How to Install a Dishwasher
Home Improvement, Kitchens and Baths, Repairs and Installation by Jared Libby
Whether you’re putting in all new appliances or simply replacing a worn-out machine, installing a dishwasher yourself is a DIY project that’s not that difficult and can save you a hefty installation fee.
Preparations for Dishwasher Installation
The first step is making sure the machine will fit in the opening. Most standard dishwashers require a 24” opening. If you’re installing new cabinets, it’s important to consider the width of the dishwasher ahead of time. The height of most machines is adjustable.
Depending on your cabinet configuration, you may need to drill one or more holes to run supply lines, electrical wiring, and the drainpipe through. Hole saws make quick work of drilling larger diameter holes.
Remove the faceplate at the base of the machine to access the supply line inlet and electrical box. It’s a good idea to connect the wiring, drain, and supply lines before pushing the dishwasher into the cabinet, since it makes it easier to access the underside of the machine.
Connecting the Drainpipe
Start by connecting the drainpipe to the discharge pump. Many local building codes require dishwashers to be vented using an air gap to prevent the siphoning of water from the sink drain or disposal. Mount the air gap in one of the sink holes or drill a hole for it in the countertop. Connect the drainpipes to the air gap and secure them with hose or spring clamps.
If an air gap is not required, loop the drain hose up near the top of the base cabinet, and attach it to the wall with a strap to prevent backflow from the sink.
Run the drainpipe to the inlet of the garbage disposal and secure it with a clamp. Many garbage disposals have a plug in the inlet, so be sure to remove it first.
If there isn’t a garbage disposal or an existing drain for the dishwasher, replace the drainpipe under the sink with a dishwasher branch tailpiece and install it above the trap under the sink.
Connecting the Supply Lines
Most dishwasher supply lines are 3/8” diameter, but check to make sure you’ve got the right parts before starting the job. Begin by turning off the water and installing a dual outlet shut-off valve to connect the dishwasher supply line to the hot water pipe under the sink. One outlet on the valve provides hot water for the sink faucet while the other attaches to the dishwasher supply line. This will allow you to turn the water off to the dishwasher separately from the faucet.
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.
Where needed, apply Teflon tape to the male threads to prevent leaks. Supply lines should be hand tightened then given a solid quarter turn with a wrench.
Connecting the Electrical Supply
Always be sure to cut off the power to the dishwasher by flipping the circuit breaker before attempting to connect the electrical supply. Run the cable through the back of the electrical box on the dishwasher, and connect the hot (usually black) and neutral (white) wires to the corresponding wires in the box using wire nuts. Be sure to connect the ground wire to the green screw and replace the cover on the box.
Turn the water back on and check for leaks, then turn on the power and run the dishwasher through a full cycle. If everything works properly, slide the machine into the cabinet, being careful not to crimp or pinch the pipes. Plumb and level it by raising and lowering the adjustable feet on either side.
Screw the dishwasher to the underside of the countertop to hold it in place. When attaching the mounting screws to the plywood used to support a stone countertop, be sure the screws do not protrude into the stone.
Attach the faceplate to the base, and your new dishwasher is ready to go!
Helpful Tips
- Examine the dishwasher before bringing it home. Look for scratches or dents and make sure the necessary hardware is included.
- Check the size of all supply lines and connecters before installing a new machine.
- Make sure to close all shut-off valves and turn off the circuit breaker before disconnecting an old dishwasher.
- When disconnecting an existing machine, be prepared with towels and a shallow pan to drain any excess water remaining in the lines.
123 Comments on “How to Install a Dishwasher”
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May 7th, 2008 at 9:14 am
This is the most helpful article. I am putting in a dishwasher tonight and I’ve got this bookmarked. Thank you for your website and thank you Mr. Libby for a great article.
May 12th, 2008 at 3:54 pm
How far can you install a dishwasher from the sink and still have it work properly?
Ben Erickson Says:May 22nd, 2008 at 1:52 pm
The maximum distance the dishwasher can be from the sink drain will vary depending on the make and model, but should be spelled out in your manual. Usually they range from 5′ to 10′.
May 22nd, 2008 at 11:14 pm
I’m trying to take out my dishwasher from the sink to see where is the smell of cigratte is coming from because I have neighbor that smokes and I could smell it through the sink where my dishwasher is place so if there is any tips on where or what I could do to prevent this smell please help.
Thanks
June 4th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
I am trying to replace my dishwasher. When I took the old one out I notice the electrical wire was plugged into an oulet that just laying on the floor, under the dishwasher. The drain hose was also laying on the floor. Is this common practice? Can the elecrical outlet be placed behind the diswasher? Or does it have to go in the cabinet next to the dishwasher openning. What about the drain?
June 6th, 2008 at 2:06 pm
I’m installing a new dishwasher and someone told me that you must have the drain up high above the sink trap, is this correct. Someone else said that it’s allright to just let it drain by gravity into an existing drain line running along the joists in the basement. I would appreciate your info on this.. thanks , ED
June 6th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
After my dishwasher was installed, I noticed that the faceplate was protruding beyond the cabinet. Is this correct? Should the dishwasher be pushed in to the cabinet further and then reintall the faceplate?
