Installing a New Dishwasher

February 1, 2016

By Baker Brothers

Posted in: Plumbing

How to Install a New Dishwasher

If you are heading to your local appliance store for that shiny new dishwasher, you’ll be asked if you want to install it yourself. Many retailers also offer installation from their in-house teams. Did you know your third option is to call your friendly local Baker Brothers Plumbing professional?

If you want to install it yourself, or trust the guys unloading the truck, take heed: there are quite a few steps involving some pretty high stakes…like your time, connecting water supply lines, drains and your kitchen floor; Not to mention, your ability to use the new dishwasher immediately. While it is possible to install yourself, note that today’s new dishwashers often involve more electronic components, like water and balance sensors, than the unit you’re replacing.

Below we have outlined the general path to success for installing your new kitchen workhorse. Read on, and we hope you will have enough information to choose your installer with confidence.

Dishwasher Installation Procedure

Step 1: Preparation

• Make sure the new dishwasher will fit in the allotted space. Standard dishwashers require at least a 24” opening.
• Drill holes into cabinet for supply lines, electrical wiring and drain pipe (these will already be here if you are replacing the dishwasher and not installing for the first time).
• Check dishwasher for necessary hardware before bringing home.
• In the case of removing an old dishwasher: close all shut-off valves and turn off circuit breaker before disconnecting.

Step 2: Connect the Drainpipe

• Run the drainpipe to the inlet of the garbage disposal and secure it with a clamp.
• You may have to replace the drainpipe under the sink with a dishwasher branch tailpiece and install it above the trap under the sink.

Step 3: Connect Supply Lines

• Shut off water and install a dual outlet shut-off valve in order to connect the dishwasher supply line to the hot water pipe below the sink. There are two outlets—one provides hot water for the sink faucet while the other attaches to the dishwasher supply line.
• Connect one end of the supply line to the shut-off valve and the other end to the water inlet on the underside of the dishwasher using a right angle elbow.
• Apply PTFE or plumber’s tape to the male threads to prevent any leaks. Supply lines need to be hand tightened, followed by a quarter turn with a wrench.

Step 4: Connect Electrical Supply

• ALWAYS FLIP THE CIRCUIT BREAKER before working with electrical supply. Run the cable through the back of the electrical box on the dishwasher to the corresponding wires in the box (hot is usually black/neutral is white). Connect the ground wire to the green screw and replace the cover on the box.

Step 5: Final Test

• Turn water on and check for leaks.
• Turn power on and run the dishwasher through a full test cycle.
• If everything works properly, slide the appliance into the cabinet. Be sure not to pinch pipes on the way in!

Step 6: Clean Up & Finish

• Replace any trim.
• Clean the floor and dispose of packaging.

Installing a dishwasher is not for everyone. If it’s not for you, give us a call and schedule your prompt, professional installation with Baker Brothers Plumbers.