Installation of Dishwasher Hookups

Dishwasher installation is a relatively simple process, but an important one nonetheless. Failure to install your dishwasher hookups correctly may lead to leaks, damage to the appliance or even potential electric shock and injury. Fortunately, you can install your dishwasher hookups with a few simple tools at home.

There is no need to contact a professional electrician or contractor for additional assistance. Although it is best to follow your particular machine's installation instructions exactly, read on for a general overview of how to install dishwasher hookups.

Step 1 - Deactivate Power and Gather Materials

The most important thing to do during an installation is to ensure that the power is shut off. Before beginning the process, deactivate the power in order to ensure that the work site is completely safe. Collect the necessary materials for the job, including the following:

• 3/8 inch insulated copper tubing
• Flexible drainage tube (comes with the dishwasher itself)
• Saw
• Wrenches
• Electrical tape
• Slip nuts, washers

Step 2 - Set Up the Electrical Connection

Having deactivated power and gathered your materials, find a suitable location for your electrical hookup. Almost all dishwashers require a standard, 120-volt electrical outlet that is GFCI-protected. Look for an outlet that is nearby to the machine itself in order to avoid the possibility of tripping over a cord in the kitchen. Most counter setups feature an outlet for this specific purpose on the back wall of the cabinet below the kitchen sink. Plug the dishwasher cord into the outlet and secure it with electrical tape if you desire.

Step 3 - Set Up the Plumbing

Your dishwasher will need to be connected to a hot water source in order to function properly. The water used to clean and wash the dishes will also have to exit the machine as well, so the appliance has to also be connected to a drain source too. This is the reason that dishwashers are always installed in close proximity to the sink.

Connect your dishwasher's in-line to the hot water supply of the kitchen sink. Generally, a 3/8-inch copper tube is the connection of choice for this task. The drainage line installation will depend upon your dishwasher and the setup of your sink. Primarily, however, the flexible drainage hose will connect just above the drainage tap. You may need to exchange a portion of the sink drain pipe with the dishwasher's drainage tube. In this case, simply cut out the proper portion of the sink pipe and connect the tubing with the help of slip nuts and washers.

Step 4 - Connect the Air Gap

Although this step is optional for functionality, many cities and states require it. The air gap ensures that waste doesn't build up in the dishwasher itself. In most cases, the dishwasher's air gap line has a connection point along the garbage disposal line out. Connect these in order to ensure proper disposal of the dirty water that collects in your dishwasher during use.

Setting up a dishwasher is a straightforward process, but it pays to ensure that you are doing it exactly correctly. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to consult a plumber or appliance installation expert.