Ben Erickson Says:June 9th, 2008 at 11:22 am
Hi Ed,
Since dishwashers use a pump to drain, gravity is not needed. As noted in the article above, the drain hose should either have an air gap mounted on the kitchen counter or loop up near the top of the base cabinet to prevent backflow from the kitchen sink. Also, be sure to attach the dishwasher drain line above the sink trap to keep sewer gases from coming through the drain line.
June 20th, 2008 at 12:14 am
Here’s an odd thing: I had a new dishwasher professionally installed a few months ago and we had a drain problem almost immediatly (cleared with Drano) and now I’m finding what looks like white particles in all the faucet screens everywhere in the house. They look and smell like dishwasher soap. Any idea what is happening here?
June 21st, 2008 at 11:55 am
Doug,
June 20th, 2008 at 12:14 am
Perhaps you turned the water temperature up on your water heater. I think these white pieces are coming from the water heater. I have seen some white plastic pieces in the aerators which ended up being the cold water dip tube inside the water heater. It was breaking up. Dishwasher soap cannot get into the water supply. Hope this is useful. Karl
July 1st, 2008 at 10:55 pm
Doug,
IMO;
If you are finding “white particles” in the aerators of your faucets you should probably first consider calling a Licensed Professional Plumbing Contractor whom KNOWS how to propery service this device / knows what I suggest herein and after you tell him the symptoms he need be able to recite what I speak of here before you allow him in for repairs! The Contractor should be skilled in looking at the “DOWN TUBE” on the cold water inlet to the water heater which is a good 4′ or so long. Doug there were hundreds of thousands of DEFECTIVE down tubes installed in MANY water heaters some time ago. The defective down tubes basically disintegrate into tiny white particles and must be replaced, a tell tale sign this is, but not the ONLY diagnosis as well, certainly the most plausable.
If your water heater is older than 5 years old I would suggest just replacing it Vs. fixing it Doug if the down tube is found defective. Water heaters simply do not last as long as they used to and if your get 5 years out of a water heater anymore your doing GOOD. BELIEVE IT.
The down tube in question delivers cold water to the bottom of the water heater and w/o it your water heater will not function correctly Doug and this condition could COST YOU MONEY and heartache. Remember hot water rises so it only makes sense to deliver the cold water coming into the tank to the bottom, yes? YES! Check it, the down tube out, and fix as necessary and SAVE FUEL COSTS Doug.
DO not expect to be able to re-use the flexible water connector (2) you may see up there, get anew BEFORE you touch them Doug. The’re only designed to be used one time and reuse is asking for trouble. Your licensed professional plumbing contractor will NEVER re-use items such as these.
Regards and Good Luck Sir;
BRAD DAVIS
Master Plumbing Contractor
July 7th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
I just had a new Dishwasher delivered. The old supply line would not connect to the new 3/8 inch elbow joint under the dishwasher. I went to Lowes and bought a new braided 3/8 inch supply line that connects to the elbow piece but it would not connect to the water supply valve. I even tried a 1/2 inch connector but that was too large. Any suggestions?
July 18th, 2008 at 6:44 am
A professional installed my new dishwasher however they did not install the screws into the granite countertop brackets. Now the diswasher moves about and I have to push it back into position after every wash cycle. Is there a trick to installing the screws into a granite counter top?
July 21st, 2008 at 12:47 am
Hi! I am going to be installing a dishwasher and needed to get an answer to a question before I start. One of the reasons I stopped using the dishwasher I have now is because the small spout near the faucet on the kitchen sink would spray lots of water every time I used my dishwasher. What causes this can I fix this myself so that I could install my new dishwasher? Please Help!! Thanks!!
July 22nd, 2008 at 10:40 am
How far into the cabinets should the dish wash be set. We redid our kitchen completely & added a built in dishwasher, the sides of the dishwasher are set to the cabinet’s depth. This makes the door stick out past the rest of the cabinet doors/drawers. I have seen some with the dishwasher set back further so the door when closed lines up with the rest of the cabinets. Is there a right or wrong way the dishwasher should be lined up?
Thanks
cabinets. Is there a right or wrong way the dishwasher should be lined up?
Thanks
July 26th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
This is the best website for do it yourselfers like me and I am one heck of a carpenter for a gal anyways the descriptions and the visual are both wonderfully put together for the maximum easy to understand and do it yourself I love this website Its the best
July 26th, 2008 at 9:44 pm
Can a dishwasher be installed underneath a cooktop that was installed in the countertop? Are there requirements for minimum space around the unit? Thanks.
July 26th, 2008 at 10:46 pm
I’m installing a dishwasher. I’ve installed the hot water riser and have connected a T to it with a valve coming off the T for the dishwasher supply. The electrician installed an outlet box in the botton left corner of the sink cabinet. The valve sits at a height that puts it in the middle of the outlet box and is about 4 inches from the box. My question is, is that arrangement ok? Would it pass inspection? THanks,
August 4th, 2008 at 1:31 pm
I’m most likely going to have a dishwasher installed by a professional, since I’m not the most handy guy in the world. I have one question….I don’t have any hook ups available now. Who do i get to do this? Do I need to hire an electrician to get electric to my spot, or will with plumber I hire be able to do that as well?
