Replacing the dishwasher in your kitchen isn’t that difficult a DIY project, though it does require a bit of basic plumbing and wiring. Here’s how to go about it:

• Turn off the power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker box.
• Turn off the water to the dishwasher at the cut-off valve under your sink (if there isn’t a cut-off valve, turn the water off at the water meter).
• Disconnect the dishwasher water supply line and the drain line. Drain the hoses into a bucket or pot.
• Remove the bottom panel of the dishwasher, and disconnect the wires from the electrical box.
• Remove the screws attaching the dishwasher to the cabinet or countertop, and pull the dishwasher out of the opening.
• Install a separate electrical outlet box for the new dishwasher if required by building codes.
• Position the new dishwasher near the cabinet opening and reconnect the water supply line, drain pipe, and electrical wires.
• Fish the water supply line, drain pipe, and electrical wire through the cabinet wall into the adjoining cabinet under the sink, and slide the dishwasher in place.
• Use the adjustable feet to level the dishwasher.
• Attach the dishwasher to the cabinet or countertop using screws.
• Connect the water supply line, drain line, and electrical wires.
• Turn the water and power back on, and test the dishwasher to see if it works properly.

Watch this video to find out more.

Further Information

• How to Install a Dishwasher (article)
• How to Repair a Dishwasher Rack (video)

Please Leave a Comment

2 Comments on “How to Replace a Dishwasher”

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1. Danielle Says:
   May 25th, 2011 at 6:57 am

   Hello,
   I recently purchased a scratch and dent Bosch dishwasher SHE4AM12UC/05 and am trying to install it myself.
   I did take the old dishwasher out myself.
   It seems like the Bosch has more hoses than the instructions say.
   I see the water intake hose and understand that part.
   I understand the electrical part and feet levelors.
   But the drain hose is not easy to interpret [for me].
   Any ideas why I have extra hoses?
   Thanks

2. Larry Fink Says:
   December 5th, 2011 at 12:03 pm

   I have removed our Kenmoore builtin dishwasher to remodel. I will need to store it in a unheated shed. How should I drain it to insure parts insid the dishwaswher do not freeze and break?
   Thank you,
   Larry
   Colorado Springs, Co

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