avoid complications and to assure that your dishwasher is installed properly, enlist the help of Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating. We’ll install your dishwasher quickly and efficiently so you can enjoy it sooner.
Call us at (866) 531-1449 now or click here to schedule an appointment.