August 11th, 2008 at 8:29 pm
Our brand new duishwasher did a far worse job than our 40-year old Kitchenaid. The service person came out and immediately identified what he thought was the problem: He said that since the installation was in an island that had the drain trap below the floor and below the level of the sink drain, what was happening was that the water in the DW was being siphoned out of the DW. Hence we weren’t using enough water to wash and rinse, and it affected the drying cycle too. Does this make sense, and what is the solution? Thanks.
August 12th, 2008 at 10:35 am
PS: The reason the old DW didn’t have this problem was because the old model had a built-in anti-siphone valve.
August 13th, 2008 at 7:12 am
a portable dishwasher be installed like abuilt in one
August 13th, 2008 at 9:33 am
how can we install aportable dishwasher the same as abuilt in one
August 14th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
we installed a new dishwasher and it doesn’t rinse the dishes good . I have to rinse almost all the dishes again and wash a lot of the top rack, which are glasses, over. Do you know what the problem maybe.
August 19th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
I am installing a dishwasher myself and all was well until I realized that the standard 8″ branch tailpiece was too short. Do they come longer, or am I going to have to call in a plumber?
September 9th, 2008 at 1:27 pm
You may be loading the bottom of the washer too full or with large pans that do not let the water spray reach the top level of the washer,
September 9th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Jennifer, you can find almost anything if you look in the right place. I would go to Lowes or Home depot and explain the problem, even if there is not one “factory made” chances are you can put one together that will work fine.
September 9th, 2008 at 1:31 pm
Al, if you make a loop in your drain hose near the top of the cabinet opening, you won’t need the p-trap and you should clear up the problem
September 9th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
hilda, I would think you would have to change the supply hose to fit a pre-plumbed line, change the drain hose to make a seal and maybe put feet on it instead of wheels so it doesn’t vibrate or roll any more? hard to say since I don’t know what you have or what you had
September 9th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Rob, if you hire an “installer” he/she will probably be able to do the whole thing, if you hire a plumber, you will probably also need to hire an electrician.
September 13th, 2008 at 9:57 pm
I have a new dishwasher to install, but first I have to take out the old one. I have no idea where to start. Is there a website or page that gives directions on how to take out a dishwasher?
Ben Erickson Says:September 15th, 2008 at 9:14 am
Dana,
Dishwashers slide in and out on rollers and are usually held in place by two screws at the top of the cabinet or countertop (see last picture in article above). Connections for water and power can be accessed by removing the cover plate at the bottom of the dishwasher. Start by turning off the power and water to the dishwasher, then remove the screws holding the dishwasher and take off the cover plate. Detach the electrical wire, water supply, and drain pipe from the access opening then slide it out.
September 15th, 2008 at 4:46 pm
I am installing a new Dishwasher and need to know what to do with the drainage hose. This is an old home. The dishwasher was installed on the main floor with the drain hose running through the floor into it’s own drain pipe in the basement. The connection is above the Ptrap. There isn’t an airgap and there is no garbage disposal. Can I hook up the new DW drainage to the existing drain pipe below the floor? Do I need an airgap or can I loop the Drainage hose at the top of the cabinet before running through floor and connecting to drain?
September 22nd, 2008 at 8:08 am
I was wondering how far I can run the drain line and not interfere witn the operation of the dishwasher? What I am considering would all be done on the same floor level. I have a new Whirlpool machine if that mekes a differance.
September 25th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
But how do you connect the wires if they are not there? I’m trying to install a dishwasher in a kitchen that has never had one.
September 27th, 2008 at 7:48 am
Im also looking to install a dishwasher in a kitchen that has never had one. I have a perfect spot next to the sink however, There is no electrical hook up. There are 2 outlets left and right of the sink. The opposite outlet is used by the frigde. Is it common to tap into an outlet or do I need to run a individual power wire to the breaker for the washer only?
September 27th, 2008 at 11:16 am
Did anyone answer Stan’s question regarding installing the drain hose through the floor into the basement? I am considering doing the same as my sink is located on another wall from the dishwasher.
September 28th, 2008 at 9:09 am
I am installing a new dishwasher and my house has never had one. Do I need to hire a plumber and electrician to install or is this service usually covered when you pay to have it installed when you buy it from the store?
October 11th, 2008 at 10:41 pm
I have instaled a dishwasher conected to the cold water supply.Dose it have to be hooked up to the hot water?
October 12th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
My daughter wants me to in stall a new dishwasher for her we are not replacing one. It will be on the other side of the room from the kitchen sink. So could I install one to where it would have its own drain line. To where it would be connected under the kitchen floor and not brought up above the sink trap?
October 15th, 2008 at 1:03 pm
Hi, I am renting my house out that was built in the 50’s and would like to add a dishwasher. It looks like it has a hookup for a dishwasher (hot and cold water lines) but they are not under the sink. There is also a drain hole in the floor where those lines are. Based on the article above, I’m not sure that’s right. Any suggestions? Thanks!
