This might be a DIY project best left for the professionals
Installing a dishwasher for the first time can be intimidating. However, the process is possible for a DIYer if the right steps are followed.
If you are faced with removing a dishwasher, the following steps should be followed to ensure an easy DIY dishwasher install.
Your dishwasher should be located close to the kitchen sink. Clear out the area beneath the kitchen sink, the countertop immediately above the dishwasher and at least 5′ floor space in front of the dishwasher. Line the floor area with a drop sheet or other material to prevent scratching the immediate area when the dishwasher is pulled out.
Open the cabinet located under the kitchen sink. You will notice three lines coming from the direction of the dishwasher. One of these will be an electrical cord that is plugged into an outlet. This is the first and most important part of how to disconnect a dishwasher.
The second line will be a water line. Follow this line to a shut-off valve and turn to stop the water flow. The last line will be the drain line. Follow it to clamps that are holding it in place. Remove any clamps or other hardware that is keeping the line secure.
There should be a removable plate below the front door of the dishwasher. Remove this panel and look for any bolts and screws that may need to be removed. Notice a water line attached inside the panel. Disconnect the coupling on this line with a small wrench. You can then slide the dishwasher out from its place.
Once the old existing dishwasher has been removed, the new one needs to be hooked up and made operable.
Installing a dishwasher in existing cabinets may sound like an easy job, but there has to be plumbing, electrical and carpentry work to consider.
You will need a lot more tools and equipment to install a dishwasher where there was none. Some of these include:
This step can be done by the DIYer without much difficulty. There only needs to be enough space for threading hoses into the under sink cabinet.
If you have little knowledge of installing a plug in with the required voltage for a dishwasher, it is time to seek help from an electrician. The same applies to tapping into water lines and drains, as you will need a plumber to help you do this.
Once the lines have been created to attach to the new unit hoses and lines, the same steps as replacing a dishwasher will complete the installation.
Researching problems that can occur when adding a dishwasher may change your mind on hiring a plumber. How to connect a dishwasher is simple for a licensed plumber.
Each state has specific licensing and registration requirements to be able to operate as a plumber. Many times a plumber has worked under the supervision of practical training or received an AQF (Australian Qualifications Framework)certificate III or IV. Contact the plumbing authority in your state for a list of documentation to ask for:
Earning a reputation for giving excellent service and being well-educated often comes with a full calendar. However, it is usually worth the wait. Holding a positive presence in the community is also a winning signal that you have found a good plumber.
A plumber can charge between $50 to $250 an hour. Depending on the amount of work that needs to be done to install your dishwasher, the price could run several hundred dollars. Replacing a dishwasher is an easy task for someone with handyman skills. However, when starting from scratch or wanting to locate the unit further away from a sink, a new set of problems could arise. It is a good idea to balance your skills against a plumber when experience is needed.
The Oneflare Cost Guide Centre is your one-stop shop to help you set your budget; from smaller tasks to larger projects.
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