How to Install Insulation for Your Dishwasher

If you can install insulation for your dishwasher, you can accomplish two tasks. First, you can keep the noise from penetrating and disrupting your home. You can also keep the heat from the dishwasher in, allowing the dishwasher to clean more efficiently. Here are a few steps to follow to install the insulation easily.

Step 1 - Level Your Dishwasher

The first thing that you will need to do is make sure that your dishwasher is working properly and that it is level. If the dishwasher is not balanced properly the dishwasher can produce more noise than it should. The most effective way to lower the noise level is to make sure you install insulation and have a properly-working dishwasher. Once it is leveled, be sure to unplug the power and water sources while you are working.

Step 2 - Remove Dishwasher

Depending on the type of dishwasher you have and the position it is in, you will remove it in various ways. You may have to remove the countertop, but this usually isn't necessary. You can remove the screws that are holding the dishwasher to the countertop. Next, if your dishwasher is connected to its cabinet on either side, you will need to remove any screws that are holding it in place. Many models will have one or two screws on each side if it is connected to the rest of the cabinet space. Carefully pull the dishwasher out of the space.

TIP: Consider putting down a layer of plastic sheeting or something similar on the floor in front of the dishwasher and lifting the dishwasher onto the layer as you pull it out. This keeps the dishwasher's bottom side from scratching on your floor as you move it, and gives it a surface to slide on as you pull.

Step 3 - Install Insulation

You can either nail the thin layer of foam insulation onto each side of the opening or you can use a thin layer of glue to attach it. You want to make sure that while you are doing this step you keep in mind how much extra room you have around the dishwasher. It is best to gauge this extra room while you are removing the washer from the space. This way, you will know how much insulation you can install and still be able to fit the dishwasher back in. If room permits, attach the foam insulation to each side of the walls and the top of the area where the dishwasher is held. Try to push in the sides so that they are in as tight as possible.

Step 4 - Put Dishwasher Back

Once you have the insulation in, you can put the dishwasher back in place. It will most likely be snug so carefully set it back and then use the screwdriver to replace any of the screws that you had to remove earlier. You may need someone else to help you with this step. It is easier to have one person on each side so you can move it in evenly.

Now you can turn on the water and power sources and test out the dishwasher to be sure that it works properly and that the insulation is helping.