October 15th, 2008 at 6:27 pm
I JUST INSTALLED A NEW DISHWASHER BECAUSE THE OLD ONE WOULD NOT DRAIN COMPLETELY.(STILL HAD WATER IN THE BOTTOM OF WASHER)
RATHER THAN FIX THE OLD ONE I FIGURED I WOULD JUST INSTALL A NEW WASHER, AS THE OLD ONE WAS OVER 10 YEARS OLD.
AFTER INSTALLING A NEW WASHER I STILL HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM, THE NEW ONE ALSO DOES NOT DRAIN ALL THE WATER.
ANY SUGGESTIONS?
October 28th, 2008 at 4:51 pm
Everytime I use my dishwasher, the spout near my sink faucet sprays water. Why? How do I fix this.
October 30th, 2008 at 10:27 pm
You can connect the drain hose to plumbing below the floor. The same method of the drain hose going up to the top of the dishwasher opening is still required to prevent the siphoning of water from the dishwasher as well as backwash and sewer gas entering from pipes below the floor. from entering dishwasher. Do not connect to 4 inch drain lines from sources such as toilets for health reasons. This was the only way it could be installed in my home as the sink was in the island 20 feet away from the dish washer. Hot water line connection is a must cold water will not work with detergent at all, no exceptions! Dishwashers should be installed on its own circuit breaker and not shared with a kitchen outlet do to the risk that if the outlet is used at the same time as dishwasher it will overload that circuit. Hope this helps.
November 3rd, 2008 at 10:06 am
This is a great site. Hope you can give me advice. We are having a new countertop which is exactly the same size as our existing one installed over our dishwasher that has been in the same place for a long time. Do we need to take out the dishwasher to install the new countertop? Our kitchen cabinets are remaining the same and in the same place. The sink is directly left of the dishwasher.
Thanks
November 14th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
This was great thank you
November 17th, 2008 at 8:01 pm
Larry asked a question on 15 Oct about water water remaining inj the diswasher. Does anyone know what the cause was?
I have the same problem and loke hom am about to replace the machine. I bought the house a few weeks ago and think I inherited the problem. Still runs just ends up with a pond in the bottom.
November 18th, 2008 at 10:07 am
we have a sears elite dbl door dishwasher, can not be install into the sink…we need to go through the floor .. What is needed to make this possible and work correctly..Thank You
November 24th, 2008 at 7:08 pm
to install the new dishwasher, what water supply need to connect is it hot water or both cold & hot water. please answer my question thanks
Ben Erickson Says:November 25th, 2008 at 8:23 am
Vilma,
A dishwasher connects to the hot water supply line only.
November 25th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
I had a new Bosch dishwasher installed. After it washes the dishes a smell remains in the dishwasher. Using vinegar does not remove the smell. Did the service person install the dishwasher correctly? The old washer did not have the problem. The discharge is connected to the disposal.
November 30th, 2008 at 9:13 am
“Supply lines should be hand tightened then given a solid quarter turn with a wrench.”
I’ve been looking all over for that specific information. I don’t want to overtighten or undertighten.
Thanks!
November 30th, 2008 at 4:37 pm
We recently installed a new dishwasher in our 43 year old home and all went well. The problem is there is an uneven gap between the dishwasher and the end of the cabinet. I purchased a piece of matching wood to fill the gap and would appreciate some advice on how to trim the board to fit as well as how to attach it.
Thank you in advance for any suggestions.
December 3rd, 2008 at 9:57 pm
Linda,
Your best bet, if I can picture what you are describing, is to use a table saw with a fine finish blade on it to “rip” your piece of wood to the proper width. If you don’t have a table saw or access to one, you may be able to get Home Depot or Lowe’s to do it for you.
Then, depending on the width of the piece you are going to use, you will need to attach it to the existing cabinetry, as you describe. If it is less than a half inch or so, I would recommend glue and a couple of small trim nails. If it is wider than that, you will likely want to glue and screw. You will need to countersink the screws so they dont protrude and interfere with the dishwasher when you slide it back in.
December 4th, 2008 at 8:13 pm
Bill,
I appreciate you taking the time to respond to my question.
Your suggestion is the answer to our problem.
Thank you
Linda
December 14th, 2008 at 2:05 pm
I WAS JUST TRY TO INSTALL A DISH WASHER,A FRIEND SAID I HAD THE WRONG LINE (HOT SUPPLY)AND IT SHOULD BE THE COLD.PLEASE E-MAIL IF CAN ON THE RIGHT SUPPLY LINE DID NOT SEE IN THE INSTRUCTIONS HERE.TY
Ben Erickson Says:December 15th, 2008 at 9:21 am
Glenn,
Dishwashers should be hooked up to the hot water line unless it says otherwise in the installation instructions.
December 18th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
We are having a professional (?) installation of a replacement built-in dishwasher. They arrived and said I need to get a non-standard 12 foot flex steel supply hose and a 1/2 to 3/8″ adapter for the water shut-off valve, as well as a 10 or 12′ plastic drain hose. They will not install on the existing copper hose, and I respect that — seems like it will cause leakage if they try. My question is-WHERE do I find the 12 foot supply hose? I’ve called Lowes and Home Depot, Ace Hardware which were suggestions from the installer. I’m at a loss, and wondering if I should try to move the location of the dishwasher (which is 2 cupboards away from the sink/water shutoff valve. I’m on a limited budget, so think that would definitely be more expensive!
