How to Remove a Built-In Dishwasher

Removing a built-in dishwasher is not difficult if you keep the following things in mind to ensure that you do not damage either the dishwasher or the surrounding attachments. 

Step 1 – Pull out the Unit

If there are no rollers under the dishwasher, use furniture sliders, so your kitchen floor is protected when you pull the unit out. Be careful not to pull the dishwasher past the length of the hose hook-ups. 

Step 2 – Shut off Power

Built-in dishwashers are often hard-wired; therefore, shut off the power at the main electrical panel. If there is a cut-off switch near the appliance, use it. 

Step 3 – Shut off Water Supply

Dishwashers have a shut-off valve in the cabinet under the sink. Shut off the valve. However, sometimes, after being kept open for years, the valves tend to get corroded or develop a leak. In such cases, turn off the main water connection to the house in order to shut off the water supply to the machine. 

Step 4 – Remove Screws from the Counter-Top

Remove the screws that are holding the dishwasher to the counter-top. The screws can be located at the front of the machine. Remove the dishwasher carefully from under the kitchen counter. 

Step 5 – Disconnect the Junction Box

The junction box can be usually found on the lower back portion of the dishwasher. Remove its cover. You will find a couple of wire-nuts connecting black and white wires from the power source to the dishwasher. A bare ground wire will be connected to the box using green screws. Make sure the circuit is off. Use a voltage tester to make sure the circuit is off and disconnect the wiring. As you remove the electrical cord from the junction box, place the wire-nuts on the end of each wire. Move the wires only afterward, for easier handling. 

Step 6 – Disconnect the 3 Connections

Disconnect the hot-water supply line, discharge line, and the electrical line. The supply line and the electrical connection can be found between the bottom of the unit and the floor. 

Step 7 – Loosen Compression Fitting

Remove the access panel that is held up by a few screws. At the elbow, near the left-front corner, the water-supply line ends. Use either pliers or an open-end box wrench to loosen the compression fitting. Use the towel to mop up any water spillage. 

Step 8 – Remove Water Line

Locate the water inlet under the machine and unscrew the nut, holding it in place. Keep a bucket and towel handy when you remove the water line, as the water remaining in the pipes may seep out. 

Step 9 – Disconnect Drain Line

Disconnect the dishwasher’s drain line from under the sink drain line (or the garbage disposal), usually held in place by a clamp. Place the unhooked hose ends into the bucket to collect the remaining water. Ensure that there is no water left inside the dish washer. There usually is a fixture at the back of the dishwasher for this purpose. Do not risk damage to the machine or injury to yourself by tipping the unit.