Do You Need a Plumber to Install a Dishwasher?
Dishwashers are incredibly useful appliances. They make cleaning up after dinner a simple and easy process. Simply rinse off your plate, place it inside and turn it on. You’ll have clean dishes in no time. But do you need a plumbing service to have one properly installed?
Installing a dishwasher on your own can be complicated, especially if you don’t already have the necessary connections in place. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about dishwasher installations so you can be prepared.
For personalised advice, contact our team at Precision Plumbing today.
Assess Your Needs
Whether or not you need a plumber to install your dishwasher often comes down to how much work needs to be done. If you are replacing an existing dishwasher, you will already have many of the necessities. This includes a power supply, a water connection and drainage.
However, if you don’t already have a space for these features, you will need to make one. This usually requires the support of professionals. Handling plumbing and electrical work without the proper tools and training could be dangerous.
What to Consider
Even if you already have a dishwasher, you will need to carefully consider several factors before installing a new one. First, you will need to measure your dishwasher’s space. This is important to ensure your new dishwasher will still fit.
Likewise, consider how the dishwasher door and surrounding cabinets may interact. A randomly placed dishwasher could limit access to your kitchen shelves.
Next, you’ll want to carefully assess your plumbing and electrical connections. Certain units may require an alternate connection, so to avoid extra work, match your connections with your new appliance.
Finally, check your new model’s features before purchasing. Will it meet all your dishwashing needs? Does it save on energy or water usage? Each of these elements could cause issues for your household moving forward if not carefully considered.
Replacing a Dishwasher
Replacing a dishwasher is a task you may be able to accomplish on your own. However, you’ll need to carefully follow the installation instructions. Likewise, you should ensure all your connections are as secure as possible. By following these key steps, you can break down the installation process in a relatively safe way.
Step 1. Disconnect
Your first step should be to disconnect the power and water inlet and drain hoses. These are generally located under your kitchen sink. This will reduce the risk of handling the electronics and causing leaks in your home.
Step 2. Removal
Next, you’ll need to remove your current dishwasher. Remove any bolting keeping it secure and place it on a sheet or board, protecting your flooring from damage. This is an incredibly heavy appliance, so you may need help with this part.
Step 3. Cleaning
Check for any damage in the now open area and clean it. This prepares your space for the new dishwasher and can help protect against water damage.
Step 4. Installation
Position your new dishwasher near the space, and connect the water and electricity. You can then slide the dishwasher into place, ensuring all pipes and cabling are clear. Once resecured, you should run a short cycle to check for leaks.
While this is feasible to do on your own, you may end up putting your warranty at risk. Many appliances require a professional to install them. Without one, your warranty may be voided. Carefully read through your warranty and consider your options before doing it yourself.
Installing a Brand New Dishwasher
Installation of a brand new dishwasher, especially if you don’t already have space for one, is much more complex. To start, a licensed electrician and plumber are required. This is to ensure that, not only do you have the necessary connections, but that they meet safety standards.
Similarly, if you don’t already have space you may need one to be cut out. This would likely involve removing one of your kitchen cabinets. You’ll need to carefully consider which location works best and potentially hire a professional to remove it. This is to limit any damage the removal may cause to the rest of your kitchen.
The Risks
When handling water and electricity, you should always seek professional advice and support. Without the right precautions, you could potentially experience a severe injury or even death.
Not only is this incredibly risky, but handling this on your own is also illegal. Even if you avoid injury, you could still end up with significant fines.
Installing Your Dishwasher With Care
Whether you’re replacing an old dishwasher or installing a new one, a plumber can ensure it is done safely and securely. At Precision Plumbing, our professional team is here to help with your installations. From making the connections to fitting it into place, we’ll make the process simple.