December 25th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
I would like to know how to install a dishwasher under a double sink. Do they have those?
December 30th, 2008 at 5:16 pm
MY HUSBAND JUST INSTALLED A DISHWASHER(UNDER CABINET) IT IS NOT DRAINING WHAT ARE WE DOING WRONG CAN ANYONE HELP
I WOULD APPRECIATE IT
December 31st, 2008 at 4:02 am
judith – if you in fact removed all manuals/warranty cards/etc from inside unit before cycling, then lets talk drainage and hoses, etc (have to bring up manuals thing since I saw someone do it before – no insults intended whatsoever – easy fix too if it was) Next, after making sure your drain hose is properly attached to unit, does it go to garbage disposal inlet (if so, be aware of plug inside inlet to garbage disposal – disconnect drain hose at garbage disposal and poke screwdriver into garbage disposal inlet – there should be no obstructions – if there is, its probably the “plug” and you can punch it out with screwdriver – punch out thoroughly if you have to do this)Aside from that, if your dishwasher just isn’t draining, your looking at a blocked or kinked drain hose, a faulty pump, or some other obstruction. If this is brand new, be sure that you are in fact getting water to the unit (sometimes have to run for a minute or so to bleed air out of line) If you still have trouble, give more info about how its hooked up (drain hoses, air gap or not, garbage disposal or not, etc) and any other observations. Can help better with more info. Aloha
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:16 am
To Cheryl:
GE makes under the sink dishwashers. You might have to replace the sink, too, with a reduced depth model. But, it could be a good choice for a very small kitchen…
The website link is to GE’s site of under the sink dishwashers.
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:18 am
To Cheryl:
I didn’t realize it, but the link is the one you get when you click on my name (I thought it would be separate from my name — sorry).
January 8th, 2009 at 11:05 am
My Husband and I are installing a dishwasher into our kitchen. There was never one there.We have the prefect place for it.I have all the pices that I need for the washer but I can’t figure out how to install it. fi anyone can help me I would very much appericate it.
January 17th, 2009 at 9:46 am
Where should the electrical outlet and the hot water supply line be located on wall at the back of the dishwasher cabinet–left, right, and how many inches above the floor? . We are putting the DW in across from the sink in a U-shaped area. We do not want to interfer with the DW tub or components. Also, to avoid an overly long discharge hose, could a P-trap be installed in the back wall of the DW area and head toward the main stack in the basement?
January 18th, 2009 at 11:03 pm
Can I use the outlet that my gas range uses as an electical supply for the DW? I have also heard of some poeple creating a “plug” for the DW. Is this feasable?
January 19th, 2009 at 11:11 am
I’ve installed the dishwasher in our new kitchen, and we have no holes in the granite counter top, as our contractor said it was better to mount through the sides to prevent the granite from cracking due to the vibration of the machine. This made some sense but I can’t figure out where to drive the mounting screws. Think you can help.
January 27th, 2009 at 12:03 pm
I am replacing a 10-year old Whirlpool dishwasher with a new Bosch dishwasher…. And a pretty handy friend who has installed a dishwasher before has offered to install it for me. The store where i bought it from said that a new water line will come in the box but that many people use rest of connections that their existing dishwasher is useing. Does that sound right? Or should old connections/hose be replaced?
February 2nd, 2009 at 2:30 pm
I hook my dishwasher and water comes out of the air gap help i have a frigidaire
February 2nd, 2009 at 8:16 pm
We had our countertops replaced, which required that the dishwasher be removed and unplugged. My husband reinstalled the dishwasher, but now the door won’t close properly. Any suggestions?
Ben Erickson Says:February 3rd, 2009 at 8:39 am
Lorrie,
If the adjustable feet on the dishwasher are set as low as they will go, you may have to remove the countertops, put shims on top of the base cabinets, then reattached the countertops.
February 13th, 2009 at 2:02 pm
Several people have asked this question: “I hook my dishwasher and water comes out of the air gap help”
What is the answer?
February 19th, 2009 at 4:14 pm
We had drain problem also. Our sink drain where you hook dishwasher drain hose to was plugged,just stuck a screwdriver in hole and it cleared easy. Try putting drain hose in sink if dishwasher drains you have same problem.
February 23rd, 2009 at 11:05 am
Does a dishwasher get connected to hot or cold water?
BB
February 23rd, 2009 at 2:44 pm
I just bought an LG Washer/Dryer combo apartment size unit, under-the-counter dishwasher width. This is a one unit machine, washer and dryer at the same time, non-vented (has two drums) that fits where the dishwasher is. It is a 120w unit. Two questions: 1) I had laminate floor put in a few years back and I believe it edged-in the dishwasher. How – if at all – could I remove it without disturbing the floor? 2) I am assuming the existing hookups – electric and plumbing – are adequate. Should I worry? Are the dishwashers usually 110w or 220w? I never used the dishwasher, but the previous owner and subsequent tenant both used it extensively. I moved in 10 years ago and promptly “converted” the DW into a storage cupboard – a more appropriate function, I have no use for DW for one person.
Thanks for any pointers. Delivery set for Saturday Feb 28, 2009
Ben Erickson Says:February 25th, 2009 at 10:33 am
Bruce,
A dishwasher should be connected to the hot water line.
March 5th, 2009 at 12:06 pm
We had a new dishwasher installed in our remodeled kitchen. There is a gap under the counter and you can see the mounting brackets. The installer is no longer available. In looking at dishwasher displays, there are no gaps between the top of the dishwasher and the counter. What can we do to “fix this”? Anything you can suggest will be helpful. THANKS!
March 10th, 2009 at 11:38 pm
i did conect my dishwahser and its turn on but the water wont came inside, it can be the problem if i put a cold water suply? do i have to change to a hot water suply to fix the problem?
Ben Erickson Says:March 11th, 2009 at 7:11 am
Raul,
The problem shouldn’t be with using a cold water supply line. The only reason I know of to use a hot water supply line is to preheat the water for the dishwasher.
March 15th, 2009 at 7:44 am
i am fed up w/the kitchen without a dishwaser until we can afford to remodel. can i buy a dishwaher, install it, then move it and re-install or will i have trouble with the connections/seals. thank you
March 21st, 2009 at 8:09 am
My DW drain hose goes through the floor to a sink trap in the basement. The installation directions say the drain should be 20″ above the floor. What is the reason for this? Is there a simple solution that allows for the drain to remain in the basement? Should I loop the drain hose up 20″ before it goes through the floor? Thanks for the help.
March 26th, 2009 at 9:15 am
We are installing a dishwasher 5 foot across from the sink/disposal no access to the sink…. how can we make this work with the air gap? We have the plumbing in place already but not sure what to do to make sure the d/w drains properly.
April 20th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
HELP!
I’m replacing my counter tops with granite and replaceing all the appliances but I’ve encountered a problem with the height of the dishwasher opening being to short. It’s 33-1/2″ from the Pergo floor to counter top but it appears the face plate of the dishwaser is the only thing sitting on the Pergo. Just behind that is the orginal floor which gives me another 1/2″. I’ve been told that if I cut an opening in the pergo floor out 2″ beyond the position of the dishwasher that would make it possible to move the dishwaser in and out from the counter. I dont want to find out after the fact this wont work. Any suggestions?
May 22nd, 2009 at 11:42 pm
Hello , I’m thinking of doing a lit shuffling around in my kitchen and putting a built in D/W where the fridge is my question is it’ll be about 6 feet from the sink area ,I think this is OK for the supply water line but what about the drain hose , if the drain hose is not long enough can you get couplings to join more length on or are you only permitted to have a certain distance?
May 23rd, 2009 at 12:54 pm
The front panel came off and we have no idea where to start in putting it back on. Do we need to check the springs, latches, etc and what holds the front panel onto the door?
June 5th, 2009 at 8:53 pm
We are installing a new dishwasher where there has never been one. We’ve tried to level it but when we check with a level in one spot it will be level, move it a couple inches and the bubble will be partly outside one line lines (max 1/4 of the bubble– How much of a problem is this? How level does it have to be?
June 7th, 2009 at 8:27 pm
In replacing my faucets due to leakage, As a preventive measure my newphew rerouted the air gap to the counter. Now water is coming out of it. I dont want the air gap on the counter (as it wasnt there before). What can be done?
Ben Erickson Says:June 8th, 2009 at 8:19 am
Hi Rich,
I’m not sure whether you’re using the level to check the floor or dishwasher itself, but your best bet is to use a 2′ long level to measure the entire width of the dishwasher by resting it on a flat section of the dishwasher frame.
June 9th, 2009 at 8:18 pm
I just installed a new dishwasher and ran it through the cycles and now I’m hearing vibration coming from underneath when the water is draining. Any ideas? I put a level on the DW and it shows to be level everywhere.
June 15th, 2009 at 10:22 am
I cannot get the nut off of the hot water line at the bottom front of the dishwasher. How can I complete removing the old dishwasher without removing that nut? Can I just remove it from under the sink and replace it with flexible stainless steel water line?
June 21st, 2009 at 11:55 am
I have two questions, the first, if only one can be answered, is the most frustrating one!
My husband installed our new dishwasher, but whenever I wash dishes in the sink with the garbage disposal, I get bubbles up the drain on the other side, in the sink with the hand-washed dishes. Is there a way to fix that?
Also, when I load the dishwasher, top and bottom doors pulled out, the dishwasher ’tilts’ forward, as he said there was nothing on top to connect it to, since we removed the old countertop and now it is silestone top. Is there way to secure that in place so it does not tilt forward?
June 23rd, 2009 at 10:27 am
I replaced a the dishwasher next to the sink. It makes a grinding noise during some cycles and can be stopped by turning on the faucet of the sink. The drain is connected to the disposal. Everything else works fine and it cleans the dishes very well. When i get the grinding noise it also vibrates the pipes. My guess is an air lock that I didn’t have a problem with before. how do I get rid of it?
July 2nd, 2009 at 9:22 pm
I just removed my disposal and now the dishwasher ocasionally fills up with disgustingly nasty smelly water.
Should there be an upward loop in the drain hose to keep water from draining from the sink back to the dishwasher?
Ben Erickson Says:July 4th, 2009 at 10:15 am
Hi Gary,
Yes. If you don’t have an air gap installed next to your sink, you need to have the drain hose loop up and attached beneath the countertop to act as a trap and prevent your sink waste water from going into the dishwasher. See the section on “Connecting the Drainpipe” in the article above.
July 4th, 2009 at 10:46 pm
Is there anything I can install to prevent an electrical surge to my dishwasher.
July 8th, 2009 at 10:25 am
I have a problem with the airgap on my Kitchen-aid dishwasher. It appears to be installed correctly, but everytime the washer runs, there is alot of water comming from the airgap and onto the counter. I haven’t found a decent article discribing exactly how it is supposed to work but I would think that it should almost never release water, unless there is a back-up. Can you tell me how it is supposed to work? Is there a troubleshooting guide? My owners manual isn’t any help. Thanks
July 10th, 2009 at 3:13 pm
I used to have a washer and dryer in my kitchen, which have been relocated to the basement. I am installing a dishwasher where the W&D had been. I have an existing drain line and hot water supply that the washer was connect to, but I am wondering if I can use the electrical outlet that is in place. I know dishwashers are usually hard-wired but is there anyway I can install a plug and use the outlet? Thanks for reading.
July 20th, 2009 at 2:51 am
Can I connect my dishwasher to a hot water tap?
July 20th, 2009 at 12:42 pm
I don’t understand what an “air gap” is, or how I can tell if my old dishwasher that I am getting ready to replace even has one. How can I tell?? I have looked at your article, but I still do not know. PLEASE HELP!
July 27th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
This is the most helpful article. I am putting in a dishwasher tonight and I’ve got this bookmarked. Thank you for your website and thank you Mr. Libby for a great article
You realy explained it so a kid could do it Thanks again.
July 27th, 2009 at 8:30 pm
Can a portable dishwasher be converted to a permanent under the counter dishwasher?
Ben Erickson Says:August 4th, 2009 at 11:29 am
Hi Hanna,
An air gap acts as a vent for the dishwasher discharge pipe to prevent waste water from the sink from backflowing into the dishwasher. It’s usually installed on the back of the countertop near the dishwasher or in one of the holes on the back of the sink. If you don’t see it protruding from your countertop or sink, you probably don’t have one.
Ben Erickson Says:August 4th, 2009 at 11:31 am
Hi Ruan,
You can and should attach your dishwasher to a hot water line.
August 6th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
I’m putting a dishwasher in an island five to six feet from the sink. If I loop the DW drain line up under the counter then down through the floor and back up to the sink’s disposer, it will be over the 10′ max for the drain line.
Can I do the loop under the counter and then just “T” directly into the waste line coming from the sink (under the floor)? The T would be downstream from the sink. Would I need an air vent?
August 9th, 2009 at 8:53 am
can you install a dishwasher 90-degrees (perpendicular) to the kitchen sink/drain? or will this create drain issues?
August 10th, 2009 at 3:55 pm
Thanks for all of the help, Ben.
I recently installed a new sink, and put a new air gap in. Approx a week after installation, the inside of the dishwasher smells moldy and there is a strong moldy smell from the airgap, as well. I am confident I hooked it all up correctly and water seems to be draining alright (if I remove the insert in the airgap, water shoots up when the dishwasher is evacuating), so I cannot figure out what problem I’m having here. Do you have any idea what could be causing (what seems to be mold in the drain line of the dishwasher)?
Ben Erickson Says:August 11th, 2009 at 11:17 am
Hi Jason,
Be sure the drain line for the dishwasher is upstream (above) the trap for the sink to keep sewer gases out. If the dishwasher drain line has been there a while, you might want to take it off and run some bleach through it to kill any mold, or replace it with a new one. I had problems with the glasses in my dishwasher smelling moldy, and solved it by running it on the hi-temperture wash cycle where the water is heated to kill any germs. You might try that as well.
August 21st, 2009 at 6:43 am
I have a relatively new (3+ year) ‘premium’ dishwasher that is now draining during the wash/rinse cycles as the unit runs, leaving the dishes less than clean and the unit running without any water during some of the longer cycles. Is there a valve or such that I can find and see if it’s stuck open, or???
Thanks much for your kind help.
August 21st, 2009 at 8:26 pm
Our dishwasher was not installed properly and continues to “fall out”. The granite is above, so the securing is put on the sides. Nothing is holding the machine past a few months or weeks, now days. what is suggested for securing it in? There is no plywood under the granite/stone. Thank you.
August 27th, 2009 at 12:37 pm
Danny, I have a dishwasher that won’t drain the water. It leaks from the front but the water won’t drain out at all. I checked the hose that it suppose to drain into my Garbage disposal, but that’s not the problem. Any other ideas I can check on? They charge $90.00 just to look at it and $90.00 an hour plus parts! Any suggestions would help and save me money during these times.
August 27th, 2009 at 3:28 pm
Hi There,
I’m looking to buy and install an 18″ dishwasher for my condo that has never had a dishwasher. I’ve got a small sink with hot & cold water and an electrical outlet where I want to install the dishwasher, and directly behind the spot for the dishwasher is the bathroom. I want to make sure that I have everything I need to put in a dishwasher. Is that it? I’m worried about the draining and the air gaps. I’ve been told that the dishwasher should be on it’s own circuit- how mandatory is that? I pretty much have no idea what I’m doing- so any help would be appreciated!
Thanks,
Lauren
September 5th, 2009 at 9:37 pm
I just install whirlpool dishwasher.(replace the old one). When I start the dishwasher water come out on the bottom of the dishwasher. what is the problem, all connection are fine, no any leak.
Thanks
September 6th, 2009 at 5:36 pm
I just had a dishwasher (new) put in by the maintenance company here at the apt I rent from, but everytime we wash the dishes there is alway’s a film and sometimes little food particles on the top dishes only, what could be happening here?
September 13th, 2009 at 7:15 am
Air Gap is the required height your fauchet must be above your bath tube, just in case the sewer backs up at the same time your water company has no pressure. That distance is in inches 2D” and prevents dirty water being siphoned to where drinking water, called pot, or potable water is supposed to be. Got it ? Who cares ? We all have it ’cause the Plumbers Code saved our lives by preventing disease. Now the funny part ! As the three of us removed the silver cap, about 2D” sticking above the sink ? ? Gotta Go ! Continued when I get back ! Tex
September 13th, 2009 at 1:27 pm
The Air Gap had a plastic cap with “ears”, rather than a screw, like the earlier types. Use a pair of gas pliers to slightly compress the “ears”, wiggle the plastic cap and set aside. “Now what?”, the three of us said. The Dish-washer answered with a column of water about 12 inches high erupting out of the Air Gap. The “Fun of the Fix” came when we saw in the sink, almost disappearing into the Disposal Drain, a slug of “Debris” that prevented a full emptying of the dish washer. Stay tuned for another continuation. Tex
September 13th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
The plastic cap, when first inserted did not seat well. Rotating it 180 Degrees allowed the “ears” to snap into place. This prevents water being pumped out onto the kitchen area, like one of your readers reported. Next time the water does not completely drain, I will use the silver cup to contain the column of water, as well as control where the slug of “Debris” happens to land. Thanks, Danny. Love your Web Page. I am printing it ! Tex
September 19th, 2009 at 10:11 am
OK I HAVE A DISHWASHER IT IS COMPLETELY INSTALLED IT CAME OUT OF ANOTHER HOUSE AND IT WORKED JUST FINE NOW THTA I HAVE IT COMPLETELY INSTALLED HERE IT IS NOT WORKING AT ALL IT WILL RUN AND THEN IT WILL NOT DRAIN AND THIS HAS RACKED ME AND MY BUDDYS BRAIN SEVERAL TIMES CUZ I REALLY NEED TO KNOW HOW TO FIX THE PROBLEM CAN I GET AND ANSWER PLEASE IT WOULD BE GREATLY APRICIATED
September 20th, 2009 at 7:18 pm
Hi Danny,
We will be installing a dishwasher in an island with no sink. Is it possible to install a dishwasher all by itself? We would put a shut off for the hot water underneath. Thank you so much.
Ben Erickson Says:September 21st, 2009 at 7:57 am
Hi Deb,
You can install a dishwasher in an island as long as you have a hot water supply line and a drain pipe for it.
October 3rd, 2009 at 5:28 pm
i installed a new dishwasher. i have ran a few cycles, it has drained propery during each cycle. but after a few days i notice that there is water in the bottom of the dishwasher. i have the drain hooked up thru. my garbage disposal, the previous washer i had never had this problem. the only other thing that i have changed is i changed the sink to a double, and the two drains come to a “t” splitter, before draining strait down.
October 6th, 2009 at 6:23 pm
I am installing a dishwasher in an area that is supposed to be ready for it. The correct connections are present on the plumbing under the kitchen sink and I have a breaker in the panel labeled “Dishwasher”.
I expected to find power wires after I removed the cabinet, but nothing is there. I cut a small hole in the wall directly under the outlet above the counter to see if there was a wire running down the inside of the wall and found nothing.
Is there some magical mark on the wall or floor to tell me where the power lines should be or did my builder ( 20 yrs ago ) forget to run the power?
October 20th, 2009 at 7:32 pm
My husband is going to attempt to install a dishwaher in my trailer (mobile home) any advice for him or any suggestions! Any help will be appreciated!
November 3rd, 2009 at 1:06 am
I replaced an original dishwasher in my 1970’s duplex, because it wasn’t getting any water into it. I assumed it was some internal problem.
I hooked up a new one, and had the same problem. So I disconnected the suplly line from the hot water line , then turned the valve (used for the dishwasher) on, and no water!!!!! The ball cock is open, but no water! HELP